Let's dive into the Ford Fiesta ST 182, a hot hatch that's known for its zippy performance and engaging driving dynamics. If you're looking for a car that's both fun and practical, the Fiesta ST 182 might just be the perfect fit. This article will give you a detailed rundown of its specifications, performance, and technical details.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the Ford Fiesta ST 182 is its 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged powerplant is what gives the car its lively character. The engine delivers around 182 horsepower (hence the '182' in the name) and approximately 240 Nm of torque. But here’s the kicker: with overboost, you can temporarily crank that torque up to 290 Nm, giving you an extra surge of power when you need it most. This feature makes overtaking and accelerating a real joy, providing that extra oomph that puts a smile on your face.

The Fiesta ST 182 isn't just about raw power; it's about how that power is delivered. The engine is incredibly responsive, thanks to the turbocharger's quick spool-up time. This means minimal lag, allowing you to tap into the power almost instantly. The engine's flexibility is another strong point. It pulls strongly from low revs, making it easy to drive around town, but it really comes alive as you climb up the rev range. The engine is paired with a slick-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox, which is perfectly geared to make the most of the engine's characteristics. The gear changes are short and precise, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In terms of acceleration, the Fiesta ST 182 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in around 6.9 seconds. While that might not sound like supercar territory, it's more than enough to make the Fiesta ST 182 feel properly quick. More importantly, it's the in-gear acceleration that really impresses. The car feels eager and responsive, making it a blast to drive on twisty roads. The top speed is around 220 km/h (137 mph), which is more than adequate for most driving situations. The Fiesta ST 182 is not just about straight-line speed; it's about the overall driving experience, which is both engaging and rewarding.

The engine also incorporates various technologies to improve efficiency. Direct fuel injection helps to optimize combustion, while variable valve timing ensures that the engine is breathing efficiently at all engine speeds. As a result, the Fiesta ST 182 manages to strike a good balance between performance and economy. Fuel consumption is around 5.9 liters per 100 km (40 mpg), which is respectable for a car with this level of performance. Of course, if you spend most of your time driving enthusiastically, you can expect the fuel consumption to be higher. But even when driven hard, the Fiesta ST 182 is unlikely to bankrupt you at the pumps. The combination of performance and efficiency makes the Fiesta ST 182 a practical choice for everyday use. You can enjoy the thrills without feeling too guilty about the impact on your wallet or the environment.

Chassis and Handling

Beyond the engine, the Fiesta ST 182's chassis plays a crucial role in its fun-to-drive nature. Ford's engineers put a lot of effort into fine-tuning the suspension, steering, and brakes to create a car that feels agile and responsive. The Fiesta ST 182 features a specially tuned suspension system with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard Fiesta. This helps to reduce body roll in corners, giving you more confidence when tackling twisty roads. The ride is firm, but it's not uncomfortable. It strikes a good balance between providing a sporty feel and being compliant enough for everyday use.

The steering is another highlight of the Fiesta ST 182. It's sharp, precise, and provides plenty of feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. The steering ratio is also quicker than the standard Fiesta, which means that the car responds quickly to your inputs. This makes the Fiesta ST 182 feel nimble and eager to change direction. The steering is also well-weighted, providing a good level of resistance without feeling too heavy. This helps to build your confidence, especially when driving at higher speeds.

The braking system is also up to the task. The Fiesta ST 182 features larger front brakes than the standard Fiesta, providing plenty of stopping power. The brakes feel progressive and responsive, allowing you to modulate them easily. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, helping to prevent wheel lock-up under hard braking. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is also included, which helps to keep the car stable in slippery conditions. However, the ESC system can be partially or fully disabled, allowing you to explore the car's limits on a track or in a safe environment. This is a welcome feature for enthusiasts who enjoy having more control over the car's handling.

The Fiesta ST 182 also features Torque Vectoring Control, which helps to reduce understeer by braking the inside front wheel when cornering. This effectively transfers more power to the outside wheel, helping to pull the car into the corner. Torque Vectoring Control works seamlessly in the background, enhancing the car's agility without feeling intrusive. It's a subtle but effective technology that contributes to the Fiesta ST 182's impressive handling. The combination of a well-tuned suspension, sharp steering, powerful brakes, and Torque Vectoring Control makes the Fiesta ST 182 a joy to drive on any road.

Interior and Features

Moving inside, the Fiesta ST 182's interior offers a sporty and functional environment. While it's not the most luxurious cabin in the world, it's well-equipped and features several unique touches that set it apart from the standard Fiesta. The most noticeable difference is the Recaro sport seats, which provide excellent support and grip during spirited driving. These seats are designed to hold you firmly in place, preventing you from sliding around in corners. They're also surprisingly comfortable, even on long journeys. The seats are finished in a combination of cloth and leather, with the ST logo embroidered on the backrests.

The steering wheel is another highlight of the interior. It's a chunky, leather-wrapped wheel with a flat-bottom design, which not only looks sporty but also provides a comfortable grip. The steering wheel features controls for the audio system, phone, and cruise control, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel while driving. The gear knob is also unique to the ST model, featuring a sporty design and a comfortable feel. The pedals are finished in aluminum, adding to the sporty ambiance of the interior. The instrument cluster features ST-specific graphics and displays, providing you with all the information you need at a glance.

In terms of features, the Fiesta ST 182 comes well-equipped as standard. It includes features such as air conditioning, a CD player with Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Higher-spec models also feature features such as satellite navigation, a Sony sound system, and automatic climate control. The infotainment system is easy to use, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. However, it's not the most modern system on the market, and it lacks features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Fiesta ST 182 also offers plenty of practicality. The rear seats can accommodate two adults comfortably, and the boot is a decent size for a car in this class. The rear seats can also be folded down to create a larger cargo area, making the Fiesta ST 182 a versatile choice for everyday use. While the interior might not be the most luxurious, it's well-designed, functional, and features several sporty touches that enhance the overall driving experience. The supportive seats, sporty steering wheel, and aluminum pedals create a focused and engaging environment for the driver.

Technical Specifications

To wrap things up, let's take a look at some key technical specifications of the Ford Fiesta ST 182:

• Engine: 1.6-liter EcoBoost
• Power: 182 PS (134 kW; 180 hp)
• Torque: 240 Nm (177 lb-ft), 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) with overboost
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 6.9 seconds
• Top Speed: 220 km/h (137 mph)
• Fuel Consumption: 5.9 L/100 km (40 mpg)
• CO2 Emissions: 138 g/km
• Weight: 1,163 kg (2,564 lbs)

These figures highlight the Fiesta ST 182's impressive performance and efficiency. It's a car that's both fun to drive and relatively economical to run, making it a great choice for those who want a sporty and practical hatchback.

The Ford Fiesta ST 182 is a fantastic hot hatch that offers a thrilling driving experience. Its combination of a punchy engine, sharp handling, and sporty interior makes it a standout in its class. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and practical car, the Fiesta ST 182 is definitely worth considering.