Ford unveils new Fiesta

Ford has unveiled its new Fiesta.

The company says the model boasts improved interior space, safety, fuel effiency and stylish looks.

It will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and go on sale in spring 2002.

Prices are still under wraps.

The new Fiesta is 49mm wider, 97mm taller and 89mm longer than the current model to create extra room for driver, passengers and luggage. Boot space is 14% bigger.

Ford says it has pushed the wheels even farther to the corners of the vehicle to boost handling.

The range will feature new engines, including a turbodiesel alternative - the 1.4-litre Duratorq TDCi.

There are also a new double-overhead cam petrol engines developed from that fitted to the Ford Focus - the Duratec 16v. They will come in 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre sizes.

The new Fiesta also gets a 8v alternative, the 1.3-litre Duratec 8v.

Large elements of the Intelligent Protection System seen on the Mondeo have also been incorporated into the design, say Ford.

The Fiesta will feature dual-stage front airbags as standard, which inflated in response to the severity of impact.

There are also side airbags for front seat occupants and optional inflatable side curtains to provide side-impact head protection.