The Ford Ikon range has been upgraded for the 2009 model year. A revised front end, new 15" alloy rims, upgraded interior trim and specification adjustments.
"The Ikon," Ford SA's marketing manager Ben Pillay believes, "has established itself as a major player in the B-segment and is geared towards dependability, affordability and low running costs without sacrificing space, practicality and interior comfort.
"It offers outstanding value for money in a practical and well-equipped package - attributes increasingly important in today's market. We've further improved the package for 2009."
The headlights and front bumper have been redesigned, the 14" rims enlarged to 15" on Ambiente derivatives and 15" alloys added to Trend derivatives.
Cabin fabric colours have been changed and fabric inserts fitted to the door panels.
A new audio system with four speakers and an MP3 compatible radio/CD player has been introduced.
A 74kW (at 6500rpm), 143Nm (at 4000rpm) engine replaces the 1.4 though the 1.4 TDCi diesel is unchanged with its turbocharger and electronically controlled direct injection. It's capable of 50kW at 4000rpm and 160Nm at 2000rpm.
A five-speed manual gearbox is standard across the range.
Ambiente models have two front crash bags.
Comfort and convenience features such as keyless, remote-controlled central locking, remote boot opening, rake-adjustable steering column and all-power windows are also available.
The 1.6 Trend adds sport suspension, body-colour bumpers, fog lights and body-colour external mirrors.
The Ikon is assembled in India - a market, Ford says, that requires a specialised type of vehicle thanks to extreme weather conditions and congested streets.
"The result is a robust and durable vehicle that offers much in the way of practicality, comfort and driving dynamics," Pillay adds.
"The changes to the Ikon may be subtle but they offer a great deal of added value and convenience to the customer. This is complimented by strong back-up from the factory after sale."
All Ikons are sold with a four-year or 60 000km service plan that requires a service visit every 15 000km, and a four-year or 120 000km warranty.
Ikon 1.6 Ambiente sedan - R133 500
Ikon 1.6 Trend sedan - R148 990
Ikon 1.4 TDCi Ambiente sedan - R152 990