Ford Aspire I (North America) photos

The Ford Aspire debuted in 1994 as the successor to the Ford Festiva subcompact hatchback. Designed for the North American market, the vehicle was produced in South Korea by Kia based on the Mazda WB platform. Available in three-door and five-door hatchback body styles, it featured rounded bio-design styling typical of Ford models from the early 1990s. Buyers could choose between base trim levels and sportier SE trims equipped with upgraded features.

Power came from a 1.3-liter Mazda B3 inline-four gasoline engine producing 63 hp. The engine was paired with either a five-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. The model was notably the first in its class to offer standard dual front airbags and optional anti-lock brakes (ABS). In 1997, the Aspire received a minor facelift with revised front grilles and bumpers before production ended.