Long Term Test 1

Meet the most expensive Ford Figo variant on sale in India currently. Here in Titanium trim, the Figo 1.5 Ti-VCT is for those looking for an affordable, trendy and convenient petrol powered hatchback. Affordable, yes, because at Rs 7.53 lakh ex-showroom, it packs in a big engine – a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder unit with 110bhp on tap to be precise. It is, as a result, the most powerful car in its class as well. The peak torque at 136Nm is impressive too. Just to put things in perspective, the Figo’s immediate competition in terms of pricing – the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Zeta 1.2 AT priced at 7.84 lakh has an output of 83bhp and 115Nm.

The Figo is a trendy looking car too, especially if you look at its predecessor. It is now less boxy; it has a bolder grille; and the design language is both easier on the eye and more appealing. I am not a fan of this particular ‘Sparkling Gold’ hue, however; I’d much rather have the Figo in red or black. It has a pleasing flow to the design on the inside too. The interior is mostly black, which doesn’t look all too rich in a few places, but in terms of visual appeal, smart stowage and features, the Figo is pretty much on the ball. We will delve deeper into this in the reports that will follow. For now, there’s clearly more to like than to criticise.

Now, to the convenience part. Our long term Ford Figo is the petrol automatic. And that means it comes with a dual clutch gearbox. Called the PowerShift, this 6-speed auto when launched in the Fiesta years ago was offered with a lifetime warranty. Not anymore though. It’s the regular 2-year fare on the Figo. The ‘box meanwhile comes with a not-so-conveniently located toggle on the gear shifter for manual mode, and there’s ‘S’ or Sport mode too for spirited driving. With regards to the interiors, we will tell you more about it in a report dedicated completely to the drivetrain of the car.

We will also talk about living with the Figo in the city and out on the highway; about its fuel efficiency and usable space; and about what works and what doesn’t for the car as a whole in the coming months. Untill next time then…

Vehicle Stats

Variant – Titanium

Odometer reading – 6,253km

Positives of the report – Palatable looks, performance on paper

Negatives of the report –Alloy wheel design, colour!

Fuel Efficiency – N/A

Pictures by Kapil Angane

Click here to read our road test of the Ford Figo

Click here to read our comparison test between Ford Figo, Maruti Swift Hyundai Grand i10 and Tata Bolt