A Ka for the masses

By David Linklater

With all due respect to the Tin Lizzie, vintage cars are not everybody's cup of T for a
fashion-conscious new millennium. The Ka is Ford's idea of transport for the masses in 2000.

The Blue Oval's baby hatchback was launched in New Zealand last year, but the company is hoping to spice up sales with a price reduction for the existing model and a limited edition "summer collection" Ka.

The base model Ka, which comes equipped with driver's airbag and power steering, has fallen by $2000 to $16,995, leaving the $18,995 slot open for the higher spec model with electric windows, central locking and air-conditioning.

The "summer collection" adds a passenger airbag, seatbelt pretensioners, anti-lock brakes, a higher-grade CD-compatible stereo and power-operated tilting sunroof for $20,995. Also included in the limited edition model is a novel three-position rotating storage bin and rear headrests. You can have your summer Ka in any colour you like, as long as it's green or blue.

It's a tempting alternative for hatchback buyers — a lot of worthwhile equipment for not a lot of money. Not to mention the Ka's controversial-but-cute styling (inside and out) and its superb ride and handling.

Just two things hold the baby Ford back in New Zealand: its breathless 1.3 litre engine and its three door-only status. The car's modest 44kW powerplant might be all right on the congested roads of Europe, but it often struggles in fast-moving Kiwi traffic. And New Zealand buyers are notoriously shy of three-door hatches.

But if you fancy a budget-price shopping trolley with good build quality and hot-hatch handling, look no further. From the driver's seat, the Ka is still one of the most impressive superminis around.