It’s no surprise the Ford Fiesta has been crowned one of the most popular compact cars in the UK. It’s fun and affordable, making it a top choice to drive, whatever your age. What’s more, there is a choice of models in this range from practical five doors to sporty hot hatches.
However, with recent supply issues in the sector, getting hold of this car might be trickier than usual. That doesn’t mean you’re out of luck completely. Going up against the Fiesta is a range of models with similar driveability, performance and fuel economy.
So, what are the choices? Let’s take a look…
Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa has been a prominent feature in the car market since the 1990s. So, it’s an obvious choice to go up against the Ford Fiesta. The pair has often battled it out for the top compact car spot. So what sets them apart?
Looks-wise, the Corsa offers bold styling and the option of contrasting a roof colour alongside some dazzling LED headlights. Heading into the cabin, the comfort level is reasonable for the price. Plus, the seats have various designs depending on the model. The infotainment touchscreen is slightly smaller than the Fiesta’s at 7-inches. But, there’s the option of a larger one in upgraded trim levels.
One downside is the rear space for passengers. But this is shared in the Ford. However, you get a roomy boot for the size of the car, which is pretty handy.
Performance comparison
Like most cars, there’s a petrol and diesel option. The petrol version comes in a 1.2-litre engine with a choice of 75hp or 100hp. The slower option is fine for pootling around town. But if you want something a little zippier, the more powerful engine is a good all-rounder. Diesel is where you see the best fuel economy, and its 1.5-litre engine offers around 102hp. Vauxhall also has the Corsa-e, its fully electric model for anyone wanting to move over to electric.
Economy comparison
Both Vauxhall and Ford come pretty close on mpg with the petrol versions around the mid-40s. However, as the Corsa is available in diesel, motorway miles could see around 60mpg.
Price comparison
The Vauxhall Corsa is known for its fun and affordable drive, very similar to the Ford Fiesta. But depending on the model you choose, you could save some cash with the Corsa as it starts from £184.99 per month compared to £240.99 for the Fiesta.
View Vauxhall Corsa Lease Deals
Volkswagen Polo
The VW badge is much sought after, and the Polo is a trusty compact to fuel your Volkswagen adoration. It’s another popular option in the compact class, and you might be surprised by what you get for the price.
Like a Golf but smaller, the new Polo has had a few styling tweaks to give it a sharper look. In addition, it might have the edge over the Fiesta in terms of style appeal, or that might be due to the badge – the jury’s out! Although on the inside, it’s a reasonably comfortable and plush affair with soft-touch plastics and colourful trim accents. All models, including the entry-level versions, get a digital instrument display and infotainment system with all the high-tech essentials, such as Bluetooth connectivity.
For its size, it doesn’t scrimp on space. Passengers are more than comfortable in the back, more so than in the Fiesta. It also has a bigger boot than its rival.
Performance comparison
Like Ford, Volkswagen has eliminated the diesel engines in this model. So, you have limited choice. Basically, it’s a 1.0-litre petrol and a turbocharged version. Of course, the GTi also serves some hot hatch vibes for good measure.
Economy comparison
The VW Polo is another model with fuel economy similar to the Fiesta. The petrol engines provide around 45-50mpg. This makes them ideal for urban driving and motorway journeys.
Price comparison
The Polo is another surprisingly affordable driving experience all around. The fuel economy is good, and monthly leasing is cheaper than the Fiesta (depending on the model). Prices start at £189.99, which is a great price for the badge.
View Volkswagen Polo Lease Deals
Audi A1
If you’re looking for a luxury compact with renowned engineering behind it, the Audi A1 is a great option. This small but mighty car is Audi’s smallest upmarket vehicle and has the carmaker’s classic styling and design accents to reel you in.
Its exterior boasts a striking aesthetic, as you’d expect from the brand. Plus, it feels sportier compared to its rivals, such as the Fiesta and Polo. Move to the range-topper models, and you get an edgier style pack with striking alloys and two-tone paintwork.
