Ford Ka+ Active 2018 UK review

Not too dissimilar to the Ka+, which shouldn’t really come as a surprise. Both are smooth-riding runabouts, with the Active model managing to outdo the standard car in the way that it handles rough roads.

Body roll is magnified by the raised ride height and easily noticed, but the suspension still manages to mitigate the in-cabin jostle of most bumps and compressions.

Few entry-level superminis deliver an engaging drive, but the Ka+ Active gives a reasonable account of one, with precise and weighty steering that’s still easy to control for tight manoeuvres. In the right circumstances, it could even be considered fun.

The problem is a somewhat gutless engine. It has the power needed for the kind of city driving the Ka+ is best at, but it takes some real thrashing to get it up to speed with any urgency. Many of its rivals suffer in the same way, but that’s no consolation when you’re struggling to ascend even a mild gradient. The gearbox is at least precise and responsive for when you reach the shouty end of the rev range.

Inside, there’s now a clearer distinction between the Fiesta and Ka+, with the former having stepped things up but the latter still content to cover every surface in scratchy plastics. It’s still pleasant enough inside and the materials are suitably hard-wearing, given the target audience, but it’s impossible to miss the expansive dashboard stretching out in front of you.

The latest version of Ford’s Sync infotainment comes as standard and is a welcome improvement from the one in the outgoing Ka+. The 6.5in touchscreen has crisp, clean graphics and responds to taps very quickly. It has both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which you’ll need if you want navigation, because there’s no built-in system.

It makes concessions in the boot to achieve it, but two adults can comfortably fit in the back, with generous head room and a decent amount of leg room. You’d still want one of the front seats for longer journeys, though, on account of the more expansive leg room.

If you’re determined to drive something small but tall, the Ka+ Active delivers an attractive, compact package. It’s just that there are plenty of other high-riding superminis that compete on looks, technology and performance.

The Vauxhall Viva Rocks has the Ka+ Active beaten on price, while the Suzuki Ignis delivers genuine off-road capability for only slightly more.

Neither quite stack up in terms of ride and handling, but the Ka+ Active makes less of a case for itself with an engine that’s rarely at home anywhere but the city centre.

The Ka+ was already a bit of a niche proposition, and this Active model is even more so, but that’s unlikely to put off potential buyers who are already sold on SUV styling.

Ford Ka+ Active 1.2l Ti-VCT 85PS specification

Where Milton Keynes, UK Price £12,950 On sale now Engine 1194cc, 3-cylinder petrol Power 81bhp at 5500 to 6600rpm Torque 85lb ft at 4,250 rpm Gearbox 5-spd manual Kerb weight 980kg Top speed 105mph 0-62mph 13.5sec Fuel economy 49.6mpg CO2 129g/km Rivals Suzuki Ignis, Vauxhall Viva Rocks