Ford Puma 2023 Review
Ford Puma 2023 Review
Introducing the Ford Puma 2023
The Ford Puma has been a popular choice among car buyers in the UK since its launch in 2019, and it was one of the top-selling cars in 2022. It's a practical and spacious compact SUV that offers a fun driving experience and excellent fuel economy. The Puma is designed on the same platform as the Fiesta and is designed to provide a more premium experience than its smaller sibling. Overall, the Puma delivers a fun driving experience, class-leading practicality and economical mild-hybrid engines. We explain more in our review below.
Ford Puma 2023 Trims
The Ford Puma 2021 is available in a selection of trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are the main trim levels available in the UK market:
Titanium: This is the base model of the Puma, and it comes with a range of standard features, including Projector Headlamps with LED Day Time Running Lights, cornering lights, 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, and an 8-inch touchscreen display with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system which provides voice controls, satnav, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. In the winter months you will also appreciate the quickclear heated windscreen. Other standard features include rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, lane-departure and keeping assistance, cruise control and automatic emergency braking.
ST-Line: This model is designed to provide a sportier look and feel. It comes with a unique body kit and sports suspension. At the front of the ST-Line is a distinct honeycomb grille with chrome trim, while the car's rear has a body-coloured spoiler. The interior features sporty touches, such as alloy sports pedals and a ST-Line flat-bottomed steering wheel and red-stitched seats. ST-Line trims also include a very impressive 12.3-inch digital instrument screen.
ST-Line X: This model builds on the features of the ST-Line trim level and adds luxuries such as 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels, a high-quality B&O sound system, a wireless charging pad, electronic temperature control instead of manual air con, rear privacy glass and the interior is upgraded to premium Sensico partial leather upholstery.
ST-Line Vignale: The Vignale version comes loaded with plenty of luxurious features, including full leather seats, which are also heated, a heated steering wheel and front and rear parking sensors.
Vivid Ruby Edition: As you can imagine by the name, this model provides a head-turning vivid red paint colour with a contrasting black roof. In addition, you also get an electric boot, park assist, front parking sensors and a reversing camera.
ST: The top-of-the-range ST model adds a unique ST bodykit and 19-inch alloy wheels. ST suspension and Ford Performance seats are equipped, along with fixed LED headlights.
Ford Puma 2023 Interior Design
Inside, the Ford Puma is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of headroom and legroom for the driver and passengers. The dashboard is well thought out, and the infotainment system is easy to use, with a large touchscreen that provides access to all of the car's features.
The Puma's interior design is also practical, with lots of storage space and clever features that make transporting luggage and other items easy. The car's boot is one of the largest in its class, with a capacity of 456-litres, which expands to 1,216-litres when the rear seats are folded down.
Ford Puma 2023 Exterior Design
The 2023 Ford Puma's striking and modern design sets it apart from other cars in its class. Its sleek lines and sharp angles give it a sporty look, while its large front grille and LED headlights make it look aggressive and bold. The Puma's exterior design is also functional, with aerodynamic features that reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
Ford Puma 2023 Engine and Performance
If you’re leasing a regular Ford Puma, you will likely have to opt for a 1.0-litre petrol engine, which has two versions to choose from, one with 125hp and the other with 155hp.
Strictly speaking, you can also choose a 1.5-litre petrol, known as the standalone "Puma ST". This version is also a joy drive, and much like its smaller sibling, the Fiesta ST, it's great fun and powerful.
All Pumas are provided with the latest mild-hybrid technology, consisting of an electric motor and a small battery pack that can boost the petrol engine when needed.
The Puma's 48v system stores energy that would typically be relinquished when the SUV is braking or slowing down. It uses that in several methods – the most prominent being the engine's stop-start technology, which cuts out while you’re still moving rather than waiting for the Puma to be completely still.
Both of the engines are extremely capable. You will find the 125hp version is quick enough in everyday town or city driving and offers plenty of poke when you’re driving onto a sliproad and need to increase your speed quickly.
The 155hp version has substantial extra power, which is great as it makes overtaking easier and more relaxing.
All Pumas are front-wheel drive, and you can select a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic as an option on the base engine.
Overall, the Ford Puma is a pleasure to drive, with precise and responsive steering that makes navigating through tight city streets easy. The car's suspension is also well-tuned, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even on bumpy roads. The Puma's handling is also impressive, with excellent grip and minimal body roll, making it fun to drive on winding country roads.
Ford Puma 2023 safety features
The Ford Puma 2023 has a Euro NCAP rating of four, and it comes with a range of advanced safety features that aim to provide drivers and passengers with maximum protection on the roads. Here are some of the vital safety features that come with the Puma:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking: Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking: This system uses sensors to spot potential collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists. If a potential collision is identified, the system warns the driver and applies the brakes automatically if necessary.
- Lane-Keeping System: The Lane-Keeping System uses cameras to monitor the position of the car on the road. If the vehicle drifts out of its lane, the system will warn the driver and gently steer the car back into its lane.
- Cruise Control with Intelligent Speed Assist: The Intelligent Speed Assist function aids your speed control, enabling you to fully focus on the road ahead. A front-facing camera detects the current speed limit automatically, and if activated, the system cleverly adjusts your maximum speed setting to that limit.
- Driver alert: The Driver Alert System is a safety feature designed to help drivers stay alert and focused while on the road. It uses advanced technology to monitor a driver's behaviour and detect signs of fatigue or inattention.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC uses sensors to monitor the car's movement and automatically applies brakes to individual wheels to help keep the car stable during sudden manoeuvres or slippery conditions.
- Airbags: The Puma comes with a range of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing supreme protection in the event of a crash.
Overall, the Ford Puma 2023 comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features that aim to keep drivers and passengers safe on the roads of the UK.
Is there a new model Ford Puma coming out?
Ford is expected to unveil an all-electric version of the Puma in 2024 as the manufacturer's smallest model, following the Fiesta being excluded from their lineup in 2023.
Is the Ford Puma good on the motorway?
Yes, the Ford Puma is a good car on the motorway. The car's powerful engine, comfortable ride, and responsive steering make it a pleasure to drive on long journeys. The car also has good fuel efficiency, which means that you can cover a lot of miles without having to stop for fuel. Additionally, the Puma has several safety features that make it a secure car to drive on the motorway, including lane-keeping assist, cruise control with an intelligent speed monitor, and automatic emergency braking.
What is a Ford Puma comparable to?
In terms of price and size, its nearest competition is the big-selling Skoda Kamiq, Nissan Juke, the VW Tiago and the VW T-Roc.
Is the Ford Puma worth leasing?
The Ford Puma is a versatile and practical car that is also fun to drive. With its sleek design, powerful engines, and comfortable ride, the Puma is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact SUV. Additionally, the car's good fuel efficiency and safety features make it a good choice for long journeys and daily commutes. If you're shopping around for a new car, the Ford Puma is definitely one you should consider.
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