Ford refreshes Ka+ and adds Active 05 | 02 | 2018
FORD HAS LIFTED the wraps from its latest Ka+, and its new Active-badged crossover version of the city car. Prices will start at £10,795, when the range goes on-sale at Scottish dealerships in the summer. And for the first time, the five-door model comes with a diesel engine option. (Related: Ford reveals Bullitt Mustang GT)
The facelifted Ka+ not only adds a new range of engines, but there’s also new styling and new infotainment technology.
At the front of the new car, there’s new headlamps and C-shaped daytime running lights, plus a revised front apron with a new grille. The rear bumper has also been tweaked giving the Ka+ a more subtle and, dare I say, a slightly sportier profile. There’s also now a new boot-opening button on the tailgate.
The biggest change inside the cabin is the replacement of the old and outdated SYNC 2 display with thee new SYNC 3 6.5-inch tablet style touchscreen. The new system also includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There’s also a new engine starter button.
While automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a heated windscreen are all standard, options include automatic climate control and parking sensors.
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.
Under the bonnet, there’s a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder, which replaces the previous four-cylinder 1.2. The new engine is still available with either 69bhp and 84bhp, but benefits from a 10% increase in torque.
In addition to the petroleum which now also benefit from stop-start, there’s a new 1.5-litre TDCi diesel. Aimed at making long distance motorway driving more relaxed, it develops 94bhp and 215Nm of torque, and emits 99g/km. Both petrol and diesel engines comply with Euro 6 emissions regulations.
The new SUV-inspired Ka+ Active — which sits 23mm higher in ride height and features a wider track — gets black plastic cladding, wheel arches and unique 15in alloys, plus faux aluminium bash plates and a set of roof rails.
And while ride is boosted by larger front anti-roll bar and tweaked electronic power steering, inside the Ka+ Active gets a leather steering wheel, and a unique stripe pattern on the fabric upholstery.
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Jim McGill