Ford Kuga Review 2023

April 2019

2020 Ford Kuga revealed

Ford’s most electrified vehicle ever, the all-new Kuga will be available with a range of hybrid powertrains.

The comprehensive line-up includes Kuga Plug-In Hybrid, Kuga EcoBlue Hybrid (mild-hybrid) and Kuga Hybrid (full-hybrid) variants, alongside Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel, 1.5‑litre EcoBlue diesel and 1.5‑litre EcoBoost petrol engines, and intelligent new eight-speed automatic transmission.

Ford says the new Kuga offers more intuitive comfort and driver assistance features, keeping customers better connected on the move. Technology includes a FordPass Connect embedded modem, wireless charging pad technologies, and Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system supported by an 8‑inch central touchscreen. A premium B&O Sound System produces a high quality audio experience, and a new industry-first, free-form, 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster with “true colour” that is more informative, intuitive and easier to read.

New Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring technologies help drivers negotiate stop-start and highway traffic with greater confidence than ever before, while predictive curve light and sign-based light help drivers see more clearly in the dark. Head-up display technology helps drivers to keep their eyes on the road ahead, and Active Park Assist 2 enables fully automated parking manoeuvres at the push of a button.

Based on the same C2 architecture as the Focus, the new Kuga is up to 90kg lighter than before.

The Ford Kuga Vignale features bespoke Vignale ornamentation including satin aluminium finishes for the roof rails, bumpers and rocker inserts, as well as unique, elegant front and rear bumper designs. The exterior also features signature Vignale chrome finished front mesh grille and twin tailpipes, alongside standard 18-inch, and optional 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels. Windsor leather seats with an exclusive Vignale hexagon design, a leather wrapped heated steering wheel and premium velour floor mats further enhance the interior.

Bold Kuga ST-Line styling inspired by Ford Performance models includes body-coloured bumpers and side skirts; and a grille, front skid plate, rear diffusor and roof rails finished in black. A large rear spoiler, standard 18‑inch or optional 19-inch alloy wheels, and twin sports exhausts add to the sporty character. Inside a dark headliner, exclusive ST-Line seat designs with contrasting red stitching, alloy pedals, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and ST-Line floor mats and scuff plates reflect the performance personality.

The all-new Kuga is offered in 12 colours, including new metallic Diffused Silver and Sedona Orange. Blue Panther, a new finish offered exclusively on Vignale models, joins premium paint finishes triple coat Lucid Red and Star White pearl.

Available from launch, the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid combines a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, electric motor and generator, and 14.4 kWh lithium-ion battery to produce 225PS. Ford’s first plug-in hybrid in Europe to deliver a pure-electric driving range in excess of 31 miles, the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid is anticipated to deliver from 235.4mpg and emit 29g/km CO2.

The battery can be charged using a front bumper-mounted charging port, and is automatically replenished on the move using regenerative charging technology that captures kinetic energy normally lost during braking. It is anticipated that to fully charge the battery from an external 230-volt electricity supply will take around 4 hours.

Drivers can choose when and how to deploy battery power using EV Auto, EV Now, EV Later and EV Charge modes. When the battery reaches its lowest state-of-charge, the Kuga automatically reverts to EV Auto mode – supplementing petrol engine power with electric motor assistance using recaptured energy for optimised fuel-efficiency.

The all-new Kuga EcoBlue Hybrid enhances Ford’s 150PS 2.0‑litre EcoBlue diesel engine for even greater fuel-efficiency. The mild-hybrid technology employs a belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG) that replaces the standard alternator, enabling recovery and storage of energy during vehicle decelerations, and charging a 48-volt lithium-ion air-cooled battery pack. The BISG also acts as a motor, using the stored energy to provide electric torque assistance to the engine under normal driving and acceleration, as well as running the vehicle’s electrical ancillaries.

The 48-volt system also enables the all-new Kuga’s Auto Start-Stop technology to operate in more situations for additional fuel savings, contributing to anticipated CO2 emissions from 132g/km CO2 and 56.0mpg fuel-efficiency.

The Kuga Hybrid uses a self-charging full-hybrid powertrain that enables pure-electric driving capability and combines a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine; electric motor; generator; lithium-ion battery; and a Ford-developed power-split automatic transmission. The Kuga Hybrid will be available later in 2020 with front-wheel drive and Ford Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, delivering an anticipated 130g/km CO2 and 50.0mpg.

