Ford Ka Edge 1.2 3dr Car Review - February 2012

The 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine is just powerful enough for this class, but it engages the driver, and this is where the Ford Ka takes the lead over its rivals. Chassis response is great and the handling is sharp. The 0-62 mph time of 13.4 seconds is suitable for busy town traffic and, although fairly slow by most standards, the Ka never feels sluggish.

On the motorway, however, the Ka can become tiresome. The engine delivers just 67bhp and the limited torque -- just 76lb-ft -- makes overtaking a long, drawn-out experience.

The cabin is not insulated well from engine and wind noise, making the Ka a poor choice for those who regularly drive at speed.

The Ford Ka shares most of its mechanicals and interior glory with the FIAT 500, having been made in the same factory.

Ford aimed at and succeeded in creating a fashion icon in the Ka Edge; it comes in bold colours and graphics. The cabin is equally lively, with brilliant colour schemes giving the interior a refreshing look.

When it comes to standard equipment, all you get is power steering, central locking, air con, electric doors, electric front windows, driver and passenger airbags, immobiliser and a CD player.

You will have to fork out extra for front side airbags, which cost £250, rear parking sensors (£200), stability control (£325), alloy wheels (£325) and metallic paint (£455). Bluetooth is also available as a cost option, for £250 as is MP3 connectivity.

When it comes to safety features, the Ka Edge loses ground to its rivals. While most cars have six to seven airbags, you only get two in the Ka and, as a result, the car scored just four points in the Euro NCAP crash tests, in a time when a five-star rating has become the norm.

The driving position is set high and you can adjust the steering wheel for rake but not reach, which is limiting. The seats are very supportive and the controls accessible and easy to use.

Space is average and on par with class standards. Front occupants will enjoy adequate head and legroom but the rear seats are unsuitable for adults on anything other than short trips. Some city cars have a larger boot than the Ka’s 224 litres, which even with the seats down only increases to 747 litres.

Although not the cheapest car in its class -- the Kia Picanto and the Hyundai i10 are considerably less expensive -- the Ka is a cost-effective proposition thanks to its low running costs and ease of ownership. However, very little standard kit comes as standard on the car, and by opting for a more luxurious trim level, you could recoup more of your expenditure when it comes to sell.

You will have nothing to complain about as far as maintenance is concerned. The car falls under the low insurance group 3. Carbon emissions are among the lowest at 115g/km, for which you drive tax free in the first year and pay £30 thereafter under Road Tax band C. You should also manage 57. 7mpg, making the Ka a cheap car to run.