70s revisited - will it last longer this time?

Ford has been getting pretty good on economy recently but their response to the 2008 fuel crisis is a huge leap, with the debut of the 2009 Fiesta EcoNetic at this week’s London Motor Show, held at the Excel exhibition halls.

The small hatch has an optimized diesel engine that places it at the very top of the UK’s list of economical five-seaters. Rated at a combined efficiency of 76.3mpg (63.6 mpg U.S.gallons, 3.7L/100km).

The primary modifications that achieve the economy include aerodynamics, lower suspension, lower rolling resistance tyres, low friction oil, shift indicator light (remember the Ford Escort "change up" light?), modified engine calibration, and a higher transmission final drive ratio from 3.37:1 to 3.05:1.

The 89hp (66kW) 1.6L TCDi diesel produces just 98g/km CO2, and with a starting price of just £11,845, available in three-door or five-door variations, both rated at identical efficiency values, the Fiesta EcoNetic is looking like a serious threat to relatively complex hybrids.

Other EcoNetic models will follow...

Source: Motor Authority
Further reading: Green Car Congress