ಫೋರ್ಡ್ ಅಸಪೈರ್‌ 1.5 TDCi Titanium

Considered to be one of the most anticipated launches of this year, the variant Ford Aspire 1.5 TDCi Titanium is one the mid-end variant of this series. It is brimmed with features that contribute to the protection of the passengers and vehicle plus at the same time offer comfort along with an impressive performance. This perfect combination is all what a car is expected to possess and this can be considered to be fulfilling this criteria. As per the looks, it is a slender looking compact sedan with neat dimensions. Interiors are very well furbished with a dual toned theme, premium black application on the accents, fabric upholstery and an instrument panel filled with many instrument readings along with a tachometer too. Special comfort features are provided inside like grab handles with coat hooks, automatic door locks at 20 Kmph speed, 2-line multi-function display screen and MyFord Dock. Other specific factors that provide convenience are the power windows, auto AC unit and other such aspects. It can also be called a safe vehicle, as it is incorporated with ABS and EBD, along with other features like seatbelts, dual airbags and multiple reminders for additional safety. With such exciting aspects, this compact sedan is going to compete with the likes of Honda Amaze, Tata Zest, Maruti Swift Dzire and Hyundai Xcent.

Exteriors:

Good looks are bestowed to this trim, which has been adorned by chrome surrounds and bars to the grille in the front. And decorative elements fully garnished over its outer body, especially around the headlight cluster with chrome layering. Furthermore, the tailgate is affixed with a horizontal strip, which is garnished in chrome. Body colored front and rear bumpers plus the outside rear view mirrors give a uniformity to the car. A pair of fog lamps can be seen at the front and rear end of the car. The B and C pillars are in black for a diverse look. A defogger is integrated to the rear wind shield. The ORVMs are integrated with turn indicators to them.

Interiors:

On the inside, the design is made on the basis of the two-tone theme which is a combination of charcoal black and light oak. Seats being very well placed to accommodate five occupants comfortably and are wrapped up in fabric. Driver seat can be adjusted to preferable height. Furthermore, fabric can be found on the front door panel inserts too. The inner door handles, audio bezel and steering wheel has a premium proteus black applique. All the seats have headrests that are height adjustable. Driver and the passenger seats have map pockets that are in the door trims. For additional decoration, the gear lever tip is painted with chrome. A center armrest can be seen fixed to the rear seats. Both driver and co-passenger have visors that have vanity mirrors affixed to them. A 12V power point is available at the front for the sake of charging any small electronic device.

Engine and Performance:

The mill that is integrated in this variant is a 1.5-litre TCDi diesel engine that has a displacement capacity of 1498cc. A maximum power of 98.63bhp is produce by this mill at 3750rpm along with a peak torque output of 215Nm at 1750 to 3000rpm. A common rail direct injection fuel supply system is incorporated within this variant, which has four cylinders and eight valves accompanied by them.

Braking and Handling:

The suspension on the front has been equipped by independent McPherson strut with a coil spring and an anti-roll bar. While a semi-independent twist beam with twin gas and oil filled shock absorbers are paired to the rear axle. The braking consists of ventilated discs at the front and a pair of drum brakes are affixed to the rear wheels. A striking pair of tyres of size 175/65 R14 can be found to this trim. For a stronger grip over the entire drive, an electronic power assisted steering system is offered, which will allow the driver to have a powerful control over the vehicle.

Comfort Features:

A lot of features which contribute to the convenience of the occupants are present in this sedan. Starting with a tilt steering that enables the driver to change arm position from time to time, there are many other factors that make this compact sedan stand as a luxury car. Power adjustable and foldable outside rear view mirrors are there for ease of operation. An electric release is available to the boot lid. The lighting of the vehicle contains a front dome lamp, a light in the trunk room and follow-me-home headlamps as well. An auto air-conditioning unit is present in the cabin for the sake of temperature regulation. The advanced music system with radio, Aux-in and USB ports complimented by four speakers is offered. The Bluetooth enabled facility has its audio and phone controls mounted onto the steering wheel. The instrument cluster is embedded with notifications like gear shift indicator, distance to empty, maintenance warning, door ajar and low fuel warning along with a water temperature warning light as well. All the doors are integrated with power windows while the driver side window has a one-touch up/down mechanism switch. Front windscreen has been fixed with a 6-speed intermittent wipers. A battery saver is another add-on feature.

Safety Features:

List can be started with the dual front air bags that act as an active protective feature that is offered for both the driver and the co-driver. An anti-lock braking system along with an electronic brake-force distribution is availed by this trim, which will assist the driver further for firmer hold over the roads. A key-less entry and an engine immobilizer can act as security for the car from unauthorized access. Further, there is a perimeter alarm system for added protection to the car. Front 3-point seatbelts are available, which can be height adjusted and at the rear, there is a lap belt and 3-point outer seat belts as well. And then there is a driver seat-belt reminder as well.

Pros:

1. Bluetooth connectivity with steering mounted controls.

2. Fuel economy is rather decent.

Cons:

1. Ground clearance can be batter.

2. Seats could be given leather upholstery.