Ford Aspire
 | It has been suggested that this article be merged into Kia Avella. (Discuss) Proposed since November 2008. |
| Ford Aspire | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Kia Motors |
| Also called | Kia Avella Ford Festiva |
| Production | 1994–1997 |
| Assembly | Seoul, South Korea |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Subcompact |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.3L 63 hp I4 |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | Template:Auto in (2-door) Template:Auto in (4-door) |
| Length | 2-Door: Template:Auto in 4-Door: Template:Auto in |
| Width | 1997: Template:Auto in 1994–96 2-Door: Template:Auto in 1994–96 4-Door: Template:Auto in |
| Height | Template:Auto in |
| Curb weight | 2,004 lb (909 kg) (2-door) 2,053 lb (931 kg) (4-door) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Ford Festiva |
The Ford Aspire was the second-generation of the Ford Festiva subcompact car sold by Ford Motor Company in the US and Canada from 1994 to 1997. The Aspire was available as a three- or five-door hatchback. The vehicles were manufactured by Kia Motors in South Korea with engine and components made by Mazda of Japan, and they were also marketed as the Kia Avella in Asia and the Ford Festiva in Japan and the Australasia region.
The Ford Aspire was the first car in its class (in North America) to have standard dual air bags and optional 4-wheel ABS [citation needed]. An SE model available from 1994-1995 included a blue-faced gauge package with a tachometer, a rear spoiler, alloy wheels, fog lights,upgraded interior, and "SE" badging.
In 1997, the Aspire received a new oval grille, rounded headlamps, and other minor changes. This was the last year for North American sales.
The Aspire was replaced in Kia's lineup by the Kia Rio, which was sold under its own name (until replaced by a Hyundai-based car of the same name) because the Ford-Kia-Mazda relationship had ended.
Popular culture
A Green Ford Aspire was used in the movie "Be Kind, Rewind" when recreating "Ghostbusters". A Red Ford Aspire appeared in "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" when Dee bought a new car. It was later stolen by a hitch hiker they picked up. In the movie "Cellular", a white security Ford Aspire was used by the main character for a short time after the school kidnapping.
References
External links
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