We did go a bit nuts on the options list this time, up to the point where this example was the same retail as our previous ST-2. Whoops!
At least we knew we could save a bit by not bothering with the adjustable boot floor this time round though…

Modena Full Leather Pack

Worth the upgrade. They provide better comfort over longer journeys and look less likely to wear than the cloth items. Gladly, there are no signs of creases or sagging yet.

Sat Nav

Works better than those from other manufacturers (it’s less stressful than our Evoque’s that’s for sure), but it still gets left behind by those from tomtom or Garmin. The main bugbear being the inability to scroll through your route instructions to make sure you’re headed onto the right roads! Great if it already comes installed, but not a vital outlay if you’re paying for it.

Verdict

The Fiesta Zetec S has always been a great model in its own right and now with this Ecoboost engine fitted, it’s a much more comprehensive proposition. On paper it would appear that the only ground for choosing this over the ST would be for financial reasons with tax, fuel and insurance.

In reality though, you won’t be left feeling particularly shortchanged elsewhere. Inevitably, it’s not as rapid or as solid as a Fiesta ST but it’s still fairly fast, fun to drive and good to look at. As a car to keep your bank balance looking healthy this is a far more entertaining car than I was expecting.

The 3-cylinder engine also gives the Zetec S a great character of its own now, letting out its off-beat rumble while trying hard to keep up with those that possess a hotter engine. Combined that with the chassis’ more forgiving edge and this results in a pretty comprehensive Daily to live with.

I still have a Fiesta ST-sized itch to scratch, but this car fulfils that void far more effectively than I was expecting. I would say it’s about 70-75% there, and that’s effective enough to make me only miss the ST until I physically see one.

That’s pretty damn good.

Spec: Zetec S Ecoboost 140 2014.5MY
Engine: 1.0 Turbo Petrol, 138bhp (@ 6000rpm), 155lb ft (@ 1400rpm)
Transmission: 5 Speed Manual 
Mpg: Official: 62.8mpg Achieved: 43 - 47mpg 
Performance: 0-62mph: 9.0 Secs, 125mph 
Colour: Candy Red 
Running Period: Autumn 2015 – Spring 2016, 5000 miles 
Options -  Modena Full Leather Pack (Inc Heated Seats), 14" Spare wheel, Rear Privacy Glass, EATC Climate Control, Cruise Control, Automatic Headlights, Convenience Pack (Keyless Entry, Starter Button, Folding Door Mirrors & Puddle Lights), City Pack (Parking Sensors & Electric Door Mirrors), Active City Stop, Ford Navigation / DAB System