New Ford Ikon

Quick Take
* Fuel Economy 9/14 km/l (city/highway)
Available Engines 1.3L In-line 4, 69 bhp petrol
Available Transmissions 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

* Estimated values may differ under various conditions.


Highlights

Peppy engine.
Sturdy body.
Styling.

Pros

Transmission.
Stability at high speed.
Acceleration.

Cons

Suspension can be softened.

Overview

Ford made its presence in India in 1907, when it launched the Model A. After establishment here, it discontinued its operation in 1954 and again reestablished itself as Mahindra Ford India. From a 50:50 joint venture with Mahindra, Ford grew to be 92.18% stake holder and rechristened itself as Ford India Limited. It started manufacturing Ford Ikon from its Chennai facility in 1999.

The 2006 Ford Ikon was launched as Ikon Flair with added youthful, sporty features and a competitive price tag. This new edition of the Ikon Flair was designed to garner the attention of the young icons that are keen to begin their experience with four-wheelers with a world-class stylish sedan.

Ikon Flair is a hot cake, and driver's car in comparison to the Maruti Esteem, Baleno, Hyundai Accent and the rest. Priced moderately, it is worth the money paid and stands out in competition.

Powertrain & Performance

The Ikon uses the 1.3L ROCAM (Roller Finger Camshaft) engine that is a spirited performer, generating 69 bhp @ 5,500 rpm and 105 NM of torque @ 2,500 rpm, and is ideal mate for urban usage. Power is transferred to the front wheels and regulated by a 5-speed manual transmission. Gear shifting is simply superb and leaves no room for complaints. It uses the chain-drive Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) technology that keeps the system free from rattles.

The ride quality of the Ikon has not changed dramatically; it has independent McPherson Struts mounted on separate sub-frame and a heavy duty twist-beam with strut-type coil spring/damper units on the rear. This suspension setup is good at high speed but a little harsh on bumpy roads. Handling is no doubt Ford type and is quite impressive. The car is not completely planted to invite trouble on speed breakers unlike its competitors. Still it is firm on highways; beyond 4,000 rpm, the engine growls and is fun for those adventurous young drivers.

Build & Styling

The Ikon has a perfect three box profile, which has changed the sedan styling in India. It is youthful, appealing and a perfect aerodynamic profile. The build quality is strong and finish is perfect.

The Ikon is designed with great panache and appeals all. The interiors are inviting; the cabin is noiseless and there is enough legroom in both the rows. The seats are a bit firm and not as one expects in a modern car. The dash is neatly designed and the controls come in handy. To top it all, the steering wheel plus the gear shifter are placed so well that driving for a long journey is fun.

The Ikon gets sufficient boot space (400 litres) without compromising on the cabin space. The thick C-pillar, which is slightly pushed on the boot, makes it contemporary; this pattern is being imbibed by others. The side skirts give the Ikon a racy feel and alloy wheels add to it. Standard features on the Ikon include power windows on all doors, CFC-free air-conditioning, tachometer, boot light and fabric seats.

Some of the standard safety features include Ford Dynamic Safety Engineering, laminated windscreen, child-proof rear locks, front and rear side impact door beams, front and rear seat belts, centre high mount stop lamp, central locking and electric fuel cap release.