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The 2011 Ford Fiesta starts at $13,995 (including $675 for destination), but Ford thinks most buyers will add options, pushing that figure over the $20,000 mark.
With consumers looking for the best deal around, compact cars are now becoming more widely recognized as acceptable vehicles to drive. Ford thinks that as consumers migrate to smaller cars, they will still expect the comforts traditionally offered in larger, more expensive cars.
“There are people who live in downtown Boston who want to trade in their Audi A4 and still have Bluetooth and Sync technology, yet get a smaller car. They can do that,” said Jim Farley, vice president of global marketing.
Within one week of offering online reservation for the all-new 2011 Fiesta, Ford had received over 1000 orders. Farley told Automotive News that through the preorder process, consumers “have shown us if we bring out aspirational products, not only will they pay the base price, but go up.”
Equipped with a five-speed manual, the base 5-door 2011 Fiesta retails for $15,795. In contrast, a fully-loaded 5-door SES model, equipped with the six-speed dual-clutch transmission, 17-inch wheels, leather seats, and keyless start, will push that figure close to $23,000.
Source: Automotive News
I love my Ford Focus wagon and eagerly awaited the Fiesta hatch. But, there’s no way I’d pay over $16k for this small of a car no matter the options.I’d like a smaller car but this will make the Focus and Fusion look like screaming bargains. Ford MIGHT get a lot of people trading down from more expensive cars, but I think the entry-level market will go to Kia, Hyundai, Scion, Toyota Yaris, etc. That’s a mistake. If only Suzuki could get the Swift to the U.S quickly……………
Ridiculous. People want value right now, especially from the domestics. I would NEVER pay $23k for a small Ford Anything, let alone an entry-level model, especially considering every Ford product I have ever owned was mechanically worthless. Hyundai, here I come.
While I think the Fiesta is a stylish and modern alternative in the sub-compact segment, very few are going to sell for $23k. However, I think a significant chunk of the 2011 Focus models will go for more than $20k. Can’t wait to see the specs on that one.