Ford has announced a brand new model known as the Ka+, which replaces the Ka and will be available to order from June 2016.
The original Ka in the nineties was a pint-sized runaround and its successor more akin to the Fiesta. The KA+ continues the latter theme by being slightly shorter than the Fiesta but 29mm taller for more head and leg room for up to five passengers.
Boot space is similar, too, at 270 litres compared with 290 litres for the Fiesta and the KA+ comes with 60:40 split-folding rear seats and 21 different places to store things in the cabin.
Just one engine is available in two power outputs, a 1.2-litre Duratec petrol with either 70 or 85PS. It is derived from the 1.25-litre engine in the Fiesta and is partnered with a five-speed manual in the Ka+.
Almost as simple is the trim line-up, which includes Studio and Zetec. The former gets the 70PS engine and the latter a choice of the two.
An entry-level Ka+ Studio comes with electric front windows, front fog lamps, AM/FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity, remote central double locking with alarm and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Start Assist.
Deflation Detection System, Speed Limiter and Ford Easy Fuel, a feature that stops the driver from filling up with the wrong fuel and makes life more difficult for thieves, are also standard.
The Ka+ Zetec adds a touch of bling in the form of 15-inch alloy wheels, manual air-conditioning, DAB digital radio, Ford SYNC infotainment system with AppLink, cruise control and a leather steering wheel.
Optional extras available to the Zetec includes electronic climate control, heated front seats, privacy glass and a City Pack comprised rear parking sensors, electric rear windows and power folding door mirrors.
The size of the KA+ and its dinky engine benefits from low rolling resistance tyres and ‘enhanced aerodynamic details’ such as a front lower spoiler lip, both of which contribute to a claimed fuel economy and CO2 emissions figure of 56.5mpg (combined) and 114g/km, respectively.
Prices start from £8,995 for the Ka+, which will be a rival to the Hyunda i10 and Vauxhall Viva as opposed to the Fiat 500. An entry-level Fiesta is £1,350 more expensive.
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