Ford Ikon 1.3i

Ikon 1.3i – Ford lowers the barriers to entry

To satisfy demand at the entry level of the market, the Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has extended its Ford passenger car line-up with the introduction of a Ikon 1.3i variant to complement the 1600 derivatives.

The various categories in the entry segment of the market accounts for the vast majority of all vehicle sales in South Africa, especially in terms of company and fleet operations.  The addition of the Ikon 1.3i will tap into the segment for high-spec, small-capacity cars and boost Ikon sales significantly, while also affording private buyers the opportunity to get into the new-car market with an improved value package.

According to Ford, the Ikon 1.3i combines quality, safety and excitement with value for money, sprightly performance and excellent fuel economy. Three variants are available - the base Ikon 1.3i, a more luxurious Ikon 1.3i LX with air-conditioning, and a 1.3i LX with the option of airbags.

All are fitted with a high level of standard comfort features, which include power-assisted steering, Passive Anti-theft System (PATS) and central locking. The LX models are also fitted with air-conditioning and a four-speaker stereo system with front-loading CD player. In the LX, the aircon is integrated with the ventilation system and heater and features a re-circulation mode which prevents fumes from entering the passenger compartment in heavy traffic ensuring a safe, comfortable and clean-air environment for all occupants.

While a driver and passenger airbags are available as an option on the Ikon 1.3i LX, all models feature side-impact door beams (front and rear), anti-submarining front seat cushions and a collapsible, telescopic steering wheel column.

The Ikon 1.3i is equipped with the high-tech 1.3-litre RoCam engine which is built at Ford’s Port Elizabeth production plant. It is one of the most advanced engines in the world. SA, along with Ford Brazil, are the only two suppliers of RoCam engines for global use, while SA is the only supplier of the 1.3-litre RoCam engine.

The contract awarded to FMCSA in 2000 will see production of around 180 000 RoCam units a year at the PE plant. According to Ford, this SOHC engine was developed to operate consistently and reliably under extreme conditions and with the minimum of maintenance. Primary design parameters for this engine – which has a cast iron block and alluminium head - include robust operation over 150 000 km, low internal friction, low weight and reduced manufacturing costs.

In the Ikon 1.3i, the engine is mated to Ford’s latest iB5 manual five-speed transaxle. The 1297cc engine is a capable performer and extremely fuel-efficient (around 8 litres per 100 km under mixed conditions). Maximum power is 55 kW at 5 500 rpm, while the 110 Nm torque peak is achieved at a low 3 000 rpm.

Like all Fords sold in SA, the Ikon 1.3i comes with a standard three-year/100 000 km warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.