Ford Ka review (2009-2016)
The Ford Ka is a small hatchback that's good to drive and very cost-effective to buy and run.
Pros
- Low cost to buy and own
- It's a popular model, so there’s lots of choice when buying used
- Good fun to drive
Cons
- Cramped back seats
- Safety tech is a bit outdated
- Rather noisy on the motorway
Summary
“It’s a low-cost city car that’s entertaining to drive and excellent value.”
Ideal as a first car or a city runaround, the Ford Ka is good to drive, cheap to buy and cost-efficient to own. It might look very different, but this version of the Ka actually shares many parts with the Fiat 500 of the same era.
Some rivals give you more space but the boot is a reasonable size and there's good headroom up-front. Entry-level versions are basic but the Ka is great value for money.
What's the interior like?
“The interior is solid and easy to use but looks dated now”
Considering its size, the Ka is pretty roomy and comfortable for front seat passengers, but there’s a lot less space in the back seats. It can fit a couple of adults but this isn’t ideal for longer journeys.
Visibility of the road is good but, because the steering wheel doesn’t slide in and out, some drivers may struggle to get comfortable.
The boot is reasonable for a city car, with a capacity of 224 litres. That's enough for a few soft bags, but some rival small cars have bigger boots.
What's it like to drive?
“The Ka is best suited for driving on country lanes or in town."
The Ka is good to drive on country lanes or in town, but its engine can sound a bit strained on the motorway.
Ford has a reputation for making cars that are fun to drive and the Ka is definitely that. The Ka’s suspension has a good grip of the road while there’s little body lean when going around corners.
The 1.2-litre petrol engine is powerful enough on the road in most conditions.
Is it cost-efficient to buy and run?
“This is a small car that won’t cost much to buy or run.”
Depreciation and the popularity of the Ford Ka means that you should be able to pick up a bargain. The 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine promises good fuel economy and, according to official figures, offers up to 57 mpg.
Insurance costs should be low, with the Ka featuring in a low group 3 rating. Road tax should be inexpensive, too, thanks to the Ka's fuel-efficient engines.
If you're looking for a cheap hatchback that's slightly modern than the Ka we'd suggest giving the Ford Fiesta, Mini Hatch, Toyota Aygo or Vauxhall Corsa a look.
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Which one is best for you?
The entry-level Studio model is cheap but it's very basic. Moving up to the Edge for electric windows and remote locking makes sense, or you could go for a Zetec model, which has 16-inch alloy wheels and fog-lamps. The Titanium model has useful extra mod-cons such as climate control and parking sensors.
There’s only a 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is efficient and powerful enough to suit most people's needs.
