Spied: 2013 Ford Fiesta ST

It's the hot hatch that everyone has been waiting for – this is the new Fiesta ST, and it's looking meaner than ever.

Spied testing at the Nurburgring circuit in Germany, these latest shots show the racy hatch gets the same dramatic grille as its bigger brother, the Focus ST. And that distinctive air intake gives the Fiesta some real visual aggression.

Take a look below the number plate and it's also clear to see an intercooler, indicating this model is turbocharged. Although there are no official details, it's expected that the Fiesta ST will pack a 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine.

With rivals such as Vauxhall's Corsa VXR and the RenaultSport Clio 200 all producing in the region of 200bhp, expect the Fiesta to do the same. That will be enough punch for a 0-60mph time of around six seconds and a top speed of 140mph.

According to our spies this prototype is being used to test the engine and its cooling systems with the new ST 'nose' – hence the reason for the track-required roll cage and the fact that the rear diffuser is different to a previous ST model we photographed.

The finished car is likely to receive a diffuser with exhaust pipes on either side, plus a bodykit with pumped up wheelarches and a larger roof spoiler. The chassis will get lowered and stiffened suspension along with wider tracks front and rear. Upgraded brakes and Recaro seats will also feature.

The Fiesta ST will debut in 2012, whlle the Focus ST will arrive later this year.For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express