Ford Ka

The Ford Ka is a small city car originally launched by Ford in 1996 to compete with cars such as the Mini One, Seat Arosa, and Smart ForTwo (formerly City Coupe). The European version is produced in Spain, whereas the Latin American version is produced in Brazil. In 2008, the first generation Ka was replaced with a second generation which shares its platform with the Mazda 2.

Recent Changes

 * Though not set to officially debut until the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Ford, as early as the first of August 2008, has released images of its forthcoming second generation Ka. Interestingly, despite the lack of released info as of this writing, it is confirmed that the new Ka will share the same underpinnings as the Fiat Nuova 500 and will be built in the same plant in Poland.

Styles and Major Options


The first generation Ka's 12 year production span produced both hatchback and convertible models. From 1996 through to 2008, a hatchback and convertible were produced, along with a concept version billed the e-Ka which demonstrated the use of lithium-ion technology.

Now in it's second generation, the Ka is available in 5 trim levels:


 * Studio
 * Style
 * Style +
 * Zetec
 * Zetec TDCi

Both 1.2 petrol and 1.3 diesel engines are also available, along with 'Individual' styling packs featuring unique vinyl and colour combinations.

European Hatchback
The European version of the Ford Ka was launched for the 2008 model year, and is manufactured in Tchcy, Poland. The design closely follows Ford's current kinetic design philosophy, and a host of features previously reserved for the Focus and Mondeo such as ESP and reverse parking sensors have been brought forward to the new model.

Latin American Hatchback
The Latin American version of the Ford Ka is built in Brazil and features styling adapted from the European car, albeit easily distinguishable. The car is based on the Mk5 [Ford Fiesta|Fiesta] and, along with the 3 door variant, a 5 door variant may soon be offered.

StreetKa
Discontinued in 2006, the StreetKa was the convertible model in the range, and came only with the 1.6 taken from the Fiesta. Sales figures were pinned as the main reason for the halting of production. Various special edition models including the StreetKa Red and the Winter Edition were released to try and boost sales.

Pricing
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Gas Mileage
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As seen on the Ford.co.uk website, the combined cycle MPG averages are as follows:

Engine and Transmission
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Performance
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Reliability
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Safety
The second generation Ka has received 4 stars for adult occupant protection, 3 stars for child occupant protection and 2 stars for pedestrian protection from the Euro NCAP. 

Photos
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Colors
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Main Competitors
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Hybrid Models
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Unique Attributes
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Interior
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Resale Values
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As of March 2009

Criticisms
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Generations
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Worldwide
In Australia, the Ford Ka was sold to take the spot left behind by the Festiva. But with limited amount of features, an unrefined engine, cramped interior and only a 5 speed Manual, it's been discontinued and replaced by a Ford Fiesta. There are no plans on bringing the Ka back mainly because there's no automatic transmission available.

Design quirks and oddities

 * The second generation Ford Ka will star as main Bond Girl Olga Kurylenko's ride of choice in the 22nd James Bond flick Quantum of Solace.


 * In the What Women Want survey conducted by the RACV in 2003, the Ka is the most popular choice among women buying Fords.

Awards
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