Smarter way to travel
Clever hybrid engineering, a more stylish design and greater on-board technology give the new Ford Kuga added appeal, says GILES BLAIR
THE latest Ford Kuga is a far more sophisticated beast than its predecessor.
Not only does the blue oval badge marque’s family SUV have a more curvaceous yet dynamic design, it is also offered with a smooth plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The third-generation model I had on test featured this impressive unit with the high-end Vignale trim – which is something of a winning combination.
The technology under the bonnet combines a batterypowered electric motor with a 2.5-litre petrol engine to deliver a combined output of 225PS.
A button on the centre console gives a choice of four power modes – all-electric EV Now, petrol-driven EV Later, EV Auto that seamlessly uses both and EV Charge that uses the engine to recharge the hybrid battery while you drive.
The system, driving the front wheels, is mated to a very effective CVT eight-speed automatic gearbox operated by an upmarket-looking rotary dial.
Another switch offers five drive modes – normal, sport, eco, slippery and deep snow/sand – that alter acceleration, steering and handling systems to provide optimum control.
I thoroughly enjoyed a weekend run from Glasgow to Dumfries and back to hook up with some pals, who were impressed by the Vignale’s quality.
I found the Kuga had great road manners whether driving normally around town, cruising along the motorway in eco mode or gunning along the back roads in the sport setting.
The steering felt nicely weighted, the braking was smooth and efficient, and the car felt firmly planted even on some rutted surfaces – the under-floor battery pack probably helping the sense of stability.
This PHEV can travel up to 35 miles using electricity alone at speeds of up to 85mph, while the powerplant’s top speed is 125mph, with a 0-62mph time of 9.2 seconds.
In theory, it can manage 256.8mpg, which equates to tailpipe emissions of 25g/km. In everyday use, the test car’s figure was given as 50.4mpg, with a CO2 level of 128g/km.
A full recharge takes about 3.5 hours from a domestic wallbox charger and six hours from a domestic socket.
I like the less angular look of the new Kuga, which resembles its smaller Puma sibling, with a deep grille and more rounded headlights.
But the Vignale body styling kit means there are plenty of striking features. These include the great use of sweeping chrome detailing, 19in bright nickel alloys, a suave roof-level rear spoiler and two large, shiny, exhaust pipes.
The interior is equally upmarket, with high-quality, perforated, leather seats that hold you firmly in place – and they are heated front and back.
I also appreciated the faux leather steering wheel and instrument panel, as well as the wood-grain effect finish around the cabin.
There is ample space for four or even five adults inside and rear sliding seats mean you should be able to accommodate both the kids and the holiday luggage fairly easily. I’m a big fan of the Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system, too.
Its easy-to-use, three-way-split, eight-inch colour touchscreen, full smartphone integration and clear, intelligent sat nav are a joy.
It also incorporates wi-fi connectivity for up to 10 devices, a premium B&O sound system and a fully digital, customisable 12.3in instrument cluster.
Creature comforts include keyless entry and start, hands-free powered tailgate, auto lights (including high beam) and wipers, dual-zone automatic air con and wireless phone charging pad.
Other aids run to auto hold, cruise control with speed limiter, lane keep assist, an anti-collision system, front and rear parking sensors, as well as a reversing camera.
I would add the £1100 optional Driver’s Assistance Pack with front camera, adaptive cruise control with sign recognition, blind spot alert, driver impairment monitor and active park assist.
But anyway you look at it, this Kuga, priced from £39,305 on the road, gives rival PHEVs a real run for their money.