Ford’s KA+ seems to over a very complete citycar proposition, with five doors, an efficient little 1.2-litre petrol engine and some clever interior features. Yes, it’s late to the citycar party, but Ford has clearly thought carefully before introducing this contender and the result is a very complete package.

Under the bonnet, all Ford KA+ models get a 1.2-litre petrol engine available with a choice of 70PS and 85PS power outputs. The KA+ is, as it should be, Ford’s smallest car - but only just. Get out the tape measure and you’ll find it to be a fraction shorter than a Fiesta, but a little taller. Taking inspiration from Ford’s latest design language, the well-proportioned exterior features a distinctive high-mounted trapezoidal grille with large, swept-back headlamps. All KA+ models offer chrome detailing for the front grille, together with body-coloured bumpers, door handles and door mirrors.

That extra height we mentioned is important as it means that two six foot adults can comfortably sit one behind the other, something not really possible in a Fiesta. There’s best-in-segment rear legroom too, plus front headroom is also best-in-class. There’s a decent 270-litre boot too. There are 21 stowage areas dotted around the cabin. Stowage areas include the ‘MyFord Dock’ in the centre of the instrument panel that enables occupants to store, mount and charge mobile devices such as phones and navigation systems.

The KA+ comes with the usual Ford three year / 60,000 mile warranty, and you’ll have the option to extend that package for up to two more years and up to 100,000 miles at additional cost. Breakdown cover is included as standard for the first year. To help you budget ahead for maintenance, Ford offers its ‘Protect Premium Plan’ for pre-paid routine servicing, ranging from one year up to three years in duration: this package gets you included Europe-wide roadside assistance too.

This KA+ looks a strong proposition that will have the citycar segment leaders worried. Like other five-door citycar models, it’s big enough inside to make you wonder why you’d pay more for a conventional supermini. And there are some nice interior touches we really like - the ‘MyFordDock’ for your smartphone for instance. In summary, if you’re buying something smaller than a supermini, you simply now have to look at a KA+: it’s as simple as that.

CAR: Ford KA+
PRICES: £9,245-£11,095 – on the road
INSURANCE GROUPS: 1E-5E
CO2 EMISSIONS: 114g/km
PERFORMANCE: [70PS] 0-62mph 16s / Max Speed 100mph
FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 56.5mpg
STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front & side airbags
WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/height 
3929/1695/1524 mm