In the cabin, the interior has a slightly smarter feel with higher-quality plastics and design features. There’s also a dual-screen infotainment system with plenty of high-tech goodies. Space is another bonus point for the A1. It’s roomier than the Fiesta, with plenty of head and legroom. Back passengers don’t have to squeeze in either. Also, the boot is slightly bigger than other small compacts.
Performance comparison
The Audi A1 is available in four petrol engines, but again no diesel in this model. Entry level starts with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, but there’s also the option of four-cylinder, more powerful versions. The most powerful offering is the 40 TFSI with a 2.0-litre petrol engine. Although, while these give you ample speed, the Fiesta ST pips it to the top spot if you’re looking for something even more fun to drive.
Economy comparison
Much like the Ford Fiesta, fuel economy is good even at the bottom end of the range. Mpg is around 50, so there are plenty of miles on a full tank. If you want the car for motorway miles, opt for more powerful engines, as they don’t have to work as hard and still give you a similar mpg.
Price comparison
Surprisingly, the premium badge doesn’t always command the premium price, which is true of the A1. Ok, so there are cheaper alternatives, but at Leasing Options, our deals start at £247.99 per month – not far off the Fiesta pricing.
Renault Clio
The Renault Clio has long been a contender to the Ford Fiesta, and it’s not hard to see why. However, the new model is basically the same style as its predecessor, so that could make the Fiesta more appealing.
Its exterior is very similar to the previous Clio but putting that aside, it’s still pretty sleek. In addition, the range-topping models have sporty touches to add that edgier vibe. On the inside, it’s a different story. The upholstery and soft-touch plastics give a smart look. There’s also a touchscreen on the dash with all the mod cons. For the driver and front seat passenger, there’s ample space. However, this shrinks somewhat if adults try to sit in the back. But it might be all forgiven once you see the boot if that’s what you need.
Performance comparison
Unlike the Fiesta, the Clio has a choice of petrol and diesel models. The entry-level petrol at 75hp is the most affordable. But, you can up the oomph with the 100hp or 130hp versions. Its 1.5-litre diesel is less impressive for speed, but if you’re racking up the motorway miles, it’ll see you good on mpg.
Economy comparison
As you’d expect, Renault’s diesel engine is the most fuel-efficient returning up to 65mpg (although the carmaker claims more depending on how you drive). The petrol versions are similar to the Fiesta in the mid-40s, which is ideal for urban driving.
Price comparison
The Renault Clio comes out a little cheaper than the Fiesta. So, Renault’s lack of new styling and design might be forgiven when it comes to more affordable leasing costs. Prices start from £208.99 per month.
At a glance
|
Model |
Performance |
Economy |
Price (monthly cost through Leasing Options) |
|
Ford Fiesta |
0-62mph: 6.3 – 14.4 seconds Top speed: 102 – 144mph |
42 – 56mpg |
From £240.99 |
|
Vauxhall Corsa |
0-62mph: 8.2 – 12.8 seconds Top speed: 93 – 129mph |
48 – 51mpg |
From £184.99 |
|
Volkswagen Polo |
0-62mph: 9.2 – 15.6 seconds Top speed: 106 – 149mph |
42 – 54mpg |
From £189.99 |
|
Audi A1 |
0-62mph: 6.3 – 11.1 seconds Top speed: 118 – 136mph |
39 – 53mpg |
From £247.99 |
|
Renault Clio |
0-62mph: 6.4 – 16.6 seconds Top speed: 111mph |
47 – 64mpg |
From £208.99 |
*prices subject to change
*Performance and economy figures shown are averages and are subject to several factors, including vehicle model, driving conditions, speed and optimum charge rates (electric and hybrid cars).
There’s a lot to love about the new Ford Fiesta. This compact yet fun and affordable car
is ideal for everyone. However, if you’re looking for a great alternative, there are plenty of choices out there. From similar prices to impressive driveability, the range of compact cars available could turn your head.
To find out more about leasing deals for the Ford Fiesta and its alternatives, contact us on 0161 516 2430.
