Ford might have only introduced the Puma as its new compact SUV at the start of 2020, but this model has already proven a huge success.
Despite global parts shortages (affecting all manufacturers, not just Ford), it’s consistently been the firm’s most popular new car in recent months, with its smart design, practical interior and fun driving experience all making it a terrific choice in this class.
Ford recently rejigged the line-up, so let’s take a look…
What engines are available?
Though Ford recently confirmed that an electric Puma would launch in 2024, for the time being the line-up is purely petrol-powered. The majority are electrified, though, using a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to boost performance and efficiency.
A turbocharged 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine uses this hybrid system, and is available with a choice of 123bhp or 153bhp. Both outputs can be had with a six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic too.
The 123bhp option is able to accelerate to 60mph in 9.6 seconds, with the 153bhp reducing this to 8.5 seconds. Both will also return around 50mpg, along with CO2 emissions of 122g/km, which are very respectable for a vehicle of this size.
At the top of the range is the sportier Puma ST too, which uses a 197bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. It’s able to hit 60mph in 6.5 seconds, while returning a respectable 42.8mpg.
What trim levels are offered?
Titanium Design – from £22,345
Kicking off the range is the Titanium Design, which comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, projector headlights, electric folding mirrors and a heated windscreen. You also get keyless start, air conditioning, cruise control, automatic lights and wipers and an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Titanium – from £23,645
The standard Titanium model brings satellite navigation, climate control, rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assist.
ST-Line Design – from £23,945
If you want a sportier look, the ST-Line Design builds on the Titanium Design with its sportier bodykit, revised 17-inch alloy wheels and sports suspension. You also get a digital instrument cluster, satellite navigation and sports seats.
ST-Line – from £24,595
The regular ST-Line then brings rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assist.
ST-Line X – from £25,695
Upgrade to the ‘X’ specification and it brings larger 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, a B&O speaker system, a wireless smartphone charging pad and climate control
ST-Line X Gold Edition – from £28,165
Exclusive to the 153bhp engine, this model comes in an exclusive Grey Matter body colour, with white stripes and gold-finished 18-inch alloy wheels. Other extras include heated front seats and steering wheel, front parking sensors, a reversing camera, park assist and adaptive cruise control.
ST-Line Vignale – from £27,345
High-end Vignale versions come with bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels and bespoke exterior styling. You also get fixed LED headlights and keyless entry.
ST – from £29,770
With the ST, you’re mainly paying for the extra performance, but it also gets large 19-inch alloy wheels, Ford Performance seats and bespoke ST Styling.
ST Gold Edition – from £33,125
At the top of the range, the ST Gold Edition comes with 19-inch alloy wheels in a gold finish, along with grey and gold bonnet stripes. An ST Performance Pack is also included, which brings a limited slip differential and launch control, along with an electric boot.
What about personalisation?
With such a broad range of versions to choose from, it’s easy to find a Puma that stands out from the crowd, particularly with the latest ‘Gold Edition’ models.
A good range of colours are available too, including bright shades like Desert Island Blue and Fantastic Red, while a bold Mean Green colour is exclusive to the ST.
There are plenty of conventional optional extras on offer too, including driver assistance packages, a hands free power tailgate and panoramic sunroof.
Enquire on a new Ford Puma