Kuga customers can also choose from an advanced range of Ford EcoBoost petrol and Ford EcoBlue diesel engines with optimised power and refinement. Powertrains are supported by standard Auto Start-Stop for reduced running costs, and transmissions including a slick-shifting six-speed manual and new eight-speed automatic for effortless cruising.

The 190PS 2.0‑litre EcoBlue engine is combined with all-wheel drive and is anticipated to deliver fuel-efficiency 50.0mpg and 150g/km CO2 emissions. Ford’s 1.5-litre EcoBlue engine is offered with 120PS and is anticipated to deliver from 59.0mpg and 127g/km CO2 emissions

The 1.5-litre petrol EcoBoost engine is offered with 120PS and 150PS and is anticipated to deliver from 41.0mpg with CO2 emissions of 149g/km.

Kuga also offers for the first time selectable Drive Mode technology that enables drivers to adjust throttle response, steering weight and traction control, plus gearshift timings for automatic models, to match responses and performance to the driving scenarios.

Alongside Normal, Sport and Eco modes, Slippery mode offers drivers increased confidence on surfaces with reduced grip such as snow and ice. Deep Snow/Sand mode helps maintain vehicle momentum on soft, deformable surfaces.

The all-new Kuga makes it easier than ever to tow anything from to small trailers to large caravans using two innovative towing solutions, and towing capacity up to 2,250kg depending on powertrain configuration. An electrically operated retractable tow bar can be controlled using a conveniently located button in the boot space. Push the button once and the ball neck travels out from its stowage position under the vehicle. With another push of the button it automatically disappears back underneath the car. In addition, a detachable tow bar also is available and can be easily locked into place. When not in use the ball neck is stored in the boot.

Comfort, spaciousness and flexibility are key to the more refined Kuga occupant experience that delivers class leading second row roominess. The all-new Kuga is 44mm wider and 89mm longer than the outgoing model, while the wheelbase has increased by 20mm. Inside, that translates to 43mm more shoulder room and 5mm more hip room in the front seats than the outgoing model, while rear passengers benefit from 20mm more shoulder room and 36mm more hip room. Despite an overall height that is 20mm lower than the outgoing model, all-new Kuga also has 13mm more headroom for front seat occupants and 35mm more in the rear.

For rear seat passengers, heated outer seats are available for the first time, and the entire second row of seats can be moved backwards for best-in-class 1,035mm rear legroom, or forwards to increase boot space by 67-litres. A remote release function enables the second row to be folded flat with ease.

The boot also has a reversible luggage compartment mat with a high quality velour on one side for a premium look and feel, and a durable and robust rubber surface on the other side to prevent wet or muddy sports equipment from soiling the interior.

Spacious, practical and well connected – all-new Kuga interior introduces innovative engineering and advanced comfort and convenience technologies that help the vehicle seamlessly integrate into customers’ lives.

For the first time, Kuga is offered with FordPass Connect embedded modem technology that turns the vehicle into a mobile WiFi hotspot with connectivity for up to 10 devices. In addition to helping drivers plan faster, less stressful journeys with Live Traffic updates for the navigation system and enabling occupants to stream entertainment on the move.

Also helping drivers stay connected on the move and wave goodbye to a tangle of cables in the centre console, a new wireless charging pad beneath the instrument panel enables occupants to easily charge compatible smartphones. The pad automatically detects compatible devices to initiate charging.

Devices can remain connected via Bluetooth to Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system while using wireless charging, which is supported by an 8-inch central touchscreen that can be operated using pinch and swipe gestures. SYNC 3 allows drivers to control audio, navigation and climate functions plus connected smartphones using simple voice commands. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility is included free-of-charge.

A new 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster is the first in the industry to use free-form technology that allows curved upper edges for seamless interior design. The free-form panel features circuitry embedded across the display, enabling designers to mould it into shapes beyond the traditional rectangular design.

In addition, the 24‑bit “true colour” digital instrument cluster generates detailed, high definition, more intuitive images and icons displayed in the full colour spectrum, making them brighter, less tiring on the eyes and easier to read.

