2000 Ford Fiesta Zetec S review from UK and Ireland

Nothing so far (touch wood)

I've had my Fiesta Zetec S now for just over 2 months and I absolutely love it. Every time I get in it a huge grin comes across my face because it's such a pleasure to drive.

It's quicker than my mates Saxo VTR off the lights and has more overtaking grunt. He's now thing about trading the Saxo in for a Zetec S.

It's got all the gizmo's I need, anti-lock brakes, power steering, remote central locking, electric windows, air bag, traction control, CD player, alloy wheels all as standard and the sensible person who I bought the car from had air conditioning fitted as an option for the bargain price of £500. There is only one tiny thing missing though and that's an adjustable steering wheel.

All this coupled with the stiff lowered suspension, close ratio gear box, sports styling and an engine that sounds oh so sweet in the mid-high rev range makes for a superb overall package.

The ride can seem a bit firm, but the handling more than compensates. It sticks to the road like glue and body roll is kept down thanks to that stiff suspension.

I looked for ages to replace my old Punto Sporting and thought I'd never be able to get a sporty little hatch with a comparable insurance rating, but the Fiesta is only £50 a year more.

If anyone is thinking of buying the sporty versions of a Saxo, Punto, Corsa, Polo or Clio (excluding the 172 Sport) then I'd urge them to go test drive a Zetec S as well. I guarantee it will at least make you think twice even if you're not a Ford fan.