According to a report from a reputable Brazilian news website, Ford of Brazil will launch the new Ford Ka (will launch in India as the next gen Figo) next month, once the World Cup concludes. Unveiled in November in pre-production form, the new Ka will first launch as a hatchback, with a sedan set to join in later this year or next year.
The Ka has been tested by Brazil's efficiency labeling program, PBE. PBE, which conducts economy tests, gave the Ka an 'A' grade in efficiency (A refers to cars with minimum fuel consumption). With Ethanol powering its engine, the Ka achieves 8.9 km/l in urban driving conditions and 10.4 km/l in extra-urban conditions. The same engine when fueled by petrol achieves 13 km/l in urban and 15.1 km/l in extra-urban condition.
Initially, Ford will launch the new Ka with a single engine option. The engine in question is a naturally aspirated 1.0-liter three-cylinder unit which is capable of 85 bhp and 10.7 kgm of torque. The power output of the Ka is being described by the Brazilian media as best in class. The hatchback will rival the VW Up! and Nissan March (Micra) mainly.
The Ka is based on the old Fiesta's platform, which was thoroughly reengineered to offer better stiffness and lighter weight. The design and engineering of the car were executed by Ford's Brazilian subsidiary.
Expect the new Ka, rebranded as the Figo, to launch in India next year alongside a sub-4m sedan.
[Source - Revista Autoesporte]
