Ford India stopped automatic models of Figo and Aspire in India. According to a leaked document, bookings for the AT models have been halted across India. It is also noteworthy that the document states, ' The New AT will be the focus of a potential correspondence’. This might mean that, at a later date, Ford India could introduce the automatic variants with a new engine. The Deep Impact Blue and Absolute Black colour in the MY2020 models will also not be available.
The Ford Figo / Aspire AT will be dropped on January 15 from the official website. Both models are only available on the Titanium trim. It emerges with the rev-happy 1.5 liter Dragon petrol engine which is also located under EcoSport hood. It creates power of 123PS, torque of 150Nm, and is matched to a torque converter of 6 speeds. It is not yet clear why the AT version is discontinued in both models.
In the 1.2-liter petrol models, Ford India may add automatic transmission. It would make sense as the smaller engine will sit in a lower tax bracket and might help Ford to aggressively position both models in terms of price. At present the 1.2-liter Dragon petrol engine generates 96PS of power and 120Nm of torque. How Ford will use the 6-speed torque converter in future for both models remains to be seen.
The price of the Ford Figo AT is Rs 7.70 lakh whilst the price of the Ford Aspire AT is Rs 9.10 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom). Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios are rivaled by the hatchback. The sub-4 meter sedan, meanwhile, locks horns with the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Volkswagen Ameo and the new Hyundai Aura.