Buying a new car is always exciting, isn't it? But before you decide, there's a lot to think about. How much will it cost? Is it safe for my family? What about monthly maintenance and fuel expenses? Does it have all the latest features I need? And most importantly, will the company provide good service in the long run? These are all very valid questions for any smart Indian car buyer. Today, we are going to dive deep into a car that has always promised a lot on many of these fronts: the Ford Figo. Let's see if it still stands strong in the competitive Indian market.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Ford Figo offers a choice of engines designed for different driving styles and fuel preferences.

• 1.2L Ti-VCT Petrol Engine: This is a smooth and refined three-cylinder engine perfect for city driving and occasional highway trips. It produces 96 PS of power and 119 Nm of torque. It's known for being quite spirited for its size.
• 1.5L TDCi Diesel Engine: For those who drive a lot or prefer more torque and fuel efficiency, the 1.5-litre diesel engine is a gem. It offers 100 PS of power and a healthy 215 Nm of torque, making highway overtakes effortless.

Design Overview

• Exterior Design: The Ford Figo has a sporty and dynamic look. It features Ford's signature trapezoidal front grille, swept-back headlamps, and sharp character lines along the side. It's compact size makes it great for navigating busy city streets, yet it has a confident stance. The alloy wheels on higher variants add to its premium appeal.
• Interior Design: Step inside the Figo, and you will find a practical and user-friendly cabin. The all-black interior theme gives it a sporty feel. The dashboard layout is clean, with well-placed controls that are easy to reach. While not the most flamboyant, the quality of materials feels sturdy and built to last.

Key Features

The Figo comes with a good set of features to make your drives comfortable and connected.

• 7-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System: Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Automatic Climate Control: Keeps the cabin temperature comfortable without fuss.
• Push Start/Stop Button: For convenient engine ignition.
• Steering Mounted Controls: Manage audio and calls without taking your hands off the wheel.
• Rear Parking Sensors: Aid in parking in tight spots.
• Electrically Adjustable ORVMs: For easy mirror adjustments.
• USB Connectivity and Bluetooth: For charging devices and hands-free calling.

What is the Ground Clearance of Ford Figo?

The Ford Figo offers a ground clearance of 174 mm. This is quite decent for a hatchback and helps in navigating over speed breakers and rough patches common on Indian roads.

What is the Boot Space of Ford Figo?

The Ford Figo provides a boot space of 257 litres. While not the largest in its class, it is sufficient for your weekly groceries or weekend luggage.

What are the Dimensions of Ford Figo?

The Ford Figo is a compact hatchback, making it easy to maneuver in traffic and park.

• Length: Approximately 3941 mm
• Width: Approximately 1704 mm
• Height: Approximately 1525 mm

Powertrain Options

The Figo gives you choices when it comes to how the power is delivered:

• Manual Transmission: Both the 1.2L petrol and 1.5L diesel engines are paired with a smooth 5-speed manual gearbox. This offers a more engaging driving experience and better fuel efficiency.
• Automatic Transmission: For convenience, the 1.5L petrol engine (a more powerful unit than the 1.2L) was available with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, offering seamless shifts, especially in city traffic.

Safety Features

Ford has always been known for building safe cars, and the Figo is no exception.

• Up to 6 Airbags: Dual front airbags are standard, with top variants offering side and curtain airbags for enhanced protection.
• ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution ensures stable braking in emergencies.
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Helps maintain control during sudden maneuvers.
• Traction Control System (TCS): Prevents wheel spin on slippery surfaces.
• Hill Start Assist (HSA): Prevents the car from rolling back on inclines.
• Rear Parking Sensors: Standard for added safety while reversing.

NCAP Rating Table

Note: Global NCAP ratings are based on common variants and help assess structural integrity and basic safety features.

Rivals of Ford Figo

The Ford Figo competes in the highly competitive hatchback segment. Its main rivals include:

• Maruti Suzuki Swift: Known for its peppy engine and widespread service network.
• Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Offers a feature-rich cabin and refined engines.
• Tata Tiago: Praised for its strong build quality and comfortable ride.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages of Ford Figo:

• Driving Dynamics: The Figo is renowned for its excellent handling and stable ride. It's a fun-to-drive car.
• Powerful Engines: Both the petrol and especially the diesel engines offer strong performance, making it great for both city and highway use.
• Safety Features: With up to 6 airbags and advanced safety tech like ESP, it offers superior protection compared to many rivals.
• Build Quality: Ford cars are generally known for their robust build, and the Figo feels solid.
• Value for Money: It often offered a good balance of features, performance, and safety for its price.

Disadvantages of Ford Figo:

• Rear Seat Space: While comfortable for four, the rear seat can feel a bit cramped for three adults or very tall passengers on long journeys.
• Interior Features: Compared to some newer rivals, it might lack a few modern features like a sunroof, wireless charging, or a 360-degree camera (though these are often found in higher segments).
• Ford's Future in India: This is a significant point. Ford has officially stopped manufacturing cars in India. While service and parts are promised to continue, this can impact long-term resale value and buyer confidence.
• Brand Perception: Due to the above point, some buyers might be hesitant despite the car's merits.

Conclusion

The Ford Figo has always been a strong contender in the Indian hatchback market, especially appealing to those who prioritize driving pleasure, robust build quality, and safety. Its powerful engines and engaging dynamics make it a joy to drive. While it might not be the most feature-packed car in its segment compared to some rivals, it covers all the essentials well.

However, the decision to buy a Ford Figo today comes with an important consideration: Ford's changed operational status in India. While the company assures continued service and parts availability, this factor will weigh heavily on potential buyers concerned about long-term ownership and resale value.

If you are someone who truly appreciates a car for its driving prowess and safety, and you are comfortable with the long-term support situation, the Ford Figo can still be a very rewarding choice. For others, the uncertainty might lead them to explore alternatives. As always, test drive the car, compare it with its rivals, and make a decision that best suits your needs and peace of mind.