Ford Fiesta recognized globally as one of the safest small cars

The ever-present Ford Fiesta is winning safety awards around the globe as researchers in four continents discover its virtues.

In China the Fiesta was just given a five-star safety rating by the China Automotive Technology and Research Center under the China New Car Assessment Program, or C-NCAP.

The car has earned similar kudos in Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

In the U.S., the diminutive domestic vehicle was recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety – the first in its segment to do so after the instatement of new standards.

Surprisingly, more than 55 percent of the Fiesta’s body is made from high-strength steel.

"Ford is committed to safety, including our efforts to deliver top crash test ratings that customers look to when choosing new vehicles," said Sue Cischke, group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety. "Fiesta is the latest example of that safety commitment, and shows that a small, fuel-efficient car can deliver top safety."

Growing Popularity
These ratings are likely behind the vehicle’s growing popularity in the world. The latest generation of Fiesta designs has just passed the 1 million sales mark in Europe.

It took only 28 months from this model’s initial release to achieve this landmark. The Ford Fiesta has been the best selling small car in Europe for the last two years.

In the U.S. the Fiesta sells best in the congested city of Los Angeles. The car has helped the brand to reach its highest market share in the sunshine state since 2006.

Total global sales of this model are currently 1,140,000 units.

Safety Features
The Fiesta utilizes ultra-high-strength steel, as well as extensive placement of high-strength, lightweight boron steel to protect critical occupant safety zones.

It also provides a driver’s knee airbag to minimize lower leg injuries in an impact. Fiesta is the only automobile in its segment to offer this feature. This is in addition to dual-stage, front seat airbags, side-impact airbags and side curtain cushioning.

"The global safety ratings provide another proof point that the all-new Fiesta is redefining what a small car can be," said Matt Niesluchowski, safety, NVH and durability manager. "The new Fiesta brings outstanding driving dynamics and fuel economy, unparalleled connectivity and safety leadership on a worldwide scale."