After several announcements, Ford model for the market of India and Brazil might finally to enter into production. Figo Concept was first introduced at the New Delhi auto show back in 2014. Recently, Ford showcased the 2017 Ford Figo Concept in both sedan and hatchback bodies. The models look more aggressive and modern compared to the outgoing models. Since its debut, the Ford Figo has become a major hit particularly in India where it is used as a business car.
In India, the sedan version is the most popular form of the car, so on basic Ford Ka has been added an extension of the trunk. To even capture the hearts of more enthusiasts, Ford has improved the mid-size sedan’s exterior design and will offer more modern features and technologies in the cabin. In addition, the model will be offered in new and more frugal drive-trains. Not much information is available for the Figo Concept; however, we have managed to gather the following about it:
2017 Ford Figo Concept Exterior specs
On the outside, the new Ford Figo Concept 2017 looks more aggressive and more visually appealing than the outgoing model. From far, the exterior of the sedan looks like a small crossover. The sedan and the hatchback will both share the same front design. The exterior of the two models is very aerodynamic. At the front, the vehicles feature a dominating grille flanked by new LED headlights. The bumper is redesigned and integrated with new fog lights and air inlets.
At the rear, the vehicles feature a new bumper and LED taillights. The deck lid for the sedan is redesigned, as is the tailgate for the hatchback. In general, the new Figo models look modern and more stylistically appealing than the outgoing models.
2017 Ford Figo Concept Interior
Like many concepts, Ford did not reveal what the interior of the Ford Figo looks like. However, we expect the model to feature a redesigned cabin with the latest technologies. It will have a quality upholstery as well as a number of convenient features all meant to provide occupants with a pleasant and convenient ride. The interior of both the sedan and the hatchback will be similar expect in the rear where the hatch will have a bigger cargo space, headroom and legroom as well as 60/40 split-folding seats. Rumor has it that the cabin will have a black theme. Its seats will be upholstered in a quality fabric with top-of-the-range trims featuring black leather upholstery.
Among others, I expect the following to be featured as standard, a tilt steering wheel, an infotainment system with a small touch-screen interface and a quality sound system with AM/FM radio and a CD/DVD player. The infotainment system will feature Bluetooth connectivity and will come with USB ports which will help integrate Smartphones to stream music. The vehicle will also feature a navigation system, an automatic climate control system and power-operated windows and door locks.
So far, the models for the Indian market were poorly equipped and get the bad ratings for the safety of drivers and passengers. With this model, Ford could change that. Of course, the basic and cheapest version will still have a bit of equipment but safety will be on a much higher level.
For safety, the 2017 Ford Figo will include enhanced airbags, bolstered safety belts, stability and traction control, parking assist, lane departure warning and a rearview camera.
Engine and performance
Ford is still tightlipped about the drive-trains that power the Concept. However, according to rumors, the model will feature two engines when it is offered in the market. According to these rumors, the automaker will replace the current 1.2L, petrol engine with a 1.0 L, EcoBoost engine.
The second engine will be a 1.5 L diesel engine. Both engines will be paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox that channel power to the front wheels. These engines will be tweaked to provide more output and an improved fuel economy. Actually, the base engine will be quite frugal providing a fuel economy of around 32 mpg and 26 mpg on highway and city drives respectively.
Price and release date
Ford has not announced when a production model will be availed to dealerships. However, rumor has it that the vehicles might be released before the end of this year (2016) as a 2017 model cars. The automaker did not announce the price it will charge for the models but I bet it won’t s vary significantly from the price of the outgoing models.
Competition
This car is very popular, particularly in India. It will compete with other popular models led by the Honda CBR650f, Fiat Avventura and Toyota Etios.
