India's Best Premium Hatchback

Ford Figo

The Ford Figo came along earlier this year in the most tightly packed space in the Indian market today - one that is also replete with some fantastic products. Banking on a smart repackaging of the last-gen international Fiesta platform (also the base for Ford's lukewarm Fusion), the American carmaker was able to position the Figo at a phenomenal price point, thanks to which it manages to take its place as our pick for India's best hatchback.

The Figo offers a choice of two engines - a 1.2-litre Duratec petrol that was specifically developed for this car, and Ford's trusted 1.4-litre Duratorq diesel engine that has been proven before on not just the Fusion, but also the Indian Fiesta and the Ikon. While the petrol engine is not the strongest performer in its class, the diesel more than makes up for its lack. Once again, Ford has surprised us with reading the Indian context so well to deliver a product that does exactly enough to please the masses, and thereby save costs on the car in the right places. The absence of power windows at the rear in even the fully loaded version though is somewhat of an irritant.

The biggest advantage of the Figo is that it offers something for every kind of user. A great chassis, a sorted suspension and fantastic steering feel make it a car that no enthusiast would mind driving. For the family man, it offers a whole lot of space on the inside - few cars in its class can accommodate five adults as easily as the Figo does. For the style oriented, the car offers a slightly boxy but a passably elegant and proportional design, and interesting interiors. And above all, the Figo does all of this at almost the price of a compact hatchback, starting at around Rs 3.5 lakh ex-showroom.

Quick Facts:

Engine: 1.2 litre Duratec / 1.4 litre Duratorq TDCi
Power: 71.35PS @ 6,250rpm / 69PS @ 4,000rpm
Torque: 102Nm @ 4,000 / 160Nm @ 2,000rpm

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 2,489mm
LxWxH: 3,795 x 1,680 x 1,427 mm
Weight: 1,130kg
Performance (Diesel)
0-100 km/h: 18.33 sec
Top speed: 159.21 km/h
Fuel efficiency (overall): 14.3 kmpl

Variants:
Petrol:
Duratec LXI (A/C, Power steering):   Rs. 3.58 lakh
Duratec EXI (A/C, Power steering, Power windows, CD): Rs. 3.93 lakh
Duratec ZXI (A/C, Power steering, Power windows, CD): Rs. 4.13 lakh
Duratec Titanium (ABS, Airbags):    Rs. 4.54 lakh

Diesel:
Duratorq LXI (A/C, Power steering):   Rs. 4.57 lakh
Duratorq EXI (A/C, Power steering, Power windows, CD): Rs. 4.81 lakh
Duratorq ZXI (A/C, Power steering, Power windows, CD): Rs. 5.05 lakh
Duratorq Titanium (ABS, Airbags):    Rs. 5.39 lakh

Cheers:
1. Lots of space, good engine options, versatile drive
2. Probably the only car in its segment that does everything well, and does for a budget price!

Sneers:
1. Petrol engine could have done with more driveability
2. Compared to rivals, the car tends to look a little bland and boxy from some angles

Honourable Mentions:

Nissan Micra
The first mainstream car from Nissan in India comes in the form of the Micra. With its interesting combination of a 1.2-litre three cylinder inline engine, the Micra offers a great mix of driveability and fuel efficiency. A great alternative option in the hatchback space.

Maruti Suzuki Ritz
The celebrated Swift’s quirky and upmarket cousin had us take notice when it was launched with the 1.2-litre K12M engine. Bolstered with the great diesel option, the Ritz continues to strengthen Maruti Suzuki’s hatch portfolio, riding on its urban appeal.

Other Rivals:

Maruti Suzuki Swift:

The king of the segment, the Swift has recently received a shot in the arm with K12 engine.

Tata Indica Vista
Easily the best family hatch in India right now, the Vista rides on space, comfort and pricing.

Chevrolet Aveo U-VA
Now overshadowed by newer and more competent rivals, the Aveo U-VA awaits a replacement.

Honda Jazz
It may be on the pricey side, but few hatches in India offer the space and sophistication of the Jazz.

Fiat Grande Punto
Great looking, great handling hatch at an enticing price point. Lots of variants too.

Hyundai i20
Refined and comfy family car with lots of space, good looks and a good bunch of features.

Volkswagen Polo
The big German arrival of the year rides on great build quality and the VW badge.

Skoda Fabia
The Polo's Czech cousin has had a lukewarm run, but remains a great handler and a very safe car