New Ford Figo spotted testing in Brazil, India launch only in 2015

A new Ford hatchback has codenamed the B 562 has been spotted testing in Brazil. Why this car is significant is because, the B562 project cars will be manufactured at Ford’s new plant in Sanand, Gujarat. The B 562 platform is what would eventually evolve into the new Ford Figo in India, which is one of the cars Ford has planned for India by 2015.

This Ford hatchback will also be sold globally as the Ford Ka in certain markets. It is a sub-4 metre hatchback that looks pretty spacious and could replace or be sold alongside the current Figo in the Indian market. The same platform will also spawn a sub 4-metre sedan that Ford is looking at, which could compete with the Honda Amaze and Maruti Dzire, and a larger sedan that would eventually replace the Ford Classic in India. The current Ford Figo and Classic are based on previous-generation Ford Fiestas. Also read: Ford recalls 1.66 lakh Figos and Classics to fix problems 

A rendering of the new Ford Figo / Ford Ka by Autos Segredos, Brazil

What’s interesting in the photographs posted by Noticias Automotivas of Brazil is the size and change in design language for this Ford hatchback. The front of the car has Ford’s new styling in place – the hexagonal shaped grille, that’s a little more toned down on this car. The large swept-back headlamps too are broader and not as foxy-eyed as the current new Fiesta.

The car will continue to have a pretty large wheelbase as is seen from the photographs, which should translate into plenty of interior passenger space, keeping one of the Figo’s key selling points intact. At the rear, the tail-lamps have been moved from the pillars to the fenders. The number plate moves from the boot hatch to the bumper. Also see: Mahindra Verito Vibe vs Ford Figo – which one’s easier on the pocket?

Ford is likely to use the new 1-litre EcoBoost petrol engine in the new Figo / new Ford hatchback, as the company said it would consider that engine for future products. The diesel variant may also get the updated 1.5 litre engine instead of the present 1.4 litre diesel. Expect more sightings of this car in India as well next year, once the Sanand plant gets operational. A launch can only be expected in 2015. Also see: 2012 new Ford Figo diesel video review

Source: Noticias Automotivas