Summary:
The SES trim level was one of the higher-end trims for the 2011 Fiesta, and came with several features and options that were not available on the base model, including:
- Sportier Exterior Styling: The SES trim often featured sportier exterior design elements, such as a different grille, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler.
- Upgraded Interior: The interior of the SES trim typically had more upscale features, including higher-quality materials and additional options for interior customization.
- Standard Features: The SES trim usually included a range of standard features like power windows, power mirrors, air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, and a more advanced audio system.
- Suspension and Handling: It often had a sport-tuned suspension for improved handling and a more engaging driving experience.
- Technology: The SES trim may have come with advanced technology options, such as Ford’s SYNC infotainment system.
Some 2011 Fiesta known problems (full list at end of this post): transmission issues, clutch issues, powershift transmission recall, stalling and shuddering, electrical problems, sync system glitches, and rust issues.
Exactly one year ago today, I had the chance to attend the Canadian media launch for the Fiesta in Vancouver. At the time, the official Fiesta release date was still six months away and the versions we experienced were all Euro-spec. One year later, not much is different between the two.
The 2011 Ford Fiesta today is just as stylish and sleek, with a starting price-point of US13,320 or C$12,999 for the entry-level S Sedan. From here, choices include the SE Sedan (US14,100, C$16,099), the SE Hatchback (US16,320, C$16,799), the SEL Sedan (US17,120, C$18,199), to the grand daddy SES Hatchback Fiesta, as per my tester, ringing in at C$18,899.
Add $1200 for the leather seat upgrade, as with my hatchback, and we’re well above $20k for this subcompact rocket. However, more than likely, Ford expects it’s entry-level SE’s to be the volume sellers, catering to the younger, money-strapped demo seeking that value subcompact. The 2011 Fiesta is that, and much more.
Sporty Ford Hatchback with 120 horsepower
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 120 horsepower |
| Torque | 112 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration Time | Approximately 9.5 seconds (manual) |
Powered by a 1.6-litre DOHC I-4 engine producing 120 horsepower and 112 ft-lbs of torque, the Fiesta is fun and nimble yet incredibly fuel efficient, offering a best-in-class 4.9-litre/100km on the highway. In the city, the Fiesta handles brilliantly, negotiating tight turns and narrow roadways with ease.
Fiesta SES 5-door with an upgraded suspension
Specially tuned front struts, bushings, dampers, stabilizer bars, and a rear twist-beam axle give the Fiesta that spirited, sporty edge, something I’m sure Europeans certainly valued. Equally as confident on the highway, the Fiesta handles great on the highway, a pleasant surprise in a b-segment car (I had the Fiesta for a few days during the AJAC TestFest few weeks back, driving up and down the QEW from Toronto to Niagara-On-The-Lake and back; the Fiesta felt great at high speeds with enough high-end torque when needed).
A six-speed manual transmission comes standard with an optional industry-exclusive PowerShift six-speed auto that combines the responsiveness and fuel efficiency found with a manual tranny with the benefits of the automatic, including a dual dry-clutch setup.
2011 Ford Fiesta SES Hatchback Styling and Interior
Perhaps we have the Europeans to thank, but Ford has taken the innocuous subcompact car and made it sexy, realizing that ‘small’ need not equate to ‘bubbly,’ which often includes cheesy styling cues that no young hipster would dare drive. Where other subcompacts like the Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa missed the styling mark, Ford has designed a progressive, sporty ride in the 2011 Fiesta.
Muscular, sculpted front fenders and sleek, elongated headlamps, for instance, are two things on the Fiesta you probably wouldn’t expect on a B-class car. Add to this nine colour options for added individuality (my Fiesta came in Lime Squeeze…a vibrant colour that looks much cooler in person than it sounds). Every angle of the Fiesta looks hot, particularly the hatchback. Compared to its competitors, with the exception of maybe the all-new Mazda2 with which it shares the same platform, the 2011 Fiesta is by far the best looking.
The cabin is just as bold, with surprisingly ample space, especially headroom. The North American Fiesta finds bucket seats up front with 60/40 split second-row seats, allowing even more space. While the entire front dash is progressively styled, it’s not flashy or over-the-top. Everything is well-balanced and easy to reach and use.
The centre stack setup looks sharp and is well laid out, and the abundant radio memory buttons are a welcome feature. My SES Fiesta came equipped with the optional class-exclusive 4-inch LCD multifunction display placed up and centre, providing audio system data, vehicle settings, and, of course, Ford SYNC info, to name a few.
You can also scroll through seven different interior ‘mood’ lights, subtly lighting up areas including the cup holders, above the glove compartment, and floor mat area…a small little thing that’s actually pretty cool.
2011 Ford Fiesta SES Hatchback Specs and Known Fiesta Problems
| Spec | Metric |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L Inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 120 horsepower |
| Torque | 112 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration | Approximately 9.5 seconds (manual) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Manual: 29 mpg city / 38 mpg highway |
| Automatic: 30 mpg city / 40 mpg highway | |
| Suspension | Front Independent MacPherson Strut, Rear Twist-Beam with Coil Springs |
| Turning Radius | 34.4 feet |
| Curb Weight | Approximately 2,628 lbs (manual) |
| Approximately 2,628 lbs (automatic) |
2011 Fiesta issues to be aware of
Here are some of the reported Fiesta issues across the entire lineup, including sedans and all trim, that buyers should be aware of.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners experienced problems with the automatic transmission, such as jerking or shuddering during shifts.
- Clutch Issues: Manual transmission Fiestas were known to have clutch issues, which could lead to slipping or failure.
- PowerShift Transmission Recall: The PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission had issues, and Ford issued recalls and extended warranties to address related problems.
- Stalling and Shuddering: Some vehicles experienced stalling or engine shuddering at low speeds.
- Electrical Problems: Owners reported various electrical issues, including problems with the entertainment system and door latches.
- Sync System Glitches: The optional SYNC infotainment system had occasional glitches and connectivity problems.
- Rust Issues: Some owners reported premature rusting in certain areas of the vehicle, particularly in regions with harsh winters.
