Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Ford Ka

Ford Ka Zetec Climate

Ford releases its new Ka with the most minor of nips and tucks

By Chris Thorp

January 2007

  • Rating:
From Escort to Focus, Sierra to Mondeo, Ford has gone facelift crazy in the past. And it’s easy to see why. Carbuyers’ tastes are changing faster than ever before, and manufacturers have adapted to keep pace. Asa result, the lifespan of a model is shorter than ever before. Today, vehicle production runs last for only six years, with a facelift halfway through.
 
The steering is superbly weighted and the Ford’s nose turns into corners with the accuracy of a sports car.

And it’s that fact which makes the Ford Ka so special. Launched 10 years ago, the evergreen machine is one ofa handful of cars that have made do with the most minor of nips and tucks.

The new Zetec Climate is the latest example of the blue oval’s efforts to keep its baby at the top of the bestseller charts. Smart eight-spoke Minilight alloy wheels have been added to complement the Ka’s ever-popular shape.

However, climb inside and it’s clear time has caught up with the Ford. The cabin is tiny, and space inside is tight. Out on the road it’s easier to understand the Ka’s everlasting appeal. The steering is superbly weighted and the Ford’s nose turns into corners with the accuracy of a sports car. What’s more, the ride quality is well cushioned at any speed, and even the ageing 1.3-litre petrol engine feels capable.

The line-up now has seven trim levels with the mid-range Zetec Climate designed to give a com-promise between value and luxury. However, with a basic price of £8,595, the Ford costs the same as the 1.2-litre Vauxhall Corsa, which was launched only last year and offers more space. And that’s without taking into account the extensive number of options specified on our test model, which raise the total cost to £9,695.

At that price, it’s hard to justify buying a Ka, although discounts are widely available. While it’s still a great little car, basic variants offer the best value.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

For an alternative review of the latest Ford Ka visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

More FORD KA articles


Related Index Pages

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

Find Used Cars

Find your Ford Ka with our used car search.

Find Used Cars

FIRST OPINION

    Only truly great designs, such as Ford’s Ka, stand the test of time. The blue oval’s baby still feels sharp and capable to drive, with ride and handling that puts many city car rivals to shame. However, the cabin is dated and space is tight. Also, the price becomes uncompetitive if you add on our test car’s options.
 

AT A GLANCE

    The all-new Ka is tipped to appear before the end of next year. Until then the Mk I soldiers on – but it still offers a smart design and good build quality.
    Engine: 1.3-litre 4cyl, 69bhp
    0-62mph: 14.1 seconds
    Price: £8,595
     
    - Advertisement -