Ford Fiesta Classic 1.6 SXi Ownership Review

Akash · Jul 21, 2012

Sorry Vibhor, i have lost most of the pics of my Indigo. But one thing i can assure you that Clip ones do not have any issue of getting loose or anything like that, in case you have any such doubts regarding the fitment.
Also, the clipping looks neat and doest hurt eyes if the same is body colored. Though i am sure even drilling wont be trouble some if done at ASS, but the issue is, when i got the spoiler (for the second time), i couldnt see the new boot getting drilled which is why i got this clip on spoiler.

The installation is pretty simple, and the major advantage being, you can get back to the Spoiler' less look if you wish to, in future, without hassles of changing the boot.

sunbaj · Jul 21, 2012

Hi 350Z,

Just came back from the test drive of a Ford Classic Titanium. well the drive and dynamica of the car were just toooo good. however could you please share as to what mileage have you been getting with the car.

I was told that city condition it is around 18 - 20 with ac on and on highway it would be around 25 +.

However met an elderly guy who had come for servicing and asked him about his feedback as he had the older version of the same car. he had crossed just 40000 and had come to repair the AC. AC was not functioning and also had issue with the mileage. he was telling that he used to get a mileage of about 17 to 19 in city with ac on but for the past 3 months his mileage has dropped to mere 11 to 12 KM and that too he has a diesel car.

So now I am having dual thoughts about Ford Classic though I have already booked DZire ZDi 3 months back.

Thanks
Sunil

THE XOVER · Jul 21, 2012

Vibbs,sorry for sounding harsh but are you feeling the pinch for not going for diesel Fiesta,as it was easily under your budget.Asking this question as many people of my vicinity often ask this question for my choosing petrol Indica(XETA) over diesel.

Please don't feel offended,couldn't help so asked!!

350Z · Jul 21, 2012

Akash said:

Thanks. That gives some confidence. Just what I wanted to hear.

Akash said:

Spot on. That’s the exact reason I do not wish to drill holes either.

sunbaj said:

Welcome to The Automotive India. This is an often asked question. The truth is that I have not calculated the mileage figures at all. So I do not wish to post some random figures just for the sake of it. I’m in process to write a six month ownership review. It will also include exact figures which I should calculate this week.

sunbaj said:

These figures don’t seem to be of a Petrol Fiesta. The 1.6 Engine is a little thirsty.

sunbaj said:

Judging the car based on one user’s feedback is not the best idea. Even at Maruti Suzuki workshop, chances are that you would find an owner or two with an issue on Dzire. I have read some stories on our forum where a heavily used Fiesta was driving as good as new (Link). I'm not bragging about the car but the bottom-line is, it depends upon how one maintains the car and not just on the car alone. If reliability is the question, it’s not a wonder that Ford Fiesta Classic is one of those sedans in India with a proven track record. But Yes, routine maintenance / repairs could be a tad expensive than Maruti Suzuki cars. The bill on first service was Zero where as for the second (free) service, I had to shell out Rs.1,300. Hope it helps.

THE XOVER said:

No offense taken. Infact a mechanic also asked me this question during second service. The answer is simple. My running is really not much. < 1,000 Kms in more than six months is the evidence.

It’s exception though anyway. I plan to take her to some neat stretches by the end of 2012 and usage will increase than this in future.

Drive Safe,
350Z

TSIVipul · Jul 21, 2012

<1000 kms in more than 6 months!!! [surprise]

Sirji,I think you made a typo.It may be '10,000' not '1,000'.

BTW,how you managed to keep a Fiesta 1.6 PETROL [evil]

parked for so long?
How you controlled yourself for so long?

350Z · Sep 5, 2012

Ford Fiesta Classic Eight Months Ownership Experience

You probably know the reason why I did not mention ‘XXX Kilometers Review’ in the title, because in my case it is not something to brag about. It’s been eight pleasant months of owning this driver focused sedan and it has lately crossed the thousand kilometers mark on odometer which neither justifies the enthusiast in me nor the characteristics of this car. Heck, when I look back I realize that even my Maruti 800 clocked four digits in less than couple of months.

So what? The world is not coming to end anytime soon, unless you believe in Mayan calendar theory. As they say, there are miles to go before I sleep and I am sure those miles are only going to be easier with the Fiesta. It still feels as if I bought her home sometime back. Anyhow, in these past few months, I shared very beautiful memories with her. Some joys, some sorrows and a few nitpick as usual. Last time, I left the review until the moment she came home with a few inconsistent updates in middle. Thus, from here onwards, let me cover each bit that I have experienced with the car in order to compensate this much awaited ownership review. Read on.

