Read the full 4Car Road Test
2002 Top Ten position
All UK car sales: 9
Fleet car sales: n/a
City car
Introduced: 1997, facelift and new models imminent
Bodystyles: Three-door hatchback; StreetKa roadster to be launched this summer
Price band: £6,495-£8,495
NCAP crash test rating: 3
The Ka is...
what the new Beetle should have been - a fun, affordable city car with its own individual character, rather than an expensive re-bodied Golf. Still looking fresh and adorable six years on, the Ka's main disadvantage has been its aged 1.3-litre engine, but this will be replaced by the new 1.3 as used in the Fiesta this summer. More choice will be offered with the launch of the 1.6-litre SportKa, though there's still no sign of a cut-price 1.0 or 1.1, which would suit the character of the real peoples' Ka rather well. Not that all Kas are spartan: the LuxuryKa is well-equipped, and there is an extensive options list, and Ford continues to introduce themed special edition models with extra kit. There is also the Ford Racing-developed aftermarket 20bhp power upgrade and selection of more aggressive-looking sports accessories, available from Ford dealers, which can be retro-fitted to older Kas.
For
Unique looks, character, fun to drive, all-round ability, ageless appeal.
Against
Old 1.3 engine, tiny rear seat space and narrow boot, not very practical, a bit girly for male drivers, no standard ABS or passenger airbag.
Sum-up
The Ka is compromised and flawed in many areas, but it's very lovable nonetheless.
Engines, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions
Petrol:1.3 (60bhp): 42.2mpg, 154g/km
Spec rundown
The entry-level 1.3 and Ka Style have a driver's airbag, power steering, air conditioning and a split/folding rear seat. The Ka Collection adds central locking, electric windows, a CD player and standard metallic paint, and the LuxuryKa has air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric mirrors and even leather seats. ABS, a passenger airbag and side airbags are optional as an inclusive safety pack.
Market info
There are usually numerous special editions on the go, and the current one is the Sun, which has a full-length fabric sunroof and air conditioning (£7,495). Ford is also giving £500 cashback on the entry-level 1.3, which brings its price down to £5,995 - or have a haggle. There should be some good deals about as the dealers need to clear their forecourts of existing stock to make way for the new facelifted models, which will have the improved 1.3-litre engine or a 1.6. Kas are popular on the used market amongst private buyers, so hold their value quite well for a city car.
