Buyers are spoilt or choice within this segment and for many years, the Ford Figo has been a top contender. I spent some time with the recently updated Figo to see what this budget contender has to offer.

The looks

The first generation Figo was based on the outgoing Fiesta and was well received by the buying public. When it came time to replace the Figo, Ford opted for a completely new design, thus establishing the car as a stand-alone model.

This new model refines the design of the outgoing version with enhancements to the front bumper which now features more design-focused elements in the form of a honeycomb grille, new chrome inserts in the headlamps as well eye-catching detailing for the front fog lamp surrounds.

The rear has also been given slight enhancements which gives the car a refreshed look. The Figo also comes with dual-tone multi-spoke 14-inch alloy wheels for the Trend models, and updated wheel caps for the Ambiente which has 14-inch steel rims.

The interior

Stepping into the new Figo, one can expect to find a rather spacious cabin considering its compact dimensions. The designers have also given the centre console and upper instrument panel a refresh, while the Ford MyDock feature is a very clever element. It is a dash-mounted smartphone holder that lets you mount your phone securely so as to make use of the navigation system without having to hold it.

There is also a USB port and 12 volt socket for charging which is a bonus in terms of convenience. Other features which caught my eye was the new fabric design on the seats while the interior plastics, despite being hard, appear durable.

Sedan or hatch?

The updated Figo is available in either sedan or hatch body styles as well as different trim levels. The base Ambiente features niceties such as front electric windows with one-touch operation, a built-in Ford Audio system with an integrated display and four speakers to name a few.

The higher spec Trend is a more feature-packed model and offers remote central locking, a belt minder for driver and front passenger, electric rear windows with child lock, rear window defroster, perimeter anti-theft alarm, as well as a gear-shift indicator for the manual model.

Under the bonnet

Ford has fitted a 1.5 three-cylinder petrol engine to the Figo which develops 88kW/150Nm. I found that the combination of the engine with both the five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox, which is a conventional torque converter, to offer a great all-round driving experience and impressive fuel economy.

Verdict

I was impressed with the Figo as a budget car package. It doesn’t feel like a small city car on the highway and is easily capable of providing the driver with the black and white photograph that usually accompanies a traffic fine. It is a noteworthy alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Polo Vivo. 

Unfortunately, the Polo carries a Volkswagen badge which South African lust after more than anything. I also find the Figo to come across as more subtle when compared to the aesthetics of the Vivo. As for an entry point into the Ford brand, the Figo does offer more for the money than its competitors which in our economic climate might just be the deciding factor.

Warranty and pricing

All models come standard with a four-year/120 000km warranty as well as a four-year/60 000km service plan.

Figo 1.5 Ambiente - R181 300

Figo 1.5 Trend - R190 600

Figo 1.5 Trend AT - R205 700

Figo 1.5 Ambiente Sedan - R187 200

Figo 1.5 Trend Sedan - R196 000