Share

New in SA: Ford's new Figo Freestyle could be a stroke of genius for the Blue Oval brand

accreditation

• New Freestyle models added to Figo range

• Figo Freestyle models priced at R226 700 and R247 500

Figo Freestyle powered by 1.5-litre petrol engine 

Ford South Africa had just revealed a new model to its product line-up. The Figo Freestyle is the latest addition to the family and suitably takes position at the top of the range.

Available in Trend and Titanium specifications, the Freestyle looks to offer something unique, yet familiar, to the South African market. Priced at R226 700 and R247 500 for these two models, respectively, the Freestyle looks to unsettle the market. And it might just do so.

Speaking on the Figo Freestyle's arrival to the SA market, Doreen Mashinini, general manager marketing at Ford SA, says: "With its SUV-derived design cues, robust stance with increased ground clearance and commanding seating position, the Figo Freestyle has the credentials of an SUV in a compact package that is ideally suited to city driving during the week and escaping to the countryside on weekends.

"It fulfils the growing demand from younger buyers for a vehicle that is more compact and affordable than the compact SUV offerings, but is equally capable and designed for adventurous, active and free-spirited individuals."


Is the Ford Figo Freestyle a vehicle you'd be interested in buying, and why? Please Email us.

Ford Figo Freestyle

2020 Ford Figo Freestyle. Image: QuickPic

Poised for success

Given trends and buying patterns, Ford read the market and found a business case for its Figo Freestyle. SUVs and compact crossovers are the rave these days, and buyers opt for these vehicles because of their raised ride height, 'larger than life' on-road presence, and go-anywhere impression.

As such, the Freestyle has a ground clearance of 190mm and extra accessories like black wheelarch mouldings, roof rails, and front and rear skid plates.

WATCH: What it's like living with Ford's little Figo

These adjustments over the standard Figo puts the Freestyle in an ideal position to cement itself as the go-to model in the Figo range, seeing that it is the more appealing proposition. The Figo Freestyle is the most affordable offering in Ford's SUV family, slotting in below the Everest, Kuga, and EcoSport.

Prospective buyers will have six colours to choose from, two of which are unique to the Figo Freestyle - Canyon Ridge and Diamond White. Other options are Smoke Grey, Moondust Silver, Ruby Red, and White Gold. The exterior visuals are rounded off with 15-inch wheels.

Ford Figo Freestyle

2020 Ford Figo Freestyle. Image: QuickPic

Interior and features

Ford says that made the Figo Freestyle's interior as enticing as the exterior. This includes seats with their distinctive design and contrasting stitching. The gear knob has a soft touch to it and blends nicely with the Titanium's sporty steering wheel. Both models feature all-weather floor mats.

REVIEW: The refreshed Ford Figo is frugality at its finest

The Trend model features reversing parking sensors and Ford's Device Dock for device connection. The Titanium also features this but adds a 6.5-inch colour display that hosts Ford's Sync3 multimedia system. This system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as voice activation.

The Titanium model also features keyless start, auto climate control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and rain-sensing wipers.

Ford Figo Freestyle

2020 Ford Figo Freestyle. Image: QuickPic

Range and pricing

Ford kitted its Figo Freestyle with its 1.5-litre petrol engine. This naturally-aspirated three-cylinder engine produces 91kW and 150Nm and sends power to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. 

The Figo range comes standard with Ford Protect, which includes a four-year/60 000km service plan, three-year/unlimited km roadside assistance, and four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000km.

Model range and prices:

• Figo 1.5 Ambiente Hatch 5MT - R202 100

• Figo 1.5 Trend Hatch 5MT - R 211 900

• Figo 1.5 Trend Hatch 6AT - R 235 900

• Figo 1.5 Titanium Hatch 5MT - R 235 700

• Figo 1.5 Ambiente Sedan 5MT - R 208 500

• Figo 1.5 Trend Sedan 5MT - R 217 300

• Figo Freestyle 1.5 Trend Hatch 5MT - R226 700

• Figo Freestyle 1.5 Titanium Hatch 5MT - R247 500

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE