This is the Ford Ka+ Active: a small hatchback that’s been to the gym, pulled on hiking boots, and decided it rather enjoys climbing kerbs. It sits a touch higher, looks a touch tougher, and—unlike many pretend off-roaders—actually makes life better for speed bumps, multistoreys and the school run. Under the bonnet is Ford’s 1.2 Ti-VCT three-cylinder petrol with roughly 85 PS, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual. It’s not here to set lap records: 0–62 mph in about 13.5 seconds and a top speed around 105 mph. What it does do is start, go, and keep going, while costing pennies to feed. Economy is sensibly frugal, with around 43–45 mpg on the official figures and CO? near 129 g/km. Being Euro 6 petrol, it breezes into ULEZ without so much as a raised eyebrow from City Hall. Insurance sits in the calm end of the pool (group 6-ish), so premiums are civilised rather than scandalous. The “Active” bits aren’t just stickers: slightly raised ride height, chunkier body cladding, roof rails, and 15-inch alloys give it a sturdier stance. Inside there’s proper space for five and a square, useful boot of about 270 litres—big enough for buggies, big shops, or a weekend of questionable flat-pack decisions. Spec snapshot: Engine: 1.2 Ti-VCT petrol, 3-cyl, ~85 PS, 5-speed manual, FWD Performance: 0–62 mph ~13.5 s; top speed ~105 mph Economy/Emissions: ~43–45 mpg combined; ~129 g/km CO?; Euro 6; ULEZ compliant Practicality: ~3.95 m long; ~270 L boot; five proper seats Active extras: raised ride height, roof rails, protective cladding, 15-inch alloys And the bit buyers love: this example is a one-owner car from new, with no former keepers showing on the log book. In other words, a simple, well-looked-after life—exactly what you want from your next set of keys. In short: tough looks, tiny bills, proper space and zero ULEZ drama. Not a Nürburgring hero—just a cracking little all-rounder that does the boring bits brilliantly.