Team-BHP reader, Mr. Vivek Dhiman, snapped these
images of the Ford Figo facelift testing on Indian roads. The
test mule has a 'CNG' sticker on the rear windshield, indicating that Ford
India is considering a CNG option on the petrol variant of the hatchback, as
per the report.
Dealer sources have informed IndianAutosBlog that
existing stock of the pre-facelifted model is running out and that discounts to
the tune of INR 1 lakh are on offer on the Ford Figo and Ford Aspire. Ford
India is expected to launch the Figo facelift and Aspire facelift before
October with design and technological upgrades.
On the outside, the Figo facelift will sport new
bumpers with C-shaped styling elements, a new grille, minor updates to the
headlights and taillights to make it in line with the Ford Freestyle, and new
alloy wheel patterns. The dashboard will be updated with Ford's new 6.5-inch
touchscreen SYNC3 infotainment system, similar to the Freestyle, and possibly
colours of the dashboard panel and seats.
The highlight of the Figo facelift and the Aspire
facelift will be the new Dragon 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine, which
makes 96 PS and 120 Nm of torque. It replaces the old 1.2-liter Ti-VCT unit,
and it is perhaps this engine that will sport a CNG option offering buyers a
low running cost. The 1.5-liter TDCi diesel will be carried over from the
existing Figo, but both petrol and diesel variant will get a new 5-speed
gearbox.
Ford India offers the Figo and Aspire for commercial
operators, especially cab-hailing services. In cities such as Mumbai and New
Delhi where CNG is becoming commonplace, a Figo/Aspire CNG could prove a
lucrative option for these buyers.
