Critical Knowledge:

• Subcompact, 5-door hatchback and 4-door sedan designed by Ford of Europe
• 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine
• 40-mpg highway fuel economy rating
• Emissions technology includes new capless fuel filler
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Electric power steering
• Available AdvanceTrac stability and traction control
• Available Sync technology with Bluetooth phone connectivity and 911 Assist
• Available premium audio system with Sirius satellite radio
• Available keyless locking and ignition with push-button starting
• Available automatic climate control
• Available leather seating
• Available power sunroof
• Ford dealers offering numerous customization options

Introduction
Back in the 1970s, American automakers were struggling to cope with a sudden demand for small cars brought on by back-to-back oil crises. One of Ford's responses was the 1978 Fiesta, a subcompact hatchback designed by Ford's European division and introduced in Europe two years earlier. The Fiesta disappeared from American showrooms after 1980, but it has been a strong seller in Europe ever since.

Thirty years later, history is about to repeat itself. Responding to higher gas prices and increasing Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, Ford is once again planning to bring a Fiesta across the Atlantic to North America as a 2011 model. This time, in addition to a 5-door hatchback, Ford plans to create a 4-door sedan version with unique styling specifically for the U.S. market.

For More Information:

• See 2011 Ford Fiesta Pictures
• Browse Other Ford Models
• Read More Previews