A virtual tour and test drive of a 2010 Ford Ka 1.2 petrol. The car here is the base specification "Studio" model. This is the second generation Ford Ka based on the Fiat Panda/500 platform. The 1.2 litre petrol engine is a well known Fiat engine and is quite reliable if maintained well. The second generation Ka feels much roomier and modern than the previous generation model. On the road it retains the sure-footedness and positive Ford driving feel despite the shared platform with Fiat. The second generation Ka featured shock absorption revised from the Fiat 500 along with a rear anti-roll bar enabling 30 percent softer springs and accordingly retuned dampers to improve ride performance over uneven road surfaces. Some of these improvements were subsequently adopted on Fiat 500 Abarth and Fiat 500C models. The Ka uses an electrically assisted steering system, which makes the steering much lighter and more energy efficient than its predecessor.
The second generation Ka has an overall Euro NCAP safety rating of 4 stars, with standard driver and passenger single-stage front airbags, ABS, immobiliser, hazard warning lights and remote central locking (except Studio version in UK).
This Ka "Studio" is a fairly basic car but very competent and flexible. Running costs are low and it merits the well-worn badge, great first car.
Engine specifications:
Ford "Duratec" FIRE 1.2-litre petrol with 69 PS (51 kW) of power and 102 N⋅m (75 lbf⋅ft) of torque.
