Ford Start concept due for production in 2014

Ford is looking to replace its immensely popular Ka city-car in 2014 with an all-new model. Ford is set to take the all-new Ka back to its roots, with added charm and a sportier drive. The production model of the quirky Start concept, which debuted at this year’s Beijing motor show, will replace the long-lived Ka in international markets.

The Start’s 1.0 litre 3-cylinder petrol EcoBoost engine will also head for production. It features turbocharging, direct injection and stop/start technology. The engine will produce between 80bhp - 120bhp, with sub-100g/km and more than 61mpg combined.

The Ka replacement is likely to go on sale in 2014, primarily in emerging markets such as India, China and South America. In due course, Europe and around the world. The 4-seat Start concept was penned at Ford's California advanced studio, under Freeman Thomas, taking its styling inspiration from the Porsche 356 Speedster and others.

Ford described the Start as "an aspirational automobile designed for urban transportation in emerging markets."

The Start comes with click-on, pre-coloured body panels mounted on an aluminum/steel space frame. Ford aid that the 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine "will go into production in the near future."

Customisable interior and exterior will be available to make sure every model is unique. Prices are expected to start from £8,000.