The Classic Design:

The design of this Ford Fiesta is India Specific. Glad that Ford chose to bring it here in this avatar back in 2005 instead of Mark 5 Sedan sold in the Americas. In actual sense, considering the present situation of the market when we have striking cars like Fiat Linea and Hyundai Verna Fluidic – The design of Classic emerges out as neutral and timeless. It is neither too flashy nor too simplistic in appearance. It’s upon you to love it or hate it so let me not get into a common judgment. Speaking on a personal note though, it has only grown over me with the time and I like it. The best part above all is that Fiesta is not just another sedan derived from a hatchback with boot stuck on it.

However, a thing that keeps reminding me of other cars is the tail lamps. They truly carry a tinge of Mercedes W203’s taillights coupled with that of Skoda Rapid. While we are talking about the tail lamps, let me also clear that there seems to be confusion as to where the rear fog lamps of Fiesta are located. It is actually the lower end of the light which is the inbuilt fog light where as the upper part is the normal stop lamp. The headlamps are sufficient enough with a good throw of beams at night that does not leaves me with an excuse of upgrading them to xenons anytime soon.

I have often seen people praising the build quality of Ford. It is also true as far as New Fiesta is concerned but the Ford Classic? Nope. At least it is not up to my expectations. A few body panels are easy to push in like the doors and rear quarter. Thanks to that, there is already a nib size dent near fuel lid (Might have happened with the fuel dispenser nozzle). I figured out this issue much earlier when I was rubbing to clean a tough stain and the panel almost flexibly pushed inside. Not that all the parts are so fragile though. A moron driving Hyundai i10 out from the opposite lane rubbed against the outside rear view mirror of my car when she was only a couple of months old. I almost got a heart attack. Thank god, there was not even a scratch on the chrome scalp even though I was afraid more about the integrated indicator.

Yup. Although Fiesta’s ORVM provides a wide enough view but they are a huge pain too. Simple reason being that they do not fully shut. A design flaw. Perhaps? Anyways back to the saga – Joy of escaping without a scratch short lived. On the same day, I figured out a small scratch on the rear bumper for a reason unknown to me. It was beyond the clear coat so regular scratch removal tips did not help either. Speaking about the alloy wheels. They are one of the biggest advantages that complements the looks of Fiesta. Sure, one of the best OEM wheels that could even make the alloys of Mercedes S-Class look boring. Hard to believe? Just look.

The Fantastic Interiors:

From the beginning, I always have a fascination towards beige interiors. On top of that, a tinge of wooden finish only works as an icing on the cake in my opinion. This demand is fulfilled quite well with the Fiesta even if the wooden center console apparently appears somewhat cheap and boring. However, the mix matching of beige with wooden and silver finishing surely helps enhancing the overall interior appeal.

Ford Fiesta’s dashboard has been designed and mounted perfectly. There is sufficient space and cubbyholes to keep the common items. Those circular chrome-ringed air conditioner vents not only look sporty but also offer a great flow of air because it can be totally directed to the spot of one’s choice.

The air conditioner unit also passed its exam in the recent scorching summers of Delhi. By the month of June, I was forced to switch the blower level above 2 and that is where it tends to becomes noisy as a usual case in many cars. Talking about the audio setup, though I’m not an audiophile but with the six speaker set up and clear sound quality, I find it one of the best in segment. I do not think any Fiesta buyer would ever require an upgrade of audio system unless he is a hard-core audio enthusiast or seeks something fancier. The head unit looks basic and is not Bluetooth supported (Unlike Figo & New Classic) but still there are a few buttons to fiddle around. Another let down is that there is no remote control supplied. I do not need one anyway but it is something that a buyer expects when even the low cost aftermarket head units offer one.

The instrument cluster is clean and looks much better if compared with the pre-refresh model of Fiesta Classic. I don't need taking the eyes completely off the road to check the console unlike in Maruti 800. There is a digital MID screen (Mind you, it was first in class when Fiesta launched back in 2005) in between the tachometer and speedometer that displays distance to empty, trip meter and odometer. There is also a fuel pump sign that is supposed to be on left to indicate the side where car’s fuel inlet cap is located but astonishingly the indicator shows it on the right. At night, when the lamps are switched on, the dashboard lights up with a pleasing bright shade of green. In fact, if the child lock for the rear windows is activated, the switch of rear windows does not light up. Nice touch, I must say.

