It’s fair to say that while the mid-size SUV class has been growing in popularity nearly exponentially year on year over the last decade, the Ford Kuga SUV has been in the doldrums for a lot of of that time.
However, this third-generation model is a fantastic return to form for Ford, backing up the introduction of its fun-feeling Puma small SUV with exactly what buyers in this class want from a crossover.
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Based on the same platform as the focus family hatchback, the Kuga boasts the blue Oval’s trademark driver-focused approach, so the steering is quick and well weighted, and works nicely with the way the chassis is set up to deliver a fun driving experience. However, it doesn’t sacrifice comfort; although it’s certainly firm and communicative, the suspension (helped by the a lot more sophisticated multi-link set-up at the rear) has a supple edge that rounds off bumps nicely.
The crucial to the Kuga’s renewed success in 2020 is that Ford has really taken stock of where the market is heading and what customers want in this class, using a mix of pure ICE, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains that will suit whatever you’re after.
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The 2.0-litre mild-hybrid diesel is a strong option, helping to improve efficiency and take the sting out of running costs in conjunction with a sweet six-speed manual gearbox. The PHEV packs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol and an electric motor that drive the wheels through a CVT automatic, so it’s easy to drive and efficient, as well as having a claimed all-electric range of 35 miles.