Ford has launched the All-New Figo Freestyle
It appears that Ford South Africa is expanding its presence in the rapidly growing utility vehicle sector with its first-ever Figo Freestyle - a sub-B segment compact utility vehicle (CUV) that is based on the popular Figo hatchback.
The Figo Freestyle line-up is available in two models – the Trend series then followed by the Titanium. Both models share a 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ti-VCT engine which delivers an output of 91kW and 150Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.
On the exterior is a sporty black painted grille, along with a new front bumper. The Figo Freestyle gets around on 15-inch alloy wheels which are framed by muscular black wheel-arch mouldings. The special details in the lower sections of the doors, along with "Freestyle" badging on the rear hatch.
The Figo Freestyle Trend is equipped with Ford's clever Device Dock which comes with Bluetooth, USB, and Aux connectivity and a handy receptacle to hold a smartphone. While the Titanium range benefits the most from a reverse camera which is linked to the 6.5-inch colour display for the SYNC®3 system, this also features Bluetooth and voice activation. The SYNC®3 system is easy to use and even comes paired with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Other cool features on the Titanium range include a keyless push-start button, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic headlamp activation, and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.
The Trend models will come with the standard safety and security package which includes driver and passenger airbags, ABS brakes, remote central locking with a drive-away locking function, electric windows all round, and a perimeter anti-theft alarm. Other extras on the Titanium models will be side and curtain airbags, along with the Ford MyKey which allows owners to programme a key for younger drivers that can restrict incoming phone calls and top speeds. It will also reduce the audio system's maximum volume and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts.
The Figo Freestyle comes in six colour choices – Canyon Ridge, Diamond White, Smoke Grey, Moondust Silver, Ruby Red, and White Gold.
Pricing
Figo Freestyle 1.5 Trend Hatch 5MT R226 700
Figo Freestyle 1.5 Titanium Hatch 5MT R247 500
All Figo Freestyle models come standard with Ford Protect, which is a 4-years/60 000km service plan. Ford is also offering a 4-year/120 000km service plan.
Also worth a look: the Ford Transit Custom and the Ford Escort Mk1 RS Returns as 800kg Track Weapon.
FAQ
Q: What does the Ford Figo Freestyle cost in South Africa?
The Ford Figo Freestyle Trend starts from around R289,900, while the better-specced Titanium model will set you back approximately R329,900 in South Africa.
Q: Is the Ford Figo Freestyle worth buying?
The Figo Freestyle offers solid value in the compact SUV space with decent features and Ford's reliability, but it faces tough competition from rivals like the Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Mahindra KUV100 in the same price bracket.
Q: What engine does the Ford Figo Freestyle have?
Both Figo Freestyle models come with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ti-VCT petrol engine that produces 91kW of power and 150Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.
Q: What's the difference between Ford Figo Freestyle Trend and Titanium?
The Trend gets Ford's Device Dock with basic connectivity, while the Titanium adds a 6.5-inch SYNC3 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, reverse camera, keyless start, automatic climate control, and rain-sensing wipers.
Q: Does the Ford Figo Freestyle have good safety features?
Standard safety kit includes dual airbags, ABS brakes, and central locking, while the Titanium adds side and curtain airbags for better protection in a crash.
Should You Buy It?
The Ford Figo Freestyle is a decent entry into the compact crossover market, especially if you're after something reliable under R330,000. The Titanium at R329,900 offers impressive tech features like Apple CarPlay and a reverse camera that many rivals skip at this price point. However, the 91kW engine feels a bit sluggish compared to turbocharged competitors, and the ride quality can get bouncy on rough SA roads. If you prioritise Ford's proven reliability and decent after-sales network over outright performance, the Figo Freestyle makes sense. But for pure value and features, you might want to cross-shop the Suzuki Vitara Brezza or wait for better deals on the Renault Kwid Climber before committing your hard-earned cash.
