Ford’s latest foray into the realm of chic, urban automobiles comes in the form of the Start concept. Set to debut at the Beijing auto show, the Start is intended to showcase FoMoCo’s ability to build a car that’s both stylish and efficient. The car also previews a 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost gasoline engine that we’re told will eventually make its way to the U.S.
The pint-sized Start concept is an attractive design that, like the Mini Cooper and Fiat 500, places the wheels at the far corners of the body. At 145.0 inches long and just 66.5 inches wide, the Start is 10 inches shorter and about an inch narrower than Ford’s upcoming Fiesta five-door hatchback. The two-door, four-seater’s fast rear glass is somewhat reminiscent of the first-gen Euro-market Ford Ka, but the Start is far more chic and modern. Brushed aluminum borders the glass, and the roof panel is removable so occupants can enjoy convertible-esque motoring. The concept has LED lighting all around, and the rear turn signals illuminate sequentially from the center out. The Start’s design team reportedly drew inspiration from classics like the Porsche 356 Speedster and Alfa Romeo Zagato SZ, although we’re hard-pressed to see much of either of those cars in the final product. Instead, it looks as if the designers had photos of the Audi A1 and Citröen C2 Pluriel taped to their drawing boards.
Thanks to: Car and Driver
