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With every increasing fuel prices, many drivers are investing in fuel-efficient models. It's no surprise then that manufacturers are in competition to deliver more economical models at reasonable prices. Ford's Figo is one such vehicle that combines economy at an entry-level price.
A similar rear design to the Hyundai Grand i10, along with a mean front-end design, this hatchbackis a vast improvement over its predecessor with its new design and sporty-looking 14" wheels.
With a five-speed manual gearbox, the new generation 1.5-litre Figo's 3-cylinder motor pushes out 88kW of power with ease. I find the exterior design rather appealing and it's a welcome departure from its boxy predeccesor.
Image: Leigh-Ann Londt
While driving, the engine of the Figo is so quiet that on the day I first received the vehicle, I even wondered whether the engine was running while stationary at a traffic light intersection (sounds silly, but true).
The performance of the car along the Mother City roads was fairly stable and changing gears could be done smoothly. It has a claimed fuel consumption of 5.7 - 6.5L/100km, making the Figo hatchback a great, economical budget family car.
READ: Ford expands its Figo range with the top-spec Titanium model
This Titanium model has a number of standard features, and its charcoal dark-trimed interior is a great touch.
The anti-theft alarm gives you piece of mind when the vehicle is parked. Any unauthorized attempt to enter the vehicle makes the front and rear lights flash along with a fairly loud alarm that will hopefully scare any potential thief.
Once you drive away, the doors lock automatically ensuring a controlled and safe driving experience. It has power windows which are a boon and if you have a younger child travelling with you, you can easily lock the back windows by one push of a window locking button, located along the drivers door.
Image: Leigh-Ann Londt
I find the steering to be user-friendly and with the Bluetooth, USB, Aux radio mounted highly, its easily accessible and intuitive. I would've liked satnav and audible sensors though the rear-parking camera makes this.
The model has plenty of room for passengers though given its size boot space is limited. A long centre console and storage areas within the doors offer great utility, one being specifically designed for a water bottle that can be easily reached without needing to take your eyes off the road.
Image: Leigh-Ann Londt
This hatchback has competition of its own when it comes to pricing and being economical; The Figo is priced from R177 600 to R222 200.
I have looked at a few vehicles and their price ranges:
Toyota Etios:
The Etios price ranges from R171 000 and R198 400, rather similar to the price of the Titanium.
Image: Quickpic
Volkswagen Polo Vivo: Prices from R179 900
Suzuki Swift: Priced from R157 900
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the Figo 1.5 Titanium. Whichever way you find yourself with your finances, I find it safe to say that the Figo 1.5 Titanium builds on fun driving characteristics, a smooth ride, solid body build and more considerable when it comes to the economical decisions we need to make nowadays.
