Ford Figo 2012-2015 Diesel EXI

Figo 2012-2015 Diesel EXI Review

Ford Figo is one of the bestselling hatchback, which is available in both petrol and diesel engine options for the buyers to choose from. Among the various trim levels available, Ford Figo Diesel EXI is the mid range variant. It comes with a 1.4-litre, SOHC based diesel engine, which displaces 1399cc. It can produce 68.05bhp of power output in combination with 160Nm torque. The manufacturer has mated it with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which allows the hatchback to attain a top speed of 175 Kmph. At the same time, it can cross the speed barrier of 100 Kmph from a standstill in close to 16 seconds, which is rather decent for this small car segment. On the other hand, this variant is also incorporated with a lot of features for the convenience of the occupants like an air conditioner, music system, illuminated instrument panel and so on. The company is selling this model series in quite a few exterior paint options. These include Mars Red, Chill finish, Diamond White, Kinetic Blue, Paprika Red, Sea Grey, Moondust Silver and a Panther Black metallic finish for the customers to pick from.

Exteriors:

The exteriors of this facelifted version have been give quite a few cosmetic changes all over, which makes it look more appealing. The overall body structure is aerodynamic and sleek with a smooth body line and a number of striking features. To start with the side profile, it gets body colored door handles and external rear view mirrors, which are internally adjustable. The neatly carved wheel arches are equipped with a robust set of 14 inch steel wheels, which are covered with full wheel covers. These rims are fitted with tubeless radial tyres of size 175/65 R14, which ensures a superior grip on any road conditions. It also has a full size spare wheel, which are affixed in the boot compartment. The rear end has a body colored bumper with a pair of reflectors, a large tail gate, which is embossed with variant badging and a bright tail light cluster that is integrated with reverse light and turn indicator. The windshield has a defogger and a centrally located high mounted brake light. On the other hand, the front fascia is fitted with a newly designed hexagonal front radiator grille, which has a large company emblem embossed in the center. This grille is flanked by a well lit headlamp cluster that have been fitted with radiant halogen lamps and side turn indicator. The body colored bumper gets a large air dam in the center for cooling the engine. The windscreen is made of laminated glass and it is integrated with a couple of 3-speed intermittent wipers as well.

Interiors:

The dual tone internal cabin of this Ford Figo Diesel EXI variant is incorporated with comfortable seats, which are covered with fabric upholstery. These seats are integrated with adjustable headrest, while the rear bench seat can be folded to increase its boot space. It has a 12V power socket in the center console for charging, a couple of cup holders , three foldable grab handles with coat hooks, front seat back pockets, all four power windows and tilt adjustable steering wheel. The illuminated instrument cluster notifications like door ajar warning, digital odometer, an electronic tripmeter, distance to empty, driver seat belt reminder notification, low fuel warning light, headlamps on warning and so on. Apart from these, it is bestowed with a day and night inside rear view mirror, body colored inside door handles, removable rear parcel tray for easy access, spacious boot compartment, where we can store enough luggage and many other such features.

Engine and Performance:

This mid range variant is powered by a 1.4-litre diesel engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 1399cc. This single overhead camshaft based diesel engine is incorporated with a common rail based direct injection fuel supply system, which can deliver a decent fuel economy. It can generate 20 Kmpl on the highways, while 17 Kmpl in city traffic. This diesel motor has the ability to churn out a maximum power output of 68.05bhp at 4000rpm in combination with 160NM at 2000rpm. It is mated with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which sends the engine power to its front wheels.

Braking and Handling:

The front wheels are equipped with ventilated disc brakes, whereas the rear ones are assembled with a set of drum brakes. The tilt adjustable power steering system is quite responsive and makes handling convenient even in bad road conditions. This steering wheel supports a minimum turning radius of 4.9 meters, which is rather good for this small car segment. On the other hand, the front axle is fitted with an independent McPherson strut with dual path mounts. While its rear axle is equipped with semi independent twist beam type of mechanism, which is assisted by coil spring.

Comfort Features:

This variant is fitted with an advanced music system, which comes with radio (AM/FM tuner), CD/MP3 player along with USB interface and four speakers, which enhances the ambiance of the cabin. It also has Bluetooth interface function, which includes full phonebook access, call logs, SMS notification and audio streaming function. It also has an air conditioning unit with heater, power steering system, anti drip wiping, remote trunk and boot lid opener, front power windows , sun visor with passenger side vanity mirror and many other such aspects.

Safety Features:

This Ford Figo Diesel EXI trim comes with a number of protective aspects, which gives a stress free driving experience. The list of features include an advanced engine immobilizer, which prevents unauthorized entry, intelligent central locking system, smart programmable keyless entry and several other aspects as well. It also has 3-point seat belts for all passengers, which enhances the safety in case of collision . Apart from these, it also has driver seat belt warning notification and door ajar warning on instrument panel, centrally mounted fuel tank, laminated glazed windscreen and a high mounted third brake light as well.


Pros:
1. Advanced Bluetooth interface is a big plus point.
2. Cost of ownership is affordable.

Cons:
1. Exterior appearance needs to improve.
2. Many more safety and comfort features can be added.