Seen this article guys, can't copy and paste the URL-just started using windows 8?, anyway its from examiner.com
May 16, 2013
When it comes to the world of performance tuning, there's only so many options. Whenever a ripple is made in the small pond we call the automotive performance world, it sends a shock wave through the marketplace. All it takes is a new vehicle that is built within certain parameters and walla; a new automotive enthusiast market is born.
Thanks to Ford, the ripple has been made with the 2014 Ford Fiesta ST, a 1.6 liter inline four cylinder turbocharged engine nestled into a beautifully crafted four door hatchback. This is the perfect platform candidate to fall in line with the tuning legends of hatchback lore that we've all grown to love.
Consider the previous iconic hatchbacks and what they offered to our world. Thankfully, praise be to the Ford gods, the new "EcoBoost" engine lineup for the entire Ford family of vehicles is based on turbocharged principles and that technology has found its way into a 2,700 pound front wheel drive fun-buggy. More specifically, the EcoBoost lineup comes with a slightly higher compression ratio than the conventional turbocharged setup, thus yielding daily driven efficiency in combination with turbocharged performance; but more importantly more power and more fun than ever before.
2014 Fiesta ST specifications:
•1.6 liter Ford EcoBoost inline four cylinder engine
•1596 cc of displacement (97 cu. in.)
•197 hp @ 6500 RPM / 214 tq @ 3500 RPM
•6-speed manual transmission
•Flashable CAN-BUS ECU (Tactrix & Cobb compliant!)
•21 PSI / 1.44 bar
•Borg Warner KP39 turbocharger
•10.0:1 compression ratio
•Twin independent Variable Camshaft Timing
•Direct Gasoline Injected
•All aluminum block / head
•2720 lb. curb weight (estimated)
Enthusiast Oriented Details
While there isn't any details available on what the internal components are made of such as pistons, rings, etc.; it is safe to assume that this is an OEM internally forged or strengthened motor. In order to run 21 pounds of boost from that small of a turbocharger, we all know that heat is increasing the chances of detonation. The Fiesta ST even comes with a unique boost controller that switches between max and min settings of 21/14.5 psi set on 20 second, wide-open throttle increments. This tells us that it is safe to assume that the motor is well-built internally, and could accept larger power output numbers; but the stock turbo's efficiency for horsepower output just isn't there so Ford uses the ECU to limit high pressure, high heat output.
Unfortunately, we never get a "perfect" tuning enthusiast vehicle straight from the manufacturer. There are always compromises, and the Fiesta ST's only fault is an all-aluminum block, which could lead to stumbling points on performance builds. Unlike certain JDM brethren, the 2014 Fiesta ST comes with an aluminum block to help save weight and improve fuel economy. Aluminum blocks make it very difficult to run high amounts of boost and tend to crack around the cylinder wall / coolant jacket adjoining radii. Relax, there is a remedy for this and it is called "block sleeves". Sleeve your cylinders and you should be good to run 30-45 psi depending on your build. That being said, in my opinion you should still be able to double power output on the stock block with a larger turbo at same or slightly higher pressure and be just fine.
Build Examples
There's basically two levels of performance in the enthusiast world; daily driven, and full-race. Whichever side of the fence you fall on, the Fiesta ST should be able to accommodate. For those who just enjoy a simple bolt on and tune, the Fiesta ST should have no problem cresting a conservative 250 whp with simple upgrades such as an exhaust, larger fuel system, intake, intercooler, and a tune. At this power level, the Fiesta ST should remain totally dependable and still achieve 25+ mpg.
Noteworthy details!
•The BOV or bypass valve is built into the turbo compressor housing. In order to run an external or aftermarket valve, you'll need to plug the compressor housing and run a custom pipe on the chargepipes. You can't just buy the turbo, you'll need the plug for the compressor housing plumb work too.
•The Fiesta ST engine control unit, or ECU is totally tunable and is CAN-BUS compliant just like the Focus ST. There isn't anything on the market yet for the Fiesta, but rest assured that interested aftermarket parties are hot on the trail of allowing you to flash this ECU just as they allowed you to flash the Focus ST ECU. I haven't had access to the Fiesta ST yet, but I imagine that the Tactrix 2.0 cable and ECUFlash / RomRaider with the right definition XML files should open the ECU without problem. There are also handheld tuning computers connecting through the OBD port in older European models, so it is safe to assume the same can be said for USDM vehicles as well.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, let's say that you want to go all out and have the baddest Fiesta ST in all of the land. You're going to be able to accomplish all of that and more. The car weighs next to nothing, and with a full build, some street/strip tires, and a little bit of weight reduction; your Fiesta ST will be a highway monster! I see no problem hitting 600-800 horsepower out of the Fiesta ST once fully built. Please understand that 600-800 whp is going to require that you do every engine building trick in the book and is not for the novice enthusiast.
Summary
Overall, the Fiesta ST appears to be quite the impressive beast. Based on tuning principles covered above combined with an initial offer sticker price of mid twenties brand new, given five years of market saturation it is totally reasonable to believe the Fiesta ST will be in the $10k tuner market no later than 2018. For those of you wanting in on the action now, go talk to your local Ford dealer about ordering one in advance. Don't be surprised if you see a line!
PS - A little bird told me that aftermarket companies are totally randy over the new Fiesta ST and that they all have big plans for it. This is a car to keep an eye on!