The KA+ is a small hatchback from Ford Motors. The hatch is usually sold in developing markets such as Asia and South America but an enhanced model is also sold in Europe. Although the model offers ample practicability for its small size and affordable price, its design both outside and inside is deplorable. The 2019 Ford Ka Plus is offered in two trims, the base Studio, and the top Zetec trim. Although there is a lot not to admire in the model, Ford has refined it compared to its predecessor to ensure it is fit for its intended purpose.
2019 Ford Ka Plus Exterior
The design of the hatch is focused on versatility; it’s offered in few color options, however, except for the yellow hue, other colors are available at an extra price. Ford has hooked up the KA+ with surface contours and few body lines to make it more appealing than most of its rivals which look plainer. The hatch is based on the automaker’s global B platform upon which the Fiesta is also based.
Size-wise, the new KA+ is 3.9 meters long, 1.7 meters wide and 1.5 meters tall. The size means the model offers practicability of a supermini and pricing of a city car. Its width makes it easy to navigate in town while its impressive height offers decent headroom.
The 2019 Ford Ka Plus is offered in a single body style.
Interior
The 2019 KA+ cabin is roomy but that is the only good thing about it as the model lacks most of the features you would expect in a compact hatchback. The automaker has focused on usability rather than splendor. Buyers have few interior colors to choose from. Three passengers can be squeezed on the rear seat enabling the model to accommodate five passengers. Front seats are raised to allow rear passengers to tuck their feet under the front seats. The dashboard design is adopted from the Fiesta.
The small hatch does not have even a single digital screen on its instrument cluster.
The base Studio trim features electric front windows, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning and MyFord Dock (a system that clamps the driver’s Smartphone on the top of the dash to use it for sat-nav). The Zetec trim features the SYNC system, DAB radio and AppLink. It also features rear electric windows, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and heated front seats (most of these features are optional).
In terms of space for cargo, the 2019 Ford Ka Plus offers 270 liters of space with rear seats in position (inclusive of 13 liters under-floor storage). Dropping the seats raises the space to 849 liters. The model also has other 21 storage locations in the cabin.
Safety features of the model are not inspiring at all; however, unlike the outgoing model, the car has been strengthened to better withstand crashes. ESP is offered as standard while a City Park system that comes with rear parking sensors is optional.
Engine and performance
The new Ka Plus uses a naturally aspirated 1.2 L, 4-cylinder gasoline-powered engine that delivers two output options. The higher output level of 84bhp and 112 Nm of torque is only available on the range-topping Zetec trim. The lower state of tune is rated a 69bhp and 105Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox (there is no option for an automatic unit). The setup features variable valve timing which helps enhance flexibility. If you are a spirited driver, you should never be caught up behind a KA Plus’s steering wheel as the mill is sluggish to rev and is not any bit dynamic. The model takes 15.3 seconds to complete a 0-62mph run for the lower state of tune and 13.3 seconds for the more powerful Zetec trim. Models with the less powerful version of the engine have a top speed of 99 mph and 105 mph for the Zetec trim. The engine is however very economical with a rating of 56.5 mpg on combined drives.
The UK-going model differs slightly than the model that will be sold in other markets; it has an anti-roll bar that has been made stiffer. It also features better dampings and springs, extra sound proofing, enhanced door seals, beefed-up sub-frame, enhanced suspension bushes and faster steering response.
Price and release date
Sales of the KA + have already commenced. The model has a starting price of £10,550.
Competition
The 2019 Ford Ka+ will compete with Peugeot 108, Renault Twingo, Toyota Aygo, Citroen C1, VW up! Skoda Citigo and SEAT Mii.
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