The Ford Figo Aspire II (facelift 2018) 1.5 Ti-VCT 123 Hp Automatic represents a significant offering in the subcompact sedan segment, particularly within the Indian automotive market where the Figo line has enjoyed considerable success. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant aimed to provide a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and convenience with the added ease of an automatic transmission. It sits within the broader Figo Aspire II generation, a facelift of the original Aspire model, and leverages the global Ford B-platform. This specific configuration was positioned as a mid-range option, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped sedan without the higher price tag of more powerful or feature-rich trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Figo |
| Generation | Figo Aspire II (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Ti-VCT (123 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 136 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 123 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4500 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.65 l (3.86 US qt | 3.21 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1103 kg (2431.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3995 mm (157.28 in.) |
| Width | 1704 mm (67.09 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2490 mm (98.03 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Figo Aspire II 1.5 Ti-VCT Automatic is the 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated as part of the Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing) family, utilizes multi-port fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders. The Ti-VCT system is crucial, allowing for optimized valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 123 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio contributes to its efficiency. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while not a dual-clutch unit, provides smooth shifts and contributes to the overall driving convenience. It’s a conventional torque-converter automatic, tuned for comfort rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 Ti-VCT Automatic Figo Aspire offers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration is linear, and the automatic transmission generally selects the appropriate gear for the driving conditions. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. The automatic transmission does exhibit some hunting for gears under hard acceleration or when navigating hilly terrain. Compared to the higher-output 1.5 Dragon series engine available in some Figo models, this Ti-VCT version feels less potent, but offers a more refined and economical driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 Ti-VCT Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power-adjustable side mirrors, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher sub-trims added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for different color schemes. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Optional extras often included a rear defogger, a reverse parking camera, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Figo Aspire II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Electric power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it well-suited for city driving. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency and maneuverability. Stabilizer bars are present on both axles, helping to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Figo Aspire II 1.5 Ti-VCT Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics in India. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and convenient automatic transmission. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its competitors and that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times. Fuel economy was considered to be competitive within its class. Compared to other automatic sedans in the same price range, such as the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Hyundai Xcent, the Figo Aspire offered a more engaging driving experience but often came with a slightly higher price tag. Reliability reports were generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Ford Figo Aspire II, including the 1.5 Ti-VCT Automatic variant, has established a reputation as a reliable and practical subcompact sedan. While Ford has since exited the Indian market, the Figo remains a popular choice in the used car market. The 1.5 Ti-VCT engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. The automatic transmission, while generally reliable, may require fluid changes at recommended intervals to ensure smooth operation. The Figo Aspire II represents a significant chapter in Ford’s efforts to cater to the growing demand for affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles in emerging markets.
