Simplicity in its pure form is how I would describe the new Ford Figo.
But she is no plain Jane. Under her skirt she boasts power at 88Kw at 6,300rpm, releasing torque of 150Nm at 4,250rpm of the 1.5l TiVCT petrol engine.
She has great all-round driving dynamics and boasts impressive fuel economy with low running costs.
While the manufacturer promised fuel consumption of 5.7l/100km, I got 6.3l/100km, which I guess is down to different driving habits and terrain.
Being a regular driver of a white 2017 Figo Ambiente, the hatch derivative which is part of the Daily Dispatch fleet, it was great to be able to compare the little car, which boasts speed, power and superb handling with its bigger sister. Although the difference is not that significant, I’m sure everybody can appreciate the massive 445l of boot space that comes in the sedan.
The new design enhances a refined appearance and an attractive new front end distinguished by a new bumper design, and, of course, the distinctive new chrome honeycomb which was taken from the Fiesta.
The car has flair and elegance due to detail on the bumper, which now comprises eye-catching detail around the front fog lamp surrounds, which are framed with creative accents and elongated headlamps, with chrome inserts that give the new Figo appeal compared to its predecessor.
The 14-inch alloy wheels for the Trend models also give the car a sporty look. During my week-long test-drive, the vehicle was used as a family carrier as my nephews tasked me with collecting them daily and enjoying the pleasure of being driven to school comfortably, without having to worry about perching their sports gear on their laps, with the ample boot space easily housing their sports kit and schoolbags.
I was equally impressed with the car’s safety features, particularly the drive away locking system, which automatically locks the car, as well as the height adjustable seatbelts and the dual front airbags.
Among the impressive safety features there is also electronic brake force distribution (EBD), hill launch assist (HLA) and traction control.
While the Figo sedan is not a typical starter car, it is a great contender for a low-budget family car that doesn’t compromise on safety.
The sedan also offers more leg room for two adults’ knees and the build quality is solid, despite the basic nature of the materials employed, with a simple console design and a user-friendly audio-system interface and air-conditioning controls.
After a week of driving the new 1.5 Trendline Sedan, I can say the car proved to be a great ride, offering good value-for-money.The retail pricing is:
Figo 1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Hatch 5MT at R181,300;
Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 5MT at R190,600;
Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 6AT at R205,700;
Figo 1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Sedan 5MT at R187,200;
and the Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Sedan 5MT at R196,000.
All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120,000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited kilometre corrosion warranty.
A four-year/60,000km service plan is included, with 15,000km service intervals...