Ford Fiesta ST-2 vs. Ford Fiesta ST-3: which is better?
Ford's ST naming can be confusing, but what do they actually mean?
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The Ford Fiesta was the most popular cars in the UK at one point, and it remains popular with all kinds of drivers.
It’s affordable, cheap to run and great to drive – especially if you get a Fiesta ST, offering fuel efficiency, an attractive price and the perfect dimensions.
But if you do find yourself in the market for one of the all-time great hot hatches, which one do you go for – the ST-2 or ST-3?
What is it like to drive a Ford Fiesta ST-3 vs. Fiesta ST-2?
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Underneath, they’re the same car, the ‘2’ and ‘3’ just tell you how much equipment they’ve got. This means the driving capabilities are the same across the board, and that’s no bad thing.
In fact, driving a Ford Fiesta ST is some of the most fun you can have on four wheels – until you cock up a wheel going round a fast corner (on a track, of course). Its peppy turbocharged 1.6-litre engine produces 180hp and performs like a dream.
That engine, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, is one of the best bang for your buck combinations in motoring.
What technology is in the Ford Fiesta ST-2 and ST-3?
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Tech is where the ST-2 and ST-3 begin to differ. Being set trim levels, the ST-3 sits above the ST-2 in the Fiesta ST range.
Features the mid-spec ST-2 has include heated Recaro front seats, a Sony infotainment system, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), keyless start and tinted windows.
Move up to the top-spec ST-3 and you get all the bells and whistles Ford could cram in such as cruise control, sat-nav, electric folding mirrors and climate control. This is by far the best choice if you want the best Fiesta experience.
When new, the ST-2 cost £1,000 over the standard ST (or, ST-1), while the ST-3 cost £2,000 more, showing a huge jump in specs and features.
Ford Fiesta ST-2 vs. ST-3 dimensions and boot space
From the outside, these two cars are identical, making the size difference non-existent. But if you’re looking at one wondering whether it’ll fit in your garage, here are the dimensions:
2023 Ford Fiesta dimensions
Length: 4040mm
Width: 1735mm
Height: 1476mm
Boot space: 311 litres
Fiesta ST-2 vs. ST3-: which is more reliable?
Since both cars are fundamentally the same underneath, they’re both the same reliability-wise.
Up until production stopped in 2023, Ford had been making the Fiesta for over 40 years so it’s no surprise it’s so dependable.
Its turbocharged engine and solid build quality help it to stay on top of its reliability in the small car segment. Being based on the standard Fiesta, overall dependability – as shown by owner surveys – proves you shouldn't have any concerns.
It’s safe too, scoring a full five stars at its last Euro NCAP safety test in 2017.
Key differences between ST-2 and ST-3 Fiestas
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The key differences lie in the interior spec. The ST-3 is much better equipped than the ST-2, so if added features is something you prefer, that’ll be the model for you.
But regardless, you’re getting a hatchback that’s incredibly fun to drive and won't disappoint.
If you’ve made up your mind and wish to continue your hunt for your next car, why not check out some of our used Fiesta models?