Technically, the ST badge on this Ford Fiesta stands for Sport Technologies – but it may as well stand for “super tease.” This is the second time we’ve seen a Fiesta ST at a major international auto show, but Ford is still refusing to officially confirm the vehicle for series production.
Even so, it seems the hot Fiesta ST is inching even closer to reality. While the three-door hatchback concept shown earlier this year at Frankfurt turned heads, it had enthusiasts back in the United States a bit worried. Would the ST be offered only in 3-door guise, a bodystyle unavailable in North America?
It seems the answer is no. Ford’s L.A. show car is almost identical to the Fiesta ST concept shown in Frankfurt, but it’s built off a five-door Fiesta. It’s presence at the show is promising, although Ford continues to insist the car is only “under consideration” at this point.
Whenever the Fiesta ST is finally given an official green light, expect the finished product to closely resemble the car you see here. A 1.6-liter turbocharged I-4 should produce about 177 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, and will be mated with a six-speed manual transmission. 17-inch wheels, Recaro seats, and stiffer suspension tuning should help round out the package.
All we need now is Ford to officially push this into production – and to get it into U.S. showrooms sooner than later.
For more on the Ford Fiesta ST concept, check out our First Look here. For more on the 2011 Los Angeles Show, including videos, the latest photos, and more information, click here to visit our L.A. Show homepage.
