Review: Ford KN Laser (1999-01)

Overview

Released in March 1999, the Ford KN Laser was available as a small sedan or hatchback. Manufactured by Mazda in Japan, the Mk.5 Laser was based on the Mazda BJ 323 but differentiated by its styling. The Mk.5 Laser range initially consisted of LXi and GLXi variants, powered by 1.6- and 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engines respectively; transmission choices were a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual. In January 2001, the range was expanded by a limited-run ‘R’ variant hatchback.

Dimensions and developments

Compared to its Mk.4 predecessor, the Mk.5 Laser hatch was 34 mm longer (at 4250 mm), 5 mm narrower (1705 mm), 5 mm lower (1410 mm) and had a 5 mm longer wheelbase (2610 mm). Compared to the hatchback, the Mk.5 Laser sedan was 145 mm longer (at 4395 mm), though the other dimensions were unchanged. Furthermore, the Mk.5 Laser introduced several changes relative to its Mk.4 predecessor:

• Upgraded engines provided better fuel economy;
• The larger brakes had more rigid front calipers and higher friction brake pads for reduced fade and more progressive pedal feel;
• The chassis utilised new triple H-frames for the roof, bodysides and floor structure for greater torsional and bending rigidity and reduced chassis vibration; and,
• Changes to the front and rear suspension included stiffer lower arms, bushes and indirectly mounted stabiliser, revised damping rates for improved ride quality.

Suspension

The Mk.5 Laser had MacPherson strut front suspension and ‘quadralink’ multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the KN Laser consisted of a driver’s airbag.

Features

Standard features for the Laser LXi included a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, Mosaic cloth seat trim, a height adjustable driver’s seat and tilt adjustable steering wheel. Hatchback models also had 60/40 split and folding rear seats which could fold forward to create a flat floor.

The Laser GLXi was further equipped with Inca velour seat trim and central locking. From July 1999, the GLXi also featured remote central locking as standard.

December 1999 and February 2000 updates

In December 1999, the KN Laser range underwent a minor update with the introduction of new colour options and the LXi was fitted with central locking as standard. Interior trims were also revised as the Mosaic trim in the LXi was replaced with carousel velour inserts with plain twill borders; the GLXi, however, retained its Inca and plain velour trim.

From February 2000, KN Laser models had a new steering wheel design, chrome interior door handles, a chrome release button on the park brake and revised instrument clusters with ‘sports design’ dials.

2001 Ford Laser R

In January 2001, a limited-run Laser R variant was released. Compared to the LXi, the R variant featured 15-inch alloy wheels and a six-stack CD player; the R could also be identified by its large bore chrome exhaust tip, ‘R’ decals and body kit which included a front air dam, rear bumper extension, high mounted spoiler, rocker mouldings and front bumper mesh inserts.

Review: Ford KQ Laser (2001-02)

Overview

Released in April 2001, the KQ Laser introduced an expanded range, several engineering upgrades and a subtle visual updates. The LXi and GLXi variants continued, though sports-themed SR and SR2 variants – solely available as hatchbacks – were added; these models were positioned above the GLXi with respect to features.

The engineering upgrades included greater body rigidity, improved suspension mounting systems and resin foam inserts at the top of the B-pillars for improved occupant protection and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. Visually, the KQ Laser could be identified by its new grille with chrome moulding, new headlights, revised tail lights and refreshed interiors.

Safety equipment

Compared to its KN predecessor, standard safety equipment for the Laser GLXi was extended to include a front passenger airbag, such that the GLXi, SR and SR2 all had dual front airbags. The Laser SR2 was also fitted with ABS.

Features

Standard features for the Laser LXi and GLXi were extended to include a CD player and immobiliser; the GLXi also received power windows and mirrors.

Compared to the GLXi, the SR was fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels and a sports body kit as per the limited-run Laser R. The SR2 featured 16-inch alloy wheels and front fog lights; inside, the SR2 was also differentiated by its white instrument set, all-black interior trim, amber illumination of the audio system and silver centre panel surrounding the sound system.

Cessation of imports

Imports of the Mk.5 Laser were discontinued in August 2002; the Laser was ultimately replaced by the Mk.1 Focus which was released in October 2002.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Ford Mk.5 Laser

Recalls: Ford Mk.5 Laser

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Ford Mk.5 Laser

• In January 2001, a recall was issued for Ford KN Lasers due to possible damage to the surface of the left-hand rear flexible brake hose – if left unattended, this could potentially result in brake failure (PRA 2001/4622).
• In February 2001, a recall was issued for KN Lasers due to the compliance plate being stamped with the incorrect date format for February 2001 (PRA 2001/4649).

Problems and faults: Ford Mk.5 Laser

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Ford Mk.5 Laser

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Ford Mk.5 Laser.

Released in March 1999, the Ford KN Laser was available as a small sedan or hatchback. Manufactured by Mazda in Japan, the Mk.5 Laser was based on the Mazda BJ 323 but differentiated by its styling. The Mk.5 Laser range initially consisted of LXi and GLXi variants, powered by 1.6- and 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engines respectively; transmission choices were a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual. In January 2001, the range was expanded by a limited-run ‘R’ variant hatchback… Read full Ford Mk.5 Laser review

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Images: Ford KQ Laser (2001-02)

Released in April 2001, the Ford KQ Laser introduced an expanded range, several engineering upgrades and a subtle visual updates. The Laser LXi and GLXi continued, though sports-themed SR and SR2 variants – solely available as hatchbacks – were added; these models were positioned above the GLXi with respect to features. The KQ Laser could be identified by its new grille with chrome moulding, new headlights, revised tail lights and refreshed interiors.

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