2014 Ford Fiesta Rides New 1.0-Liter EcoBoost to 45-MPG Highway Rating

While hybrid and diesel vehicles continue to gain acceptance in the U.S. market, some automakers are showing there are still plenty of miles per gallon to be gained in the development of traditional gas-powered engines. Look no further than Ford's award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder powerplant, which will make its U.S. debut in the 2014 Ford Fiesta later this year, allowing the subcompact to return up to 45 mpg on the highway.

By earning that impressive highway rating, the 2014 Fiesta with SE Manual EcoBoost Package will become the most efficient non-hybrid, gas-powered car in the United States, besting the Honda Fit and the Toyota Yaris by 12 mpg and 8 mpg, respectively. The Fiesta model will also produce 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque with its new EcoBoost, making it the only subcompact to generate at least 120 horsepower while achieving 45 mpg on the highway. Additionally, drivers can take advantage of an overboost function to surpass 145 pound-feet of torque for up to 15 seconds.

"The Fiesta's new 1.0-liter EcoBoost is innovative in both its efficiency and its responsiveness relative to its small displacement," said John Melkonian, general manager of Stoneham Ford, a Massachusetts Ford dealer. "The new Fiesta model beats the Volkswagen Golf TDI diesel and Honda Insight hybrid in highway fuel economy, yet it boasts more horsepower per liter than a Lamborghini Aventador. That means that buyers don't need to sacrifice driving fun when they downsize to a subcompact for better gas mileage."

Beyond its new 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, the Fiesta with SE Manual EcoBoost Package features a number of aerodynamic enhancements to return its leading fuel efficiency, including lower grille blockers, side air deflectors, a rear spoiler, underbody shields and low-rolling-resistance tires. The Fiesta model is also rated at 32 mpg in the city and 37 mpg in combined city and highway driving.

While the 2014 Fiesta's increased fuel economy will help it solidify its popularity among younger buyers, the car continues to offer intuitive technology options that cater to millennials' affinity for staying connected on the road. A new MyFord Touch infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen and enhanced voice commands for controlling navigation, entertainment and communication functions, while drivers can use SYNC AppLink to access audio-streaming apps like Pandora, iHeartRadio and Stitcher Smart Radio.

"Younger buyers tend to view their vehicle as an extension of their mobile devices, and the Ford Fiesta allows them to safely stay connected with that technology while they're driving," added Melkonian. "They also expect more out of automakers when it comes to fuel efficiency, which makes the 1.0-liter EcoBoost a perfect fit for the Fiesta."