Ford reveals next-generation Kuga
SUV is the first Ford to come with three hybrid variants and is based on an all-new platform
Ford has taken the covers off the new Kuga.
Taking a number of design cues from the current Fiesta and Focus models, the third-generation Kuga is the first Ford to feature a full range of hybrid powertrains, alongside three standard combustion engines.
Offered from launch, the PHEV powertrain comes with a 10.3 kWh lithium-ion battery connected to an electric motor and generator that can provide more than 31 miles (50km) of pure-electric driving – as well as claimed fuel economy of 235mpg and emissions of 29g/km CO2. The powertrain’s overall output is 222bhp.
Ford says the PHEV comes with regenerative braking and fully charging the battery from a 230-volt supply will take four hours. Drivers also get to choose from four driving modes while on the go.
The mild-hybrid Kuga offering – labelled EcoBlue Hybrid – features a belt-driven generator and starter motor to improve efficiency of the 2.0-litre, 147bhp EcoBlue diesel engine, with Ford claiming fuel consumption of 56.5mpg and emissions of 132g/km.
Arriving in 2020, the Kuga Hybrid comes with the same 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine as the PHEV as well as a Ford-developed power-split automatic transmission – with front- and all-wheel-drive formats on offer. The Hybrid will deliver a claimed 50.4mpg and 130g/km CO2.
The conventional oil-burning line-up comprises two EcoBlue diesel engines – in 1.5- and 2.0-litre guises – and a 1.5-litre EcoBoost in two states of tune.
Built on Ford’s new global C2 platform – which offers 10 per cent extra stiffness, is 90kg lighter than the previous comparable chassis and allows for more interior space – the Kuga is sleeker than before and comes with the grille first seen on the most recent Fiesta.
It will be available in three trim levels – Titanium, ST-Line and Vignale – with entry-level options featuring 17-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights as standard.
The ST-Line version is the sportier option in the range, as it comes with a large rear spoiler, 18-inch alloys and twin sports exhaust, as well as Ford Performance touches throughout. Vignale is the pinnacle of the Kuga line-up, with lots of chrome detailing, 18-inch alloys and a leather-clad interior.
With this car 44mm wider and 89mm longer than the outgoing version, interior space is much improved, while the boot has grown by 67 litres – with remote seat folding for the rear bench fitted.
Ford has included the Sync 3 infotainment system, as well as the optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 575-Watt B&O sound system. Wireless charging and the FordConnect Wi-Fi hotspot are also on offer.
The American firm has introduced three new safety systems as well – adaptive cruise control with stop and go, speed sign recognition and lane-centring assist – that work as part of the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety setup.
Ford’s not yet revealed when the new Kuga will go on sale, nor has it confirmed pricing. The current Kuga starts from £23,075, and tops out at £33,390 for Vignale models.
