The Ford Fiesta VII, specifically the facelifted model produced from 2013 to 2017, represented a significant evolution of Ford’s popular supermini. Within this generation, the 1.25 Duratec engine producing 60 horsepower served as the entry point to the Fiesta range, primarily aimed at budget-conscious buyers and those prioritizing fuel efficiency. This variant, typically offered with five doors, occupied a crucial position in the European market, where smaller, economical cars are highly valued. While not sold in significant numbers in the US, the Fiesta was a mainstay in Ford’s global lineup, and this particular engine/transmission combination defined the base model for several years.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta |
| Generation | Fiesta VII (Mk7, facelift 2013) 5 door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.25 Duratec (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 152 km/h (94.45 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.2 kg/Hp, 61.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 109 Nm @ 3600 rpm (80.39 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | STJA, STJB, STJC, STJD |
| Engine displacement | 1242 cm3 (75.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 970 kg (2138.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 281 l (9.92 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 965 l (34.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 3969 mm (156.26 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1787 mm (70.35 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1973 mm (77.68 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2489 mm (97.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14; 195/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14; 6J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The 1.25 Duratec 60 hp Fiesta, introduced with the 2013 facelift of the Mk7 generation, was designed to offer an affordable and economical entry point into the Fiesta range. Built on the B2E platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with the Ford Ka and Fiat 500), this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and low running costs. It was a key model for attracting first-time buyers and those seeking a practical city car. The facelift brought with it revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated technology, even on the base model, making it a more competitive offering in the supermini segment.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Fiesta variant is the 1.25-liter Duratec engine, specifically the STJA, STJB, STJC, or STJD engine code depending on the specific market and year. This engine is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder unit featuring a multi-port fuel injection system. The Duratec engine family is known for its simplicity and reliability. The 1.25L engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s modest output is a result of its relatively small displacement and conservative tuning, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, designed for smooth and efficient operation. While an automatic transmission was offered in some markets, it was not commonly paired with this specific engine due to the performance limitations.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.25 Duratec 60 hp Fiesta is not a performance-oriented vehicle. Acceleration is leisurely, taking approximately 16.9 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine feels strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The five-speed manual gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with relatively short gear ratios designed to keep the engine in its optimal power band. However, frequent gear changes are necessary to maintain momentum. Compared to higher-output Fiesta variants, such as the 1.0 EcoBoost or the 1.6 Ti-VCT, the 1.25L feels significantly underpowered. The focus is on providing a comfortable and economical driving experience, making it well-suited for urban environments and shorter journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base-level 1.25 Duratec Fiesta typically came equipped with a modest array of standard features. These included central locking, power steering, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were alloy wheels and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, such as Style or Zetec, added features like body-colored bumpers, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced audio systems. The base model was deliberately stripped down to keep the purchase price low, appealing to buyers on a tight budget.
Chassis & Braking
The Fiesta Mk7 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The base model typically featured drum brakes on the rear wheels, while the front wheels were equipped with ventilated discs. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.25 Duratec Fiesta received generally positive reviews for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. Critics acknowledged its lack of performance but praised its practicality and affordability. Compared to other trims in the Fiesta lineup, the 1.25L offered the lowest purchase price but also the least amount of power and equipment. The 1.0 EcoBoost engine, while slightly more expensive, provided a significant performance boost and comparable fuel economy. The 1.6 Ti-VCT offered even more power but at a higher cost and with increased fuel consumption. In the broader supermini segment, the Fiesta 1.25 competed with models like the Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, and Peugeot 208.
Legacy
The 1.25 Duratec engine, while not known for its groundbreaking performance, proved to be a reliable and durable unit. Fiesta models equipped with this engine have generally held up well over time, with relatively few reports of major mechanical issues. On the used car market, these variants are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and economical city car. Maintenance costs are typically low, and parts are readily available. While not a collector’s item, the 1.25 Duratec Fiesta represents a practical and dependable choice for those seeking a no-frills supermini.
