This is the PSA Siemens common-rail injection system used by the Ford Fiesta Zetec stdci.
It features a lightweight, all-aluminum-alloy construction, and twin overhead camshafts. Its maximum torque delivery occurs from 1,750 rpm to 3,000 rpm and delivers 0-60 acceleration times of just 11.2 seconds, with a measured top end of 112 mph. In addition, this mill easily passes the strict Euro IV emission standard along with an ultra low CO2 rating.
SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION
The Fiesta-S platform chassis development centered on improving the impressive abilities of the standard Fiesta suspension. Ford utilized its teamrs chassis engineers responsible for the popular Fiesta ST. The idea was to parallel the handling of the ST with more emphasis on ride quality. The improved platform comes with a tuned suspension to improve the handling, with macpherson struts up front combined with torsion bars in the rear. What is unique about all of this is Ford's desire to produce and promote its diesel performance-handling package from the factory. The UK market asked for it, and the company has followed the trend that began at the grassroots level.
The original Fiesta debuted in 1976, and a diesel engine found its way under the hood in 1983. The sixth generation Fiesta arrived on the world market in 2002, and there's a chance the next generation car will come to our shore as a '10 model in 2009.
WILL IT COME BACK TO THE U.S.?
We hope so. Ford's Fiesta is truly a global success story and is sold in 71 nations around the world. With global warming and fuel worries continuing, expect both the design and the mechanical technology to continue to change with this small-car platform. Energy costs are as big a concern in the U.S. as they are anywhere else, so it's quite possible that a Fiesta-based vehicle could return to America. Be on the lookout for a small common-rail diesel in a sporty package and a complement of electronic gizmos. It'd be fun to drive and deliver hybrid-beating fuel economy. Think iphone with a clean diesel engine, and you've got the idea.