Faults:

Knocking noise from the suspension when going over rough terrain.

General Comments:

The car handles and corners better than faster hot hatches.

In my opinion Ford should make an even hotter version. And they could wipe the floor with the Renault Clio 172.

Faults:

Faulty suspension link rod replaced under warranty after 4000 miles. Dealer said that it was 'hanging off'!

Faulty anti-roll bar bush replaced under warranty after 4000 miles.

Car was taken to the dealer due to excessive knocking from the suspension. Both faults were found immediately and the knocking has now ceased.

The car can be a bit 'rattly'.

General Comments:

The car looks great and turns heads. People are not used to seeing a Fiesta that looks this good.

Also, the way the car grips the road is marvelous. It handles like a dream and windy country roads are a joy.

The car is also far more comfortable seat-wise than my previous Citroen Saxo VTR.

On the downside, the constant rattling is a pain in the neck and generally the car is quite noisy, particularly on the motorway.

Also, quicker acceleration would be an improvement. An extra 15/20 BHP would stop me constantly getting burned off at lights by people in less sporty-looking cars. Am thinking of moving up to a more powerful car shortly, but only if it handles as well as the Zetec S.

Faults:

The car was delivered with five paintwork defects, all of which were repaired under warranty.

The wind screen wiper motor failed after 500 miles.

The engine occasionally cuts out when the engine is cold.

General Comments:

For such a small engine the car is incredibly quick, and puts a lot of larger engined cars to shame.

The car handling is perfectly balanced, and is always a joy to drive.

Although not the most spacious supermini, it is very comfortable in the front especially for the passenger with the well designed cutaway glovebox. However space is only adequate in the back and the boot.

Overall I love this car, but the time has come to say goodbye as it gives way for another Fiesta, a Zetec S.

Faults:

When it rains the ABS light on the dashboard and sometimes the handbrake light stays on.

General Comments:

It looks good and drives well, it's nippy and I've had 115 out of it.

It's a great package for the money, power steering, alloys, front fog lights and I got a CD player for an extra 200 quid.

I'm sure the lights comming on in the rain on the dashboard is just a minor glitch.

Faults:

CD player cuts out.

Annoying crackling noise.

Odometer cuts out now and then.

Handbrake light is faulty.

General Comments:

I think this car is the nuts, it looks great and it chips.

I have had 120 mph out of it and it's pretty good 0-60 too.

Get rid of the black plastic and get it colour coded, it will be the nuts.

I recommend this car to anyone.