Honest John News New Cars

Ford Fiesta, S-Max and Galaxy production to end in 2023

Andrew Brady, New Cars Editor
Wed, 26 Oct 2022
  • Ford confirms that the Fiesta, S-Max and Galaxy will be dropped from the range in 2023
  • Brand will transition to an 'electric future' with three new electric cars by 2024
  • Move marks the end of one of Britain's best-selling cars

Ford has confirmed plans to drop three significant models from its line-up as it moves towards an all-electric range of vehicles.

In a statement released this morning, Ford said that production of the Fiesta, S-Max and Galaxy models will end in 2023. The firm plans to offer a purely electric passenger car line-up by 2030, with its commercial vehicle range to follow by 2035.
 
"At Ford in Europe, we are accelerating our efforts to go all-in on electrification with our passenger vehicles being fully electric by 2030 – and all vehicles across our Ford portfolio by 2035," said the statement.

"As we get ready to transition to an electric future, we will discontinue production of S-MAX and Galaxy in Valencia, Spain in April 2023 and discontinue Fiesta production in Cologne, Germany by end of June 2023."

Ford _fiesta _2

The Ford Fiesta is one of the most popular cars on UK roads, although sales have taken a dip in recent times as the manufacturer has concentrated on more profitable models during the ongoing microchip shortage.

The affordable hatchback was initially introduced in the 1970s in response to the 1973 oil crisis. Since then, more than 20 million have been sold worldwide.

The Fiesta name badge is unlikely to return as an electric vehicle, as manufacturers struggle to offer an affordable entry-level electric car. Instead, an all-electric Ford Puma is expected to provide an entry point into the brand's electrified line-up.

"We will introduce three new exciting electric passenger vehicles and four new electric commercial vehicles in Europe by 2024," said a Ford spokesperson. "We plan to sell more than 600,000 electric vehicles in the region by 2026, and the electric passenger vehicle production at the Cologne Electrification Centre will reach 1.2 million vehicles over a six-year timeframe."

Can I still buy a Ford Fiesta?

Ford is still taking orders for the Ford Fiesta ahead of production ending in June 2023. Although supply is limited due to the ongoing microchip shortage, there are a number of nearly-new and pre-registered examples available if you wish to get your hands on one of the last Ford Fiestas.

What will replace the Ford S-Max and Galaxy?

Ford has no immediate plans to directly replace its people carriers. The trend towards SUVs means buyers are likely to look at models like the Ford Kuga and Mustang Mach-E instead.

Will petrol and diesel cars be banned in 2030?

The UK government has said it will ban the sale of conventional petrol and diesel cars in 2030. Hybrid vehicles can remain on sale until 2035. You will still be able to drive petrol and diesel cars on the road, though, and it won't affect the resale of secondhand vehicles.

Ask HJ

Should I buy a Ford Galaxy to replace my Ford Mondeo estate?

I am thinking of changing my Ford Mondeo estate for a more recent Ford Galaxy auto. Not more than four years old and, say, not more than 30,000 miles with full service history. Which is the top spec for the Galaxy, the Titanium X? Any particular advice I should be aware of?
The top-spec Ford Galaxy is the Titanium X – highlights over the Galaxy Titanium include a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, 17-inch alloy wheels and a reversing camera. It's a good choice if you need a big car, although most are diesels. Be careful about buying a low-mileage diesel as it might be hiding issues such as a blocked diesel particulate filter (DPF) if it's mainly been used around town. Many are used for private hire (i.e. taxis), too. A SEAT Alhambra or Volkswagen Sharan could be a good alternative. Also consider the slightly smaller Volkswagen Touran – it's a very versatile MPV.
Answered by Andrew Brady
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Ask HJ

Why are electric cars so expensive?

Why are electric cars so expensive? It looks like a cynical profiteering opportunity to me, what’s the honest story?
Electric cars are expensive because of a combination of factors. The technology is still very new and you're paying for the development of that. Batteries are expensive - so if you're looking for a large electric SUV with a big battery and long range, you'll have to pay for that. It's also a simple case of supply and demand - there are long waiting lists for new electric cars so manufacturers can ask high prices (and used electric cars will retain a lot of their original value). It doesn't help that the Government's dropped its plug-in car grant. It's worth factoring other cost savings when buying an EV, though - you won't pay any tax, while maintenance costs should be lower. There are some affordable electric cars on the market, too - you won't pay anywhere near £1000/month for any of MG's models, for example.
Answered by Andrew Brady
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