Ford recently is going to launch the new Figo in New Delhi at the global launch for this hatchback, specially made for Indian conditions. Conscious of the challenge it has to face, Ford India is trying to put everything behind its new hatchback.
First look
Though Figo is essentially a re-skinned derivative of the previous-generation European Fiesta hatch on which the Indian Fiesta saloon is based, but on the first look it is smoking HOT!
The Figo, which shares key elements of Ford’s Kinetic Design language with the Mondeo, Focus and the latest European Fiesta, is quite a looker. Like the Ikon and Fiesta, the Figo has also been designed and engineered partially based on concepts developed by Ford Australia, exclusive for a Ford hatchback meant for the Indian market.
The Figo’s nose is particularly characteristic and bears a strong similarity to other ‘Kinetic’ Fords with a slender upper grille and a large and upturned lower grille which impart a sense of energy and action even in photos. The lights have that long-drawn-out back look and are outstanding.
The 3.8-metre-long Figo has splendid proportions, improved by muscular wheel arches and strong character lines that run across the sides. From the rear, the high-mounted vertical tail-lights and rear quarter-glass hark back to the Fiesta hatch and Fusion here. However, a different tailgate, totally new tail-light plan and a smooth, stout bumper give the Figo a striking and modernized look. It looks modern and the styling should attract the customers in the hatchback segment.
The Figo will have brand new interiors, which means a fresh instrument panel, seats and trim. According to Ford insiders, the interiors are anticipated to set new standards for small hatchbacks, combining class-leading aesthetics and functionality. The Figo is likely to have a comparable quantity of passenger room as its saloon siblings and it is built on the identical 2486 mm wheelbase as the Indian Fiesta and Ikon. Boot space is estimated to be comparable to the Fiesta hatch or approximately 253 litres.
The Figo is likely to be available in three trim levels but it’s not sure if it will bear Ford’s expressions of Exi, Zxi or Sxi. It’ll bear the same suspension set-up and a hydraulically assisted power steering as in the current Fiesta saloon.
With recognized mechanical from the Fiesta, the Figo is anticipated to do extremely well in the ride and handling section. And one can only hope for Ford to provide it with the same 1.6 engine to make the most of its capable chassis!
Technical details:
The Figo will be initially available with two engine categories — petrol and diesel. The diesel engine will be the same 1.4 Duratorq 68bhp motor, which powers the Ikon and Fiesta saloons. Amazingly quick to respond at low speeds and very economical, it should go well with the urban driving conditions that the Figo will cater to. Ford is updating this engine to meet the forthcoming Bharat Stage IV emission norms and for better drivability and economy.
Performance wise , it will be lively due to its superior power-to-weight ratio (Figo is likely to be 100kg lesser weight than the Fiesta). The Figo also gets a new all-aluminium 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is basically a scaled-down edition of the 1.4/1.6 Sigma petrol engines that power the Fiesta. Apart from engine alikeness, the Figo will share common structural design like double overhead cams, four valves per cylinder and an aluminum block with its siblings. Though Ford has not revealed details of the Figo’s power trains, the 1.2 is predictable to develop utmost power between 70bhp and 75bhp.
These information may not seem remarkable amidst other high-revving 1.2 petrol engines but Ford’s stress is on drivability and economy. Ford insiders state that the petrol version will astonish owners with its low-end torque and quick to respond nature.
Bottom line
Ford is launching the Figo to Indian clients from the plank of affordability. So it has to be low-priced to buy and economical to run. Prices will only be announced next year ahead of the car goes on retailing but company sources point to that Ford is setting up to launch the Figo at a competive price. Ford has targeted the base Hyundai i10 as its price yardstick, which equates to Rs 3.6 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The 1.4 diesel Figo is aimed at the Indica Vista diesel and can be predictable to sale at around Rs 4.6 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
As of now, this means excellent value for such a great and fashionable hatchback, which certainly belongs to the finest end of the hatchback segment.
Summary of Ford Figo:
Expected to launch in: March 2010 Estimated Price: From Rs 3.6 lakh to Rs. 4.6 lakh ex-showroom, Delhi Engine types available: 1.2 petrol and 1.4 diesel Suspension (F/R): Macpherson struts/ twist beam axle Estimated maximum power (petrol): 70bhp — 75bhp
