Fiesta van gets into shape
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Exclusive! Andy Salter runs the rule over Ford's latest tiddler FORD THIS WEEK unveils its new Fiesta lightweight van range. Based on the successful 18-monthold superrnini. the van is identical in most respects to its stablemate apart from the lack of back seats, addition of a security bulkhead and blanked-out rear windows.
Power is from a 1.4-litre TDCi diesel the fruit of a collaboration with Peugeot which offers 68hp and 160Nm of torque. A petrol option will also be available.
The dimensions are identical to the Fiesta car, with a wheelbase of 2.49m, a length of 3.92m and a load volume of approximately one cubic metre. CM had an exclusive drive of the new van on a recent visit to Italy and while the Fiesta felt a bit cramped for a six-foot tester, it performed admirably while half-laden.
The interior quality is good, although the central fascia compromises knee room. The load area behind seemed well secured. with a hefty mesh bulkhead ensuring good security on the move. The engine was flexible with a steady power delivery, and flicking through the five-speed box was easy. Accelerating hard and under braking, the five-speed, frontwheel-drive Fiesta handled well.
• More details next week.