If you’re in the market for a new car but have a tight budget to consider, Ford’s latest addition to the South African line-up should peak your interest. This week, Ford Southern Africa announced the launch of its first-ever Figo Freestyle, expanding its presence in the rapidly growing utility vehicle sector. This new sub-B segment compact utility vehicle (CUV) is based on the popular Figo hatchback, and features the best of both worlds with compact hatchback styling and SUV ruggedness.
“With its SUV-derived design cues, robust stance with increased ground clearance and commanding seating position, the all-new Figo Freestyle has the credentials of an SUV in a compact package that is ideally suited to city driving during the week and escaping to the countryside on weekends,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at FMCSA.
Fulfilling the growing demand from younger buyers for a vehicle that is more compact and affordable than the current compact SUV offerings, but equally capable and designed for adventurous, active and free-spirited individuals, the Figo Freestyle is in a league of its own.
Mashinini adds. “With bigger wheels, an increased ride height and integrated skid plates that enhance its capabilities on less-than-perfect roads, the Figo Freestyle is designed to meet the aspirations of these young and dynamic customers.”
The All-New Figo Freestyle enters the sub-B CUV sector offering superb value for money with an extensive list of standard features, enhanced versatility and a sporty and adventurous cross-over character.
Two models are available in the Figo Freestyle line-up, starting off with the Trend and headlined by the comprehensively appointed Titanium series. Both models are powered by Ford’s eager 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ti-VCT engine used in the rest of the Figo range.
With its SUV-derived styling, the Figo Freestyle is a robust and muscular compact utility vehicle (CUV) that combines SUV attributes and design cues in a compact car that looks modern, bold and sporty. A key element of the Figo Freestyle’s design is the raised ride height of 190mm (16mm higher than the standard Figo) enhanced by integrated front and rear skid plates to provide an enhanced level of underbody protection when driving on rougher road surfaces. Roof rails are fitted as standard, which builds on the versatility of the Figo Freestyle’s design.
Inside, the vehicle is equipped with both rugged and modern features. This includes remote audio controls on the steering wheel and standard fitment of reverse parking sensors. The entry-level trend version of the vehicle features Ford’s clever Device Dock, which includes Bluetooth, USB and Aux connectivity while the Titanium series adds a reverse camera linked to the floating 6.5-inch colour display for the SYNC®3 system, which incorporates Bluetooth and voice activation.
Figo Freestyle is available in six colour choices, including the striking new ‘Canyon Ridge’ that is unique to this model, along with Diamond white – both of which are solid paint finishes. Metallic paint options comprise Smoke Grey, Moondust Silver, Ruby Red and White Gold.
The standard safety and security package on the Trend model incorporates driver and passenger airbags, ABS brakes, remote central locking with drive-away locking function, electric windows all round, as well as a perimeter anti-theft alarm and engine immobilizer.
Model Range and Recommended Retail Prices:
Figo 1.5 Ambiente Hatch 5MT R202 100
Figo 1.5 Trend Hatch 5MT R 211 900
Figo 1.5 Trend Hatch 6AT R 235 900
Figo 1.5 Titanium Hatch 5MT R 235 700
Figo 1.5 Ambiente Sedan 5MT R 208 500
Figo 1.5 Trend Sedan 5MT R 217 300
Figo Freestyle 1.5 Trend Hatch 5MT R226 700
Figo Freestyle 1.5 Titanium Hatch 5MT R247 500
