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

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,435Avg. savings £6,248 off RRP*Used from £10,760
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,390Avg. savings £8,402 off RRP*Used from £25,197
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,020Avg. savings £3,308 off RRP*Used from £22,250
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,805Avg. savings £4,806 off RRP*Used from £6,390
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Citroen 2CV: the French £13k EV city car is sticking to retro styling
New Citroen 2CV teaser - headlight

New Citroen 2CV: the French £13k EV city car is sticking to retro styling

New budget-focused EV will closely follow the design of the original 2CV
News
5 Oct 2026
It’s hard to see how the Jaguar Type 01 will be a huge success
Rutherford Jaguar Type 01

It’s hard to see how the Jaguar Type 01 will be a huge success

Mike Rutherford warns that the majority of new car buyers do not go for big, expensive saloon cars such as the latest Jag
Opinion
5 Oct 2026
Car Deal of the Day: a Nissan Micra for a micro £183 a month
Nissan Micra - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: a Nissan Micra for a micro £183 a month

Renault 5’s sister is far more affordable, but is just as fun to drive. It’s our Deal of the Day for 6 October.
News
6 Oct 2026