The Return of the Ford Fiesta - It’s Going Green

It has now been three years since the final Ford Fiesta rolled off the production line, ending a monumental 47-year run. For 17 of those years, it wasn't just a popular hatchback - it was officially Britain’s bestselling car. Even now, it stays as the most popular used car on UK roads, especially for new drivers!

When the Blue Oval discontinued the Fiesta in 2023, it was not due to us not buying them anymore. The decision stemmed from economic factors. The tightening regulations on petrol and diesel emissions, coupled with mandatory and costly safety technologies, significantly eroded the already slim profit margins of these vehicles.

But the streets haven’t felt quite right without it these last few years. While traditional petrol stations may become a relic for this model, the Fiesta is officially poised to make a comeback in a new electric format.

Here is everything we know so far about Ford's upcoming electric comeback.

Will the New Fiesta Be Electric?

Indeed - the pure-electric drivetrain is the one absolute certainty. Although creating an affordable small electric vehicle remains a challenge for European manufacturers, the costs associated with battery production are gradually decreasing as output increases.

To launch this initiative without incurring excessive expenses, Ford has implemented a strategic partnership with Renault, utilizing the much-anticipated retro Renault 5 E-Tech as the engineering basis for the new Fiesta. It will also be manufactured alongside the Renault 5, the new Alpine A290, and the Nissan Micra at a specialised facility in Northern France.

Battery, Range, and Performance

Because it shares a platform with Renault's newest electric trio, we can make some highly educated guesses about what will sit under the floorboards:

• Battery Options: Expect to see the same 40kWh and 52kWh battery packs used by its French siblings.

• Target Range: The larger battery should deliver a highly practical range of around 250 miles (400 km) on a single charge.

• Rally-Bred Handling: Ford has recently teased that its upcoming European EV line-up will heavily lean on its motorsport heritage. Thanks to the clever multi-link rear suspension setup borrowed from the Alpine A290 hot hatch, the electric Fiesta promises to retain that sharp, fun-to-drive handling that made the original car a legend on UK B-roads.

What Will It Look Like?

Do not anticipate an exact replica of the Renault 5. Although the general dimensions, window contours, and road presence will seem recognizable, Ford is applying its own unique design language to the chassis.

In contrast to the highly retro Renault, the new Fiesta will present a thoroughly contemporary appearance, featuring the sleek corporate front and sharp LED light signatures characteristic of Ford's latest electric crossover models.

Expected Launch Date and Pricing

The final production model is projected to be unveiled by the end of 2027, with the initial vehicles set to reach showrooms throughout the UK in 2028. 

Regarding pricing, Ford aims for a competitive entry-level cost of approximately £20,000 to £22,000 for the base models. However, should Ford deliver the high-performance, rally-inspired RS or ST variant that many are anticipating, the flagship price is likely to approach the £35,000 range.

The Competition Below

Upon its release, the electric Fiesta will enter a highly competitive supermini segment. It will need to compete vigorously to regain its title against a remarkable lineup of established and emerging competitors:

Looking for a quality hatchback today? While we wait for the 2028 electric revolution, the petrol-powered Ford Fiesta remains an absolute masterpiece of used car value, reliability, and everyday driving fun.

At Savannah Cars, we meticulously select and prepare all our vehicles to the highest cosmetic and mechanical standards. Check out our latest arrivals online or visit our Westcliff-on-Sea showroom today to find your perfect drive.