In this review…
A truly great car is able to do it all, and the new Ford Puma is a prime example of that. Launched in 2019, the subcompact crossover is based heavily on the inimitable Ford Fiesta.
Small crossovers are sometimes criticised for having a reliable yet thrill-less drive, but with Ford bulking up one of the best hot hatchbacks on the road, the Puma and the Ford Puma ST Line are recipes for success that offer excitement and comfort. Now, the American carmaker has updated the model with a new Ford Puma that fully embraces hybrid technology.
The Puma is just one of many crossover SUVs it has to contend with, including the Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur. Stiff competition, but with the improvements laid over the top of an already-winning formula, the Puma pounces ahead of them all.
Body & Interior
In line with modern design trends, the bodywork on both the Ford Puma and Ford Puma ST Line is notably less angular than previous Ford models, with a flowing, plump shape that is far easier on the eye. Couple this with the front, which features charmingly large headlights and a more refined grill, and you’re left with an SUV crossover that is incredibly easy on the eye.
Inside, you’ll be welcomed by a mixture of new tech to feast your eyes on. Depending on the trim package you go for, you’re supplied with adaptive cruise control, an intelligent speed limiter, and more. This technological upgrade even improves the safety of the car, as the always-on internet connection enables the car to send a warning message to other drivers in the event of you skidding off the road, crashing or breaking down. Provided that the other cars are also always-online, this could prevent further accidents from occurring.
Drive & Trims
What will knock you off your feet is how dynamic the driving is in this 1.3-tonne SUV. The crown jewel of the new Ford Puma is the engine, a mild-hybrid with a turbocharger to bring 155bhp to your foot. Many do have reservations about turbochargers because of the occasionally reduced throttle response, However, Ford has ingeniously used the electric motor to handle the initial lift-off to restore and even improve on that thrill of instant momentum. It’s indicative of the Ford Puma’s M.O. – a fun driving experience is placed squarely at the centre.
In terms of trims, one stands head and shoulders above the rest: the Ford Puma ST-Line is a revelation. Ford has transformed the base model into sporty yet comfortable trim that is rarely found in models with this body style. Bolting on a daring body styling kit, sports suspension and 17” bespoke alloy wheels, it’s a top-to-bottom performance upgrade that will change the way you see the Ford Puma completely. With the sporting potential it’s already showing in a few short years, it’s no wonder Ford is entering the Puma into the World Rally Championship this year.
What’s the Final Verdict on the Ford Puma?
It’s crystal clear why the public has become so enamoured with the Ford Puma, and the latest iteration improves on those strengths. From the city streets to the country roads, the Puma gleefully traverses it all without any qualms. Taking into account its cunning use of space, generous smart features and use of hybrid tech to its advantage, the Puma is one of Ford’s finest achievements.
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