Although it may be called a Ka, the new Ford Ka+ is a very different proposition from the Ford s that preceded it.
Instead of a funky-looking and diminutive three-door, you now get a larger, dumpy five-door that prioritises practicality and a cheap purchase price over fashionable looks.
In other words, it is a rival for the likes of the Vauxhall Viva, Dacia Sandero and Skoda Citigo.
Underneath the skin is a version of the Ford Fiesta platform that’s been massaged to prioritise passenger space to the detriment of boot space. Outwardly, it looks virtually identical to the Indian-market Ford Figo, but there are significant changes to make it more suitable for European markets, with the suspension, springs, dampers and tyres all being changed or tweaked.
It would seem Ford has learned from the criticism levelled at the initial run of Ford Ecosport SUVs.
Under the bonnet is a 1.2-litre four-cylinder motor that puts out either 69 or 84bhp. To keep costs down and put some space between the Ford Ka+ and Fiesta, there are no Ecoboost or diesel options. Even so, it showed plenty of promise when we drove it in Europe. Can it do the same on British roads?
Jump inside the Ka+ and there’s no escaping the bargain basement feel. It doesn’t matter if you opt for entry-level Studio or plusher Zetec trim. The interior is a sea of hard, scratchy black plastic. While most of the controls are logically placed and feel solid enough, the heater dials are a little low and the electric mirror switch is a long stretch once you’re belted in.
