Ford Fiesta Mk4 (1995–2002)

De Ford Fiesta Mk4 (1995-2002) was Britain's best-selling car from 1996 to 1998, with approximately 2,5 million units built on a refreshed platform with new Zetec-SE 16-valve engines. From the last Kent engine in the Endura-E form to the 101 hp Zetec S, shared production lines with the Mazda 121 and the Ford Puma sports coupe platform — the Mk4 was the most versatile and commercially successful Fiesta generation of the twentieth century.

Ford Fiesta Mk4

History and background
The Ford Fiesta Mk4 — internally designated BE91 — was launched in October 1995 and became Britain's best-selling car from 1996 to 1998. It was a major restyling of the Mk3 but based on largely the same platform and basic bodywork, with the side door openings even remaining identical to those of its predecessor.
The Mk4 introduced the new Zetec SE engine family with 16-valve technology in 1,25- and 1,4-litre versions — a significant technological step that finally modernized the Fiesta from the aging CVH engines. Power steering became standard on higher trim levels, while ABS and a driver's airbag became available as an option.
Partly under the leadership of Ford’s then-technical director Richard Parry-Jones, the emphasis was placed on driving pleasure and dynamics — a deliberate choice that distinguished the Mk4 from competitors that prioritized comfort over handling. In 1999, the Mk4 received a major facelift following Ford’s new “New Edge” design language. Confusingly, this facelifted version is sometimes referred to as the “Mk5,” although it was technically the same model.
The Mk4 was the last Ford model built at the Dagenham factory in England before the closure of the car production line in 2002.

Design and interior

The Mk4 had a more rounded, modern body with a Cd value of 0,36 — an improvement over its predecessor. The interior was thoroughly updated with a new dashboard, better materials, and more front space — although rear space was criticized as cramped, even compared to the Mk3.

The 1999 facelift gave the Mk4 a completely new front and rear in Ford’s “New Edge” style — recognizable by the sharp, wedge-shaped lines that were also applied to the Ford Cougar and the Focus. At the same time, side airbags and a passenger airbag became available as an option, and the interior was updated once again.

Ford Fiesta Mk4 interior

Model variants

Fiesta Encore / Finesse (1995–2002) — the entry-level model:

The most modest trim level, available throughout the entire Mk4 production period. With the 1,3-liter Endura-E engine as the entry-level engine — the last edition of the classic Kent engine line that had been in the first Fiesta in 1976.

Fiesta LX / Zetec (1995–2002) — the volume model:

The heart of Mk4 sales. The LX had carpet, electric door mirrors, and central locking as standard. From 1998, it was renamed Zetec as the name of the trim level — the same designation as the engine, which initially caused confusion.

Fiesta Si (1995–1998) — sporty model:

The first sporty trim level of the Mk4, offered with the 1,4-liter Zetec-SE engine. Replaced by the Zetec designation in 1998.

Fiesta Ghia / Ghia

The Ghia had optional leather, wood veneer, and extra chrome details. The Ghia X — added in 1996 as the top of the range — had standard leather and more extensive equipment. Both were discontinued in 1999 with the facelift.

Fiesta Zetec S (2000–2002) — the sporty top model post-facelift:

Introduced in 2000 after the facelift as the sporty top model. The 1,6-liter 16v Sigma engine delivered 101 hp. Stiffer anti-roll bars, improved brakes, lowered suspension, and 15-inch alloy wheels as standard. Top speed approximately 183 km/h.

Mazda 121 (1996–2002) — the badge variant:

As an example of badge engineering, the Mazda 121 and the Ford Fiesta Mk4 their design, they were built on the same production lines and used almost all the same parts. The Mazda 121 was also available as the Mazda Soho in South Africa.

The Ford Fiesta Mk4 was launched in October 1995 and production ended in 2002 — seven years, approximately 2,5–3 million units, and Britain's best-selling car from 1996 to 1998. From the 60 hp Endura-E entry-level model that concluded the legacy of the Kent engine to the 101 hp Zetec S with lowered suspension and 15-inch wheels — the Mk4 proved that driving pleasure and affordability go hand in hand.

The fact that the Dagenham factory closed with the last Mk4, and that the Puma and the Mazda 121 ran on the same platform, makes the Mk4 the most versatile base a Fiesta generation has ever provided.

Competitors

The Fiesta Mk4 competed in the European B-segment of superminis in the second half of the 1990s. Direct competitors were:

• Peugeot 206 (better driving dynamics, more modern styling)
• Volkswagen Polo Mk3 / Typ 6N
• Opel Corsa B / C
• Renault Clio Mk2
• Fiat Punto Mk1 / Mk2

Successor model

On April 1, 2002, the Ford Fiesta Mk5 was unveiled. The Mk5 was the first Fiesta to have ABS and passenger airbags as standard. Most engines were carried over from the Mk4 but renamed “Duratec,” with the “Zetec” name henceforth being used exclusively for sportier models. The Mk4 remained on sale alongside the Mk5 as a three-door hatchback from April to December 2002.