By Staff Reporter

Ford has taken covers off its new Ford Figo Freestyle which will be its fighter in the growing sub-B compact utility vehicle (CUV) segment, and go up against the likes of Suzuki Ignis, Renault Stepway and Volkswagen Polo Vivo Maxx.

Looks

The SUV-inspired Figo Freestyle is based on the Figo but gets an elevated stance thanks to a ride height of 190mm which is 16mm higher than the standard Figo.

Offered two trims – the 1.5 Trend and 1.5 Titanium, the Figo Freestyle sets itself apart with a black painted grille, sculptured front and back bumper, black fog lamp housing accents, black wheel arch mouldings and roof rails. Front and rear skid plates complete the exterior look of the car.

The Figo Freestyle is offered with distinctive double-spoke 15-inch alloy wheels that are unique to the Figo Freestyle. Figo Freestyle is available in six colour choices, including a new ‘Canyon Ridge’ that is unique to this model, along with Diamond white – both of which are solid paint finishes. Metallic paint options comprise Smoke Grey, Moondust Silver, Ruby Red and White Gold.

Interior

Inside, you will be greeted by seats with contrasting stitching that match door accents. In addition, drivers can look forward to a soft-touch gear shift knob that is offered along a steering wheel with audio controls in the Titanium model. Both models offer door scuff plates and all-weather floor mats.

Standard equipment in the Trend model includes reverse parking sensors and Ford’s Device Dock which includes Bluetooth, USB and Aux connectivity and a convenient hold for a smartphone.

The Titanium model adds a reverse camera that is connected to a floating 6.5-inch infotainment screen which comes with Ford’s SYNC 3 system. The system offers Bluetooth and voice activation that enables phone and audio functions to be controlled through voice commands. The system is also compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Other features unique to the Titanium derivative include keyless push-start button, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic headlamp activation and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.

Safety

The standard safety and security package on the Trend model incorporates driver and passenger airbags, ABS brakes, remote central locking with drive-away locking function, electric windows all round, as well as a perimeter anti-theft alarm and engine immobilizer.

The Trend model adds to the list with side and curtain airbags, along with the innovative Ford MyKey that allows owners to programme a key for younger drivers that can inhibit incoming phone calls, restrict top speed, reduce audio system maximum volume and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts.

Engine

The Figo Freestyle is powered by the familiar 1.5-litre normally aspirated petrol engine which makes 91kW of power and 150Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The car has a claimed combined fuel consumption of 5.7 – 6.51/100 km.

Pricing

The Ford Figo Freestyle is priced as follows:

Ford Figo Freestyle 1.5 Tred                        R226,700

Ford Figo Freestyle 1.5 Titanium                R247,500

Prices include a four-year/60,000km service plan and four-year/120,000km warranty.