With virtually identical pricing, only a few features set the 2019 Ford Fiesta apart from its 2018 counterpart in its final year of production.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it—that’s the Ford Fiesta motto.
Despite its introduction over a decade ago in 2011, Ford never made any significant redesigns to its celebrated subcompact model. But that doesn’t mean the Fiesta lagged behind the times—in fact, the Ford Fiesta consistently one-upped its competitors with superior handling, a sport-tuned suspension, and surprising power for its small stature.
The 2018 and 2019 model years saw few changes between them, aside from 2019 being the Fiesta’s final year of production. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the final two model years of the fan-favorite Fiesta—then help you decide which one to buy and take a car loan
out on if necessary. 2018 Ford Fiesta vs. 2019 Ford Fiesta: what’s the difference?
The Fiesta remains Ford’s smallest car ever made—a subcompact that technically competed in the supermini segment. During its production, the Fiesta was available as either a sedan or hatchback.
Released in 2011, the Fiesta stayed modestly unchanged for the majority of its eight-year reign, with only minor changes year to year. For example, the 2018 Ford Fiesta received basic tech improvements following its 2017 predecessor, including standardizing a rearview camera and upgrading the tiny 3.5-inch infotainment touchscreen to a slightly larger 4.2-inch screen.
But for the 2019 Ford Fiesta—the finale model—those features remained virtually identical.
Ford did, however, decide to drop the 2018 Fiesta’s luxe Titanium trim, in favor of making the high-performance ST available in both sedan and hatchback body types—an option that was previously only available to hatchbacks.
Ready to take a closer look? Below, we cover what’s changed (and what hasn’t) between the 2018 and 2019 Ford Fiesta.
Pricing
Pricing for the 2019 Ford Fiesta has increased between $600 and $900 for each trim level when compared to the 2018 Ford Fiesta. Additionally, the Titanium trim was dropped from the 2019 lineup, in favor of including a more versatile ST trim. Check out the table below for more information:
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| | $15,400 (sedan)$15,700 (hatchback) |
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General specs
That difference in price isn’t explained by an upgraded powertrain. In fact, the 2018 and 2019 Ford Fiestas share an identical powertrain with the same 120-hp, 1.6L inline four-cylinder engine. Even in the tier-topping ST trim, the same 197-hp 1.6L turbocharged engine remains.
That means you’ll see an identical performance when it comes to power and speed. But what about the transmission?
Unfortunately, there’s little to report—you’ll still get the choice between a standard five-speed manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic. Both cars are complete with standard front-wheel drive. The table below provides a summary of the engine and powertrain options available for both model years:
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Base engine (S, SE, Titanium, ST Line) | 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder(120 horsepower) | 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder(120 horsepower) |
| 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder | 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder(197 horsepower) |
Transmission (S, SE, Titanium, ST Line) | 5-speed Manual (standard) or 6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic | 5-speed Manual (standard) or 6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
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Fuel economy
One of the changes that set the 2018 Ford Fiesta apart from prior versions was the discontinuation of the optional 1.0L Ecoboost engine, which was a far more economical than the standard or turbocharged inline engine.
But since the 2018 and 2019 Fiestas share the same engines, their fuel economy specs are essentially identical. Here’s a rundown:
Base engine (5-speed Manual): 27 city / 35 highway / 30 combined
Base engine: (6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic): 27 city / 37 highway / 31 combined
Upgrade ST engine (6-speed Manual): 25 city / 32 highway / 28 combined
Safety ratings
For a vehicle as small as a supermini, safety is everything. Both the 2018 and 2019 Ford Fiestas received solid four-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA). But what withheld them from a full five-star review? In the 2018 Fiesta’s case, the model scored poorly for side crash and rear passenger crash safety, along with concerns from the IIHS regarding the seatbelt latch and child restraints in the rear seats.
Additionally, some 2019 Fiestas have been recalled for incorrect assembly of the brake calipers, resulting in dangerous driving conditions.
Style and interior changes
As far as aesthetics go, there’s little to report between the 2018 and 2019 model years.
Aside from ditching the luxurious Titanium trim in favor of the sleek and sport ST Line trim, the Fiesta remains unchanged. Its infotainment system is user-friendly and easy to navigate, and the interior spaciousness and cargo room are the same.
While both models may want for creature comforts, they make for a quiet ride—one of the quietest in its class.
2018 Ford Fiesta vs. 2019 Ford Fiesta: which should you buy?
So, we’ve covered all the bases—but which model do you buy?
Ultimately, that answer depends on quite a few factors, including your driving needs, budget, and personal preferences. If you’re deciding based on what’s best for the money, go for the cheaper model—unless you’re looking for the top-tier ST in a sedan body style.
Because so much of the design and features are the same between both Fiestas, you’re only missing out on certain higher trim levels. And even then, that extra money pays for little more than high-tech features and an optional body type. Otherwise, the 2018 Ford Fiesta retains all the same features and capabilities of the 2019 model.
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