Is the Ford Figo diesel a good car?
In brief, the Ford Figo diesel offers solid fuel economy and a practical, roomy hatchback package for its class, but its appeal today is limited by aging design and potential service/parts availability issues in markets where Ford has pulled back from new-car sales.
The question warrants a closer look at how the diesel variant performs in everyday driving, what ownership costs look like over time, and how current market conditions—especially Ford’s limited new-car presence in several regions—affect buying decisions. This article weighs those factors and outlines what to consider if you’re evaluating a used Figo diesel or a region where it may still be offered.
Performance, design, and driving experience
The Figo’s diesel variants are generally noted for strong mid-range torque, which helps with city driving and highway overtakes without excessive engine strain. In practice, this translates to easy urban maneuvering and decent highway performance for a small diesel hatch. The overall design is still functional and spacious inside, though the exterior styling and interior features feel dated next to newer rivals.
Engine and performance
Diesel variants tend to deliver responsive low- and mid-range power, making daily commuting breezier than petrol equivalents. Most markets rely on a manual transmission, with automatic diesel options being rare or unavailable. Power delivery prioritizes efficiency and tractable driving rather than outright speed.
Ride, cabin, and practicality
The Figo’s compact footprint makes it easy to park and navigate tight urban streets, and its cabin offers reasonable headroom and luggage space for a hatchback of this size. However, interior appointments, infotainment, and overall refinement lag behind more modern competitors, which can affect perceived quality over time.
Costs, maintenance, and ownership
Fuel economy is a key strength of the diesel variant, but long-term ownership depends on reliable access to service and parts, which has become more challenging in markets where Ford has reduced or exited its local operations. As with any older diesel, maintenance costs can rise if critical components wear out and require replacement.
Here are the primary strengths of the Figo diesel:
- Excellent fuel economy for a small diesel hatch, especially on longer trips or highway cruising.
- Practical interior and compact footprint suitable for city use.
- Typically straightforward mechanicals, which can help with maintenance in markets with reliable workshops.
- Competitive running costs when the vehicle is well maintained and parts are accessible.
In summary, the Figo diesel delivers efficiency and practicality, with costs closely tied to the availability of service and genuine parts in your region.
Here are common caveats and things to check when considering a used Figo diesel:
- Local service network and spare-parts availability can vary significantly after Ford’s market exits in several regions.
- Diesel-specific wear such as the turbo, injectors, EGR valve, and exhaust components can lead to higher repair costs if maintenance was neglected.
- Diesel particulate filters (if equipped in your market) and related regeneration cycles require consistent operation to avoid blockages or excessive emissions-related repairs.
- Clutch wear and manual gearbox condition are common concerns on older diesel cars; test for smooth engagement and check for any grinding or slipping.
- Interior wear, outdated infotainment, and aging electronics can affect long-term ownership experience compared with newer rivals.
- Resale value and insurance costs may be affected by Ford’s reduced presence in the market, depending on your region.
To mitigate risks, obtain a full service history, have a trusted mechanic inspect the engine, turbo, intake/exhaust system, cooling system, and suspension, and perform a thorough test drive to assess real-world performance and drivability.
Market status and buying guidance
The Ford Figo diesel is no longer widely available as a new car in many markets, as Ford has scaled back or exited several regions. In those places, buyers are typically looking at used examples, where the onus is on verifying maintenance history and ensuring access to local service and parts. If you’re considering a used Figo diesel, weigh total ownership costs against modern rivals that offer newer technology, better interiors, and established dealer networks.
Should you buy one today?
If you prioritize fuel efficiency and you have reliable local access to service and spare parts, a well-maintained used Figo diesel can be a practical choice within its budget range. However, because Ford’s aftersales footprint is uneven across regions, compare ownership costs, warranty options, and future resale value against equivalent-era rivals with stronger ongoing support and newer features. A careful, mechanic-assisted pre-purchase inspection is essential.
Summary
The Ford Figo diesel blends strong fuel economy with a practical, easy-to-drive hatchback experience. Its appeal is strongest where diesel fuel is affordable and service networks remain robust. Today, new Figo diesel models are rarely available in many markets, so prospective buyers mostly encounter used examples; in those cases, a thorough service history and reliable local support are critical. For buyers who value efficiency and city practicality and have solid local maintenance options, the Figo diesel can still be a sensible pick, but in markets with limited support, consider alternatives with newer technology and longer-tail aftersales networks.
How good is a Ford 1.5 Diesel engine?
Ford 1.5 TDCI is indeed a great engine. Engine failing at 52K is very premature. With too many issues (I'd leave horn issue) but with major A/C components like condenser and cooling coil being replaced, and you are still facing issues which doesn't seem right.
Is the Ford Figo engine reliable?
Yes Ford Figo is a good choice in terms of engine reliability and after sales service. As Ford has improved their after sales service now.
Is the Ford Figo diesel noisy on the highway?
Poor NVH. While the Ford Figo was a great driver's car, it suffered from poor NVH. This meant the engine noise and road noise would filter into the cabin, causing discomfort to fellow passengers. If you plan on driving alone, you could ignore this issue.
What are common Ford Figo diesel problems?
Ford Figo 2015 TDCi Limp Mode and Check Engine Light Issue Figo TDCi often faces diesel filter clogging and turbocharger whining noises under load conditions. A clogged diesel fuel filter restricts fuel flow, causing limp mode and reduced acceleration.
