First Look

The next generation Figo hatchback is set for its India launch on September 23. It is basically the hatchback version of the recently launched Figo Aspire sedan and will take on the Maruti Suzuki Swift and the Hyundai Grand i10. We take a close look at the styling, interior, features and engine specifications of the model for the first impression review.

The Figo hatchback shares its design cues with the Figo Aspire. In fact, both the cars look identical from the front profile. What you will miss in the hatchback is the third box that forms the boot in the sedan. The Ford Figo is a good looking car and the new global design with the Aston Martin-styled hexagonal front grille looks great. Also, unlike the Aspire, this one looks proportionate in the hatchback form.

The interior layout of the car is also similar to that of the sedan. Only, instead of beige, the hatchback gets a sporty black theme and silver, which highlights the angular design of the music system and the AC vents. If the cabin is as big as that of the Aspire, then the Figo hatchback will be a spacious car as the rear seats will offer decent headroom and legroom for two adults. With plenty of bottle and cup holders at the front, the Figo hatchback will also offer decent utility.

In terms of features, the Figo hatchback will get climate control, a sophisticated music system with voice commands and steering mounted audio control. On the safety front, the Figo earns our applause as it features a segment first six airbags along with ABS and EBD, clearly outdoing its rivals in this department.

Ford will be offering both the petrol and the diesel engine options with the hatchback. The diesel engine is the 1.5-litre TDCi unit producing 99bhp and 215Nm of torque making it one of the most powerful diesel cars in the segment. There will be a choice of two petrol engines; the 1.2-litre mill tuned to develop 87bhp and 112Nm of torque and the 1.5-litre engine with an output of 110bhp and 136Nm. The diesel and the 1.2-litre petrol versions will come mated to the five-speed manual transmission while the 1.5-litre petrol will use the six-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The Figo hatchback is expected to be launched for a starting price of Rs 4.5 lakh while the top-end with six airbags will get a price tag of around Rs 7.5 lakh.