Ford Figo 2017 Review

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The Ford Figo is the smallest and most affordable model in the American marque’s line-up. Targeted at the budget conscious crowd, it finds itself up against the likes of the Kia Rio (see prices and specs), Mazda 2 (see prices and specs), and Peugeot 208 (see prices and specs). With a diminutive engine and an even smaller list of amenities, we find out if the all-new Indian-built Figo has what it takes to compete with B-segment heavyweights.

Key Features:
Engine	1.5L / 4-cyl
Transmission	6-speed Automatic
Power	110 Hp / 136 Nm
Top Speed	N/A
Price	AED 55,000 Starting

Exterior

Six years after the launch of the Figo nameplate into the brand’s line-up, the second-generation model continues where its predecessor left off. With a chrome embellished hexagonal grille and several creases along its bodywork, the Ford Figo 2017 is a pleasant sight and one that emanates presence.

Following a design doctrine that is closely related to the Ford Focus, the all-new Figo is a handsome offering with taut headlamps that slice their way into the fenders and crisp contours that adorn the length of the vehicle.

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Interior

Developed entirely of hard plastics, the Ford Figo’s cabin is rudimentary and reeks of frugality. With bits of silver trim and rings of chrome breaking the monotony of the dull plastics, there’s a significant amount of room for improvement in terms of both, design and quality.

Influenced by its American heritage, the Indian-built Figo offers eight cup holders – nearly twice the number of occupants it can transport comfortably – and ample amounts of cabin storage space. Where it falls short, however, is in terms of boot space. Offering just 261 liters behind the second row, the Figo lags in comparison to 280 liters, 285 liters, and 288 liters from the Mazda 2, Peugeot 208, and Kia Rio respectively.

Safety & Features

Continuing its simplicity streak, the Figo’s specification sheet is relatively short, offering not a whole lot more than the customary traction control, fog lamps, and automatic windows. While it is worth highlighting an exceptional radio system with 4 speakers and USB / AUX / Bluetooth connectivity, features such as a cruise control system wouldn’t go amiss.

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Drive

Powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, the Figo’s 110 horsepower and 136 Nm of torque output is flanked by the Kia Rio with 107 horsepower and 135 Nm of torque, and the Peugeot 208 with 120 horsepower and 160 Nm of torque.

Equipped with a Sports mode, the 6-speed automatic transmission is lurchy and works as a constant reminder that the Figo was designed as a manual offering and for lesser developed markets first. Using the Tiptronic buttons on the gear shifter, spirited driving is rewarded with the skinny 175/65 R14 Apollo tires squealing for grip.

Under a constant load of pressure when cruising at highway speeds in the 100 – 120 km/h band, the Figo’s RPM needle takes abode at the 3,000 RPM mark – a consequence that is immediately visible in the paltry 8.6 liters / 100 kilometers average fuel consumption reading.

Verdict

Donning a starting price of AED 55,000, the Ford Figo is the priciest offering when compared to its aforementioned rivals. Granted, its price is inclusive of a 60,000-kilometer service contract, which only the Peugeot 208 can match, but for what it is, it’s severely unjustified.

In fact, at AED 49,900 offering more power, greater practicality and a 60,000 km service contract, it’s nearly impossible to overlook the Renault Duster!

Pros:

Stunning Deep Impact Blue hue

Phenomenal A/C system that blows out an ice storm in minutes

Cons:

Overpriced for what it is

Automatic transmission lacks refinement

Editor’s Pick:

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Also See:

Peugeot 208 GT Line 2016 Review

2017 Renault Koleos launched in the UAE