Ford Fiesta ST 2012-2017 prices and specs

Can the Fiesta ST be one of the great fast Fords?

Exposed exhaust pipes, spoiler, diffuser and badge mark the ST out from the rear

The ST Style Pack adds red brake calipers and Rado Grey wheels

ST's grille eschews the chrome finish of lesser Fiestas for a black honeycomb mesh

A rear diffuser is de rigueur for any hot hatch in 2013 but we're not too keen on the Fiesta's

Rear spoiler signals the Fiesta ST's sporting intent without being excessive

There are few identifiers to mark the ST out as the sporting flagship inside

Recaro seats add much-needed pizzazz but lack lumbar support

Well packaged Fiesta offers acceptable rear space

ESC button (bottom) is ST-specific. It can operate in Sport mode or be disengaged completely

ST-2 models get an upgraded 4.3-inch multimedia screen over the standard ST, but it's still small

ST remains as practical as any Fiesta. Boot will hold 960 litres with the rear seats down

Overboost function means Fiesta ST is on par with its rivals, despite apparent on-paper deficit

The 1.6-litre Ecoboost's maximum outputs are 197bhp and 177lb ft

Excellent body control, well weighted steering and mobile rear end make the Fiesta ST a great drive

The ST rides firmly at lower speeds but isn't harsh or crashy

A hugely entertaining hot hatch that's easy to live with as an only car