Ford Kuga (12 on) - Review

The Ford Kuga has had a design overhaul. It is lower (-8mm), narrower (-4mm) and longer (+81mm) than its predecessor. The chunky looks that gave the Kuga its distinct appeal have gone and it now looks like a Focus on stilts. It’s a shame because the beefy design added to its charm.

The Kuga is no serious off-roader but it is competent when tackling rough tracks. It is much better suited to on-road driving – this is where it excels.

If you can get past the fairly bland design then the Ford Kuga offers a great deal for an average family. There’s lots of interior space, safety standards are high while the driving dynamics are best in class.

Quality interior

Inside, the Kuga is really well put together. The materials used are of high quality and this has pushed the Kuga closer to the likes of the VW Tiguan and the Toyota Rav4.

Engine line-up

A 2.0-litre diesel engine is available in the Kuga range but with a choice of two power outputs. A 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine will join the range in late 2013. The most popular engine will be the 138bhp 2.0-litre TDCi with the six-speed manual gearbox. It is the most economical, returning 53.3mpg and is the greenest, emitting 139g/km of CO2.

Technology

Crammed with kit, Kuga standard equipment includes the quickclear heated front windscreen, hill start assist and cruise control with active speed limiter, bi-xenon headlamps with automatic levelling and a kick-activated automatic tailgate. The Kuga is also one of the safest cars in the sector achieving five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests.

Competitive costs

It has competitive running costs and should still retain 40% of its value after three years/60,000 miles. Every like-for-like model is less expensive than the outgoing model and boasts more equipment.

If you want a high-riding car that handles like a sporty hatchback and averages good fuel economy then you won’t be disappointed by picking the second-generation Ford Kuga. Read the Ford Kuga full review to get the full low-down on the car.