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Ford is expected to bring its Ka Concept, the sub-Fiesta hatchback, to the 2014 Delhi Auto Expo. The Ka Concept represents the entry of the American car maker into a critical segment of emerging markets like Brazil and India. Targeted at first time buyers, the Ka will be a low cost model for urban consumers.
The Concept Ka has been developed by the Ford’s Brazil team, the ones responsible for the development of the EcoSport. Judging by the success of the EcoSport, we can expect the Ka to do well in emerging markets. The Ka is based on the current Figo’s platform, which was in turn based on the old Fiesta’s architecture and displays a more grown up image as compared to previous generations. This model will be the third generation bearing the moniker with the two earlier generations being launched in 1996 and 2008.
In the words of Ford, the Ka will be “a sleek, compact hatchback that features bold design, quality engineering and innovative technologies that envisions a new choice for entry-level urban consumers in Brazil and other key markets around the world”. The front of the car features the familiar hexagonal broad front grille found in modern Fords nowadays. The raked headlamps extend towards the back of the lead body which carries swooping curved lines.
Ford hasn’t released pictures of the interiors, hence not much is known about them. We can expect the car to be powered by either a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol, a non-turbo version of the EcoBoost, or a 1.5-litre turbo diesel. With a launch expected by 2015, the Ka will be the replacement for the Ford Figo and will go up against the Tata Vista and the Maruti Ritz.
