New Ford Ka: more safety, technology and power – 29/07/2018

If we go back to its beginnings, in 1997, this Ford Ka has nothing to do with this city dweller who ruled among small cars.

Since it's become global in 2014, when its third generation was launched, the Ford Ka has become in another car. In this transformation, it lost its "huevito" shape and three-door body to grow, "dress up" the new Kinetic Design suit, offer five-door variants and even an unprecedented sedan version (Ka +), which is already part of the family

This week, Ford made the presentation of the redesigned Ka in the Brazilian city of Gramado, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The good thing is that it's not just a design problem; the model has a new engine and transmissions, a more reinforced structure, more safety and technology equipment, and, as if that was not enough, a new five-door version with an adventurous look called Freestyle.

Before going into detail, it should be noted that the new Ford Ka will only arrive in Argentina in October although its directors announce to him that in mid-August will begin the subscriptions by plan of saving (Ovalo Plan). The range will consist of 11 versions . The price has not been informed, not even an estimate.

Given the priorities, we celebrate that this new Ka will have stability and control of traction, and help in coasting in all its versions (currently only the SEL variant complete the offer). Intermediaries (SE) will add rear parking sensors, while the most equipped (SEL and Freestyle) will add side airbags and curtains (six in total), a rear view camera and a rollover system (exclusive Freestyle).

The new Ford Ka has a reinforced structure that gives it more rigidity and resistance to a possible collision.

Mechanically, the 105 horsepower 1.5 engine was replaced by the Dragon 1.5 of 123 horsepower, 151 Nm of torque, and three cylinders which today carries the EcoSport ]] Another innovation is the incorporation, for the first time in this model, of an automatic transmission . This is a case of six-speed with integrated torque converter, which allows the gear shift manually from the lever. For its part, the five-speed manual gearbox is also new and for the first time it is implemented in a Mercosur model.

S and Freestyle versions will only be available with manual gearboxes, while SE and SEL will also offer automatic transmissions

Regarding the technology, highlights the new connectivity system SYNC 3 (available in intermediate versions) compatible with ] Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that allows drivers to control audio and smartphones through voice commands or through the 6.5-inch touch screen located at the top of the console

Ford Ka Freestyle

In our contact by Gramado and Canela we had the chance to manage this new version which differs from the standard versions by having a bigger ground clearance [19659020] (188 mm. 165 mm) and wider gauge (30 mm). It also has bigger tires and adds luggage bars and black plastics that give it a "wave" more off-road.

The interior is composed of two-tone plastic (black and brown), which is hard to touch, and seats upholstered in leather and fabric.

His behavior made us happy. Even though we did not have the opportunity to try it because we would have liked it to leave us with a nice feeling. The new Dragon 1.5 3-cylinder engine is superb . It is serene and reacts well from the bottom since 80% of the couple is used from the 2,200 turns. The steering is precise and has variable electrical badistance.

Ford performed a badpit soundproofing through an acoustic package that includes the calibration of suspension rings, structural reinforcements and a double acoustic blade windshield. This allows the life on board to be more enjoyable.

The interior space is large and there is enough space for four people to travel comfortably. Behind, good place for the legs and head (it is at a prudential distance from the ceiling).

Driving this version only we had to go to one that offered an automatic transmission. While the Freestyle has complete equipment, we estimate that the only comes with a manual gearbox for a price issue.

Regarding improvements, should have a spare wheel (185/60 R15) and not temporary (175/55 R14), with which it is possible to drive at 80 km / h. In addition, the hatchback has no outside opening and can only be opened by the key fob and the door opening button.