Ford has updated its entry-level Figo hatchback for 2013 with a some minor styling tweaks and a few interior embellishments - including Bluetooth connectivity in the higher-spec Trend models - but the most important change is in the pricing.
There isn't one.
In a commendable blow against inflation, Ford has held the prices of the updated Figo at exactly the same as the outgoing model. Now let's take a look at what you get for the same money.
The lower grille has been revised, and there's a new chromed trim line on the upper grille. Head and tail have been revised, while the foglight housings are more sharply and aggressively defined.
The entry-level Ambiente also gets a new eight-spoke rim while the Trend model has a new alloy rim design.
Ambiente models now have a blue centre-stack bezel and revised seat fabric pattern, while Trend variants ditch the red fabric upholstery in favour of cool blue colour.
The Figo's audio system switches easily between radio, CD/MP3 or iPod input and, on the Trend variants, Bluetooth connectivity lets you connect a cellphone to the system so you can answer calls safety while driving - or even put a second caller on hold!
The Figo is, of course, Ford's previous Fiesta platform, recycled for emerging markets (including ours) with a choice of 1.4-litre engines in either petrol or turbodiesel format, each with a five-speed manual gearbox.
BY THE NUMBERS
The Duratec petrol engine is rated for 62kW at 6000rpm and 127Nm at 4000rpm, slurping 6.6 litres per 100km on the New European Driving Cycle and farting 156g/km of CO2.
The turbodiesel Duratorq is good for a quoted 51kW at 4000rpm and 160Nm at 2000rpm, at a cost of 5.3 litres per 100km 139g/km of CO2.
The simpler Ambiente is available with either engine, the more upmarket Trend variant in petrol only.
All Figos come with dual front airbags, antilock braking with electronic brake force distribution and a four-year or 120 000km warranty. Petrol versions need to go home to mama every 20 000km, diesels every 15 000.
OH, AND THOSE UNCHANGED PRICES
1.4 Ambiente- R118 670
1.4 TDCi Ambiente- R132 620
1.4 Trend- R130 080
Now take a closer look at the Indian-spec Figo on video...