Ford Ka

Quick summary

Fifth Gear says:
Recommended. Cheap and basic doesn't have to mean boring. The Ka is still one of the finest city cars on sale: great to drive and super-cheap to run.

Breakdown

Styling

It has aged amazingly well, and has never even been facelifted.

Handling

The best handling car in its class - still

Comfort

Ride is acceptable - especially considering the handling.

Quality + reliability

Pretty well screwed together - they have had lots of practice.

Performance

Just enough in the 1.3 and quite sprightly in the 1.6.

Roominess

A strict four seater, it is mainly for urban use.

Running costs

Cheap to buy and economical to run.

Value for money

List prices are reasonable and discounts are easy to find.

Stereo / Sat nav

Reasonable if not outstanding

FIFTH GEAR ROAD TEST

If you can live with the lack of rear seat space and boot capacity, then the Ka is still one of the finest superminis around. Amazing handling, high grip levels and a willing (if noisy) 1.3-litre petrol engine make for pure, uncomplicated fun. It's short of power on motorways, and the dashboard plastics lack any quality feel, but in town or on an empty country road, the Ka provides endless entertainment. The radical styling (which heralded the look of the bigger Focus) still hasn't dated, and very low running costs are the icing on the cake. The Sportka's more powerful 1.6 petrol engine is the best choice.

Need to know

NCAP Rating

JD Power stars

Best models:
Sportka

Worst models:
None

Replacement Date: 2005


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