DiRT Rally 2.0: Ford Fiesta Rallycross (STARD)

 The Ford Fiesta Rallycross (STARD) DLC for DiRT Rally 2.0 was developed by Codemasters and released on January 13, 2020. Codemasters also served as the publisher at the time, with Electronic Arts later assuming publishing responsibilities following their acquisition of the studio. This DLC introduced the STARD-built Ford Fiesta to the game’s FIA World Rallycross Championship lineup. Based on the Mk7 Fiesta platform, the car was designed by Austrian outfit STARD (Stohl Advanced Research and Development) and competed in the World RX series with drivers like Jānis Baumanis.

The Fiesta Rallycross (STARD) features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing around 600 horsepower, paired with a six-speed sequential gearbox and all-wheel drive. Its design emphasizes balance and agility, with a compact chassis and responsive suspension setup tailored for the mixed-surface demands of rallycross circuits. The car is engineered for explosive acceleration and tight cornering, making it a strong contender in short-format racing. Players can use the Fiesta STARD in My Team, Custom Championships, Time Trial, and FIA World Rallycross Championship modes.

Promotion for the Ford Fiesta Rallycross (STARD) DLC was part of Codemasters’ Season Four content rollout for DiRT Rally 2.0. The studio announced its release through Steam updates, social media posts, and developer blogs, often accompanied by gameplay footage and screenshots showcasing the car’s performance and visual design. Codemasters highlighted the vehicle’s real-world competition history and its technical pedigree, appealing to fans of modern rallycross and engineering-focused racing teams.

Reception to the DLC was generally positive, with players praising the Ford Fiesta Rallycross (STARD) for its responsive handling, realistic modeling, and competitive feel. The car was noted for its smooth driving characteristics and its ability to deliver consistent performance across various rallycross tracks. While it didn’t introduce new gameplay mechanics, its real-world relevance and distinctive setup added depth to DiRT Rally 2.0’s vehicle lineup. The DLC further reinforced the game’s reputation as a detailed and immersive rally and rallycross simulation.