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Carnatics-The New Figo

Here Figo
The selling line for this mini car is ‘style meets affordability’ and I believe that line is true of this entry level, Ford Figo.
From the chiselled lines to the sporty interior as well as the air-con and dual air-bags. You do not expect such features in entry level cars. Though I was a bit disappointed by the manual window winder, I was comforted by the price; BWP109 000. But it is an entry level and a stylish one for that matter.
The one I test drove was a diesel derivative, the 1.4l Duratorq which delivers 51kw at 4000 revs per minute as its maximum power. Torque is impressive for a car so small; 160Nm at 2000 revs per minute.
Steering wheel feedback is also good and makes the car feel a bit heavy and therefore giving the driver a feeling of being in control. The diesel engine also has hums in a somewhat heavy voice which gives an impression that it is a power packed machine.
Although it is entry level, Ford did not go soft on safety for this car. The power assisted ABS with EBD brakes brings the little car to a halt in reasonable distance. In you are unable to stop, which is highly unlikely, the driver and his passenger can rely on the airbags if it happens to crash.
When I tried the brakes I was relieved that as well as stopping the car in a short distance, the hazard warning lights came on automatically and when I moved on, they switched off on their own.
I, however, do not have much love for the wire like key- similar to the Bantam’s- and I wondered how I would cope if I came to the door drunk and trying to make a quick get away, but then I remembered that I am no supposed to drive drunk anyway.
The fuel tank is 45 litres across all derivatives and 6.6 litres can get you 100 km for the petrol Ambiente and Trend. The diesel powered machine however needs only 5.3 litres for the same distance.
Though you have to reach out to the passenger’s left boot to open the bonnet and have to do a bit of manual work to operate the windows, I say there is more value for your money. Even if Barloworld do not offer service plan for it you can be comforted by the fact that you will not need to service for 20 000km and 15 000km for diesel.

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