2005 Ford Fiesta ST review from UK and Ireland

None.

After owning numerous hot hatches, the bar was set high for the ST when I took delivery earlier this year. To be honest, I'm probably over-picky with my cars; always looking for a level of all-round performance / finish that doesn't really exist within the price range.

I owned a Clio 172, which I cursed for it's tinny build quality, despite it's storming engine and undeniably fun set-up. A Civic Type-R followed, which I found to be the opposite. A very well engineered product, but a strangely detached driving experience. My last car was an MG ZR 160, which I picked up very cheap when Rover went bust. What a mistake! Believe me, it wasn't cheap enough! Rattles, rattles, rattles! And a drive a so harsh any journey more than a few miles would become very tiresome.

I've always liked the fast Ford branding, having owned many RS's in the past. And with the recent ST line-up looking so smart (new Focus anyone?), I thought I'd have a look.

I liked the idea that the Fiesta, on paper, is not too "hot". More about a compromise of performance and comfort than out-and-out go karting. With a 0-60 sprint of 7.9 seconds, it's quick enough, but'll never keep up the likes of a Clio 182 in a straight line. But that's not the point.

Ownership of the ST has proven to be a pleasure. It's a firm, yet smooth ride with exceptional build quality. The handling is awesome, very grippy indeed. And it's nice to know that Ford haven't achieved this by using a suspension set-up so hard that you jar your spine every time you run over a pebble.

The power delivery is smooth and predicable, 3rd gear being especially able. There's no real "kick", like when the VVT roars up in a Civic Type-R, but I think that adds to the composed nature of the car. It's a hot hatch for grown-ups.

I see the FST as an almost Golf GTi-like experience. But a new Golf would cost you 20 grand. I love the ST's spec (the in-dash 6-disc changer is particularly nice), understated* (but beautiful) looks and all-round capability. I'm growing the love the ST badge and think I may stick with it for a few years. That Focus does look lovely!

*Unless you opt for the Viper stripes!