THE Ford Fiesta Van swansong is celebrated as Glass’s Used Van Hero for March – just before production of the “attractive little load lugger” ceases with the all-new Fiesta car range coming online.
Each month, Glass’s Commercial Vehicle editors hold a meeting to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers outstanding value for money and ability.
Andy Picton, Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor: “With styling cues copied straight from the car, the Fiesta Van is an attractive little load-lugger. Great ride, handling and impressive comfort levels have made it a great choice for those working in urban environments. ”
Andy added that “with volumes dwindling since the arrival of the Transit Courier in 2014, Ford have sadly decided that production will cease in April this year. Nevertheless, this firm favourite will remain in demand as a used van with the nicest examples eagerly sought after.”
WHY?
Small, robust van with the interior taken straight out of the car. Popular with both fleet companies and one-man-bands. Sport trim with alloys, spoiler and more horsepower made the Fiesta van look seriously cool!
WHEN WAS IT ON SALE?
Project ‘Bobcat’ went into production in Spain in 1976 and the Fiesta car and van was born. The Fiesta van has been a regular sight on our roads for over 40 years but sadly, it has now run its course. Ford has now decided that the popular car derived van will cease production next month concentrating all its efforts on the Transit Courier.
WHAT’S GOOD?
At 500kg, the Fiesta Van has a more than adequate payload and at up to 88.3 combined mpg, the van is economical and cheap to run not to mention easy to manoeuvre and park. All diesel engines emit less than 100g/km of CO2 as well as benefiting from low insurance ratings.
WHAT’S BAD?
Not the longest of service intervals at 12,500 miles/12mths. Rear suspension can be an issue as can occasional turbo lubrication problems on early 1.6TDCi models. Early models reported cambelt problems which often necessitated a replacement.
IDEAL BUY?
Ford Fiesta Sport 1.6TDCi 95PS Stage 5 on 14/63 plate with 37,000m – Glass Trade £5,425 + VAT Glass Retail £6,825 + vat
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