The Ford hatchbacks are very popular and practical but a four-door sedan was still missing. Fortunately Ford saw the gap and filled it very quickly. The new Ikon sedan is based on the Fiesta and sourced from Ford’s Indian operation.
Of the petrol units, the 1.4-litre produces 61 kW at 6 000 r/min and 125 Nm of torque at 4 000 r/min, while the 1.6 develops 74 kW and peak torque of 143 Nm at 6 500 and 4 000 r/min respectively. It is available in three derivatives with two trim levels – 1.4 Ambiente and 1.6 and 1.4 TDCi Trends.
The Duratorq unit is a new turbodiesel unit that produces 50 kW at 4 000 r/min and 160 Nm of torque at 2 000 r/min. While a five-speed manual gearbox is standard across the range, Ford claims the turbodiesel unit is one of the smoothest and quietest units, promising more responsive acceleration and reduced emissions.
All models come with airbags for the front occupants, ABS brakes and pretension safety belts. Air conditioning and power steering are also standard features. The Ambiente comes with power windows, a heated rear window and CD player. It is fitted with 14-inch steel wheels and comes with a full-sized spare wheel. The Trend models add front and rear reading lights, a front ashtray and lighter and a folding rear seat back. Fog lamps and body coloured bumpers and door mirrors set it apart from the Ambiente model.
The prices range from R125 990 for the 1.4 Ambiente to R144 990 for the 1.4 TDCi Trend and all models feature a three-year/100 000km warranty and a three-year roadside assistance plan. Service intervals are 15 000km.