Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) is expanding its presence in the rapidly growing utility vehicle sector with its first-ever Figo Freestyle – a sub-B segment compact utility vehicle (CUV) based on the popular Figo hatchback.
The new addition to the line-up complements Ford’s existing range of active lifestyle-oriented models, which includes the top-selling EcoSport compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), stylish and well-appointed Kuga and the impressively capable Everest seven-seater SUV.
The All-New Figo Freestyle enters the sub-B CUV sector offering value for money, an extensive list of standard features, enhanced versatility and a sporty and adventurous cross-over character. The exterior styling is matched to an upmarket interior with sophisticated two-tone treatment and an array of Ford technologies that are designed to make the driving experience safer and more enjoyable.
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. It boasts an output of 91kW of power and 150Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.
A key element of the Figo Freestyle’s design is the raised ride height of 190mm, which is 16mm higher than the standard Figo. This enhances the Figo Freestyle’s all-round capabilities for active, outdoors-oriented customers, while integrated front and rear skid plates 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. They are immensely practical too, allowing the easy fitment of a roof rack to carry bicycles, canoes or other equipment to suit the owner’s sporting and lifestyle endeavours.
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.
A soft-touch gear shift knob complements the Titanium model’s sporty steering wheel with remote audio controls, while practical touches on both derivatives include door scuff plates and durable all-weather floor mats.
Driving convenience is provided with the standard fitment of reverse parking sensors. The Trend is equipped with Ford’s clever Device Dock which includes Bluetooth, USB and Aux connectivity and a handy receptacle to hold a smartphone.
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 that enables phone and audio functions to be controlled through intuitive, conversational voice commands. Owners can use their smartphone’s navigation functions and a variety of other apps in conjunction with SYNC®3 when seamlessly paired to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
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.
Additionally, the Figo Freestyle Titanium is equipped with side and curtain airbags, along with the innovative Ford MyKey that allows owners to programme a key for younger drivers that can inhibit incoming phone calls, restrict top speed, reduce audio system maximum volume and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts.
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
