Ford’s upcoming compact sedan to be named Figo Aspire

Ford Figo Aspire is what the company’s upcoming sub-four metre compact sedan will be named . The Figo Aspire will be the first product to roll out of the American carmakers’ new facility in Sanand, Gujarat that was inaugurated today.

We had spied a couple of prototypes of the Figo Aspire with minimal camouflage, and the styling and design elements look very similar to the concept that was unveiled at the 2014 Auto Expo. It gets contemporary styling with the Aston Martin-like grille, swept-back headlights, integrated spoiler and a stubby boot lid.

It might be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. These engines will be mated to a five-speed manual gearbox powering the front wheels. There are rumours that the Figo Aspire might get the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine from the EcoSport, but that seems unlikely for now as that would be a pricier option.

The Figo Aspire will be Ford’s big ticket launch this year and is expected to generate the volumes for them. Ford has the habit of throwing it away, it did taste some success with the Figo, but couldn’t capitalise on it. However, this time they seem better equipped and this might be the turning point for them in India to rise up the sales ladder.