The Figo Aspire would launch before the Figo hatchback.
According to a report on MotorOctane, the forthcoming new Ford Figo-based compact sedan could be branded Ford Figo Aspire, while the new Figo hatchback will carry over the nameplate from its predecessor.
Earlier, a source had told Indian Autos Blog that Ford India will indeed retain the Figo nameplate owing to its strong brand recall in India, but will use a suitable suffix for the compact sedan.
From a marketing front, the name Aspire is mimicking competitors who use positive connotations such as Amaze, Dzire, Xcent, and Zest to differentiate their sedans from the hatchbacks (Brio, Swift, Grand i10, Bolt). These suffixes however are not featured on many export-spec models (Brio sedan, Polo notchback and Grand i10 sedan are the names used instead).
Power for the Figo and Figo Aspire would come from a new 1.2-liter TiVCT petrol engine and a 1.5-liter TDCi diesel engine.
Also read: 2016 Ford Endeavour imported to India for R&D purposes
Both cars will be produced at Ford India's new Sanand plant, with the Figo Aspire heading for production before the end of March of this year.
Competitors: Tata Zest, Maruti Dzire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent
Expected Price: INR 4.5-7 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: Production kick-off before March 31
Ford Figo Sub-4m Sedan - Spyshot Gallery
[Source - MotorOctane]
