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2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000  
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Ford Fiesta
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Close scores amongst the finalists illustrates the tight competition in this category. While price will always be a critical consideration in this segment, the term "cheap and cheerful" and its downmarket connotation can be consigned to history. As cars across the board become more sophisticated, buyers are expecting similar improvements in the standard safety features and equipment levels of the average small car. Last year's winner Hyundai Getz and Holden's Barina are joined in the final three by a new entrant to the market, Ford Fiesta. All feature dual airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and power steering. Power windows are standard on Fiesta and Barina, while Getz and Barina also come with standard air-conditioning. In the final analysis Fiesta takes first place. At $14,490 the Fiesta's pricing slots it neatly between the Getz ($13,990) and Barina ($14,990). While it loses points against the Getz's generous warranty and lower operating costs and the Barina's thriftier fuel economy, the small Ford gains valuable ground in other key areas. Matching the Barina in build and finish quality, the materials used in the Fiesta's interior have a more expensive look and feel, belying the car's price, while Hyundai's use of hard-looking plastics for the dashboard, steering wheel and door trims give the Getz interior a lacklustre character. Comfort also rated better in the Fiesta, the sports style seats offering good support while the Getz scored best for space. All three rate equally for ergonomics, offering well-laid-out cabins, having their switches and controls within easy reach and large clear instrumentation. At 1.6 litres the Fiesta has the largest engine of the trio offering strong performance, although it is noisy under hard acceleration. By comparison the Barina's powerplant doesn't disgrace itself with its lively character, and while the Getz produces the same power as the Fiesta it lacks the mid-range urge of the Ford, meaning more work with the gears to keep momentum up. Of all the areas under consideration, it is the chassis dynamics where the Ford has its most distinct advantage. Equipped with the largest wheels and tyres of the group, the Fiesta's handling is up there with best in class. Communicative steering and a wide footprint give the car a confident and competent feel. The Getz offers user-friendly handling but lacks the crispness of the Fiesta - although it equals the Ford in ride quality, while the Barina can't quite match the others. As the new player in the field the Fiesta has raised the bar, but it speaks volumes for the others that they are finalists in a very close finish.
Top 5
Previous Results
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