Ford Figo Blu Review – Pocket-Sized Show Pony

Ford’s hatchback line has seen a few overhauls and upgrades in recent years, with the Fiesta and Focus going through some different sporty permutations, but it’s the Figo that has now been given a sprucing up in the form of the Figo Blu – a sportier, edgier take on the beloved entry-level hatchback.

When jumping into the Figo Blu, it’s hard not to immediately make comparisons to Ford’s ST line. From coloured seat stitching to blue trimmings and accents on the doors, the Figo Blu has a sporty aesthetic that does make you feel like you’re driving a tuned-up racing toy, albeit for a grown man. It really does manage to capture that feeling of excitement you get when sitting behind the wheel of a speedier, sharper designed car, but its pint-sized design still delivers that comfy feel and more responsive control of a hatchback.

The styling enhancements extend around the vehicle, with black 15-inch alloy mags, a leather steering wheel, a black mesh grille, stitched gearshift gaiter, and embroidered front mats, all contribute to the sportier look, while some small decals line the bottom portion of the car. These might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they’re subtle and sleek enough to not be too garish.

While the Figo Blu delivers something unique in terms of looks, it sticks to the tried-and-tested formula under the hood. Like the entire Figo range, the New Figo Blu is powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, which has enough kick and power for any occasion, making suburban, city, or highway cruising easy.

There’s a sheer focus on efficiency with the Figo Blu, and thanks to a dual-stage variable oil pump and EcoMode with shift indicator (which lets the driver know the ideal shifting point), you get fantastic fuel consumption and mileage with the Figo Blu.

Regarding the bells-and-whistles, the Figo Blu features enough creature comforts in the form of a built-in Ford Audio unit with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB slot, as well as Ford’s unique Device Dock in the upper section of the centre console for connecting and powering smartphones. You also get electric windows in the front and back, and a perimeter anti-theft alarm and immobiliser with all Blu models.

While it doesn’t offer any real performance upgrades, the Ford Figo Blu delivers enough aesthetic and visual boosts to make it something unique. For those who are looking for a little more eye-candy and sporty stylings with their hatchback, the Figo Blu is a fantastic option for its price-bracket.

Based on the five-door Figo 1.5 Trend, a limited production run of 360 units are available of the dynamic new Figo Blu, which is available in three colours: Moondust Silver, Oxford White and Smoke Grey.

Recommended Retail Prices:

• Figo 1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Hatch 5MT – R185,600
• Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 5MT– R195,800
• Figo Blu 1.5 TiVCT Hatch 5MT– R203,800
• Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Hatch 6AT– R213,800
• Figo 1.5 TiVCT Titanium Hatch 5MT– R219,900
• Figo 1.5 TiVCT Ambiente Sedan 5MT– R191,700
• Figo 1.5 TiVCT Trend Sedan 5MT– R200,900

All Ford Figo models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A four-year/60 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.