The Ford Puma has made a huge impact in a relatively small amount of time.
Debuting in late 2019, it’s gone on to overtake the Fiesta in the sales stakes, and is now one of the UK’s most popular cars. Offering smart styling, an enjoyable driving experience and a practical interior, it’s one of the best small SUVs on the market.
Ford has made some slight tweaks to the line-up for 2023, so let’s take a look at what you need to know.
What engines are available?
Though a Puma EV is on the cards, it’s not due until 2024, with the current line-up consisting of mild-hybrid petrol units and a sporty ST version.
The mild-hybrid versions use a 1.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine with electrical assistance. There are two outputs available, with the 123bhp model starting in the range, and it is available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic. These can accelerate from 0-60mph in 9.6 seconds, while Ford claims an impressive 52.3mpg, with 122g/km CO2 emissions.
The more powerful mild-hybrid is the 153bhp version, which again gets the choice of manual or automatic gearboxes. The 0-60mph time reduces to 8.7 seconds, with only a small impact on efficiency – Ford claims 50.4mpg and 124g/km CO2 emissions.
At the top of the range is the Puma ST, which uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine putting out 197bhp. Paired to a six-speed manual gearbox, it can take the Puma from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 137mph. In terms of fuel efficiency, Ford claims 42.8mpg and 148g/km CO2 emissions.
What trim levels are offered?
Ford offers a great range of trim levels on the Puma, with equipment highlights and prices as follows.
Titanium – from £24,920
All Puma models come with plenty of equipment, including 17-inch alloy wheels, a heated windscreen, electric folding mirrors and an eight-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get climate control, rear parking sensors and cruise control.
ST-Line – from £25,870
Upgrade to the ST-Line and it brings a sportier styling kit, revised 17-inch alloy wheels, along with sports suspension. It also gains a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
ST-Line X – from £26,970
The ‘X’ trim builds on this with its larger 18-inch alloy wheels, along with rear privacy glass, a B&O premium sound system and a wireless charging pad.
ST-Line Vignale – from £28,620
This Vignale model brings unique chrome styling, along with 18-inch Vignale alloy wheels, LED headlights, keyless entry and premium seat upholstery. Further features include front parking sensors, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
Vivid Ruby Edition – from £29,770
This new special edition for 2023 builds on the ST-LIne X grade, and comes painted in a cool Vivid Ruby paint colour with a contrasting black roof. It also adds park assist, an electric boot, reversing camera and front parking sensors.
ST – from £31,045
At the top of the line-up, the ST model brings large 19-inch alloy wheels and a unique ST bodykit. Fixed LED headlights are also fitted, along with ST suspension and sensico-trimmed Ford Performance seats.
What about personalisation?
The sheer choice of Puma models available means it’s easy to find a car that suits you, though models like the Vivid Ruby Edition add lots of additional personalisation to the model.
There’s a good selection of colours available, including the smart Desert Island Blue and bold Mean Green, which is exclusive to the ST. ST-Line models can also upgrade their alloy wheels to 19 inches in size.
More conventional optional extras available include a panoramic sunroof and a Driver Assistance Pack that includes adaptive cruise control. On the ST, it’s worth choosing the ‘Performance Pack’ too, as this includes launch control, along with a mechanical limited-slip differential.
Enquire on a new Ford Puma