Nobody's sure yet, but the 1.6 EcoBoost develops 180bhp in maximum spec already, and that kind of output would place the Fiesta ST slap bang into warm to hot hatch territory.

Ford's new pocket rocket will stick with front-wheel drive, but our new spy shots reveal a gaping front grille with fly-dicing grille, a deeper chin spoiler, front foglamps, twin tailpipes, a perforated rooftop spoiler and a prominent rear diffuser. The cage on this example will not be fitted to roadgoing cars.

The chassis will be given a thorough makeover. Discount those test-hack alloy wheels, but the low-profile rubber they wear will be available on the Fiesta ST, boosting grip and traction. The ride height is lowered, and Ford's go-faster division led by Jost Capito are fettling damper and spring rates.