Fiesta Zetec Guide
The Ford Fiesta Zetec has been one of the most popular Fiesta models ever since its original introduction in 1998. The Zetec name was first used in the early 1990s as the name of a new 16-valve petrol engine. The strong performance and widespread use of this engine meant that the name gained unusual recognition for an engine badge.
Ford were keen to benefit from the appeal of the Zetec name, so in 1998 they started using it as the name of a new trim level. Zetec-badged models were given sporty specifications - usually including metallic paint, alloy wheels and body-coloured bumpers.
The Fiesta was one of the first models to receive the Zetec badge and the move was an instant success. Since then, Fiesta Zetec range has expanded and a number of different models have been introduced - from the 'hot' Zetec S to the frugal yet lively diesel-powered Zetec TDCi models.
Ford Fiesta Zetec: Key Benefits
Although Ford have updated and redesigned the Fiesta since the original Fiesta Zetec was introduced in 1998, the model's key benefits haven't changed:
- Affordable to buy and insure
- Good performance and fun to drive
- Attractive, sporty specification
- Modern and reliable
For these reasons, Fiesta Zetecs have become very popular as a first car for younger drivers - particularly as most Zetec models have fallen into fairly low insurance groups, keeping premiums down.
Previous sporty versions of the Fiesta - typified by the earlier XR2i - had been handicapped with high insurance costs that put them out of the reach of many younger drivers. The Zetecs have managed to avoid this fate while still delivering reasonably lively performance.
What to Look For
The first Fiesta Zetec model was introduced in 1998. This offered one of several petrol engines, coupled with a sporty specification - alloy wheels, metallic paint and body-coloured bumpers, for example.
This was soon followed by the Zetec S - the closest thing to a real hot hatch in the Fiesta range at the time. Its sports suspension, larger engine and half-leather seats made it a popular choice with enthusiastic drivers.
During the 10 years the Zetec name has been in use, the Fiesta has undergone both a facelift and, in 2002, a complete redesign. Despite this, the Zetec has retained its position as the affordable-yet-sporty model in the Fiesta range, with a range of Zetec variants offering sporty styling, strong performance but affordable insurance.
The Ford Fiesta Zetec makes an excellent choice for anyone looking to buy a supermini. They are good to drive, affordable, practical and the popularity of the Zetec badge means that resale values should remain strong for the foreseeable future.