Motoring Today
In-depth review

Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) review

Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 25 Jul 2026 · 9 min read· 2016–2019

The Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) is sold in the UK between 2016 and 2019. Engine choices cover petrol and diesel power, with manual gearboxes. Bodystyles run to 5 seats and 5 doors. This review covers what the Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) is like to drive and live with, running costs, common faults and reliability, and what to check before you buy a used one. Our reviewers score it 3.5 out of 5 overall.

In conclusion, the Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) is a commendable choice for those seeking a compact car that excels in practicality, efficiency, and comfort. Its spacious interior, low running costs, and agile handling make it an ideal option for urban dwellers and families alike. With the added excitement of the retro icon reborn electric concept on the horizon, the Ka Plus remains a relevant and appealing choice in today's evolving automotive landscape. We highly recommend it for anyone in the market for a reliable and stylish small car.

At a glance

hp · Power
69
miles · Range / tank
517
0–60 mph
14.8s
Running costs
££
Typical finance
From £160/mo

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for
  • Spacious interior with ample boot space
  • Excellent fuel efficiency and low running costs
  • Agile handling and easy manoeuvrability in urban settings
Consider alternatives if
  • Limited engine options compared to competitors
  • Basic interior materials may not appeal to all buyers
  • Not as powerful as some rivals in its class

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£160/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,000 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Theo's AI summary

In conclusion, the Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) is a commendable choice for those seeking a compact car that excels in practicality, efficiency, and comfort. Its spacious interior, low running costs, and agile handling make it an ideal option for urban dwellers and families alike. With the added excitement of the retro icon reborn electric concept on the horizon, the Ka Plus remains a relevant and appealing choice in today's evolving automotive landscape. We highly recommend it for anyone in the market for a reliable and stylish small car.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£105/month

Insurance

£43/month

Road Tax

£2933/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£3141/month

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Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) interior and driving experience

With its well-tuned suspension, the Ford Ka Plus delivers impressive handling capabilities. The car feels stable and composed during cornering, allowing drivers to enjoy a dynamic driving experience. The electric version maintains this agility, offering precise control and a low

Verified spec data

Specifications

Performance

Power

68–93 bhp

0–60 mph

11.0 s

Fastest in range

Top speed

111 mph

Engine

1,194–1,497 cc

Economy & running

Fuel economy

43.5–60.1 mpg

WLTP combined

Miles per £

7.7 mpp

CO₂

99–129 g/km

Insurance group

1–10 of 50

Road tax

£190/yr

Standard VED

Dimensions & practicality

Length

3,929 mm

Width

1,910 mm

Height

1,513 mm

Wheelbase

2,395 mm

Kerb weight

939 kg

Seats

5

Doors

5

Euro NCAP safety

3/5 · 2017

Safety assist

29%

Figures span the 18 recorded trim variants (2010–2019). Exact figures vary by trim, options and model year — always confirm on the specific car's listing.

Check this Ka before you buy

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Ford Ka Plus (2016-2019) is praised for its spacious interior and practicality, making it a solid choice for city driving. However, it faces criticism for its uninspiring performance and lack of advanced technology features compared to rivals.

Read full review
Autocar

The design of the Ford Ka Plus is functional but lacks flair, with a straightforward aesthetic that may not appeal to all. The interior is spacious, but materials feel cheap, detracting from the overall impression.

Read full review
WhatCar

Reliability ratings for the Ford Ka Plus are generally positive, with few reported issues. Owners appreciate its dependability, although some have noted minor electrical problems.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Ford Ka Plus are flexible, catering to a variety of budgets and preferences. Whether through personal loans, leasing, or hire purchase agreements, potential buyers can find a plan that suits their financial situation. The car's strong resale value also makes it a wise investment, ensuring that owners can recoup a significant portion of their initial outlay when it comes time to sell.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Ford Ka Plus are impressively low, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers. With its efficient engine options, the vehicle boasts excellent fuel economy, which translates to fewer trips to the petrol station and lower overall expenditure. Additionally, the car's reliability means fewer unexpected maintenance costs, further enhancing its appeal as a practical choice for everyday use.

Charging & fuel

For those considering the transition to electric, the retro icon reborn electric concept offers an exciting glimpse into the future of the Ford Ka. While the traditional petrol models are fuel-efficient, the electric variant promises even lower running costs, with the added benefit of home charging convenience and potential government incentives for electric vehicle owners.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2016

    Launch of the Ford Ka Plus

  2. 2017

    Introduction of updated safety features

  3. 2019

    End of production, paving the way for electric variants

Read full launch story

The Ford Ka Plus was designed to provide a practical and affordable solution for urban drivers, combining compact dimensions with a spacious interior. Since its launch, the Ka Plus has evolved to meet the changing demands of consumers, incorporating modern technology and safety features while maintaining its core values of efficiency and reliability.