As I mentioned earlier; there are ample of storage spaces. One of my favorite is the one on extreme right hand side, below the headlamps rotary knob. It camouflages to appear as a part of dashboard and the best thing is that it has a flap that enables to function more or less like a mini glove box. You can use it to store some change for tolls etc. Since Fiesta is originally a global product, Ford has applied some cost saving tips in this context. For example, the lever to open up the hood is on the left hand side. In addition, the indicator stalk is on the left while the wiper stalk sits on the right. In the beginning, I usually ended up operating the wipers while attempting to turn on the indicators. It took some time to become habitual to this function especially since I also drive a Maruti 800 on regular basis, which has the opposite (read: correct) system.

There is a feature that I sorely miss in my car. The power windows stop operating as soon as the ignition is turned off. Even automatic roll up of all four windows would have been a great idea upon locking the car through central remote locking. Coming to the back seat now, there are several reviews pointing on the poor rear legroom of Fiesta. While the space is not the Fiesta’s forte but it is not as poor as highlighted in reviews. I am 5’11” tall and can comfortably sit at the back seat if there is a person in front with similar height. However, the rear seat can accommodate only two adults in comfort as the seat from center is raised to offer a comfortable seating posture for the two passengers. Nonetheless, what really amazed me was presence of only one pocket on the back of front seat. I do not know why Ford compromised on this part but it's again not a concern for me anymore as I have installed a set of new seat covers.

Guess some Fiesta owners are not aware that the rear seat of their car be folded completely to form a flat bed just in case you run out of the 430 Liters boot space (already quite sufficient). To do this: Fold down the seat base towards the legroom. Now unlock the rear seat back rest and rest it in place of the base. Voila. Your car now has an additional capacity to carry more / longer items. The boot also has a lamp that turns off automatically after ten minutes if the dickey left opened to prevent battery from discharging. It is also the case with interior lamps (Total 5!) as well as parking lamps. If the parking lamps are on but key is removed, the car sounds a “beep” inside cabin to alert.

350Z · Sep 5, 2012

Go Fida Performance:

Seriously, if someone is not talking about the performance, he is not talking about the Fiesta. Let me get straight to the point – Primary reason for me to buy the Fiesta was its driving characteristics. I knew that I was going for Fiesta the moment I test-drove one. It is unarguably by far the best car when it comes to handling and drivability in its segment. Do you expect a sedan to handle like a hatch in cities but at the same time inspire enough confidence for the long highway drives? Just drive a Fiesta. You would automatically find the answer.

Simply put, this car is totally effortless to drive. Upon turning on the ignition, the engine comes to life with a sweet melody of 1.6 Duratec, which is audible very less inside contrary to the DuraTorq. The clearly audible clatter of the Diesel version was a big letdown for me. However, story is rather different when it comes to the rev-friendly 1.6 Liter Duratec Petrol. The engine is extremely responsive and capable to produce peak power of 101 PS @ 6,500 RPM and an average Torque of 14.9 Kg @ 3,400 RPM.

When the car is idle, it becomes difficult to figure out whether the engine is turned on or not due to the super silent nature (at least on the inside). The pickup and acceleration is smooth which is further supported with the light and responsive steering wheel. Truly, the steering is such a delight to hold that it naturally relieves me from any stress once I am behind. I realized how well it could handle when I had to reverse the car for a considerable distance in a heavily congested (Almost Zig Zag) area. Being a sedate driver most of the times, I avoid going past 3,000 RPM but occasional revving does no harm. The fun begins beyond that mark when a sports car like sound is clearly heard to offer an adrenaline rush to a typical petrol head. I have driven her several times on highways and stability has never been a concern at higher speeds whatsoever.

The suspension set up is a balance between the comfort and performance. It is capable to gulp the small potholes or multiple rubberized speed breakers but anymore than that can be easily felt inside. This might not be a fair comparison but anyway I obviously feel far more comfortable in Fiesta on the road with multiple rubberized speed breakers than in Maruti 800 which literally makes the head touch the roof unless the car is slowed down to an extreme. Precise and short throw gear shifts slot in flawlessly but initially it used to feel a little rough while engaging. Either the problem has sorted out itself or I have got used to it. Speaking about the fuel efficiency figures (Probably one of the most awaited aspects of this review. Isn’t it?), I have managed to achieve the figures of 11 Kmpl in the cities where as it proved to be a little more efficient on highways delivering the figures of 14 - 15 Kmpl with A/C switched on most of the times. Note the figures are estimate and I would keep this thread updated in future. So do watch out.

