Ford India’s forte has been special editions. It came up with two editions of its first Indian offering, Escort, in the form of Alpha petrol and Orion diesel. Ford also brought on the Freedom petrol and the Anniversary diesel, limited edition versions of the Escort. Similarly with the Fiesta; Ford launched a ‘limited edition’ Fiesta with racing stripes and sporty seats. These limited editions comprised of no technical upgrades or advancements over the respective regular models but only new graphics and stickers.

All this has changed with Ford introducing the New Ikon reports OverDrive (Dec. ’08).

The Ikon has been given an all-new Fiesta inspired front end featuring a short stout air dam between the headlights and a larger lower air dam. The previous rounded headlights are replaced by sharp clear lens ones, which enhance the aggressive look. The look otherwise is basic with the bare, clean look of the 1.3 ROCAM being retained and the TDCi badge for the diesel version being the only noticeable change in the rear. The interior fit and finish is similar to the older version but the stereo now comes with Bluetooth handsfree support. Other than that, dual-tone beige interiors with a new backlit instrument cluster are the only other changes.

The latest generation 1.4-litre DuraTorq TDCi engine is the real highlight of the new version. With diesel engines finding huge favour today, Ford’s installing a tried and tested diesel is a timely move says OverDrive (Dec. ’08). The DuraTorq TDCi powertrain delivers 68PS and a generous peak torque of 160Nm@2000rpm, improving the drive ability of the Ikon in-city and on the highway.

Expensive spares too have dogged the Ikon’s fortunes. Now Ford claims to have resorted to sub-components, to ensure cheaper spares and lower maintenance costs.

The new Ikon comes with fully independent MacPherson struts mounted on a sub-frame up front and twist beam strut type coil springs at the rear. Road undulations are taken in stride so the ride is comfortable. The small and sporty steering wheel offers good grip and improved feedback. Lack of ABS and air-bag options though is a big letdown.

Despite the efficient oil-burner and face-lift, the new Ikon has its work cut out with established C-segment rivals like the Dzire and Logan. The new Ikon is however priced competitively at Rs. 4.59 lakh for the 1.3 petrol version and Rs. 5.19 lakh (both ex-showroom, Delhi).