Skip advert
Advertisement

Ford Ka 2005 review

Nine years ago, we had great things to say about the Ford Ka - perhaps that's the reason why it's survived untouched for so long...

With the Ka's replacement not due until 2009, the revised model's list of improvements could have been expected to be more extensive. However, for our money, the baby Ford remains one of the most appealing cars in its class.

Nine years ago, we had this to say about the new Ka: "The interior looks great, is highly functional, and the graphite finish gives a hi-tech feel." Perhaps that's the reason why it's survived untouched for so long...

But now it's time for a change. In an effort to give Ford's hugely successful Ka a new lease of life, the cabin has been reworked as part of a modest facelift. Apart from the addition of a rear wiper that operates when reverse is selected, the exterior styling is untouched.

Improvements inside include a new glovebox and a theatre-style dimming light, while suspension and engine tuning stays the same. On the road, the Ka is still fun to drive, and with prices from £6,995, it represents excellent value for money.

With a choice of 1.3 and 1.6-litre powerplants, the Ford offers a mix of performance and economy some newer models still can't meet. We expect to be writing about the Ka with the same affection for years to come.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £6,250 off RRP*Used from £9,790
Toyota Yaris Cross
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,270Avg. savings £1,925 off RRP*Used from £8,745
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,840Avg. savings £5,624 off RRP*Used from £11,795
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Citroen 2CV to return: a £13k EV city car honouring the iconic original
Citroen 2CV teaser

Citroen 2CV to return: a £13k EV city car honouring the iconic original

Citroen has finally confirmed the long-rumoured revival of its famous 2CV and our exclusive images show what it could look like
News
23 May 2026
Car Deal of the Day: Renault 5 has retro style for under £200 a month
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Renault 5 has retro style for under £200 a month

Prices have dropped for the best-selling Renault 5, and it’s our Deal of the Day for 20 May.
News
20 May 2026
New Cupra Raval narrows price gap to Renault 5 with new EV grant discount
Auto Express senior news reporter Alastair Crooks standing next to a Cupra Raval

New Cupra Raval narrows price gap to Renault 5 with new EV grant discount

Big-battery versions of the Cupra Raval now start from just £28,500 after qualifying for Band 2 of the Electric Car Grant
News
21 May 2026