The new Ford Fiesta ST200, which debuts this year as Ford celebrates the 40-year anniversary of Fiesta, is the most powerful production Fiesta ever. Compared with the acclaimed Fiesta ST, the new Fiesta ST200 produces 10 per cent more power and 20 per cent more torque with 200PS and 290Nm from a specially calibrated 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

The ST200 sprints 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and delivers faster in-gear acceleration for improved drivability and an even more fun-to-drive experience. To further optimise the driving experience, the car also features enhanced suspension and steering.

It offers bolder and more distinctive design too, with an exclusive Storm Grey exterior colour along with 17-inch ST alloys wheels finished in matt black with polished rims.

The car also boasts red painted callipers alongside the ST-specification large trapezoidal grille with honeycomb construction, dynamic front spoiler and side-skirts, body-colour rear diffuser element and large rear roof spoiler.

An enhanced interior specification includes unique partial leather Charcoal Recaro front seats that are further distinguished with contrasting silver stitching, as are the seatbelts. Illuminated scuff plates incorporate the ST200 logo. Carbon fibre dashboard inserts, alloy-metal pedals and gear-shifter, and an ST-specification steering wheel also feature for the atmospheric interior that contrasts dark materials and headliner with silver effect detailing.

Production of the new hot hatchback, priced at £22,745, begins this month with first deliveries to customers soon after.

Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe, said: “The Fiesta ST is truly beloved by owners and critics. The ST200 takes this special drivers’ car to a new level of power and performance. We think it’s a future classic in the making.”