I am pretty new to this Forum - but not new to Ford. (Worked for Ford here in South Africa at both the Engine and Assembly Plants in Port Elizabeth from 1966 to 1973). Here in S.A. we now have the latest Fiesta range and an a continuation of the previous model design, called the Figo, (facelifted mainly in the frontal area- Fiesta styling - with the earlier platform), which is an entry level range to compete in the growing entry level market. The Figo is only available in a 1.4l and 5dr. derivative. It outsells the more expensive Fiesta which comes in both 1.4l and 1.6l with both 3 and 5dr. hatch versions. So why am I bringing this up? My current car is a 2005 3dr. 1.6 Trend with 16" seven spoke alloys and the most fun to drive - but lacks punch having the 16 valve Duratec 74 Kilowatt engine. The idea of the Figo in a three door sports version with the latest VVT 88 Kilowatt engine seemed to make a lot of sense (similar concept to the RSi here which was the sports version of the earlier Flair range). It could be marketed at a very competitive price and add volume to the range.
I approached Ford South Africa but was told they had no intention of introducing such a derivative...completely baffled me and I would welcome any comment from members here on this topic.