Ford Figo Aspire - First Impressions!

Ford is a brand one always relates with powerful cars, be it Ford Endeavour or Ford classic. Their presence on the road is something to talk about.

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When Figo Aspire's first teaser was launched a few months back, it was seen as a sub 4 metre sedan targeted to replace the Ford Classic. It doesn't disappoint. This car is made from scratch especially keeping Indian conditions in mind. The fact that the indicator stalk is positioned on the right and wiper stalk on the left, tells you all about it!

At first glance you will notice the Aston-Martin like front grille with good treatment of chrome and a fairly aggressive chin. The stance is aggressive though the car looks a bit out of proportion when you compare it with the likes of Honda Amaze and Hyundai Xcent. 

Rear profile is simple and plain with tail lamps, Ford badge and a broad chrome strip running across which makes it appear broader than it really is.

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It is equipped with a similar dash which we are used to seeing in the Ford EcoSport i.e button heavy. What surprised me was the quality of the plastic used on the dash and overall fit and finish, it is unlike the European standards for which Ford is known for. 

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It will be offered in 3 engine options : 1.2 litre petrol mated to a 5 speed manual transmission, 1.5 diesel mated to a 5 speed manual transmission and a 1.5 petrol engine mated to a 6 speed dual clutch automatic transmission. Alongside 3 engine options, it will be offered in 4 variants to give people a wide range to choose from. The 6 speed DCT will be a segment first and personally I would be looking forward to this one for my daily commute in NCR(National Capital Region) 

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Engines are tuned up to give more power than they give in the Figo and Fiesta. The 1.2 litre petrol which makes 70 bhp in the figo, is uptuned to make 87 bhp which makes city drive-ability a breeze. The oil burner on the other hand, the same 1.5 TDCi engine makes 98 bhp which is more than the 90 bhp it produces in the EcoSport. The turbo lag is minimum because at 1400 rpm all the available torque is granted to the wheels and city driving becomes quite easy. Body roll while cornering is persistent which will disappoint the enthusiasts. This car is meant to be both a city ride and is a good highway cruiser.

Up tuning the engines, designing the car from scratch, black and beige upholstery for dashboard, all these points prove that Ford is taking Indian market seriously and have given it their all.

One small feature that I liked the most was Ford MyDock which can hold a smartphone in your view and can be used for navigation.

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Pricing will be a key factor as it will go against the likes of Maruti Swift Dzire, Honda Amaze and Hyundai Xcent. If priced right, it can set a new benchmark in the segment as it has options for different types of prospective buyers.

More info when the car is launched.