New Ford Fiesta comeback in detail: Renault 5 and XR2i inspiration for 2028 launch

So while this means that the Fiesta will retain a front-engined, front-wheel-drive layout, this could include a revised battery that’ll help keep Ford’s model right up to date against its key rivals. 

For now, we can only speculate on the Ford’s specifications by looking at the current Renault 5, which is available with two battery options in the UK – 40kWh and 54kWh, with 119bhp or 148bhp respectively. A range of 250 miles at most for the larger battery will be possible, but this figure will vary depending on the final specifications. 

Even with the Fiesta’s proposed arrival date of 2028, a figure of around 250 will remain competitive with most European rivals, especially now that we know the new Volkswagen ID. Polo, Cupra Raval and Skoda Epiq are all capable, at most, of around 280 miles on a charge.

What will the new Ford Fiesta look like?

Regardless of the platform, though, Ford is adamant that its new Fiesta will still look and feel like a Ford, because it plans to instil its competition-derived heritage into all its future models. As you can see in our exclusive images, the new model will feature sporty styling elements inspired by Ford’s iconic past models, such as the XR2i, with two-element headlights, and black wheelarch surrounds.

There are very few details regarding the interior tech, because it’s not known whether Ford will employ its own infotainment system, but Baumbick said: “Our goal would be, over time, to make [all our infotainment systems] much more similar, and it gives us speed to be able to make changes and differentiate across the partners.” 

This suggests that Ford might be limited to using a system from Renault with its own skin, but we’ll have to wait to be sure. 

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