Car prices have literally skyrocketed in the last few years. A poor economic environment combined with some volatile exchange rates have collaborated to ensure that buying a new car will prove a costly exercise.
Enter Ford’s budget-beating Figo.
However, just because a car is affordable, doesn’t mean it’s cheap and nasty. The Figo is basically an updated version of the previous generation Ford Fiesta and there is certainly nothing wrong with that.
The model delivered to our offices was the 1.4 TDCi Ambiente model, which boasts an exception-ally frugal and torquey diesel engine that drives the front wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Consumption is claimed at 5.3 litres/100km, which should see a Figo owner get around 800km from a single tank.
While economy proves well above average, the little city car isn’t exactly a speed demon and will accelerate from 0-100km/h in just under 16 seconds before reaching a top end of only 163km/h.
Inside, it’s as comfy as one would expect for the price. While the fit and finish is top-notch, there are very few nice-to-haves with aircon and a front-loading CD/Radio the only standard fitment.
However, it’s not too surprising to find cloth seats and manual windows in a vehicle that will only set you back R128 630, inclusive of the new CO2 tax. It also comes with a 4-year/120 000km warranty, 3-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and an optional service plan.
