Best Value for Money – First-generation Ford Figo

 

By Chad Lückhoff

We compare the various models and trim levels of the first-generation Ford Figo to see which one offers the best value for money.

Capturing Henry's essence with the Ford Figo

The Ford Figo was introduced to South Africa in 2010 as an affordable alternative to the updated Fiesta. While the MkVI Fiesta presented a brand new approach by Ford to the Compact hatch segment, the price was adjusted accordingly. Ford filled the gap left by this Fiesta with the new Figo.

Based on the MkV Fiesta chassis and underpinnings, the Figo was draped in new sheet metal that made it feel fresh and contemporary, appealing to younger buyers and those looking at getting into affordable motoring. Using the existing MkV chassis allowed them to keep the production costs down and in turn pass on those savings to the end user, presenting them with a tried and tested recipe for motoring fun.

The Figo received an update in 2012, a mere two years after its introduction. This saw the Figo get new head- and taillights as well as new alloy wheels for Trend models. Bluetooth was now standard across the range and the interior was revamped with new fabrics and splashes of colour to the dashboard.

Grade Walk:

Ambiente

Ambiente models come in either petrol or diesel variants and are all fitted with 5-speed manual gearboxes. They run on 14-inch steel wheels shod with 175/65R14 tyres as standard. The rack and pinion steering is power assisted and ABS with EBD is standard across all models. They have dual airbags and central locking but are devoid of remote access.

Trend

The Trend model is the flagship of the Figo range and as standard comes fitted with ABS and EBD, 14-inch alloy wheels and remote central locking. Dual airbags protect the driver and passenger, and the driver's seat is height adjustable.

Chrome trim distinguishes the Trend from the Ambiente model as do the body colour wing mirrors. The door handles are also body coloured and the front doors have electric windows.

Derivatives:

Ford Figo 1.4 Ambiente

1388cc – 62 kW and 127 Nm

5-speed manual

Ford Figo 1.4 TDCi Ambiente

1398cc – 51 kW and 160 Nm

5-speed manual

Ford Figo 1.4 Trend

1388cc 0 62 kW and 127 Nm

5-speed manual

AutoTrader's Choice:

The 1.4 TDCi Ambiente models offer the best in terms of fuel consumption, coming in at a claimed 5.3l/100km on the combined cycle. The petrol models come in a little higher at 6.6l/100km which, while still higher, is not too bad. It's worth noting that the Figo is one of the only options in the sub-B Segment to offer diesel engine – worth looking at if you do extensive mileage.

We would recommend a pre-facelift (2010 – 2012) 1.4 Trend though as the inclusion of the alloy wheels, remote central locking and power windows, makes the Figo just that little bit better to live with. Pre-facelift models will go for cheaper than the facelifted models and shouldn't have too much mileage on the clocks.