The Ka hatchback from American carmaker Ford has been considered to be an ideal replacement for the Figo hatchback in the country. The new-gen Figo aka the KA hatchback has been launched in Brazil and it is available in two variants namely - SE and SEL, priced at 35,390 BRL and 39,990 BRL respectively. As per a latest update from AutoCar, the Ka hatchback is slated to begin production in India from 15th February, 2015. Post the start in production, the vehicle may be launched in the Indian market in about 2-3 months, thereby it is anticipated that the car may be launched in April – May 2015.
The 2015 version of Ford Ka hatchback is expected to be available in petrol as well as diesel options. The petrol version is expected to be powered by a 1.2 Liter engine , whereas the diesel version is expected to be powered by 1.5 Liter engine. Unconfirmed reports also suggest that the American carmaker has been working on developing a 1.1 Liter diesel engine. The upcoming hatchback is expected to feature more space and better driving dynamics as compared to the existing Figo hatchback.
Brazil-spec Ka hatchback is powered by a 1.0 litre, three cylinder, 12 valve motor and a 1.5 litre, four cylinder, 16 valve motor and generates about 85 Bhp of power with 107 Nm of torque. Both the motors will come with flex fuel capability; however the company has not yet given a nod on the engine line-up. Production version details for the Figo sedan has not yet been revealed, but it is anticipated that the car may be powered with a similar engine specification. Ehab Kaoud, chief designer, Ford North America, lead designer for the Ford Figo Concept, said, “The Figo Concept represents our vision of a refined, no-compromise approach to designing a compact car. So often in this segment you see designs based on current trends and fashions that quickly look dated. We wanted instead to create a premium, long-lasting design that is clean and elegant, and which conveys a sense of precision, efficiency and sophistication.”
Post launch the Ka hatchback may pose as a strong competitors against the likes of Hyundai Grand i10, Maruti Suzuki Swift, upcoming Fiat Punto and Tata Bolt. Pricing aspect has not been revealed for now by the company, it is anticipated to be priced about Rs. 7 Lakhs.
