There’s a lot to like about latest Kuga

FOLLOWING a slow start, the Kuga SUV has been one of Ford’s best-selling models for a while now.

The latest generation is bigger than before with a whole new styling direction, and perhaps most importantly, a commitment to electrified powertrains from a brand that has lagged somewhat behind rivals in this department.

The plug-in hybrid variant we’re testing here is a pretty big deal, then, thanks to lower running costs from a car that buyers already seem to love.

The hybrid powertrain uses a 2.5-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor and generator that are powered by a 14.4kWh battery.

This provides a decent, usable electric-only range of 35 miles, so you could get away with rarely even using the petrol engine.

It makes a total of 222bhp with a top speed of 125mph.

Fuel economy figures are pretty wild at 202mpg, but only if you’re regularly topping up the batteries and only taking short trips is that a possibility, though we saw economy figures in the 60s during mixed driving.

Meanwhile, the CO2 emissions are low, at just 32g/km.

There’s a lot to like about the Kuga, but the way it drives is its weak point.

As we’ve come to expect from Ford products, it handles well, doing a good job of restraining its heft in corners, while also not being intimidating to drive around town thanks to the smooth and responsive electric motor.

However, there are quite a few negative aspects to the driving experience, such as the bizarre, rubbery self-centring of the steering wheel as you turn – something common to Fords but most prominent in the Kuga. The Ford Kuga PHEV is so close to being great.

Its styling is sleek and unimposing, the interior is well made and spacious, and the electrified portion of its powertrain makes for a relaxing, effortless driving experience.