Scoop: Next-gen Ford Figo sedan, hatchback in India for R&D

Thanks to BHPian avishar for sharing this information with other enthusiasts.

Ford has brought the next-generation Figo compact sedan and hatchback into India for research and development purposes.

A search on import-export tracker website zauba.com has indicated that Ford has imported one Figo sedan (4-door) and two hatchbacks (5-door) into the country since September 29, 2014. The information displayed suggests that one sedan and one hatchback have the same 1.5-litre TiVCT petrol engine as the EcoSport. Whether Ford launches the cars with the same power output as the crossover or a lower state of tune remains to be seen.

The second hatchback however, has a 1200 cc TiVCT petrol mill. We expect this unit to be used in both the vehicles since it will help them qualify for a lower excise duty.

The new Figo sedan and hatchback are expected to replace the Classic sedan current-generation Figo hatchback in mid-2015. Both cars are likely to be made at Ford's new plant in Gujarat. The sedan has a length of less than four metres and will compete against the Maruti Dzire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent and Tata Zest. The hatchback will take on the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Elite i20 and Volkswagen Polo.