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Behind the wheel Ford Puma
THE new Ford Puma shares a lot with the latest Fiesta but comes with an all-new look that sets it apart from most other Fords. It joins the Kuga, Edge and Ecosport in the SUV/ crossover line-up for the American brand in the UK, but will it be as successful as its larger siblings?
Although the name isn’t new, pretty much all of this car is. Unlike the supermini it’s based on, the Puma will be offered with mild-hybrid powertrains from launch – with the Fiesta receiving one later this year.
There are also segment-first features, such as the option of a hands-free tailgate and massage seats. The Puma also gets a series of sensors, radars and cameras to facilitate Ford’s range of Co-Pilot360 driver assists.
The new Local Hazard Information system is also included in the Ford Connect service, which warns drivers of any disruptions and hazards along their journey. But we also have to mention the innovative storage solutions, with an 80-litre box integrated under the boot floor, which comes with a removable plug so you can wash items and let the water out afterwards.
We exclusively tested the new mild-hybrid petrol systems, based on the 1.0-litre, threecylinder EcoBoost petrol engine. Paired to a 48V battery setup, customers have the option of 123bhp and 153bhp outputs.
Even with the electrical support, the engine remains very characterful, with it happy to rev well over 3,000rpm and pull you along nicely. But when you decide to settle down into a cruise, it feels smooth and doesn’t make a lot of noise. The six-speed manual gearbox can be notchy at times, but on the whole, it’s a smooth partner for the powertrain. A seven-speed automatic is joining the line-up later this year, though.
The electrical assistance will also make a big difference in terms of fuel usage. Ford says these units will come with cylinder deactivation to help reduce your fuel bill and it claims figures of 51.3mpg and 126g/ km CO2 – not bad for a small crossover. But creating a potential dilemma for customers is the fact a diesel unit is on the way, which is set to be even kinder on your wallet than the top-end petrol mild-hybrid.
To contextualise our driving impressions, we tried the Puma on smooth Spanish roads, and it handled them superbly.
With the larger alloys on our ST-Line X model, we didn’t feel too many bumps in the road being transferred into the cabin and it felt settled almost everywhere. There is a lack of feel through the steering wheel and it isn’t the most engaging car in the world, but it certainly isn’t a bad car to drive.
That said, the front end always feels secure, even on twistier roads, and even though it’s a larger vehicle than the Fiesta overall, body roll was handled just as excellently thanks to the sports-tuned suspension.
We also have to say that even though there were Eco and Sport drive modes – as well as Trail and Slippery options – there was only a small difference between them, so you’re better off leaving it in Normal.
Ford has managed to put itself towards the forefront of the compact end of the segment. The Puma is practical, comfortable and on the whole, good to drive.