ford finesse - 3 door basic model. (Ford Fiesta (1999 onwards) in general)

Member Name: hiddendepths

Product:	Ford Fiesta (1999 onwards) in general
Date:	28/09/04 (2974 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: safe handling., fuel economy, good after sales.

Disadvantages: no air-con., no electric windows.

Last year, with the dimise of my beloved ford flyte diesel 1600cc. (at very short notice I, may add.) I found myself stranded. My work requires that I have a reliable car. Under extreme duress I decided I had to have a decent car ! (we all reach that time at some point in our driving career.!) Well used to the Ford model, and I must admit somewhat swayed by Ford's advertising ,I rang the local dealer.

I headed down to the dealership post haste . (well faster than the post these days!)In the showroom they were promoting the Ford Ka and the Finnesse. Having completed some haggling, they really do like yopu top buy - I secured a thousand pound trade in on my "P" reg. Flyte. I was pleased with this , as the flyte having blown pistons due to a problem with th cam belt could not even be driven.! They arranged for pick-up from my local garage at no extra charge to me !

My dilemma at this stage was whether to opt for the "ka" or the "finesse". My pockets are not deep and that was a primary factor. The salesman duely priced bot models, there and then.! Well whats a girl to do ?? having looked at both cars which were "brand new" I selected the basic three door "finesse". With a further thousand pound reduction within the promotion, I admit to having felt very pleased with deal!

Having looked also at the cost of selling my life for 5 years of repayement with a gaurenteed good part exchange rate after the first three years (subject to mileage, wear and tear and service history naturally ) the cost of repayement was £130.00 per month, not at all bad , considering the finance was with the dealer. Not over the odds, either in interest.

I have to say I am delighted with car! For under £6,000 pound it has great featires. Basic features - no electric windows, air conditioning or "zapper" for locking the car . What it has is of a good quality. For a 1400cc. It holds the road well. It feels substantial and does not look tinny. It features central locking, powered steering, and a spacious interior. Split back seats for extra space if , requiring to use the car to carry bulky items. Naturally seat belts across the three seat capacity. Leg space in the rear could be larger, but the seats move easily enough to grab a few extra inches for the "taller" of the species. In the front dual airbags. A very neat C.D. and radio combined. The consul is tidy (no ash-tray). The dash illuminates well, three dials and in-built clock. There is also a "roomy" glove department. One of the better things for me, as a woman driver is that it is posible to open the boot from the interior. Handy for late night shopping, or for mums with children. Settling a tierd child takes great skill especially on shopping days . Great for people who have wheelchairs to carry around.The interior is upholstered in grey and a subtle blue. Tasteful.

As mentioned previously it is a 1400cc. engine. The fuel required for it is the "friendly" stuff - unleaded. In town it averages just below 39 miles to the gallon. Long haul and at cruising speed around 70miles per hour it is likely to extend to around 49 miles to the gallon. Not at all bad in my opinion. It also features an anti-locking brake system. For a first "new car" I feel it is very good value for money. With the car came 12 months R.A.C. cover and 12 months road tax. Ford also offer paint protection and "sealing" of the undercarriage for a further £130.00.

When I collected the vehicle some three days later, all the features of the car had been checked and a signed checklist was given to me. After sales is good. with no M.O.T. to worry about for three years , and manufacturer recommendation for service requirements, I feel confident that my "new car" will with stand the demands of my work, and social requirements. I realise it would not be everyone's "cup - of - tea, but have to say it works for me .

Summary: