Introduction
Jacked-up hatchbacks with rugged-looking SUV styling is one of the biggest trends in the car market at the moment, and Ford is one of the manufacturers at the forefront of this, thanks to its new range of ‘Active’ models.
First there was the Fiesta Active, while a Focus version is on the way, but for now there there’s this – the new Ka+ Active.
Without wanting to sound like the Ford marketing department, ‘Active’ is a whole lot more than a trim level. Alongside the obvious styling differences, it features redesigned body panels and a raised ride height. It debuts alongside a facelifted version of the standard Ka+, which means it’s available with additional engine options – including one petrol and one diesel.
Performance
Under the bonnet of our test car was a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre petrol unit, which produces 84bhp and 112Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.
The engine really needs to be worked to achieve decent progress on the open road, but around town it’s ideal with the engine feeling peppy enough, while the gearbox is a pleasure to use in stop-start traffic.
Those covering more miles should take a look at the 94bhp 1.5-litre diesel unit.
Ride and handling
The Ka+ Active is a surprisingly amusing car to drive. Despite being rather slow, it’s quite enjoyable to work the gearbox and engine to make the most of the rather limited number of horses under the bonnet. Continuing Ford’s renowned reputation for being good to drive, it’s good in the corners, too, thanks to its dinky dimensions and well-balanced handling.
Being a city car, the urban environment is where it makes the most sense and where the light steering and compact dimensions come into their own. Saying that, it’s not as easy to park as you might expect, with rear visibility making you feel much closer to cars when reversing than you actually are.
On motorways it sits quite well at high speed, although it can rev high at 70mph.
Find Deals on a new Ford Ka+ Active
Interior and equipment
The Ka+ is not an expensive car, which means that you have to remember it was built for a low price meaning there’s a wash of cheaper feeling plastics
It’s one of the most practical city cars on the market, though, with no less rear room than the Fiesta, while the 270-litre boot is respectable, and is the same to the standard Ka+.
It’s well-equipped as well, with standard kit including automatic lights and wipers, cruise control and Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment display on a 6.5-inch screen. While there’s no sat nav, it does come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Cost
Prices for the Ka+ Active start from £13,245, which puts it at the top end of the city car market, although it comes with a lot of equipment for the price, with SUV-style city cars always commanding a premium over the standard model they’re based on.
The petrol engine returns a claimed 49.6mpg with CO2 emissions of 129g/km, although the diesel manages 68.9mpg on the combined cycle, with low CO2 emissions of 108g/km.
Verdict
The Ka+ Active proves itself to be much more than a trim level. It looks the part, while thanks to its practical, well-equipped interior and its good road dynamics, it’s one of the more convincing hatchback-turned-SUV options on sale.
While the rugged looks are purely for show - and won’t appeal to all - it’s a welcome addition to the Ka+ range.
