2011 Ford Fiesta: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2011 is the Fiesta’s all-new return to the U.S. market. It launches as a new-generation subcompact in sedan and four-door hatchback form.
About the 2011 Ford Fiesta
Sixth-generation global Fiesta, first U.S. model year of this generation and first year of the Fiesta’s return to the U.S. market.
Ford positions the Fiesta as a small car that delivers strong fuel economy without feeling stripped down. Factory materials and review coverage both emphasize European-influenced handling, bold styling, useful hatchback or sedan body styles, and an unusually rich safety and technology story for the segment. For most shoppers, the Fiesta’s appeal is simple: easy to park, economical to run, and more polished in ride, cabin design, and available tech than many low-cost subcompacts of its time.
The 2011 Fiesta is positioned as a city-friendly small car with sharp styling, strong safety equipment, and more upscale features than many rivals offered at the time. The SE adds everyday conveniences such as power windows and keyless entry, while the SEL sedan and SES hatchback bring voice-controlled connectivity, upgraded audio, ambient lighting, cruise control, and heated mirrors.
What changed, by category
2011 Ford Fiesta specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 38 mpg | 38 mpg | 38 mpg | 38 mpg |
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 120 hp | 120 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 109 lb-ft | 109 lb-ft | 109 lb-ft | 109 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.8 cu-ft | 12.8–15.4 cu-ft | 12.8 cu-ft | 15.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.2 in | 31.2 in | 31.2 in | 31.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was 2011 the first year of the Ford Fiesta’s U.S. return?
Yes. The 2011 Fiesta is the first U.S. model year of the sixth-generation global Fiesta and marks the nameplate’s return to the American market.
Did the 2011 Ford Fiesta come as a sedan or hatchback?
The 2011 Ford Fiesta came in both body styles. The S was sedan-only, the SE was sold as a sedan or four-door hatchback, the SEL was the upscale sedan, and the SES was the premium hatchback.
What engine and transmissions does the 2011 Ford Fiesta have?
Every 2011 Fiesta has a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Its transmissions are a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.
What safety equipment was new with the 2011 Ford Fiesta launch?
The 2011 Fiesta launched with seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag. This was a notable part of Ford’s safety focus for the new small car.
Which 2011 Ford Fiesta trims have the most features?
The SEL sedan and SES hatchback are the most richly equipped 2011 Fiesta trims. Both have voice-controlled connectivity with a USB input, upgraded six-speaker audio, ambient lighting, cruise control, an auto-dimming mirror, and heated power mirrors.