The 2015 Ford Fiesta is an economy sedan that offers both the most luxurious cabin in its class and a lineup of feisty, fuel-efficient engines. Also available as a hatchback, the Fiesta can be equipped with enough upscale features to rival more expensive models. Its sporty handling makes it both capable and fun to drive. The Fiesta's available EcoBoost engine is sufficiently powerful and impressively fuel-efficient.

2015 Ford Fiesta

For anyone shopping the economy class, the 2015 Ford Fiesta is a must-drive. It's not merely affordable - it's modern, classy, and quick on its feet. Drivers can choose between three trim models - S, SE, or Titanium - and two body styles, sedan or four-door hatchback. There's also a high-performance ST model that's available as a hatchback.

The base S model Fiesta gives drivers everything they need for a modern, comfortable ride. A six-speaker sound system gives users plenty of entertainment options with the Ford Sync interface, including iPod and USB connectivity. The height-adjustable driver seat and tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel allow drivers to get perfectly comfortable.

The midgrade SE Fiesta is even better stocked with modern conveniences. Keyless entry means drivers don't need keys in hand until they're inside the car. Upgraded cloth upholstery improves comfort levels. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and multicolor ambient lighting set an upscale, youthful tone.

SE drivers can also add a layer of style with the Appearance package, which includes a leather-wrapped shifter and enhanced cloth seating. It also adds the MyFord Touch interface, which introduces a 6.5-inch screen to access infotainment options and Sync Services, which include turn-by-turn navigation and traffic updates. The SE's Fuel Economy package saves drivers money at the pump with a list of fuel-efficient equipment, including the EcoBoost turbocharged engine. A Comfort package includes heated front seats and side mirrors for greater control over winter weather.

The top-trim Titanium Fiesta is the most luxurious of the bunch. It maximizes the Fiesta's appeal by including all of the features in the SE Appearance and Comfort packages. It also comes standard with a long list of high-tech gadgets, including a safety-enhancing rearview camera and timesaving keyless ignition and entry technology. Leather upholstery provides the last word in passenger comfort.

All 2015 Ford Fiesta sedan models offer 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space - plenty of room for everyday items like overnight bags and groceries. Hatchback models furnish slightly less room, but with the rear seats folded, they provide a maximum of 26 cubes of cargo space.

On the road, the 2015 Fiesta's base 1.6-liter engine generates 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque. Although it comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, drivers can choose a six-speed Powershift automatic transmission. The latter is designed to be more efficient than the average automatic transmission. With the Powershift transmission, the standard Fiesta achieves 27 city/ 37 highway mpg. With the standard transmission, those numbers change to 28/36 mpg. Drivers who opt into the Fuel Economy package will get 28/38 mpg.

The 2015 Fiesta's optional 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine produces an impressive 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. It can only be paired with a five-speed manual transmission, but it's among the thriftiest engines in its class with an EPA rating of 31/43.

When it comes to safety, 2015 Fiesta drivers can expect big things. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave this vehicle its top rating of "Good" in moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength crash tests. The seat and head restraint design also received a "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts. In government crash tests, the Fiesta earned four out of five stars for overall crash protection and four stars for frontal protection.

Fiesta ST

The sporty 2015 Ford Fiesta ST adds to the midlevel SE's features with a long list of performance-enhancing equipment. Its unique bodywork sets it apart from the other models. Quicker steering and enhanced brakes make this Fiesta even more fun to drive. Sport-tuned suspension further improves the on-road experience.

Inside, the ST's exclusive cloth sport seats lend both comfort and style. Keyless ignition and entry save time in the parking lot. Automatic climate control generates the perfect cabin temperature.

Its exclusive 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine turns out 197 horsepower and an impressive 202 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, it's EPA-rated for 26 city/35 highway mpg.

Conclusion

The 2015 Ford Fiesta offers one of the best performance bargains in the automotive market. All of its engine options lend excellent power for zipping around town, with excellent fuel economy to boot. The three-cylinder EcoBoost engine is particularly worthy of buyer consideration. Inside, the Fiesta is more luxurious than any economy driver hope for. A long list of high-tech features helps it compete with pricier sedans.