Introducing the Ford Kuga 2023

The third-generation Ford Kuga is a popular compact SUV that has been a mainstay in the UK automotive market since its introduction in 2008.  Ford gave the latest Ford Kuga a massive overhaul to compete against serious rivals such as the VW Tiguan, Toyota Yaris Cross and Honda CR-V.  The Kuga is one of the best all-round family SUVs and one of the top ten-selling cars in 2022.

The new Ford Kuga has many new features and improvements that will delight drivers nationwide.

Firstly, the 2023 Ford Kuga will feature a sleek and stylish exterior design that is sure to turn heads on the road.  The updated model features a more angular and aggressive front grille, as well as new LED headlights and taillights that give the car a more modern and premium look.  The Kuga is also available in a range of new colours, including a striking lucid red version that will surely be a hit with style-conscious drivers.

2023 Ford Kuga engines

Ford has changed the Kuga's engine options by discontinuing the diesel version and now offers a 1.5 EcoBoost petrol model with 148bhp and 240Nm of torque and manages 0-62mph in 9.7 secs.

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will be especially popular with drivers looking for a more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly option, as they will offer excellent fuel economy and low emissions.  

Each hybrid has a 2.5-litre petrol engine, with the regular hybrid producing 187bhp, providing a 0-60mph time of 8.8 seconds and fuel economy of up to 50.4mpg.  The plug-in hybrid version has a more powerful electric motor that takes power up to a combined 222bhp, while a bigger 14.4kWh battery allows up to 40 miles of electric driving at a time - proving highly economical to drivers who regularly make short journeys.

If you make the most of the plug-in hybrid's electricity, there is additional scope for extremely low running costs, with Ford claiming up to 282.5mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 22g/km.

Ford Kuga 2023 trim levels

The trim levels available on the Kuga depend on which engine you go for.  The entry-level 1.5-litre engine is available with Ford’s Zetec, Titanium Edition, ST-Line Edition, ST-Line Edition X and Vignale specs.  However, the Zetec and Titanium trims are unavailable on hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.

Inside the car, the 2023 Ford Kuga features a range of impressive upgrades and improvements.  All Kuga trims come with a plethora of equipment, with the entry-level Zetec featuring front and rear parking sensors, air conditioning and 17-inch alloy wheels.  In addition, keyless start, cruise control, lane keep assist, and a heated windscreen come as standard.  An 8.0" touchscreen screen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also provided.

Step up to the Titanium Edition, and you benefit from full LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an electric boot.  It also adds a stunning 10-speaker B&O premium sound system, keyless entry, an electric driver’s seat and a reversing camera.

Drivers looking for a more sporty version of the Kuga might opt for the ST-Line Edition, which provides a bespoke bodykit, black roof rails and an extended rear spoiler.  This trim also features red brake calipers, a sports suspension, and electric folding door mirrors.

The ‘X’ upgrade boasts a panoramic sunroof and larger 19-inch alloy wheels.

The top-of-the-range and premium Vignale adds a Vignale bodykit, bespoke 19" alloy wheels and full leather upholstery.

Ford Kuga 2023 safety

Drivers can be reassured by the high levels of standard safety kit available on all Kuga trims.  Standard equipment includes a lane-keeping aid with lane-departure warning, post-collision braking, intelligent speed assist and autonomous emergency braking.  The Titanium version gains a driver impairment Monitor, while the premium Vignale model adds a head-up display and active park assist. 

When Euro NCAP tested the Kuga in 2019, they awarded it their maximum five-star rating for safety.  Impressive 92% and 86% scores were given for adult and child protection, respectively.

Should you lease the 2023 Ford Kuga?

In our opinion, the current Ford Kuga is a force to be reckoned with and has gained many fans within the mid-sized SUV market. Its affordable monthly price tag and bundles of advanced technology make it one of the best SUVs on offer, while its range of powertrains ensures a Kuga to suit most lifestyles.