2012 Ford Figo Replacement Bound For Australia

Ford Australia has confirmed that a new light car destined for the Indian market in early 2012 will also make its way to Australia.

Details on the new model remain secret for now, but a new version of the hugely successful Figo could be on the cards.

Essentially a facelifted and upgraded version of the previous-generation Fiesta hatch, the Figo was developed in Australia and is produced at Ford's Chennai, India plant.

The success of the Figo in India - where nearly 100,000 units have been sold since March last year - comes at a time when ultra-affordable 'sub-light' models are picking up consumer interest in Australia.

Earlier comments from Ford Australia's Neil McDonald suggest that a new and more affordable offering in the light or sub-light segment, beneath the current Fiesta, could prove an attractive option for budget-minded buyers.

"It's on our radar and we're keenly aware of what our competitors are doing in the 'ultra-light' class, particularly given that the sub-$12,000 to $13,000 segment now seems to have ignited interest in Australia," Mr McDonald told TMR.

In Australia, a sub-$15,000 offering would give Ford a means of winning buyers away from the likes of the tiny Suzuki Alto, the Nissan Micra and the Holden Barina Spark.