Ford Fiesta ST set for comeback

FORD has all but confirmed the return of a high-performance fully electric Fiesta as part of its next-generation European model offensive, with company executives declaring performance variants a non-negotiable component of the brand’s future passenger vehicle strategy.

While stopping short of confirming ST or RS badging, Ford of Europe general manager of passenger vehicles Christian Weingartner said enthusiast-focused variants would be essential if the brand was to remain authentic to its motorsport roots.

“To be credible and authentic, there needs to be some kind of performance series of our vehicles; that’s what we’ve got to have,” he told British publication Auto Express.

The comments add further weight to reports the Fiesta nameplate will return in 2028 as an electric hatchback developed in partnership with Renault.

The new model is expected to be based on Renault’s AmpR Small architecture, which already underpins the acclaimed Renault 5 E-Tech and performance-focused Alpine A290.

That platform could provide a ready-made pathway for a future Fiesta ST, offering a more sophisticated chassis package than any previous-generation Fiesta, including multi-link rear suspension and the potential for dual-motor all-wheel drive capability.

While Ford has yet to determine whether future performance variants will wear the ST, RS, or another badge altogether, the company’s leadership has made clear that sporting derivatives will form part of its future product plan.

“We have not made any decisions on naming, but it’s very clear that if you talk race-to-road, that we want to have really capable vehicles,” added Mr Weingartner.

The strongest indication yet of a future electric Fiesta ST comes from the Alpine A290, which already demonstrates the performance potential of the platform.

Available with outputs of up to 162kW, the French hot hatch can sprint from 0-100km/h in as little as 6.4 seconds, providing a benchmark for what could become Ford’s first battery-electric hot hatch.

Ford says the upcoming Fiesta will be developed with a distinct character despite sharing its underpinnings with Renault products.

Ford of Europe president Jim Baumbick said the brand’s focus would be on ensuring future products deliver the driving dynamics and engagement expected of a Ford.

“The things that you see, touch and feel need to be different to make it authentically a Ford,” he said previously.

Mr Baumbick added that Ford’s renewed focus on its rally heritage would influence the broader line-up, not just performance variants.

“We develop products for targeted customers, so we can actually bring out the attributes that matter most to them,” he said.

“When you talk to most customers, they can’t explain it, but they say it just feels right. It drives well. And that’s the soul of what we’re trying to unlock and what’s special about our cars.”

The Fiesta’s return forms part of a broader product renaissance for Ford in Europe following the discontinuation of several long-running passenger car nameplates.

Production of the Fiesta ended in 2023, while the Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, and Focus have all exited the European market as Ford shifted its attention towards SUVs, commercial vehicles, and electric mobility.

Ford has since confirmed plans to launch five new passenger vehicles in Europe by the end of the decade.

In addition to the Fiesta, the line-up is expected to include a small SUV companion model, two larger crossover vehicles and a Europe-specific Bronco derivative.

The renewed focus on performance has also sparked speculation that Ford could revive other enthusiast favourites, including Puma ST, Focus ST, and potentially even RS-badged variants if market demand and platform capabilities allow.

From our perspective Down Under it’s safe to say any future Fiesta ST remains a long way off, and Ford has yet to indicate whether Renault-based European models will be sold outside their home market.

To recap, the last Fiesta was offered here only in ST guise and was powered by a 147kW turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that despite being a front-wheel drive earned it a reputation as an engaging compact performance car.

Should it eventuate, a new electric ST model may up-the-ante and be the first Fiesta to offer all-wheel drive.