Should you buy one?

We enjoyed our time testing this car – and although it was the most expensive variant available, the 125hp Active X with seven-speed PowerShift automatic transmission, our experience with other variants of the Ford Fiesta suggest most buyers would be just as happy with a 100hp Active model. These are still well equipped, the engine is peppy, and the six-speed manual gearbox snappy and user-friendly.

Though the market for a supermini-sized family hatchback that’s pretending to be an SUV isn’t vast – as you can tell from the small number of rivals – the Fiesta Active is nevertheless an attractive-looking car. And the extra ride height does little damage to the vehicle’s dynamic handling while possibly adding some reassurance if you occasionally have to travel over rougher roads.

As with all modern cars, the latest pricing is a little eyewatering. A Dacia Sandero Stepway, for instance, is some £8,000 less expensive (if also less well equipped), and for the £28,955 (including options) of our latest Fiesta Active test car you could pick from a selection of very good quality small SUVs and still come away with some change. Including the Ford Puma, Skoda Kamiq and the Toyota Yaris Cross – the last of which including up to 10 years of warranty cover for no extra charge.

This makes the Fiesta Active difficult to justify from a rational perspective. But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad car by any means, so if it takes your fancy and you can afford one, we doubt you’ll be disappointed.

What we like

Surprisingly distinctive appearance following latest facelift, pleasant to drive, well equipped, and supported by an extensive dealer network. The engines are efficient and engaging, too.

What we don’t like

It’s rather expensive for what it is – especially compared with proper rival SUVs – and the ride on the Active X’s 18-inch wheels isn’t brilliant.

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