M-Sport introduced the all-new Ford Fiesta R5
(M-Sport authored Press Release) M-Sport and Ford are proud to introduce the all-new EcoBoost-powered Ford Fiesta R5. Replacing its hugely successful predecessor, the new Fiesta promotes the latest motorsport technology and road-going design.
Based on the Ford Fiesta ST-Line which is manufactured at Ford’s world-class facility in Cologne, M‑Sport has worked closely with the Ford Motor Company to ensure the new Fiesta R5 provides a big step forward in terms of pace and performance.
The original Fiesta R5 is M-Sport’s most successful global rally car and continues to win stages, rallies and championships worldwide. With more than 250 cars in competition, the outgoing Fiesta remains a capable and competitive winner, but its successor boasts improvements in all areas.
The 1.6 turbo charged engine delivers 290 BHP and 475 Nm of torque at 4,000 RPM. The direct injection power plant is also fitted with a 32mm restrictor in conjunction with R5 regulations and provides a significant improvement in response and drivability
Brand-new suspension components include front and rear McPherson struts with redesigned three‑way adjustable dampers from Reiger. The new aluminium damper bodies save considerable weight, and the geometry has been remodelled for optimised traction and stability.
A newly designed Sadev five-speed sequential gearbox mated to front and rear differential units is accompanied by hydraulic servo-assisted rack and pinion steering, and Brembo forged four-piston front and rear calipers provide the stopping power.
The initial design and development started in January 2018, with the first test session taking place in December that same year. Since then, eight test drivers have completed more than 30 days testing on a mix of different roads and conditions.
Smooth Tarmac, rough Tarmac, hot gravel, loose gravel, seasoned test drivers, rally winners, and even Formula One race winners – the latest Fiesta has been put through its paces and no stone has been left unturned in search of optimum speed, reliability and performance.
The project also upholds M-Sport’s support of young talent with 28-year-old Bernardo Fernandes – who engineered Sébastien Ogier to championship success in 2017 – leading the team.
Delving into his knowledge of the award-winning Ford Fiesta WRC, as well as the original Fiesta R5, Fernandes’ experience has been combined with the innovation of youth – his team creating one of M-Sport’s most long-awaiting and exciting creations.
Just like its predecessor, the all-new Fiesta R5 will get its first public outing at next month’s Ypres Rally – Éric Camilli taking to the wheel as the event’s VIP car. As one of the most experienced development drivers around, Camilli knows the car inside out and the event’s fast asphalt roads provide the perfect setting for the car’s debut performance.
