Ford’s second-generation Kuga obtains a mid-life facelift for 2017, but other than the re-energized looks the story is much the similar as before. It’s elegant to drive, but not the most appealing in its class, while there’s abundance of kit and the diesel engine is proficient.
Going against the modern trend, the Ford Kuga is more SUV than crossover. This is verified by a range that presents a lot of four-wheel drive options, meaning it’s more valuable in the rough stuff than some. Elegant styling that roomy interior and abundance of standard equipment count in its favor, although the Kuga’s infotainment system isn’t the simplest to operate, and the dash appears and feels quite low-rent. The latest looks mean it’s more unique and beautiful, but overall the Kuga is starting to experience old next to the SEAT Ateca and Peugeot 3008.
The powerful 2.0-Litre, four-cylinder TDCi engine on suggest is obtainable in two states of tune, 148bhp or 178bhp, along with the lower output version presented in either front- and four-wheel drive – the more prevailing unit is four-wheel drive only. There’s also an 118bhp 1.5-Litre diesel, as well as an 118bhp petrol Eco Boost engine of the very same displacement, along with 148bhp and 180bhp petrol options also obtainable.
The 148bhp 1.5-Litre Eco Boost petrol engine is mated along with either a six-speed manual (non-automatic) gearbox or a dual-clutch Power Shift automatic. The manual gearbox is well-weighted and lovely to use, so while the auto isn’t awful it isn’t ideally matched to this engine selection. Most should go for the 148bhp or 178bhp 2.0-Litre diesel models as they propose the best amalgamation of power and efficiency. Both are smooth along with noise levels well isolated from the cabin and distribute decent in-gear pace, along with either manual or automatic gearboxes.
A grand five-star Euro NCAP crash test marking should reassure you if you’re purchasing the Kuga as a typical family vehicle. The standard safety apparatus list is extended, along with ABS, Emergency Brake Warning, front side impact airbags, driver and front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag and front and rear curtain airbags all as standard.
All Kugas also receive tire pressure monitoring and two Isofix child seat mounts. Verify the right options boxes and you can easily add Active City Stop – which aids prevent slow-speed accidents by autonomously slowing the car down if you simply don’t brake – and blind spot monitoring. Also obtainable are Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keeping Aid and Adaptive Cruise control. Quality inside and out feels and appears to a high standard, but the Kuga located 45th in the 2016 Driver Power survey, one upper than the Mazda CX-5. Nevertheless, it’s planned as 107th for consistency, which was holder’s second biggest concern along with the car – apart from running costs.
These particular days Ford’s three-year/60,000-mile warranty appears pretty regular compared to the five and seven-year offerings from the rivals like the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.
In the initial year of ownership there is boundless mileage UK and European roadside cover and unrestricted paint cover and a complete 12-year unlimited mileage perforation warranty is standard.
