Currently reading: Ford Ka+ revealed with new Active model and diesel option

New hatch range goes on sale later this year, with prices starting at £10,795

The wraps have been pulled off the latest Ford Ka+ and its all-new sibling, the Ford Ka+ Active, before Ford begins sales later this year.

On show in Geneva, the five-door models are priced from £10,795 and come with a diesel engine option for the first time, as well as Ford’s latest infotainment technology, creating the most comprehensive Ka+ line-up yet.

Top of the list of aesthetic changes is a tweaked exterior design with larger headlights, a new front grille with a chrome surround and a more cleanly designed dashboard.

Key technical features include a 6.5in touchscreen that features the brand’s Sync 3 infotainment technology, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

2018 Ford ka active 34 rear 3 v5

The car comes as standard with automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a heated windscreen. Automatic climate control and parking sensors are available as options.

The most efficient powertrain on offer is the new diesel, the 1.5-litre TDCi, which produces 94bhp and 159lb ft of torque, and is claimed to emit 99g/km of CO2.

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That diesel engine joins a 1.2-litre Ti-VCT petrol unit, which replaces the old car’s 1.2 Duratec. The new one is claimed to have improved torque and efficiency, although no figures are released at this time.

Both the diesel and petrol options are equipped with start/stop technology and comply with Euro 6 emissions regulations.

2018 Ford k ultimate center console 01 011 kopie

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Two trim levels are available for the regular Ka+, Studio and Zetec, while the new Active model sits above those and transforms the five-seater into a more rugged offering.

The Active version gets plastic wheel arch covers, 15in wheels and roof racks as standard. To enhance its off-road ability, its suspension is retuned for a smoother ride, while the car sits 23mm higher. The wheels are set at a wider track and there’s a larger front anti-roll bar.

Ford has fitted active rollover protection technology, which works with the car’s electronic stability control, to the Ka+ Active to reduce the chances of a rollover when the car is carrying heavy roof loads.

The outgoing Ka+ has been on sale since 2016. In that time, more than 61,000 units have been sold worldwide. Its rivals include the Vauxhall Viva, Volkswagen Up and Hyundai i10.

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Dean's car 21 June 2018

Confusion over petrol engines

There's something confusing here. The article says the ti-vct is replacing the Duratec engine. In fact, the ti-vct is what the Ka+ has always had. It's a version of the Duratec, certainly, but what's the news story?

Bob Cat Brian 6 March 2018

Rover Streetwise reincarnate.

Rover Streetwise reincarnate. 

Factczech 6 February 2018

A winner

This is very timely by Ford. Cars are getting increasingly bigger and this niche is under-represented.

The design is much better than the previous and it looks well built inside out. This will be in the top 10 list when it goes on sale.

The diesel too is a smart move as although it is a "City" car it would be bought by many who do not want the oversized so-called small cars