What's Good
Ford's Ka based roadster due to hit the UK market in March 2003 using a new South African built single overhead cam 94bhp 1.6 litre 'Duratec' engine which also puts out 99lb ft torque. Combined consumption 35.8mpg. Very attractive. �12,495 for base car with alloys, CD and ABS; �13,795 for Luxury model with leather and a/c. Launched by Kylie Minogue. 1,000 'First edition' Luxury Kas sold out on pre-orders at �13,995 apiece.
Road test at www.honestjohn.co.uk/road_tests/index.htm?id=77
What's Bad
At 1,061kg, much heavier than Smart Roadster, so top speed lower at 108mph and 0-60 slower at 11.8 seconds. Also uses more fuel and will be dearer to tax. Inside door handle mechanism can fail.
What to Watch Out For
Too soon to say.