M-Sport have unveiled the latest evolution of the Ford Fiesta R2 at the 2015 Autosport International Show in Birmingham.
The Fiesta R2 was launched in 2009 and has achieved worldwide success including the basis for the Drive DMACK Fiesta Trophy which has been announced for a second season.
The latest changes to the car will see upgrades to the suspension, brake and transmission systems, but it is what is under the bonnet that will be the biggest change.
M-Sport have been working closely with Ford Motor Company engineers to harness the power and performance of Ford’s Ecoboost technology on a 1.0 litre Ecoboost engine which is already a triple winner of the prestigious International Engine of the year award in 2012, 2013 and 2014.
2014 DDFT champion Sander Pärn has already put the new Fiesta R2 through its paces at M-Sport’s private test facility at Greystoke Forest.
“As soon as I got behind the wheel of the new Fiesta I could feel the improvements throughout the car” said Pärn. “There are a lot of small upgrades in every area and there is no doubt in my mind that this will provide a step forward overall.
“The Drive DMACK Fiesta Trophy competitors are certainly going to have a lot of fun with this car – the turbo engine makes it a lot of fun to drive and the noise it makes is incredible!”
The Fiesta R2 will be on display at the 2015 Autosport International Show and is due to make its competitive debut as part of the 2015 DDFT in May.
M-Sport Managing Director, Malcolm Wilson OBE is happy with the progress made on the car so far, “The initial tests have been very encouraging and we will continue with the development over the next few months.
“The Ford Fiesta R2 was one of our most successful models and the new evolution looks to provide an improvement in almost all areas of the car.
“Thanks to our continued support from Ford, the new 1.0 litre engine will provide a good step in performance and I am looking forward to seeing it in competition.”
Head of Ford Racing in Europe, Gerard Quinn added “As we continue our partnership with M-Sport it is great to see the latest Ford technology competing at rallying’s highest level.
“As a triple winner of the prestigious International Engine of the year award, the 1.0 litre Ecoboost engine is one of Ford’s most remarkable developments and it is a pleasure to see the technology translated in M-Sport’s competition cars.”
