but it's still a 50% increase over the current highest power model (the 1.6 Zetec or Ghia).

Having owned the TDCi & 1.4 Fiesta I know first hand what a stable and predictable chassis the car has, coupled with excellent build quality, comfort and an amazing amount of space.

I think the ST sadly will suffer a bit of criticism from the inevitable (and ultimately meaningless) power comparisons that the press will make to the other manufacturers offerings that are availble, but if people can see through that and get a test drive I think they will experience a car that will put a lot of fun back into motoring.

Very true.

Also, Ford can now say to people "If you need more power, wait for the RS." Or even better "If you need more power DIY."

I think 150bhp is just right - the insurance needs to be cheap!

I think with the competition there is between the insurers and the appearence of direct insurers I really don't think this will be the issue it once was. In the days of the XR2 and 205 GTi modifying was almost unheard of whereas now it's almost the norm. Back then if you did modifying a car you were crucified, nowadays you are almost congratulated (someone who spends time and money on their car is statistically less likely to spank it). Given that at 26 I could insure a Focus RS fully comp with protected NCB for £500 (a bargain IMO) I think the ST will be ok. It is not unheard of though that car manufacturers make concessions to insurers to help reduce the initial premiums.

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Having owned the TDCi & 1.4

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Just wondering, which did you find was the better engine?
I went for the TDCi because of the extra torque and ease of driving as a result but i've never driven the 1.4...

Will ford be putting the 1.6 TDCi in the fiesta ???
If so bye bye 1.6 petrol

1.4 can be summed up in one word: Gutless! We only keep it as I let my fiancee drive it, if I drove it I would've traded it in ages ago! The TDCi is only a teeny bit slower but is much more satisfying to drive and at least your getting fab economy!

Problem with diesels is that they're quite big and heavy... so I guess a 1.8 TDCi in an ST body is out of the question?

Nowadays, it's not straight line performance, it's cornering, and braking that really helps.. so if Ford get that right, they're onto a winner