Ford Figo 1.2 Automatic Petrol Review

The second-generation Ford Figo has been around for almost six years now and a major update is overdue. Now the car did get a major update back in 2018 but its rivals soon came in with the new-generation models that are more modern, while the Figo has started showing its age. Still, for now Ford is focusing to make the range more approachable, starting with this new automatic variant. So the Figo 1.2 petrol Automatic is finally here and though it's quite late to the party, it comes with a proper torque converter automatic gearbox which gives it an edge over its AMT rivals. It promises to the smoother and quicker, and we tell you how perceptible that difference is.

Also Read: How Ford Is Approaching Safety With Its Self Driving Platform

Dynamics

The six-speed torque converter automatic transmission in the Figo 1.2 petrol is the smoothest of the lot.

So it's the same six-speed torque convertor unit we have seen in the Ecosport 1.5 Petrol, and now comes mated to the 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol motor in the Figo. It's smoother and while you cannot compare it with the DCT the previous-gen Figo had, for a torque converter it does the job quite well.

The 1.2-litre petrol motor belts out class-leading power figures.

Then this is really well-mated to the 1.2 motor that already delivers class-leading power figures of 94 bhp and 119 Nm of peak torque. And you can feel it in the power delivery, it's quick off the line, delivering a refined and punchier performance than other AMT models in the segment.

Power delivery feels aggressive in 'Sports' mode while 'D' is best suited for cruising.

It also gets Sports Mode and Select Shift. So when you shift to sports the power delivery becomes more aggressive and you can easily rev it over 5000 rpm with some progress. If you want better fuel economy and relaxed driving, just go back to D and you can happily cruise along.

The switch use to change gears on the select shift shifter may take a bit getting used to.

There's a bit of lag in 'D' mode and a tiny shudder when you launch, but 'Sports mode' irons out that jolt and then the dynamics and steering feedback only complement its sporty character, without compromising on the ride quality. So without second guessing, the Figo 1.2 Torque Converter is the sportier automatic of the lot.

It doesn't get a dead pedal and you miss having one.

The Select Shift function lets you change gears manually as well but using a switch on the shifter, and that may take a bit getting used to, but definitely not a deal breaker. The only thing missing is a dead pedal, because in an automatic you end up needing one.

Design

The Ford Figo looks underrated compared to its rivals.

We told you that the new Figo looks a bit dated. Yes! It also does look bland beside its rivals and features like LED DRLS, projector headlights and subtle chrome detailing would have broken the monotony to a certain extent.

Interior & Tech

The cabin doesn't wow you in styling terms, but is well executed and feature loaded.

Even the cabin doesn't wow you in terms of styling. But it's simple, well executed and ergonomic, so not much complaining here. On the creature comforts front, it is quite evenly matched to the Swift with stuff like a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, auto climate control, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers, app based Ford Pass connected car tech and even gets an auto-dimming inner rear view mirror.

A bigger touchscreen unit, rear air-con vents and centre armrest would have been nice additions.

But rivals like Grand i10 Nios feels more upmarket and it gets substantially more bells and whistles like wireless charger, rear air-con vents and a cooled glovebox. A bigger touchscreen unit, rear air-con vents and centre armrest would have been nice additions on the Figo and would a gone a long way uplifting its appeal.

Safety Features

The Figo offers segment-best safety features including side and curtain airbags along with dual front airbags among others.

But then, it does score big on the safety front. The Figo offers side and curtain airbags as well along with dual front airbags and that's something all its rivals miss on. Electronic Stability Program, Traction Control and Hill Hold Assist are also offered only on the Figo.

Verdict

The Ford Figo 1.2 is the sportiest automatic hatchback in its segment.

Prices for the Ford Figo 1.2 Petrol Auto start at Rs. 7.75 lakh for the Titanium variant, while the Titanium Plus trim will cost you Rs. 8.20 lakh (all prices ex-showroom), keeping it fairly competitive to its AMT rivals. And so if an automatic hatch is on your radar and you prefer something sportier, that drives better and smoother, over looks and a couple more features, you definitely should consider the Ford Figo 1.2 Torque Converter Automatic.