ಫೋರ್ಡ್ ಫಿಗೋ 2015-2019 1.5D Ambiente MT

After almost five years of its presence in India, Figo hatchback has undergone a major overhaul. Whether it is regarding the styling or features or its technical specifications, everything about this vehicle has been refreshed including its variant nomenclature. The trim next-in-line to the base diesel version is now classified as Ford Figo 1.5D Ambiente MT . Also, it is now powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged oil-burner, which currently lies under Figo Aspire. Capable of returning a mileage of 26 Kmpl, this new hatchback has came out of nowhere to become a strong competitor in its segment. Its styling is another factor that can really change its fortunes, since it gets everything that are needed to grab your attention. Its Aston Martin inspired trapezoidal grille and bold headlight cluster makes a powerful statement on roads. The cabin too has received a new design, which looks identical to that of its sedan sibling. Moving on to the comfort section, this variant isn't the one with full-fledged feature, but has all the essentials like power assisted steering, electrical windows and a manual air conditioning unit. Its safety department is also packed with crucial factors like ABS with EBD, seatbelts and immobilizer, which indeed makes it an ideal model to choose.

Exteriors:

This 2015 version looks unbelievably different from its predecessor and the reason for this is because of the significant changes done to all its facets. Although, its side and rear profiles aren't that good as others, but the exotic front facade is something that flaunts the next-generation styling. The car maker has encrypted its latest design language for this model, which can also be seen in some of the recently launched models. Its body structure, cosmetics, perhaps every detailing about its exteriors are new. You can hardly keep-off your eyes on its front profile, thanks to the trapezoidal grille that has a black perforated mesh. Another factor is its bold headlight cluster that expresses its power in style. This classy is complimented by the brand's logo situated on top of the hood. Its sides have a rather decent design structure with curves and lines, making it look far more superior than its predecessor. Being the entry level trim, it gets only steel wheels, but full wheel covers adds grace to this facet. While the outside handles and the mirror caps remains to be in non-body color. The rear section has a decent structure with concaved windscreen accompanied by a high mount third brake light. The tailgate looks plain without much of a design, but the company's logo and variant badging gives it a glorified look. Currently, it comes in seven exterior paint options including Ruby Red, Oxford White, Tuxedo Black, Deep Impact Blue, Ingot Silver, Smoke Grey and Sparkling Gold.

Interiors:

There is drastic improvement to the interior design and its quality as compared to the previous version. Its look resembles to that of other Ford models, especially Figo Aspire. The material used for it is of premium quality and it eventually helped in achieving a finest finish. In the cockpit section, the dashboard gets a significant makeover and is underlined by brushed metallic inserts. The entire cabin is in a single tone charcoal black color scheme, which is eye-soothing. The seating arrangement is rather comfortable enabling passengers to experience a hassle-free traveling experience. The company has wrapped all the seats with a premium grade fabric upholstery that compliments the interior elegance. Space inside has increased as a result of improved height and wheelbase. However, the boot compartment is not as good as expected, as it measures only about 257 litres. Although it is a lower version, it houses a set of utilities like passenger vanity mirror, accessory power socket and map pockets.

Engine and Performance:

This 2015 version of Figo hatchback is powered by a new 1.5-litre diesel engine, which is also powering a few other models. This is a turbocharged mill with common rail fuel injection technology. Having four cylinders, it displaces about 1498cc. This power plant is capable of churning out a maximum power of 99bhp at 3750rpm along with a pounding torque of 215Nm in the range of just 1750 to 3000rpm. Mated with this motor is a conventional five speed manual gearbox that allows smoother shifting of gears. As per the ARAI certification, this mill can return a mileage of 25.83 Kmpl under standard driving conditions.

Braking and Handling:

One of the significant improvements of this latest version is its suspension. Its front axle, having mated with an independent McPherson strut can deal with uneven roads easily. Furthermore, there are coil springs and anti roll bars, which improves the stability to a new level. The rear axle has a semi-independent twist beam suspension, but the presence of twin gas and oil-filled shock absorbers contributes for a jerk-free traveling experience. Besides, the electric power assisted steering is another reason why the handling this Figo is simpler.

Comfort Features:

This Ambiente trim is placed above the base version and is packed with all the essentials for comfortable traveling. Manual air conditioning system is present to keep the insides cool all the time. Also there is an instrument cluster housing indicators like distance to empty, door ajar, water temperature warning and fuel gauge. There are a few other features placed inside like front power windows with driver side one touch up/down function, 6-speed variable intermittent wipers, auto door lock at 20 Kmph, electric boot release and battery saver.

Safety Features:

This new version has a robust body structure made out of using high-strength steel that eventually enhances the level of safety for occupants inside. Being the lower trim, it also gets a driver airbag along with three point seatbelts for all the seats, which maximizes the protection and reduces the risk of injury. Another important feature is its engine immobilizer, which can restrict the access to unauthorized persons.

Pros:

1. There are several improvements to its overall style.

2. Its impressive fuel efficiency is a plus point.

Cons:

1. Absence of ABS is disappointing.

2. There is no infotainment system.