The wraps are ready to come off the new Ford Ka. These are the best pictures yet of the Blue Oval's baby as it undergoes final testing.
Set to hit showrooms later this year, the newcomer is the next step in Ford's model line-up overhaul, and will replace one of the company's most popular and long-lived models.
As you can see, the car retains the same wheel-at-each-corner design of its predecessor. At the front will be a distinctive family nose featuring a large trapezoidal grille and wraparound headlamps. Like the previous generation model it has a high, rounded roofline and upright tail.
Taking its inspiration from the Verve concept car, the interior will get a bold new look. The quality of both build and materials will be vastly improved, while hi-tech kit such as iPod and Bluetooth connection will be available.
To keep development costs low, the Ka shares its underpinnings with the Fiat 500. However, engineers at Ford have been working hard to make sure the Ka retains its trademark sharp handling and composed ride. Refinement is set to take a step up, making the Ford as accomplished on the motorway as it will be in town.
The Italian connection is also expected to extend to the engines. Under the short bonnet wil be a choice of 63bhp 1.2-litre and 100bhp 1.4-litre petrol units. Performance fans will pleased to hear that a hot ST version is on the cards, which could be powered by the same 1.4-litre turbo as the forthcoming Fiat 500 Abarth. And for the first time the Ka will get a diesel - a punchy 75bhp 1.3-litre Multijet powerplant.
The fully undisguised car should make its world debut at the Paris Show in September, with the first production examples hitting showrooms shortly afterwards. Prices are expected to be similar to the outgoing model, with entry-level versions costing around £7,500.
