The Ford Figo finally received the automatic transmission option earlier this month. On sale at a starting price of Rs 7.75 lakh (ex-showroom), the automatic transmission-equipped Figo makes for a pretty good buy in case you’re in the market for a B1-segment hatchback but don’t wish to opt for the jerky AMTs. That said, in spite of the several updates and the variant rejigs the current Figo has been through, there are some features that are still conspicuous by their absence. The case in the point here is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support – something that’s even available on much cheaper cars like the S-Presso. Ford though, has once again decided to not offer the connectivity features even on the top-spec version. No wonder, then, that several fans and followers have been upset with the carmaker’s decision.
Also Read: 2021 Ford Ecosport facelift reminds us of Datsun redi-GO
In the day and age of advanced smartphone connectivity, Ford continues to offer a rather rudimentary Bluetooth connectivity option for its touchscreen-equipped models of the Figo. Using Bluetooth to pair the smartphone with the infotainment not only leads to a more complicated pairing process but even leaves the user with little options. In contrast, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto let the user enjoy several applications such as those of Whatsapp, music streaming platforms like Apple Music, Gaana, etc, Google Maps, etc. The top-spec Ford Figo does offer pre-installed maps on the touchscreen infotainment system but they simply lack the accuracy and ease of usage that Google Maps offer.
Thankfully though, the Ford Figo offers other premium features like a push-button start/stop, automatic climate control, all four power windows, electric ORVMs, rear defogger, auto headlamps and steering-mounted audio and telephone controls. Another thing that’s worth mentioning here is that the top-of-the-line Figo even offers 6 airbags instead of the 2 airbags that most rivals offer across the trim range. Still, however, we feel that the provision of smartphone connectivity options would have actually made life a lot easier for most users.
Also read: Ford Figo Owner Buys EcoSport After 8 Years Of Troublefree Ownership!
The Ford Figo is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder Dragon petrol engine that outputs a maximum power of 96hp and a peak torque of 119Nm. This makes Figo the most potent car in its segment. The motor comes mated to a 6-speed torque-converter automatic option that misses out on paddle shifters but offers a Select Shift mode that lets users shift manually. There’s also a Sport mode, which , in the words of the carmaker, programs the gear shifts for better performance.
Stay tuned to CarBlogIndia for latest news updates
