What's the used Ford Ka+ hatchback like?
Sadly, the Ford Ka+ is no more because people are drifting more towards small SUVs such as the Puma. However, used car buyers looking for an inexpensive and practical five-door town driver that's easy to park, while also being remarkably capable beyond city limits, should find plenty to like in the Ka+.
Engine choices are limited to just three options. Early cars come with a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with either 69bhp or 84bhp, while facelifted examples have a revised 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine (again in 69bhp or 84bhp forms) or a 94bhp 1.5-litre diesel. All versions of the Ka+ come with a five-speed gearbox
Trim levels are limited to the ultra-cheap Studio or better-equipped Zetec, which gets desirable features such as alloy wheels, air-con and an infotainment system. In 2018, the Ka+ Active was unveiled, which provides a raised ride height and other off-roader-inspired trinkets to make it look tougher, but the suspension changes ruin the ride and make it wallow in the bends, so is worth avoiding.
On the flip side, standard cars ride extremely well and deal with bigger bumps better than many larger vehicles. It steers nicely, too, and, pushed hard, it corners neatly, just like the first-generation Ka. However, none of the engines are particularly brilliant out on the open road. All petrol versions are a little disappointing because they're unrefined and can feel laboured, and both these and the diesel version will need revving hard to get the best from it and doesn’t sound pleasant when you do. If you can ignore the engine, though, this is a fine driver’s car.
Inside, there’s plenty of space for a six-footer to sit behind a six-footer in front, and the boot’s a reasonable size for this class, with 60/40 folding rear seats as standard. All the controls are logically placed and easy to locate, and feel pleasant enough to use. However, some of the materials used are a little low-rent and there are plenty of hard, scratchy plastics on view.
If you're interested in finding a used Ka+, head over to the Used Car Buying pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.
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