DEARBORN, Michigan (AP):

Ford Motor Co's big US gamble on small cars began Wednesday when it formally unveiled American versions of the new Fiesta subcompact at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Ford is hoping that the Fiesta and the US version of the European Focus will take sales from the competition as the market shifts toward well-appointed smaller, more-efficient vehicles. The company plans to bring in six compact and subcompact vehicles from Europe by 2012.

The Fiesta, powered by a 119 horsepower, 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, is expected to get at least 30 mpg (12.75 kpl) in the city and 40 mpg (17 kpl) on the highway when paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. A five-speed manual also is available.

The car will come in four-door and hatchback models, weigh about 2,600 pounds (1,180 kilograms), and compete mainly against the Toyota Yaris and Honda's Fit.