Ford is revealing its answer to the Vauxhall Viva – a replacement for the current Ka city car dubbed the Ka+.
The all-new five-door hatchback, built in India, will be priced for affordability – with a starting price of £8,995 Ford also hopes to attract customers who have been tempted by budget cars such as Dacia’s Sandero.
The Ka+ is constructed on Ford’s global small-car platform and due to dimensions that are slightly shorter than its Fiesta sister but some 29mm taller, it claims best-in-class front headroom and rear legroom. It also offers 270 litres of bootspace that its makers say is enough for two large suitcases.
All Ka+ models will be powered by Ford’s 1.2-litre Duratec petrol engine – derived from the slightly larger 1.25-litre unit in the Fiesta, it will be available in 70 or 85hp versions. Both return combined cycle fuel economy of 56.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 114g/km.
Two trim levels will be on offer – Studio grade will only be available with the 69bhp engine, Zetec across both. Standard equipment on all versions includes power front windows and door mirrors, front fog lamps, an AM/FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity, remote central double locking with a perimeter alarm, safety system with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control with Hill Start Assist, a tyre pressure monitor, a speed limiter, and Ford’s Easy Fuel system.
Zetec models gain 15-inch alloy wheels, manual air-conditioning, a DAB digital radio/CD with Ford’s SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system with AppLink, a leather steering wheel and cruise control.
There is also an extensive options list including electronic climate control, heated front seats, privacy glass and a City Pack combining rear parking sensors, power rear windows and power folding door mirrors.
Order books for the Ka+ open this month (June) with the model expected in showrooms later in 2016.
Keyword: Ford targets budget buyers with Ka+