A new B&O Sound System will help occupants get the best from music streamed via FordPass Connect or smartphone devices. The powerful 575-watt, 10-speaker system features an external coupled subwoofer that guarantees smooth bass production, while the position of the tweeters in the dashboard has been optimised to produce a wider sound stage at seating level to for an enveloping listening experience for all occupants. Comprehensive static and dynamic sound tuning ensures that the listening experience is maintained regardless of the driving conditions.

Ford’s hands-free tailgate technology allows access to the boot space even with arms full of groceries, kids or sports equipment, using a simple kicking motion under the rear bumper. Ford engineers have also delivered a solution to the challenge of where to place the cargo shade once removed: it now fits neatly beneath the new flexible load floor, and is easier to remove with a simple pull-strap release.

Enhancing interior refinement, Active Noise Control employs three microphones, strategically placed throughout the cabin, to monitor engine noise in the interior. The system then directs opposing sound waves through the audio system to cancel out unwanted engine and transmission noises. Standard for Kuga Plug-In Hybrid Vignale, Kuga EcoBlue Hybrid and Kuga 2.0-litre EcoBlue Vignale models, the technology contributes to a new level of interior quietness.

The all-new Kuga further enhances the SUV driving experience with an advanced suite of driver assistance technologies designed to give drivers confidence behind the wheel and help them to stay focused while on the move.

Sophisticated Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies enhance protection, driving and parking, and are designed to make the driving experience more comfortable, less demanding and safer.

Making its Ford debut, new Lane-Keeping System with Blind Spot Assist will combine Ford’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Lane-Keeping System to monitor the driver’s blind spot for vehicles approaching from behind while travelling on multi-lane carriageways. If a driver either signals a lane change or the control system senses a lane change when a vehicle is approaching in the blind spot that could lead to a potential collision, counter-steering is applied to warn the driver and discourage the lane change manoeuvre.

Also further enhanced, Ford’s Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology will feature a new Intersection functionality, which can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate the effects of accidents if the driver is turning across the path of oncoming traffic and the system determines an imminent collision.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centring helps the vehicle maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead. The system also helps reduce stress during long road trips by keeping the vehicle centred in its lane, and can adjust the vehicle speed to within legal limits by monitoring the roadside and overhead gantries for speed signs. This is in addition to using information from the on-board navigation system.

Lane-Centring technology monitors road markings and can apply gentle but discernible torque to the steering system to help drivers stay centred in their lane whenever the ACC system is activated. Designed to support drivers at speeds up to 125mph, the technology will deliver visual and audible warnings if it detects a lack of steering wheel input from the driver.

Kuga is the first Ford SUV in Europe to offer a head-up display (HUD), which helps drivers keep their eyes on the road by projecting useful information into their field of vision. The system maximises effectiveness with one of the largest fields of view of any HUD available in Europe, measuring 6 degrees by 2.5 degrees. The system is also amongst the brightest available, adjustable in 16 increments up to 10,000 candela per metre2.

Special filters for the retractable polycarbonate screen mean that it can be read by users wearing polarised lenses. Depending on vehicle specification, the configurable selection of projected information includes speed – the only content that is always present; Traffic Sign Recognition; ACC; navigation; Shift Indicator; entertainment system; and emergency notifications.

BLIS with Cross Traffic Alert warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may soon be crossing behind them and can apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate the effects of collisions if drivers do not respond to warnings.

Stop & Go enables the ACC system to bring the vehicle to a complete halt in stop-start traffic using up to 50 percent of total braking force, and automatically pull away if the stopping duration is less than 3 seconds. For stopping durations greater than 3 seconds, the driver can push a steering wheel button or gently apply the accelerator pull away.

Active Park Assist 2 makes parking even easier: delivering fully-automated manoeuvres into and out of parallel and perpendicular parking spaces at the push of a button. Enabled by the shift-by-wire capability of Ford’s new eight-speed automatic gearbox, the system identifies suitable parking spaces and the driver can control vehicle motion by simply selecting neutral and holding down a single centre console-mounted button.

The vehicle then fully controls forward and reverse gear selection, throttle and braking, as well as steering – manoeuvring into spaces just 92 centimetres longer than the car and on gradients up to 12 percent at speeds of up to 2.5mph, before engaging park. The technology can also help drivers exit parallel parking spaces using fully automated Park-out Assist.

