Shooweee but it has been a budget-friendly couple of weeks car-wise, hey? First the Polo Vivo, then the Suzuki Swift, the Nissan Micra and now the Ford Figo. I was curious to get behind the wheel of Ford’s entry-level offering because having just driven the new Ford Fiesta, I predicted I would be in for a good experience.
Look, I am going to be brutally honest about the looks, it is not the hottest hatch on the market, but it has some sort of cutesy appeal. The rear doesn’t offend me as much as the front does, in fact, I quite like the look of the Figo from behind. And it is not all about looks you shallow people! I hated the look of the Suzuki Dzire, but then loved every minute of driving it. New to the Figo line up is a four-door sedan which will add even more practicality to the range.
I loved the upgraded interior though. It feels slick and modern, something that will appeal to the youngsters out there (I am clearly still a youngster at heart then). My driving partner wasn’t as convinced, he felt it wasn’t the best interior and made me aware of a few quality issues – but again, think of what you’re paying for this whole package and you will forgive the odd imperfection here and there. Something super cool to take not of is the MyFord Dock which is a smartphone docking solution which sits on top of the dashboard. You plug your phone into the USB port and then prop it up with the lid. It’s a nifty way to store, mount and charge your phone. Who needs a touchscreen infotainment system when you can just use your phone?!
The new 3 cylinder 1.5-litre engine is punchy as f**%! Even when mated to the new six-speed auto. I think this impressed me the most. Although 98% of Figo sales are manual gearboxes, it is great to know that there is an auto on offer and one which is actually quite slick and doesn’t sound too much like a straining sewing machine. There is no longer a diesel offering and that is because customers in this segment prefer a petrol engine. Fair enough. Thankfully the fuel consumption is claimed at a relatively low 5.7l/100 km.
When it comes to standard safety features, you can expect two airbags and ABS with EBD. And just to sweeten the Figo deal, Ford has included a standard 4-year/60 000 km service plan over and above the 4-year/120 000 km warranty.
This new Ford Figo is a step up from the outgoing model, which is something you expect from a new generation. It might not topple the Vivo off its pedestal, but it is a car certainly worth considering.
PRICING FOR THE NEW FORD FIGO
1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Hatch 5MT: R181 300
1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 5MT: R190 600
1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 6AT: R205 700
1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Sedan 5MT: R187 200
1.5 TiVCT Trend Sedan 5MT: R196 000
