The Ford Fiesta is getting a taut new body for 2018, and it’s on display in these spy shots captured today. Despite the heavy camouflage and light cladding, we can see the Fiesta is getting a more chiseled appearance for its next generation.

The lines on the hood and sides are more defined, there are new headlights, and the grille appears to be evolving. The effect is a sportier hatch that carries a bit of a Volkswagen Golf vibe and moves away from the curvy looks the Fiesta (and Focus) have recently used.

It’s a significant change, and it freshens Ford’s small-car line in Europe. It will also fortify the company in the US market, though it will be more competitive if fuel prices surge. We expect three- and four-cylinder models to be offered. Inside, look for a more modern interior with the latest version of Sync. The Fiesta launched as a 2011 model, and its attractive appearance and fuel-efficiency have provided it staying power even as rival companies have rolled out new entries.

Still, Fiesta sales dropped by more than a third in May, and they’re off 22 percent this year to just 21,475 units. Regardless of its age, market conditions aren’t doing this car any favors.