Ford confirm the end of the Fiesta in 2023

Ford has announced that production of the Fiesta will cease by the end of July 2023.

The Fiesta has been one of the best-selling cars in Britain for many years, first launching in 1976, before going on sale in 1977.

The love affair with the Fiesta began with a well timed venture by Ford to develop a small hatchback car. The project, nicknamed 'Bobcat' was approved by Henry Ford in 1972, with the aim to produce a rival to the likes of the new Fiat 127 and Renault 5.

The global oil crisis of 1973 only increased the desire of the public for a fuel efficient, small car. The Fiesta certainly fitted the bill. It was powered by 1.0 litre and 1.1 litre engines and could achieve over 60 mpg. 

The Fiesta quickly became a best-seller in Britain when it first went on sale in 1977. It soon developed a reputation for being fun to drive, thanks to its nimble handling.

Over the years, the Fiesta has undergone many facelifts and changes, but it has always retained its core values of being a fun, reliable and affordable car. Sporty versions like the XR2 and XR2i satisfied the needs of the hot hatch fan also.

The Fiesta has maintained a consistently high position in the UK's best selling cars for many years, indeed being the best selling car for more than a dozen years running into the 2020s.

In total, there have been nine generations of the Fiesta. However, there will not be a 10th generation as Ford is focusing on electrification and small SUV's like the Puma model.

This means that the Fiesta will no longer be available for purchase new after July 2023. Production will end after 47 years.

The news of its impending demise will no doubt be bittersweet for many drivers who have fond memories of their time behind the wheel of a 'Fiz-bomb'. While it may be the end of an era, Ford will no doubt be looking to the future with its electric vehicle strategy.

If you're a fan of the Fiesta, make sure to get one before they're gone for good!