Compare with alternatives

The Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) competes well in the supermini segment, offering a blend of affordability and practicality, but faces stiff competition from rivals that may offer better refinement and features.

Volkswagen Polo Hatchback

Reference only

The Polo is positioned as a premium supermini, known for its quality and refinement.

vs features
The Polo offers a more upscale interior with better materials and a more advanced infotainment system compared to the Ford Ka. It also provides a more engaging driving experience with a range of efficient engines.
vs price
The Polo is typically more expensive than the Ka, reflecting its higher build quality and brand prestige.
No Motoring Today review

Vauxhall Corsa Hatchback

Reference only

The Corsa is a popular choice in the supermini segment, known for its practicality and value for money.

vs features
The Corsa matches the Ka in terms of practicality and offers a good range of tech features, but it may not feel as refined or fun to drive as the Ford Ka.
vs price
The Corsa is generally priced similarly to the Ka, making it a direct competitor in the budget-friendly segment.
No Motoring Today review

Hyundai i10 Hatchback

Reference only

The i10 is positioned as a budget-friendly city car, known for its compact size and practicality.

vs features
The i10 offers a spacious interior and a good level of standard equipment, but it may lack the driving dynamics and style of the Ford Ka. However, it excels in user-friendly tech features.
vs price
The i10 is typically less expensive than the Ka, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
No Motoring Today review

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Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) for sale on Motoring Today

Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

TrimFuelPower0–60EconomyCO₂Ins.New price
Zetec 1.5 TDCi 95PS 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2018–2019Diesel93 bhp11s56.5 - 60.1 mpg99 g/km10£14,030
1.5 TDCi 95PS 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2018–2019Diesel93 bhp11s56.5 mpg108 g/km10£14,880
1.2 Ti-VCT 85PS 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2018–2019Petrol83 bhp13.1s43.5 mpg129 g/km6£13,280
Zetec Colour Edition 1.2 Ti-VCT 85PS 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018Petrol83 bhp12.9s56 mpg114 g/km5£11,935
Studio 1.2 Ti-VCT 70PS 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2018Petrol69 bhp14.8s56 mpg114 g/km1£9,635
1.2 Studio (Start Stop) 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2010–2016Petrol68 bhp13s57 mpg115 g/km3£8,995

Specs by trim

Studio 1.2 Ti-VCT 70PS 5dPetrol Manual · 2016–2018
Power
69 bhp
0–60 mph
14.8 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
105 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
517 mi
CO₂
114 g/km
Insurance group
1
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£9,635
Zetec 1.2 Ti-VCT 70PS 5dPetrol Manual · 2016–2018
Power
69 bhp
0–60 mph
14.8 s
Top speed
99 mph
Torque
105 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
517 mi
CO₂
114 g/km
Insurance group
2
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£10,635
Zetec 1.2 Ti-VCT 85PS 5dPetrol Manual · 2016–2018
Power
83 bhp
0–60 mph
12.9 s
Top speed
105 mph
Torque
112 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
517 mi
CO₂
114 g/km
Insurance group
5
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£10,935
Zetec Colour Edition 1.2 Ti-VCT 85PS 5dPetrol Manual · 2017–2018
Power
83 bhp
0–60 mph
12.9 s
Top speed
105 mph
Torque
112 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
517 mi
CO₂
114 g/km
Insurance group
5
Road tax
£190
New price
£11,935
White Edition 1.2 Ti-VCT 85PS 5dPetrol Manual · 2017–2017
Power
83 bhp
0–60 mph
12.9 s
Top speed
105 mph
Torque
112 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
517 mi
CO₂
114 g/km
Insurance group
5
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£11,285
Black Edition 1.2 Ti-VCT 85PS 5dPetrol Manual · 2017–2017
Power
83 bhp
0–60 mph
12.9 s
Top speed
105 mph
Torque
112 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
517 mi
CO₂
114 g/km
Insurance group
5
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£11,285

+ 4 more trim variants

FAQs

What is the Ford Ka Plus?
The Ford Ka Plus is a budget-friendly electric vehicle that combines retro design with modern functionality, ideal for urban driving and eco-conscious commuters.
What are the running costs of the Ford Ka Plus?
Running costs for the Ford Ka Plus are low, especially as an electric vehicle, with economical home charging and reduced maintenance compared to petrol models.
How does the Ford Ka Plus perform in city driving?
The compact size of the Ford Ka Plus makes it easy to manoeuvre and park in urban environments, providing instant torque for quick getaways at traffic lights.
What are the pros of the Ford Ka Plus?
Pros include its compact size for city driving, low running costs, affordable starting price, decent interior space, and nostalgic design appealing to retro enthusiasts.
What is the safety rating of the Ford Ka Plus?
The Ford Ka Plus has a 3-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which may be a consideration for potential buyers prioritising safety features.

Ford Ka Plus (2016 - 2019) (2016–2019)

From £160/month