Ford Fiesta vs BMW i Series
What's the difference?

Ford Fiesta

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2023 price

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BMW i Series

$88,900 - $233,400

2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Summary

2023 Ford Fiesta

2026 BMW i Series

By Tim Nicholson

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 3, 1.5L

Electric motor type

Electromagnetically Excited

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Fuel Efficiency

6.3L/100km (combined)

Electric range

805 km

Energy consumption

18.8 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

108.70 kWh

Seating

Likes

Punchy engine and slick gearbox combo
Light, chuckable dynamics
Excellent value for money

Great driving range
Spacious cabin for the whole family
Excellent real-world efficiency

Dislikes

Noisy cabin
Huge turning circle
Firm ride

Optioned wheels hurt range
Fussy ride on rough roads
Missing features for flagship grade

2023 Ford Fiesta Summary

The original Ford Fiesta ST from 2013 was a modern classic. The combination of appealing pricing, point-and-shoot driving dynamics and a sweet turbocharged engine ensured it won a legion of fans.

Its follow-up from 2020 continued that formula and brought with it a refinement missing from the original. But it was just as fun to drive.

Ford has launched a mid-life update for the sprightly hot hatch, which despite arriving in Australia halfway through 2022, is still officially an MY22 model. This latest version introduces upgrades to interior tech and exterior styling, as well as a 30Nm bump in torque.

But given it’s facing a ballsy competitor from Hyundai, has Ford done enough to keep its B-segment hot hatch crown?

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2026 BMW i Series Summary

We’re in the new BMW iX3, the first production model to arrive on BMW’s Neue Klasse (new class) EV architecture. We’re testing the flagship 50 xDrive, and it begs the question: has BMW actually managed to make its next generation of EVs feel like a proper Bimmer? Buyers expect a lot from that badge when it comes to ride and handling, so does this electric SUV actually deliver?

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Deep dive comparison

2023 Ford Fiesta 2026 BMW i Series

Verdict

The Fiesta ST is an addictive car to drive. It's a modern classic and hard to beat when it comes to engaging performance and smile-inducing dynamics. Add in excellent value for money and you have a certified performance car bargain.

Verdict

The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is a seriously quick electric SUV that earns points for its family practicality, while its impressive range could go a long way towards easing range anxiety. The ride isn’t always as settled as I’d like, but for the most part, this is a well-executed premium EV.

Ford Fiesta vs BMW i Series What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Ford Fiesta vs BMW i Series
What's the difference?