Why is everyone still buying the Ford Fiesta? 

I was devastated when Ford killed off the Fiesta back in 2023. I’ve owned two; my first car was a 2004 Fiesta, then I had a 2017 example of the hot ST version.

And it seems I’m not alone in mourning this excellent small hatchback, because it’s currently the best-selling used car in the UK. It outsold the next most popular model by almost 15,000 units in Q1 2026, and its spiritual successor, the Ford Puma, is one of the UK’s biggest sellers this year so far.

Here’s why I reckon the Ford Fiesta continues to be so popular, even three years after its demise.

Brand recognition and availability

If you mention the term “small car” to someone, chances are they’ll say something along the lines of “oh, like a Fiesta?”.

It first went on sale 1976, and enjoyed a 47-year production run. More than 22 million were made, and 4.8 million of those found homes in the UK. That means they’re a very common sight on the road, and there are plenty of them on the used market.

Used prices

That availability means there are plenty of great deals on the second-hand market. Small cars are getting really expensive these days – my top-spec Skoda Fabia costs over £30,000 – and with the cost of living also rising more people are looking for something cheap and cheerful.

There’s a Fiesta out there to suit pretty much every budget. I’ve found 2012 examples on Carwow for as little as £2,000, or for £8,000 you can have a tidy 2018 model with low miles.

If you’re after the newest example of a Ford Fiesta, I found this early 2024 example for just over £16,000. It’s one of the last off the line, and it’s only got 12,300 miles on the clock. Being the ST Line, you get a sporty bodykit, upgraded alloy wheels, heated seats and a reversing camera.

Or maybe you fancy something spicy? In this case you’ll want the ST version. The most recent Fiesta ST uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with 200hp, driving the front wheels via a slick six-speed manual gearbox. It’s a riot to drive on a twisty road, and prices start from £11,000.

It’s just really good

The final reason I reckon people still love the Ford Fiesta is simple – it’s a brilliant car.

It’s great fun to drive in any guise – I had a fairly basic 2004 model as my first car, and I didn’t appreciate the sweet steering and agile handling until I traded it in for a Vauxhall Corsa. Despite this, it’s also still comfortable for day-to-day life.

There’s also a plethora of perky and efficient engines on offer, from tiny petrol units to incredibly fuel-efficient diesels. Just beware of the later 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine – it has a reputation for eating its own timing belt if not serviced religiously, resulting in catastrophic engine failure. Insist on comprehensive service history, including proof that the timing belt has been changed on time.

This aside, the Fiesta is a dependable little workhorse. It may not be as practical as a Skoda Fabia, or as comfortable as a Volkswagen Polo, but it’s packed with character and cheap to run.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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