The 2019 Fiesta is the Mk8 small hatchback that commonly comes with Ford’s 1.0-litre three‑cylinder EcoBoost petrol and a 5- or 6-speed manual; that combo is peppy for town and typically quite frugal. It’s a compact hatch so rear seat room and boot capacity are limited compared with larger family cars; look for SYNC infotainment and common safety kit, but expect a basic trim on many used examples.

• Clutch take-up and pedal feel for slipping or heavy wear (7-year-old manuals commonly need replacement if used in town).
• Cold-start/front-end rattles — listen for intermittent timing-chain/tensioner style noises and any persistent turbo whine or oil smell on turbocharged 1.0 engines.
• Boost/hose condition around the turbo/intercooler (look for oil residue or split hoses) if it’s an EcoBoost variant.
• Suspension and steering for knocks or worn bushes (front anti-roll bar links and rear trailing arm bushes can show wear).
• Tyre age and evenness of wear plus brake-disc corrosion or pitting from long Irish winters.