December 2019

New Ford Kuga prices and specifications revealed

Ford has revealed full UK pricing for the all-new Ford Kuga, including high-specification First Edition models arriving early next year.

The Ford Kuga Zetec, available from £23,995, features FordPass Connect embedded mode, wireless charging and advanced driver assistance and safety features as standard. The Ford Kuga Titanium First Edition, from £28,145, features B&O premium audio system and driver’s assistance pack as standard including front and rear view cameras, Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Sign Recognition. Kuga First Editions are available with all powertrains including the 2.5-litre 225PS plug-in hybrid. The Titanium First Edition plug-in hybrid is available for £33,995 on the road, priced the same as 2.0-litre EcoBlue 190PS engine.

The plug-in hybrid’s powertrain utilises a 2.5-litre Atkinson petrol engine that enables it to deliver fuel economy of 201mpg and NEDC CO2 emissions of 26g/km. The PHEV can operate on electric power only, enabling electric only driving for approximately 35 miles powered by the 14.4kWh battery pack.

Kuga First Editions are available in Titanium, ST-Line and ST-Line X trims, adding sporty interior and exterior design cues and sports suspension, with 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Starting from £31,845, ST-Line X First Edition includes Handsfree Power Tailgate, panoramic roof and 19-inch alloy wheels.

November 2020

Ford Kuga Hybrid announced

Ford has expanded its line-up of electrified all-new Kuga SUVs with the new Ford Kuga Hybrid – able to deliver over 600 miles of petrol-electric and pure-electric driving between fill-ups and without needing to plug in to recharge.

The Kuga Hybrid’s 1.1kWh battery is replenished both by the 2.5-litre petrol engine and using regenerative charging when coasting or braking. Stored energy powers an electric motor to enhance performance, support petrol engine fuel efficiency, or deliver pure-electric driving. Kuga Hybrid automatically switches between power configurations according to the driving scenario.

Ford says the Kuga was developed from the ground up to incorporate a petrol-electric full hybrid powertrain, using efficient packaging to maximise SUV spaciousness and practicality, and support driving refinement.

The full-hybrid powertrain supports pure-electric driving for short periods while eliminating range anxiety.

The ability to travel over 600 miles on a single tank of fuel makes Kuga Hybrid a compelling alternative to diesel powertrains, says the brand. Delivering fuel efficiency from 48.7mpg and CO 2 emissions from 130g/km alongside a 54-litre fuel tank, Kuga Hybrid total driving range is also more than 30 per cent greater than that of the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid, which offers a greater pure-electric driving range of up to 35 miles.

With no need for customers to use an external power source to charge the battery, Kuga Hybrid offers an attractive choice for customers desiring an electrified powertrain, but who have limited access to external charging solutions at home or places of work.

The 60-cell, 1.1 kWh battery pack uses a liquid cooling system that eliminates the need for a cooling fan, helping reduce noise levels for greater cabin refinement. Optimised cooling also allows battery cells to be packaged closely together – helping retain spacious interior dimensions including more than 1 metre of headroom for front row occupants and up to 1481 litres of cargo space behind the front seats.

In addition, an exhaust gas heat exchanger system helps bring the engine more quickly to its most efficient operating temperature, enabling Kuga Hybrid to engage pure-electric driving sooner following a cold start and helping quickly warm the cabin for passenger comfort. Enhanced battery performance also contributes to towing capacity of up to 1600 kg.

The Kuga Hybrid powertrain delivers a smooth, linear response to acceleration demand while automatically switching between pure-electric, hybrid and petrol power, supported by a redesigned motor-generator controller. The latest generation of Ford’s power-split transmission is designed specifically to work with the 2.5-litre petrol engine – seamlessly adjusting ratios for optimum performance and fuel efficiency across a range of driving conditions. 0-62 mph acceleration takes 9.1 seconds.

The simulated gear-shift function – activated in Normal or Sport drive modes – automatically adjusts engine rpm as the vehicle’s speed changes to reduce the “rubber band” effect often associated with CVT gearboxes.

The Kuga Hybrid is available to order in ST Line Edition, ST Line X Edition and Vignale variants. Prices start from £33,600.