The Ford Figo takes shape in hatchback, sedan and CUV (Compact Utility Vehicle) form and is available in the familiar Ambiente, Trend and Titanium trim levels. As the most compact and affordable offering from Ford, the Figo appeals to a younger audience but considering that a new Figo hatch in Ambiente guise is selling for a smidgen under R210 000, it is no surprise.
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In its longest form, the Figo sedan measures 4254 mm in length with the hatch and Freestyle options comfortably coming in under the 4000 mm mark. The Freestyle, however, is the tallest of the bunch with the roof reaching 1540 mm while all three variants will manage to fit through a 2000 mm wide opening. With these measurements, new drivers will be drawn to the compact offering as it is far from intimidating.
Transmission
Prospective buyers can specify the Ford Figo 1.5-litre hatchback in Trend guise with either a six-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission while the rest of the range is only available with the latter. Although an automatic transmission makes navigating parking scenarios easier, I am personally a firm believer that a new driver needs to be able to command a manual gearbox. Learning basic skills of changing a gear and clutch control will come in handy when the need arises. It is also easier to adapt your manual driving knowledge to an automatic vehicle, however, much more of a challenge the other way around.
A clear view of the road
Although most of the Figo range is quite small and the seating position low to the road, the small Ford offerings provide for a good view around the vehicle. The Figo Freestyle, however, provides a more commanding seating position, giving the driver more confidence and a better view of their surroundings. The small dimensions of the Figo also make spacial awareness an easy task. The Titanium trim level vehicles might appeal more to those who struggle with reversing in confined spaces as it incorporates a rear-view camera for those exact moments.
Interior tech
While all trim levels are fitted with the Ford audio 4-speaker sound system, the Titanium spec benefits from the Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system. The infotainment system offer users Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, steering mounted volume control, two USB ports and a 6.5-inch touchscreen. The Ambiente and Trend specified vehicles provides for AM and FM radio as well as AUX, USB and Bluetooth input.
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Fuel Economy
The entire Figo range is serviced by a 1.5-litre petrol motor, however, where the rest of the range manages 88 kW and 150 N.m from the three-cylinder engine, the Freestyle Titanium produces 91 kW. For new drivers, the power figures produced by the Figo range is ample, but what about fuel consumption? While you can expect a return of 5.7L/100km from both hatch and sedan models fitted with a manual gearbox, the automatic Figo returns a figure of 6.5L/100km. The Freestyle proves to be the most frugal in the range returning with 5.5L/100km.
Safety
For most of the range, Ford installed front passenger and driver-side airbags, however, the Freestyle Titanium is bolstered with side and curtain airbags bringing the total to six. The entire range is fitted with ABS brakes as standard, however, the automatic hatch sees the addition of hill-start assist and traction control systems.
Verdict
Under closer inspection, the Ford Figo range proves to be a good option for both first-time buyers and new drivers. Offering a decent amount of tech and safety equipment as standard, the Figo will meet the needs of most new motorists, however, incorporating six airbags across the range would not be a bad thing. With modest power and torque outputs, the Figo will provide ample oomph for new drivers without becoming a handful. The respectable fuel consumption figures also make a strong case towards the affordability of the vehicle for new owners and drivers. Although we cannot dismiss the competitive price of the entry-level Ambiente models, we would recommend paying the premium for the Titanium guise. Not just because of SYNC 3 infotainment system but also the additional four airbags.
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