Ford to reveal new Figo-based car on January 31, 2018

After hatchback and compact sedan, Ford is expected to reveal a cross-hatchback based on the Figo.

Ford will be unveiling a new car on January 31, 2018, which will likely be based on the Figo platform. Reports suggest that this new model will allegedly carry the Ford Freestyle name.

A cross-hatchback based on the Figo has been up in the rumour mill for quite some time now. Ford, in fact, already sells a model called the Ka Trail in international markets, which is essentially the current-gen Figo with more ground clearance and subtle body cladding. The India-bound Figo-based cross, however, is expected to sport a lot more aesthetic changes on the outside.

While the Freestyle is expected to debut with a heavily worked front fascia as compared to the current Figo, it's worth noting that both the Figo hatchback and Aspire will also be getting a mid-cycle refresh pretty soon. Therefore, whether Ford will give the Freestyle its own distinct identity, or will it share its design with the updated Figo twins is yet to be seen.

Exteriors aside, it is quite certain that updates given to the Freestyle’s interiors will be incorporated across the entire 2018 Figo series. Refreshed interiors will replace the current plethora of buttons on the centre console with a new semi-floating infotainment screen - at least on the top-spec trim. The infotainment system is expected to be similar to the one found on the EcoSport featuring Ford’s Sync3 interface. Also, we expect improved fit and finish inside the cabin.

While the Freestyle will retain Ford’s 1.5-litre diesel engine, reports claim that Ford will debut a new 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol motor, the second engine of its new ‘Dragon’ series. This motor is expected to have improved power and torque figures as compared to the Figo’s current petrol engine. It is also likely that Freestyle will get EcoSport’s new 1.5 petrol mated to the new torque converter automatic in its top-spec trim.

After its reveal on January 31, the Freestyle will very likely go on sale in March this year. Expect it to be dearer by Rs. 50,000 - 70,000 as compared to the Figo hatchback.