The 2016 Ford Fiesta offered two main transmissions in the U.S. market: a five-speed manual and a six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic. The high-performance Fiesta ST uses a six-speed manual only.
Transmission options by trim
Here are the key transmission options you could find on the 2016 Fiesta, depending on trim and market.
- Five-speed manual transmission (standard on most trims, including the base S and higher trims).
- Six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic (available on most non-ST trims; offers automatic shifting with manual-style control).
- Six-speed manual transmission (Fiesta ST performance model; manual-only).
In practice, buyers typically chose between the five-speed manual or the PowerShift automatic, while the Fiesta ST remained manual-only for enthusiasts.
Notes on performance and reliability
The PowerShift is a dual-clutch automated manual that can feel different from a traditional torque-converter automatic, with rapid upshifts but occasional hesitation in low-speed traffic. The Fiesta ST uses a traditional 6-speed manual with a clutch pedal for a more classic performance feel.
Summary
For the 2016 Ford Fiesta, transmission options included a five-speed manual or a six-speed PowerShift (dual-clutch) automatic on most non-ST trims, with the Fiesta ST model offering a six-speed manual only. If you’re evaluating a used 2016 Fiesta, verify which transmission your specific car has, since PowerShift and manual variants offer noticeably different driving experiences.