In 2019, Ford rolled out a controversial decision to reintroduce the Puma as an SUV to fulfil growing consumer demand. Ford’s original response was the EcoSport which, though popular, is pretty bog-standard. Its boxier, outdated image leaves much to be desired. Meanwhile, the more curvaceous, thickset Puma looks to provide worthy competition against such rivals as the Captur. T-Cross and Juke. In this article, we discuss how it’s likely to perform in 2020.
The 2020 Ford Puma Design
The Puma’s owns the appearance of a beefed-up Fiesta-Kuga cross-over. It is produced on the same platform as the Fiesta, which makes it shorter and lower as an SUV – a decidedly popular decision, as competition is limited in the B-segment SUV market.
It is also wider, taller and more brawny than a Fiesta, and miles away from it’s Puma predecessor, mainly in the fact that it is not a sports car. It stands out.
It’s spacious, comfortable and wholly convenient. The boot offers over 450L of capacity, and its absence of lip makes loading a breeze. Under the boot floor is yet more storage space.
The 2020 Ford Puma Driving Performance
Each Puma is suited and booted with a turbocharged 1L 3-cylinder MHEV engine offering 123bhp (153bhp in the bigger models) and a six-speed gearbox. It sounds pretty dainty as engines go, but the Fiesta ST is living, breathing proof that a three-cylinder engine is more than enough to make a laudable impact on the road. The Puma is a mild-hybrid which means it stores energy into a small on-board battery through regenerative braking. Just this touch of added electric power assistance means the 2020’s Ford Puma will reduce the amount of fuel consumed.
The Puma is also incredibly economical, reaching 40mpg is easy. In Eco drive mode it will reach well into the 50s (Ford claims it should achieve 58.9mpg).
The 2020 Ford Puma Interior Styling
In this area, the Puma does its best to compete against more luxurious competitors while maintaining to Ford’s straightforward, simplistic but reliable standard. The central infotainment system and digital dashboard are really cool features that show how it meets current aesthetic and technological expectations. On the other hand, the slightly plasticky feel takes away from the limited sense of quality. In this sense, the Puma remains true to interior styling similar to more generic Ford models.
It is fair to say, you get your money’s worth. The 8” display that boasts built-in nav, and the ability to host both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto shows how the Puma meets B-Sector SUV quality standards nicely. Meanwhile, in the more advanced Puma models, such as the ST-Line up, you have the option of ACC (adaptive cruise control), a decent digital instrument cluster and wireless charging pad. To demonstrate the Puma’s ability to combine both styling and safety, there’s the additional option of LED projector headlights and a variety of advanced driver assistance functions.
Cost Of The New Ford Puma
The first deliveries of the Puma began in February 2020, and the starting cost for a basic model is a thrifty £20,545. The more luxurious ST-Line X begins at £22,895. On the other hand, if you reserve judgement, but fancy use out of a practical, affordable and reliable SUV of smaller stature, leasing provides a very viable option. If you would like to view the best leasing deals on the market for a brand new Ford Puma, click here!