These are the first...

These are the first official images of the all-new Ford Ka тЂ“ and itтЂ™s set to shake up the booming city car sector when it hits showrooms in January.

Due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October, the newcomer has a tough act to follow. The original Ka, now in its 12th year, has cemented itself as a modern classic. A total of 1.4 million have been sold, with more than 480,000 finding UK homes, and Ford is confident this new model can repeat that success.

So it needs to be good тЂ“ and itтЂ™s off to a fine start! The blue ovalтЂ™s smallest car is based on the impressive Fiat 500. Add to that the team of engineers behind the sublime handling of the Focus, and all the ingredients are in place to send the Ka straight to the top of the class. It will certainly be capable in corners, with quick steering and suspension settings biased towards handling.

A stylish shape honed courtesy of FordтЂ™s kinetic design language masks the new KaтЂ™s increased dimensions, which give it more space plus better ergonomics. There are obvious styling nods to the imminent Fiesta, too, including raked headlights and a bold crease rising towards the tail-lamps.

Inside, the dash takes inspiration from the Fiesta, too, flowing down into a sweeping centre console that incorporates the gearlever. High-spec models will get levels of kit previously unseen on cars in this class.

Engineers have worked hard to ensure the KaтЂ™s ergonomics are class leading, so all the major controls are set high, close to the height and reach-adjustable wheel.

At launch, three engines are expected to be available, all mated to a five-speed box. There are 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrols with outputs of 63bhp and 100bhp, and the 75bhp 1.3-litre Multijet diesel from the Fiat 500. An ECOnetic version will follow later in 2009, promising 80mpg-plus economy. Ford will release more details on the Ka closer to the Paris expo.