Ford Fiesta Active

The Fiesta Active will go someway to plug the gap left by the passing of the B-Max, it’s a bit more rugged and nods it’s head to the SUV class without treading on the toes of the Ford Ecosport. It is a Fiesta raised by 18mm with black plastic cladding, a black decal on the boot and a different grille, in attempt to live up to the Active title there are three driving modes, Eco, Normal and Slippery which optimises the steering and stability systems for maximum traction and safety. The Active has no extra weight and despite being taller is as engaging to drive as the Fiesta, but soaks up the bumps in the tarmac a little better. The three cylinder 1.0 litre petrol is on offer in two variants both now with mild hybrid technology offering 123bhp 153bhp, allied to a six-speed manual gearbox only

The Active is available in three different trims. Active is based on Zetec trim – our favourite on the regular Fiesta – and gets LED lights, 17 inch  alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, lane-keeping assist and Ford’s latest Sync 3 infotainment system. B&O Play gets an upgraded stereo, while Active X gets a part-leather interior with heated front seats, electrically folding door mirrors with puddle lights, sat-nav, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors.

There is no Automatic option presently on the new mild hybrid. Prices start from £245, the Active X is a better offer as prices now stat from £295. The larger 153bhp version is £545 in Active X trim.

Winter Best Buy – Ford Fiesta Active X 1.0 Litre mild hybrid Petrol (123bhp) Manual  –  £295 Advance payment (£65.08 wpms)