Some Initial Hiccups:

After a close look, I observed a few questionable issues with this brand new car:

> Misaligned Left Hand Side Headlamp

> Dull Spot on Right Hand Side Headlamp

> Squeaking Sound from Rear Suspension over Potholes

I had observed the last couple of issues before taking the delivery and reported about it to the dealership too. I was told that the sound from rear suspension will disappear after some use and the dullness on top edge of the headlamp is due to mist that should also disappear as soon as the summers arrive or else, it will be replaced under the warranty.

Sound from the suspension fixed as per the word of the sales person. However, there was still that dull spot on the headlamp. Meanwhile, I also discovered that LHS headlamp is protruded more from the bottom than it should be (refer to above picture). After the second service in July, I decided to shoot a mail to Ford India regarding it. They promptly reverted and asked to schedule an appointment with the workshop (Riddhi Ford). Read below to know what happened next.

After Sales Experience:

The first service at Riddhi Ford was a breeze. It included an engine check up, thorough wash, polish etc. and the bill turned out to be Zero. They also asked if there is any issue with the car and I reported about the permanent mist in headlamp. As usual, it was overlooked and SM (Service Manager) told that it would fix ‘itself’.

The time for second free service arrived and it turned out to be a little different experience and I felt relatively less ‘warmth’ in the attitude. Service Advisor (Mr. Pawan) prepared the checklist and the estimate. I clearly told not to include unnecessary items and inform well in advance in case something else has to be added. Therefore, things like windscreen wash fluid etc. were removed. Only items remaining in the bill were those recommended by Ford in the ownership manual. This translated the bill into Rs.1,130.85 (Note: Labor was free). The break up of charges (with VAT) is as follows:

After coming back to home, I realized that the stepney cardboard of my car is cracked. And the reason immediately striked to my mind. It happened when the service advisor was trying to locate the spare wheel and tool kit (for checklist) before the second service without unscrewing the cardboard. I called up them but no one picked the phone. So later that night I shot a mail to Riddhi Ford about it along with a photograph of the damage, apart from the separate mail to Ford regarding the previously mentioned issues.

Soon I fixed an appointment with Riddhi Ford and briefed about all the issues (Dull Headlamp, Misaligned Headlamp and Broken Cardboard). The friendly manager (Mr. Francis) patiently listened to the issues and he instructed the mechanics to begin the work. They told that the alignment would be fixed. However, they need permission from Ford for the replacement of dull headlamp. Therefore, after clicking some snaps of the issues and forwarding to Ford Headquarters in Chennai, the response received from Ford was positive. Meanwhile the work to rectify the misaligned headlamp was going on; one of their representatives came and told that the headlamp of my model is not in their stock. It will take a couple of days for it to arrive. It was disappointing because: First, Okhla is a little far from my residence. Second, the roads there are inexistent (even in front of the service center). Probably the worst roads my car has been ever driven on until now. Anyways I did not have any other choice so I scheduled an appointment for the next week.

The weekend arrived and I got the faulty headlamp replaced under warranty. The alignment of another headlamp is still not rectified. I understand that mechanics tried their best but it did not fix. So I decided to overlook and move on. I informed the service manager that it is a manufacturing issue and if it cannot be fixed, let it be because I did not want to see the mechanics unnecessarily trying to push the fenders, bumper and lights of my car in and out. As usual, I was presented with a series of lame excuses. Went back to home and it was not too late while cleaning the car, I observed minor cracks on top inner region of the very same headlight that was misaligned. I was sure this was a recent damage and occurred when the mechanics were trying to forcefully adjust the headlamp inside by pushing it here and there. I called them up as well as dropped a ticket to Customer Care about the issue. They might be thinking I am nitpicking too much but the fact is that a customer expects to receive the car in better condition after servicing and the chance for such complaints should not arise at first place. This matter has not yet been settled. I will update on it later on.

