Ford has expanded its Figo budget car range through the introduction of range-topping1.5 Titanium hatchback derivative, which features, inter alia, a SYNC3 infotainment system and upgraded safety specification. Herewith the range's specand pricing details.

The new (also Indian-made) Figo incorporates a number of improvements, both in terms of product packaging and after-sales support.

As ever, the lower end of the compact hatchback/sedan market is ultra competitive thanks to the recent introductions of the new Volkswagen Polo Vivo and Suzuki Swift. In fact, many manufacturers are all fighting to keep products under the R200 000 barrier. The new Ford Figo comes to market with a fresh face featuring a new-look grille, revised bumpers andredesigned tail lamps. There are splashesof chrome and whereas the Ambiente versionshave 14-inch steel rims, Trend derivatives come fitted with 14-inch alloy wheels, while the flagship Titanium hatchback has additional chrome accents (for the front foglamp bezels and grille surround), plus15-inch alloys.

The 2018 Ford Figo cabin, featuring new fabrics and new materials.

Inside, the Ford Figo's cabin has been upgraded with new materials and fabric in the door inserts andseat upholstery. The newcomeris available in 2body styles and 3trim levels. Despite it being the entry point for the Ford Figo, the Ambiente derivative comes with reasonable specification. There are electric front windows, animmobiliser, electric power-assisted steering, tilt adjustment for the steering column and manual headlight level adjustment. It also features a built-in Ford Audio radio with 4speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB slot and a docking station for your smartphone.

Trend derivatives come equipped with, inter alia, central locking, power windows all round, a rear-screen demister, upgraded alarm and some cosmetic upgrades in the form of alloy wheels, a chrome-finished grille, front fog lamps and colour-coded door handles and side mirrors. A nice-to-have feature is hill launch assist, which helps when pulling away on steep inclines.

The range-topping 1.5 Titanium hatchback features 15-inch alloys and chrome accents in the front bumper and around the grille.

Apart from its distinctive exterior execution, the Titanium hatchback isspecced with a multifunction steering wheel, climate control, automatic headlamp activation and rain-sensing windscreen wipers, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a reverse-view camera, "follow me home" lighting, and 4-way adjustment for the driver's seat.

Its fascia features an integrated 6.5-inch colour touchscreen with SYNC3 technology, which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Google Android (once it becomes available in our region). Furthermore, the Ford MyKey feature allowsowners to programme a key for younger drivers that can inhibit incoming phone calls, restrict top speed, reduce audio system maximum volume and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts.

The 6.5-inch colour touchscreen with Sync3 greatly modernises the 1.5 Titanium's fascia and is Apple CarPlay compatible.

Powering the new Ford Figo is an all-new 1.5-litre petrol engine with outputs of 88 kW and 150 Nm. Power goes to the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of safety, a pair of airbags and ABS are standard on Ambiente and Trend derivatives, while the Titanium version gains additional side and curtain airbags.

Ford Figo (2018) Prices in South Africa

Adding to its appeal is the introduction of an all-new standard service plan, which expands the 2-year/40 000 km coverage offeredon the previous iteration of the Figoto a comprehensive 4-year/60 000 km plan. The service plan covers the vehicle for up to 4services over a period of 4years – a unique offering in this class that is quite likely to create a stir in the local market.

All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a 4-year/120 000 km comprehensive warranty, 3-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and 5-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15000 km.

Figo 1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Hatch 5MT R182 900

Figo 1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Sedan 5MT R187 200

Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 5MT R192 900

Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Sedan 5MT R197 950

Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 6AT R207 900

Figo 1.5 TiVCT Titanium Hatch 5MT R215 900

Further Reading:

2018 Ford Figo: What we know so far

Next-generation Ford Figo Spyshot

Should Ford's New Freestyle Come to SA? [w/Video]

The Next 5 Ford Models Coming to SA (2018)

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