Ford Figo Aspire launch tomorrow

Ford is all set to commence a major sales boost to the company, years after the EcoSport was launched with the new Figo Aspire. The Figo Aspire will be launched tomorrow and will compete in the busy but fast selling compact sedan segment. Cars like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent and Tata Zest are top contenders in this segment.

The Figo Aspire, as the name suggests is a sedan version of the next generation Figo that is also due in the coming months. The Aspire is one of the best proportioned and designed cars going by the standards of this segment. Key design features are the bold chrome lined Aston Martin like grille and the prominent bonnet and waist line. The rear ends in a typically stubby but layered boot and bumper.

The Figo Aspire is expected to come quite heavily loaded with features. Aside from the standard Bluetooth telephony, integrated infotainment system and steering mounted phone and audio controls, it comes with automatic climate control and height adjustable seats. All versions of the Aspire come standard with ABS and two airbags. The top of the line Aspire on the other hand comes with a staggering six airbags. This is the first time a car in this class comes with six airbags.

Ford will offer the Figo Aspire with a choice of three engines and two gearboxes. The petrol unit is a 1.2-litre Ti-VCT mill that delivers 88PS and 112Nm. The diesel engine is the 1.5-litre unit that also powers the Fiesta and EcoSport. It develops 100PS of power and 215Nm of max torque, about 10PS more than the Fiesta and EcoSport. Both come mated with 5-speed manual gearboxes. There is an a six-speed dual clutch automatic on offer. This gearbox comes mated to a stronger 1.5-litre petrol developing 110PS and 136Nm.