Ford to Unveil New Ka in Paris

Twelve years after the original version made its debut, Ford of Europe will unveil the second generation of its B segment vehicle at this year’s Paris Motor Show.

Fresh styling, new platform

While most Americans have never seen a Ford Ka on the road, it has been a very popular car in Europe since it was introduced there in 1996. And with Ford Motor Company’s plans to globalize its models, now might be a good time to take a quick look its latest offering.

The original Ka was based on a modified Fiesta platform and featured Ford’s New Edge design created by stylist Jack Telnack. The new 2009 Ka, although carrying over the original version’s basic shape, has an entirely different look based on the company’s new Kinetic design found on such vehicles as the new Fiesta.

In addition to a brand new exterior and interior, the new Ka also benefits from a new platform. While the first generation was one of the best-handling vehicles in its class, it did so with a platform that traced its origins to the original Mark III Ford Fiesta circa 1989. The new Ka, developed as part of a common project with Fiat, will be built on the same production line as the Fiat 500 and will share the 500’s Fiat Panda-based underpinnings (with suspension, steering and chassis tuned by Ford). According to Ford, final testing for the Ka was conducted using a combination of public roads, proving grounds and race tracks – including the legendary Nürburgring in Germany.

Engine Options

Engine choices for the new Ford Ka include a 1.2 liter 69 hp Duratec gasoline engine and, for the first time on Ka, a 1.3 liter 74 hp “Duratorq” TDCi turbodiesel. Both engines are available with sub-120g/km CO2 emissions.

Ford expects the 1.2 liter engine to be the best seller and have engineered it to cut fuel consumption by 21% compared to the previous generation Ka. The 1.3 liter oil burner has achieved a combined mileage rating of 56 mpg (and you wonder why Europeans love their diesels).

The Rest

Ka will be available in two trim levels – Ambiente and Titanium, and there will be option packages that include Bluetooth® mobile phone connectivity, a USB port for music sharing, heated seats, heated windshield and a premium six-speaker sound system.

Will we see it?

There has been no word from Ford on whether or not the Ka will be making the trip across the pond. But with styling, handling and mileage that blow the Smart into the weeds, we say “bring it on!”

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