Taking much of its exterior and interior design from the striking Verve Concept, the next generation of Britain's best-loved small car promises to shake up the supermini scene at its global premiere.

More than 12 million Fiesta models have been sold since its introduction in 1976, and the arrival of this latest Fiesta opens another chapter in the story of Ford’s most successful small car.

Behind the innovative design, however, lies a car that remains true to Fiesta fundamentals of practicality, affordability, agility and safety. The compact congestion-busting dimensions remain yet the head-turning looks wrap a structure that’s both lighter and stronger than before.

Thoroughly modern and designed to meet every need and desire of today’s supermini buyers, the sixth generation of the Fiesta family will be offered in both three and five-door bodystyles. The prominent coupé-like profile of both versions indicates how deeply the spirit of the Verve Concept has been carried into production. Make no mistake about it – this is a small car with a big presence.

Powering the Fiesta to global success is a mix of efficient petrol and diesel engines. The 1.25-litre (60 and 80PS) and 1.4-litre (91PS) Duratec petrol units are joined by a new Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT (115PS) option. This advanced powertrain provides an additional 15PS over the outgoing model but, thanks to variable valve timing, with no fuel consumption penalty.

For the ultimate in economy, Ford’s TDCi common-rail diesel engines will continue to be offered in 1.4-litre (68PS) and 1.6-litre (90PS) guises. Later in 2008 a Fiesta ECOnetic with CO₂ emissions of less than 100g/km will become available.

From launch, all Fiestas will be equipped with the slick Ford Durashift five-speed manual transmission, and a four-speed automatic transmission will be available on selected models.

Full technical details and UK trim levels for the new Fiesta range will be released closer to the launch of the production model in autumn 2008.