Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire

Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire is the battle between two of the hottest compact sedans. The compact sedan segment is one of the quickest growing in India. A high sales potential and the lure of raking in huge profits have attracted the attention of key manufacturers. But as leading brands have found out, pleasing compact sedan buyers can be tough. Only Maruti with their hugely successful DZire has hit the high sales mark on a consistent basis. The rest have either settled for a distant second, or are struggling after the post-launch demand fizzled out. The Ford Figo Aspire is the newest entrant in the segment and we spent some time in both cars to see how it fares against the segment leader. 

Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire Exterior

The four-metre length restriction poses a huge challenge to designers. Not only do they have to seat five passengers and their luggage, but they also have to ensure that the car must look on the outside while doing so. Any compromises here and sales are likely to falter, as some manufacturers have found out. The recent facelift notwithstanding, the DZire’s looks are still a major sore point for those that care. Most buyers however, buy it for the reliability and service support signified by the S-badge sitting prominently at the front and back of the car. It now sports a single-slat grille at the front, while the boot-integration is still as disjointed as ever. The side profile till the C-pillar is similar to that of the Swift-hatchback. The Figo Aspire in comparison is a stunner. Ford’s designers gave it the signature-trapezoidal grille with chrome detailing, swept back headlamps and a power-bulge on the bonnet, making it look muscular from the front. A sloping roof meets a taut shoulder line giving it a well-proportioned look in profile that’s infinitely better than the DZire. Things get a little plain at the back, with petal-shaped taillights and the chrome strip running between them, being the talking points. The stubby boot is visually awkward, and on par for the segment, but better in comparison than the rest, the DZire included. Thus, it is advantage Figo Aspire in the styling segment.

Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire Interior

Stepping inside the Figo Aspire’s cabin leaves you with a familiar feeling. The infotainment console and the steering have been borrowed from the EcoSport. Dual-tone trim options with a dominance of beige give the Aspire’s cabin a bright and cheery feeling. There is plenty of storage in the cabin and Ford have ensured safety by offering twin-airbags across all variants. The top-end Titanium+ variant that we tested had six airbags in total, together with ABS & EBD as standard. There is ample legroom at the back too. The 359-litre boot in the Aspire is also 40-litres larger than the DZire. From push-button start, to the well-cushioned seating, the DZire’s cabin is a lesson in passenger comfort. Interior fit-and-finish levels are quite high and the faux-wood strip running along the length of the dual-tone dashboard give it a very premium feel. Over the years, Indian car buyers have evolved from being price and fuel-consumption sensitive, to also considering features and interior comfort in their buying decisions. Thus, both cars are evenly placed here, with the Aspire earning scoring for features and safety, while the DZire comes out on top for high finish levels, a well-appointed cabin and comfortable seating.

Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire Engine

The DZire’s engine though lower in specs at 74bhp and 190Nm torque, remains a competent performer. Turbo-lag is evident below 2000rpm. Gearshifts are better though and make for a smooth driving experience. With power and torque figures of 100 bhp and 215 Nm respectively, the Aspire’s engine is the most powerful in the segment. Drivability is excellent with torque starting from a low 1,750 rpm and performance is a breeze with the well-matched gearing. Turbo-lag is non-existent and there is a steady surge of power throughout the rpm range. Heavy insulation also makes the cabin one of the quietest on the move. So it is advantage Aspire on the engine front.

When it comes to ride and handling, both cars do a marvellous job at soaking up undulations over bumpy and broken roads. The Dzire is slightly better in the city, going over potholes with a mature thud. Out on the highway, the Aspire holds a slight edge over the Dzire. The Aspire rolls more than expected thanks to a soft suspension setup and those puny-looking 14-inch wheels. It isn’t a car for those looking for the ‘Ford’ handling found on previous offerings.

Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire Mileage

In terms of fuel-efficiency, both cars are evenly matched, with the Figo Aspire returning 16.5 km/l regularly while the DZire gives about 16.2 km/l. Pricing wise too, things aren’t that different. The Maruti DZire comes in at INR 9 Lakhs for the top end, ZDI trim. The Figo Aspire is priced slightly higher, at INR 9.5 Lakhs for the range topping Titanium+ trim.

Ford Figo Aspire vs Maruti DZire Price

At that price, the DZire is worthy of a buy only because you value the Suzuki badge it wears and the unmatched service network of Maruti. The Figo Aspire offers a higher powered engine, a spacious and better-appointed cabin and superior safety kit. The brilliant design and the fact that many of the features offered are not just best-in-class, but are also segment firsts, only go on to sweeten the deal. Besides, Ford’s service network is equally wide, with most major cities and towns being supported and road-side assistance taking care of the rest. The DZire is the clear winner and our recommendation even though Figo Aspire looks wee bit better package.