The previous-generation Kuga was an undeniably good-looking SUV, so much so that even a very late local introduction did not make it look out of place in South Africa. The all-new model, launched this week, does nothing to change that stylish image. The new car is larger than the outgoing model but mass has not been increased. Not only does it impress from the outside, the interior, too, oozes charm and style and offers a classy package that is distinctly upmarket. Pricing of the range starts at R289 900 for the 1,6 EcoBoost Ambiente (front-wheel drive) but the model I drove was the top-of-the-line 2,0 TDCi Titanium AWD with six-speed double-clutch transmission at a price of R418 900.
Smooth, powerful engine
The engine is quiet for a diesel and pulls very well, smoothly too with no discernible turbo-lag. The gearbox is also quick enough and shifts are swiftly executed. You are offered Drive and Sport modes, plus a small pair of shift buttons on the right of the gear knob for manual shifting. This placement is not ideal and paddle shift levers would complete what is a pretty sporty package. Stability and general driving enjoyment is very satisfactory. The all-wheel drive system decides how much torque to send to each wheel on a continuous basis and even displays the computer’s decisions on the central instrumentation as one of the screens. this system includes full stability control in all conditions. On the safety side, seven airbags and Isofix mountings are provided on all models. Yet another innovative feature is an inverter that provides 230 V at 150 W from a rear outlet.
The steering is electrically assisted and provides good turn-in when cornering but nevertheless exhibits that slight vagueness and lightness inherent in such systems. Interior comfort is excellent with lots of seat adjustment, space and quality materials. Only the shiny black plastic surrounding the audio controls looks a bit out of place and will reflect sunlight.
Clever features
As part of the optional Titanium package, the tail-gate can be opened by operating a sensor with your foot – simply wave your foot under the bumper and it opens (having detected the proximity of the key), then step back as it opens – especially handy when carrying goods in both hands. It is a pity that the spare wheel is only a space saver. Respectable luggage space in the rear is enhanced by rear seats that fold entirely flat. This allows long items to be stowed with ease.
Our test vehicle had the optional 19-inch wheels but the ride on poor gravel roads suffered a bit, so the standard 18-inchers are perhaps a better bet. Most of the luxuries are standard from “Trend” spec and up, including electric driver seat adjust, Sony audio with nine speakers and dual zone climate control but there is an optional pack costing R35 000 that adds a panoramic Vista sunroof, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation (automatic braking), front bumper sensors, fully automatic parallel parking, BLIS (blind spot warning) and lane changing warning and mild correction. This package of features from one of the German rivals would cost more than double or even triple that amount.
The new Kuga has a number of rivals, including the new Toyota RAV4, Hyundai ix35, Kia Sportage, VW Tiguan, Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Captiva, Audi Q3 and the BMW X1. But considering its stylish design, interior ambience and space, it should do very well in the local market.
Specifications:
Model: Ford Kuga 2,0 TDCi Titanium Powershift AWD
Engine: 2,0-litre turbodiesel, inline transverse
Power: 120 kW at 3 750 r/min
Torque:340 N.m at 2 000 to 3 250 r/min
0 to 100 km/h:10,4 s
Fuel consumption: 6,2 L/100 km
CO2 emissions:162 g/km
Price:R418 900
Top speed: 196 km/h
Service plan: 5 years/90 000 km
Service intervals: 15 000 km