The new Fiesta features updated technologies including the voice-activated in-car connectivity system SYNC, Active City Stop, and MyKey making its European debut. The SYNC system also includes Emergency Assistance. Under the hood will be a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, which won 2012 International Engine of the Year.
Styling tweaks include a trapezoidal front grille similar to that on the 2013 fusion, laser-cut headlamps and a power-dome hood design.
Ford says the vehicle follows its approach of "democratising" technology, i.e. bringing advanced features to a greater number of drivers for the first time.
Ford plans to reveal more details at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September. The new-fangled Fiesta will be available in North America next year; further details of the North American car are expected at the Los Angeles show in November. The company offers a five-door sedan and a hatchback model in North America, with a three-door hatch on offer in Europe.
More than 15 million Fiestas have hit the road since its 1976 launch.