CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 5,000
Average Price: Around £8,000

Ford Fiesta (2008-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Comfortable and entertaining drive	Not quite as reliable as a Hyundai i20
Excellent Ecoboost engines	Underpowered entry-level 1.25-litre engine
Low fuel and insurance bills	So-so build quality

Quick Summary

The Ford Fiesta (2008-2017), known as the Mk6, is Britain's best-selling supermini, renowned for delivering an exceptional driving experience that rivals cars costing significantly more. This generation combines a comfortable, supple ride with crisp, engaging handling and nimble manoeuvrability, making it equally suited to town driving, motorway journeys, and spirited bends. The 290-litre boot is among the class-leaders, and the interior is logically laid out with plenty of adjustment for driving position and decent visibility. A wide range of engines is available, from economical diesels achieving up to 70mpg in real-world driving to the excellent Ecoboost petrols and the thrilling ST hot hatch variant.

Running costs are impressively low, with many models qualifying for zero road tax due to super-low CO2 emissions, whilst insurance groups are generally affordable. The facelifted models from 2013 onwards feature improved interior materials and modern technology such as USB connectivity and DAB radio. Whilst some versions have reliability concerns and build quality is merely adequate rather than premium, the Fiesta remains an excellent used buy offering practicality, affordability, and genuine driving satisfaction. With countless examples available, finding the right specification is straightforward.

Best for: Drivers seeking an engaging, comfortable driving experience, budget-conscious buyers wanting low running costs, families needing a practical town car, and those interested in an affordable hot hatch (ST).

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising premium build quality, those seeking maximum reliability, or drivers requiring the most powerful entry-level engine options.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Fiesta if: You're seeking an engaging and comfortable driving experience, want low running costs, need a practical family car, or are interested in an affordable hot hatch (ST).

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise premium build quality, seek maximum reliability, or require the most powerful entry-level engines.

Competitive Position: The Ford Fiesta (2008-2017) stands out in the supermini market for its exceptional driving dynamics, combining comfort with crisp handling in a way few rivals match. Whilst the Volkswagen Polo offers more premium appeal and the Skoda Fabia boasts slightly higher user ratings, the Fiesta delivers superior driving engagement and lower running costs. The Vauxhall Corsa is more affordable but lacks the Fiesta's dynamic polish. For drivers who value the joy of driving alongside practicality and affordability, the Fiesta remains the standout choice in its class.

Read our full Ford Fiesta Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.