By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(June 20, 2016) Ford’s first generation Ka small car, sold in Europe and South America, was a premium small three-door produced from 1996-2008, and based on the fourth generation Ford Fiesta. Based on a Ghia concept, the Saetta, the Ka was known for its roly-poly shape overlaid with “New Edge” detailing, and large one-piece molded bumpers and wheel arches. It was replaced in 2009 by a new car built in Poland by Fiat on the 500 platform.

All that has changed with the introduction of the third generation Ka, the Ka+. Instead of a premium small car at a premium price, Ford has switched gears and replaced the premium outfitted/premium priced three-door with a well-equipped five-door at a bargain price.

Economy, practicality and fun-to-drive are the watchwords of the new Ka.

The Ka+ shares its Global B platform with the Fiesta, and is slightly shorter but just over an inch taller than its higher-priced brother. The optimized seating package gives it more headroom, best-in-class rear leg room, and just over 9.5 cubic feet of cargo area with the 60/40 split-fold rear seat up. Ford also boasts there are 21 storage spots scattered throughout the cabin, including one hidden within the instrument panel, accessible only when the driver’s door is open, that is perfect for hiding valuables.

This simplified car gets simplified powertrains, and features 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engines with either 69 or 84 horsepower. They are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, and regenerative charging saves fuel by charging the battery when the driver coasts or brakes.

The Ka+ comes in two trim levels, Studio and Zetec. Studio buyers must make do with the 69 hp motor, while Zetec buyers can choose it or the more powerful 84 hp engine. Both versions feature power front windows and door mirrors, front fog lamps, AM/FM radio with Bluetooth connectivity, remote central double locking with perimeter alarm, six airbags, Electronic Stability Control with Hill Start Assist, Deflation Detection System, Speed Limiter, and Ford Easy Fuel.

To this the Zetec adds 15-in alloy wheels, manual air-conditioning, digital radio/CD with Sync, AppLink, a leather steering wheel and cruise control. Ka+ Zetec buyers also may order electronic climate control, heated front seats, tinted glass and a City Pack with rear parking sensors, power rear windows and power folding door mirrors.

The Ka+ starts just under $12,800, making it one of the least expensive small cars on the European market. Ford once considered bringing the Ka to the U.S. market, but decided the car was too small for U.S. tastes. With the Fiesta selling far below expectations, there is little chance the Ka+ will make the transatlantic crossing.

The Virtual Driver