Small, but perfectly formed (Ford Ka in general)

Member Name: baldeagle

Product:	Ford Ka in general
Date:	04/10/00 (963 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great looks, handling and ride

Disadvantages: None

The Ford KA is a revelation. Based on the Fiesta platform, the KA is a superb town car, with surprisingly good motorway and "A" road capability. The engine is a fuel injected version of Ford's traditional 1300cc unit, and it offers an easy 60 bhp with an ample spread of torque at moderate revs.

Although I normally prefer automatics for daily driving, the manual box on the KA is such a precise instrument that every gear change is a pleasure, as are the feel from the clutch and steering. In terms of handling, the "wheel at each corner" design gives it a nimbleness only dreamt of by its competitors, and the KA can be driven with quiet confidence or gay abandon, depending on the mood of the driver.

Although short in terms of body length, the long wheel base gives the KA ample interior space for four, but with only a modest boot to accommodate enough weekend luggage for two. The handling is nicely balanced between comfort and nimbleness, and the ride, though firm, is reassuring and gives the driver loads of feedback in a civilised, muted manner.

But the best thing about the KA are its looks and inspired interior design.

Anyone wanting a cheap and economical (up to 50mpg) vehicle will usually end up with a bland anonymous set of wheels which gives the owner no pleasure or pride of ownership. The KA breaks this rule, because it is great to look at, a pleasure to drive, and enjoys excellent ergonomics.

A practical and fun proposition for anyone who wants a sensible and economical car without the boredom that normally comes with budget motoring.

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