Reviewed: Ford Figo Blu

Having first being launched in 2010, The Ford Figo has gone through some interesting shapes leading up to the current model that graces our driveway. Through the years the Figo has somewhat tried to live up to its name by being the “cool” kid in town, repeatedly, with fail. Don’t get us wrong, the Figo has evolved from a box like car to a curvier and more much appealing car if you ask us.

Did You Know

Figo means ‘cool’ in Italian

The new Figo Blu is a limited release with a run of only 360 units in Mzansi. It is based on the Figo 1.5 Trend and can be distinguished from the standard Figo by a number of enhancements. The most noticeable feature has to be its all black roof and 14 inch alloy wheels and black grille that adds a bit of personality to this model.

Another distinctive treatment is that of the accented fog lamps housing and the introduction of the blue bezels. The decals are another way of identifying this limited range of vehicles as they extend along the sides of it and one can also be seen on the back. Whilst we drove the Oxford White one the Figo Blu is also available in Moondust Silver and Smoke Grey colours.

The interior of the Figo Blu continues with the use of the glossy blue inserts as they can be seen on the door panels. We quite enjoyed the visual appeal of the black and blue stitched seats as well as the inclusion of “Figo Blu” branding on the front seats. This gave the car a bit more character. The use of leather on the steering wheels adds the much-needed comfort and grip while driving. The Blu has been fitted with electric windows all round, central locking, perimeter anti-theft alarm and an immobiliser.

Even though the space and interior of the Figo Blu have not been compromised or changed compared to the standard version, the infotainment system is still a few years behind in terms of features and smart aids. Ford’s very own Sync 3 infotainment system found on the likes of the Fiesta and EcoSport would’ve sufficed here. In addition, Ford could’ve thrown in Android Auto and Apple Carplay to sweeten the deal. Sadly, the Figo Blu relies on Bluetooth connectivity to pair your device for calls and music. Don’t expect to see any controls on your steering wheel either.

Only one USB slot is provided which serves as a smartphone charger. Your smartphone can be easily placed on the Device Dock situated on the upper deck of the centre console while charging. This dock does come in handy as you have to resort to using your mobile screen to navigate around unfamiliar places. The four-speaker system is decent and does a mighty job considering the size of the vehicle. However, the two airbags are short of the current standard being raised by its competitors.

Powered by a 1.5 liter three-cylinder petrol engine the Figo Blu produces 88kW of power and 150Nm of torque with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Blu uses an EcoMode with shift indicator and this lets the driver know of the most optimal time to shift gears up or down and this in turn helps keep the fuel consumption between 5.7 – 6.5l/100km.

In conclusion, the Figo Blu delivers a decent drive and offers comfortable seating for driver and passengers with a good fuel efficiency. However, the car does lack in terms of safety features compared to its competitors. The absence of Apple Carplay and Android Auto was a deal breaker for us as the car occasionally displayed Bluetooth connectivity issues.

At the cost of R203 800 and with a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and a five year/unlimited km corrosion warranty with an included four year/60 000km service plan, the Ford Figo Blu gives the Suzuki Swift and Polo Vivo a good run when comparing them spec for spec.

Post Views: 271