New look for Ford's Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta will have a new look both inside and out, and will have improved safety features.

Ford's small car Fiesta range is to get a new look and an improved safety package for 2006.

The facelift extends to new exterior styling, a new-look interior and new colours.

"The look of the 2006 model will add to Fiesta's already strong appeal while the addition of side and curtain airbags will enhance the car's safety," said Ford New Zealand Fiesta brand manager Suzanne van Pels.

The exterior changes include new bumpers and grille, new headlamps, rear lamps and thicker body side mouldings. Highlights inside include a new fascia with easier-to-read instruments and a soft-feel upper section to the instrument panel.

The Fiesta is powered by a 1.6 litre Duratec alloy engine, which delivers 74kW at 6000rpm and peak torque of 146Nm at 4000 rpm and is mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

The 2006 Fiesta range goes on sale here early next year. The recommended retail price for the manual is $21,990 and the automatic is available for $23,790. The price of both models includes the optional curtain and side airbags.

Leaving out the safety items drops the price of the cars by $1000.