Ford Kuga review
By Motor Match • 11/10/2023
The Kuga is now one of Ford's models available with a range of electrified powertrains, but is it worth considering?
What is it?
With the recent demise of one of Britain’s best-selling cars, the Fiesta, it’s clear that the blue oval is making way for a change in its vehicle line-up. By 2030, every new Ford will be electric, but in the meantime, the company will offer a variety of alternative options with their mild, regular and plug-in hybrids.
This includes the Kuga, which is now Ford’s largest SUV in the UK, and sits above the best-selling Puma (currently the UK’s most popular car).
What’s new?
The new Kuga has a vast amount of new features, the biggest of which is that it’s now offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Now in its third-generation, the Kuga offers a more modern exterior design and re-designed interior. It also has an array of the latest driver assistance features too, and plenty of the latest in-car technology.
What’s under the bonnet?
Under the bonnet, there is a choice of three powertrains, the entry level 1.5-litre petrol with 148bhp, a 2.5-litre full hybrid with 187bhp and the 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid with 222bhp.
The plug-in hybrid model combines its petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack. It’s reasonably briisk, giving a 0-60mph time of nine seconds and a top speed of 125mph.
The most impressive feature about the plug-in hybrid however is its economy. Ford claims that the Kuga plug-in hybrid can achieve 39 miles on battery power alone when fully charged, while only taking 3.5 hours to charge fully from a home charger.
Ford also claims that with CO2 figures as low as 23g/km and a combined 282mpg, the Kuga plug-in hybrid is the ideal counterpart for long journeys and company car drivers.
What’s it like to drive?
Even though the Kuga plug-in hybrid is only offered with one transmission, a CVT automatic, the driving experience is rather surprising. This is one of Ford’s first plug-in hybrid attempts, but the torque from the electric motor offers plenty of grunt low down, and the transition from when the engine takes over from the electric motors is done in a very smooth operation with very little hesitation.
The extra weight from the batteries doesn’t defeat the Kuga around the corners either. The Kuga plug-in hybrid handles well, with minimal body roll and stability at higher speeds.
ST-Line models do offer an even sportier setup with stiffer springs, which can affect the ride, and make it a bit fidgety at speeds. But the overall efficiency of the Kuga is where it stands out, with over 30 miles of range easily achievable on electric power and 50mpg on petrol power in the real world.
How does it look?
In a world full of SUVs, the Kuga does have its work cut out when it comes to standing out from the crowd. But, if you go for an ST-Line model, it comes with painted wheel arches and sportier bumper designs to give it that more dynamic look.
Overall though, the Kuga is no doubt not mistaken for a Ford with its wide Aston Martin look alike front grille and wraparound front headlights.
What’s it like inside?
Unlike its counterpart, the third-generation Kuga’s interior has been cleaned up with a more minimalist design. A new digital instrument cluster gives it a more modern touch with a clear 12.3-inch screen, while instead of the Sony head unit is a more modern eight-inch touchscreen system.
Another benefit especially with the plug-in hybrid version is that boot space has stayed the same as the conventionally powered Kuga. A few of the Kuga’s rivals that offer a plug-in variant lose a bit of their luggage space due to intrusion for the battery packs, but there is no issue here with the Ford.
What’s the spec like?
The range consists of six trim levels, Titanium, ST-Line, ST-Line X, Black Package, Graphite tech and Vignale. Prices for the base Titanium start at £32,680 and rise to £40,155 for the top spec Vignale plug-in hybrid.
However in order to have the plug-in hybrid you have to choose from the ST-Line or above which start at £37,755.
ST-Line cars come as standard with a body-styling kit, large rear spoiler and red brake callipers to make them stand out. You also get an electric driver’s seat, a reversing camera and Ford’s SYNC 3 navigation system.
Verdict
The Kuga plug-in hybrid really does make a lot of sense in an overflowing world of SUVs, it offers the best blend of performance and economy, while retaining an engaging driving experience and sporty looks (especially in ST-Line form).
Even though Ford is still quite new to the market with its plug-in hybrid technology, the Kuga demonstrates that its focus on being an all electric car company by 2030 shows real promise.
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