Review
Ford KA+
Last summer, Ford unveiled the Ford KA+, the successor to the KA and a new five-door city car within the range for a budget of just over 10,000 euros with room for five passengers.
Two models
The KA+ is available in two different models. There is a standard version with 70 hp from 10,200 euros and an 85 hp model from 11,700 euros.
Both KA+ models come standard with electric front windows and exterior mirrors, central door locking with remote control, six airbags, electronic stability control with hill start assist, a speed limiter and the Ford Easy Fuel refueling system without a fuel cap.
The 85 hp model is also equipped with manual air conditioning, Ford Sync with AppLink and Ford My Key. With Ford Sync with AppLink you can control a number of smartphone apps with your voice. My Key is suitable for when you, for example, allow inexperienced drivers, such as children who are learning to drive, to drive your car. This way you can set a maximum driving speed or prevent safety systems from being turned off. In addition, you can also optionally opt for a number of extras on this 85 hp model, such as automatic air conditioning or rear parking sensors, for example.
1.2 liter Duratec petrol engine
In terms of motorization, the brand new KA+ is equipped with a petrol engine with a capacity of 1,196 cc with four cylinders in-line. The transmission is a 5-speed manual gearbox and the drive is on the front wheels. The 70 hp version goes from 0-100 km/h in 15.3 sec and has a top speed of 159 km/h.
We did a test drive with the 85 hp version and it goes from 0-100 km/h in 13.3 seconds and has a top speed of 169 km/h. On paper that may not seem that exciting, but if you keep the 1.2 high, it is quite a fun car to drive. The KA+ shifts smoothly and playfully and the car also steers fairly short and direct in the bend, comparable to, for example, a go-cart. Who says you can’t have driving pleasure in a budget car is wrong when you drive this KA+.
Storage options
Despite its compact shape, the KA+ offers plenty of space and storage options. Three passengers can sit on the back seat and the trunk is large enough for two large suitcases. There is also a 60/40 folding rear seat and in the interior there are plenty of storage spaces for small items. Optionally, on the version with 70 hp (Essential), you can also choose MyFord Dock in the center of the dashboard. You can attach and charge a smartphone or GPS in this so that they remain within reach. This is as part of the cool & sound pack, which also includes the radio. This is not available on the 85 hp version (Ultimate), because it is already equipped with SYNC, which means your smartphone is connected to the KA+ via Bluetooth.
Conclusion
The Ford KA+ has become an honest budget car, where despite its compact shape you still have a lot of space and storage options. There is also room for five people and thanks to the five doors, you can also easily take a seat in the back. Due to its compact dimensions, it is also a car with which you can easily drive and park in the city.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
