Ford Ka (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 27 January 2010
The original Ford Ka was a hugely popular model, especially among those wanting a cheap to run and easy to drive small car. Its replacement builds on those strong foundations, but offers better comfort, refinement and fuel economy. It is certainly a much more grown up car, particularly inside thanks to the well built and neatly laid out cabin. Of course it retains those cheeky looks of the original and is easy and enjoyable to drive, especially in town, while the supple ride means it's incredibly comfortable. The Ka was actually developed alongside the Fiat 500 and uses the same petrol and diesel engines as the Italian hatch. Both are smooth and economical, but offer enough pace to make motorway journeys relaxing. Cheap to run, well built and fun to drive, the Ka is a superb small hatchback.
4.5 out of 5

Other Ford reviews

3 out of 5

Safety

The Fiat 500 scored a maximum five star rating for adult occupant protection in official European crash tests, however the Ka was only awarded four stars. Unlike the Fiat (which comes with seven airbags as standard) the Ford only has driver and passenger front airbags as standard fit - pelvis and thorax side airbags, along with curtain airbags, are optional. ESP stability control is also an option on all models but all cars (except Studio) get Isofix mounting points.

NCAP Test

Euro NCAP logo Euro NCAP

Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Child Protection Rating

    3 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

The Ka is based on Fiat components and the Italian hatch has proved reliable so far while both engines have been well proven.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.