350Z · Sep 5, 2012

Aftermarket Accessories:

My plan to have black tints was shattered on 4 May 2012 (Sun film Ban). Now I have installed a few other accessories. Next, thinking to get a spoiler from Fiesta “S”.

> Autocop Gear lock: Rs.850

> Autoform Seat Covers: Rs.7,000

> Garmin Navigation Device: Rs.8,000

> Various Car Care Products: Rs.1,500

You will love it: [thumbsup]

> Pricing is better than ever.

> Simple, clean and timeless design.

> Reasonable fuel efficiency figures.

> Matchless performance of 1.6 Duratec.

> Great & lifted visibility (UV Like) from cabin.

> Standard safety features on SXi (Airbags, ABS, EBD).

You will loathe it: [thumbsdown]

> Build quality not as solid as its siblings.

> Demands for better & size bigger tyres.

> Missing modern features (USB, Bluetooth).

> No power windows roll up after removing the key.

> Might be discontinued soon, affecting resale value.

> ORVMs do not shut fully. A pain in congested areas.

Links You Might Like:

> Seat Covers for Ford Fiesta

> Often Overlooked Features of Fiesta

> Riddhi Ford Dealership Experience Review

> Garmin Nuvi 40 LM Comprehensive Review

350Z · Sep 6, 2012

Wolf in a sheep’s clothing?

You can reprogram central locking with this key to function for either driver’s door or all four doors.

This small piece of rubber prevents rattle from seat belt when on move. Not present on driver’s side for obvious reason.

Electric ORVM adjuster is a huge boon to adjust mirrors before reversing or driving through congested areas.

Ford Cost Cutting 101: Hood lever is located on passenger foot well. Highly inconvenient to use.

Better be safe than sorry. Got this fire extinguisher for 200 bucks just in case of emergency.

Putting such sticker becomes necessary if you drive a car that comes in multiple fuel versions.

Ford has left a lot to be desired when it comes to their fit and finish across the range.

It looks that even modern Tata cars are better than Ford in this area. Uneven panel gaps are common to find.

Exposed rear center armrest hinges look cheap. It’s like that in New Fiesta as well.

The cabin lights (Total 3) work very well and more than sufficient to bright up the entire cabin.

In addition, the separate lights for rear two rear passengers each are really useful and a great feature.

The space in glove box is adequate. It also has separate slots to keep cards, coins, manual etc.

This mini storage box located on extreme right can be used to store change for tolls.

Rear seat is neither too cramped nor too spacious. Practically it can accommodate two in comfort.

The magic cup holder in center console can split into two.

It can also hold up a regular 500 ML Bottle and easy in reach of front and rear passengers.

Vanity mirror is present on both the sun visors. Note the clear warning about airbags.

No remote supplied with music system. It works even when the key is not inserted.

I am already fida. Are you?

carfreak · Sep 6, 2012

@ Vibhor, Thanks for the detailed write up. Enjoyed reading it. Great explanation with pics too. Shared this review with my friend who owns a Classic too [thumbsup]

350Z · Sep 6, 2012

Thanks for spreading the word. Please ask your friend to join us in the forum too.

Drive Safe,
350Z

sethumurugan · Sep 7, 2012

Very good. Happy to see you with your fiesta.

just for information, is these kind of bulbs available in open market or can we get these light set as spares from ford itself? If yes I thought of fixing the same in my sparky..

lights for rear two rear passengers

carfreak · Sep 7, 2012

350Z said:

As soon as he bought his Fiesta, made him member of TAI [clap]

But the thing is he is not very active on the forum! Happy motoring your white beauty! Wish you many happy miles ahead [drive]

Iron Rock · Sep 7, 2012

Vibhor just one grievance while your review has finally done full justice to the Fiesta oops Classic now, the 1226 km on the odo is screaming for more - what with the new Jamuna Expressway next door, i cant believe how you are resisting! [surprise]

raj_5004 · Sep 7, 2012

350Z said:

Hi bro, superb review.

I feel the fuel pump sign is proper, it's pointed to the left of the car where the dispenser is located -

Ford Fiesta Classic 1.6 SXi Ownership Review

Akash

V12

sunbaj

V6

THE XOVER

V10

350Z

Core Team

TSIVipul

V12

350Z

Core Team

350Z

Core Team

350Z

Core Team

350Z

Core Team

carfreak

V8

350Z

Core Team

sethumurugan

V10

carfreak

V8

Iron Rock

V10

raj_5004

V12

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