2012 Ford Fiesta SES Hatchback Trim Overview

As the flagship of the 2012 Ford Fiesta hatchback lineup, the 5-passenger, 5-door Fiesta SES Hatchback is as feature-laden as it gets. Outside, look for standard 16-inch alloy wheels, an integrated rear spoiler and heated power-adjustable mirrors, while inside, check out the leather and simulated alloy steering wheel that complements simulated alloy dash, door and shifter knob accents. Of course, there’s also 26 cubic feet of cargo space available with the rear seats folded. Premium cloth upholstery, remote power door locks, power windows, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, air conditioning, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror and front and rear floor mats are among the standard cabin goodies, as well. Entertainment, meantime, is presented by an 80-watt system with a single-CD player and 6 speakers, bolstered by satellite radio and a USB connection. Communications technology is via phone pre-wiring and Bluetooth hands-free phone service. Options for the 2012 SES Hatchback include an Upgrade package with heated front seats, as well as various protection packages, not to mention a power moonroof.

The ubiquitous 120-hp 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine (I4) powers the front-wheel-drive-only (FWD) 2012 Fiesta SES Hatchback, as it does the entire Fiesta lineup. Mated with the standard 5-speed manual transmission, the four-banger puts out 112 lb-ft of torque and, with variable valve timing, is good for 29 mpg city/37 highway. Additionally, a 6-speed dual-clutch auto-manual transmission shows the same output at an impressive 30/40.

Named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2011, the mirror-image 2012 Fiesta SES Hatchback walks the walk. Boasting standard 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), as well as traction and stability control, this snazzy sub-compact hatchback can roll with the punches very well. Additionally, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags, a driver’s knee airbag and turn-signal-integrated mirrors give further protection, with a post-collision safety system ready if needed. Another handy standard safety item is Ford’s 911 Assist feature, which automatically alerts emergency services when airbags are deployed or the fuel pump is shut off.