The Ford Kuga is set for an overhaul of upgrades, the biggest being the addition of the most powerful diesel engine the vehicle has used to date.
As is the trend in the motoring world, the Kuga will benefit from technologies that will aid it in reducing fuel consumption and emitting lower emissions. These benefits include Auto-Start-Stop and Active Grille Shutter.
On the power front the Ford Kuga does not shy away. The 2,0-litre diesel engine sees an increase in power from 120 kW to 132 kW, with torque figures up by 60 N.m to 400 N.m. Combined with the All-Wheel drive system, the Ford Kuga should have immense pulling power.
With the upgraded diesel engine, the Ford Kuga welcomes a new, but familiar, engine to its model line-up. The 2,0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine doing duty in the Ford Focus ST, will now also power Ford’s SUV. Fitted to the Kuga it develops 177 kW and 340 N.m of torque (the same toque figure as the diesel before the upgrade).
Replacing the 1,6-litre EcoBoost engine is the new 1,5-litre Ecoboost petrol engine. CO2 emissions on this engine are down from 154 g/km (1,6-litre EcoBoost) to 143 g/km. The new 1,5-litre develops 134 kW and 240 N.m of torque.
Ford revealed that more buyers opted to add the optional driver assistance technologies, with more than half of customers choosing for Active Park Assist.
Though cruise control with adjustable speed limiter are standard across the Kuga range, Ford now offers adaptive cruise control and forward alert. These two features warn drivers if they are travelling too close to the car ahead.
Other technologies include hands-free tailgate, blind spot information system, active city stop, auto high beam, lane keeping aid, lane keeping alert, and driver alert.
The updated Ford Kuga with all the latest features is on sale now. Three new colours are also on offer: Ruby Red Metallic, Magnetic Metallic and Tiger Eye Metallic.
The Ford Kuga is a strong contender in the South African market, having topped the sales in its category earlier this year.