Add a new chapter to the Book of EcoBoost with the unveiling of a new-generation Ford Fiesta ST powered by an all-new 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-three. The European ST, which will make its public debut at the Geneva auto show in March, has the same output rating as the EcoBoost turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that powered its predecessor, and it now features different drive modes to tailor the car?s demeanor to the driver?s desires.
After experimenting with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, Ford is bringing three-cylinder action to the Ford Performance party. The all-aluminum powertrain claims to produce 197 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, the only offering, the company claims the new ST can clock zero to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds. The new EcoBoost engine uses both port and direct fuel injection, intake and exhaust valve timing, and cylinder deactivation, an unusual feature for such a small engine. A single cylinder will shut off in 14 milliseconds during coasting, cruising, or at any other time when significant load is not demanded. The three-cylinder also has an exhaust manifold integrated with its cylinder head and a new turbocharger with a tweaked turbine designed to generate boost more quickly. Even in performance models, Ford is going all-in on efficiency and lowering emissions (well, trying to, at least).
The other major new feature to come to the Fiesta ST is the drive-mode selector. Drivers will have ...