Refreshed Ford Ikon launched

The Josh Machine is back!

Just when everyone was thinking that the Ford Ikon would fade into oblivion, many spy shots have surfaced on the internet and so did numerous renderings. After all that, Ford officially launched the refreshed Ford Ikon in India today. The face is shared with the Ford Bantam pickup, which is a pickup version of the Ikon sold in South Africa.

The pure drivers car still lives albeit with a 1.3 ROCAM (70bhp) and not the rev-happy 1.6. Also on offer is the brilliant 1.4 TDCi (68bhp) from the Fiesta which has enough torque and power for a vehicle that weighs as much as a Maruti Suzuki Swift. The driving dynamics remain undiluted and this car can handle incredibly well even though it still lacks anti-rollbars. Ford's site mentions that the Ikon sports the same suspension as their European Fiesta and the KA and these claims are warranted. Ford also claim that Ikon sports the best ride and handling in its segment and this has been proven over time. Ford's cars have always been great drivers cars and this is no different.

The styling is slightly revamped and taking a stand is difficult, although we think its not that shoddy. We leave it for our readers to decide whether it looks good or not. The family resemblance to the Fiesta is apparent and Ford has tried to achieve its trademark Kinetic design in the Ikon but hasn't got it perfect. The rear remains the same except for transparent bilnkers. Also in are new alloy wheel designs which along with the face are the only redeeming features on an otherwise common car.

The interiors get the beige treatment but the design remains the same. The new, modern instrument cluster on the diesel variant incorporates new graphics, tachometer, LED needles and LCD odometer display. It's almost a decade old design and this is the final iteration before Ford's hatchback replaces this old warrior.

“The new Ford Ikon continues to be a leader in its segment and caters to customers with a combination of superior fuel efficiency and improved engine performance,” Ford India President Michael Boneham said at the launch.

Continue reading for price details and image gallery

The new Ikon has been priced at Rs. 4.59 Lakhs for the Petrol and a very competitive Rs. 5.19 Lakhs for the Diesel, all prices Ex-Showroom, Delhi. At this price, the brilliant 1.4TDCi makes a whole lot of sense than the Dzire which has a huge waiting list and these are the customers Ford is targeting.

The new Ikon comes in a total of 7 color options - Morello, Diamond White, Panther Black, Moondust Silver, Paprika Red, Platinum and Brush Steel.

You can locate your dealer for test drive and more information following this link