Are you looking for a compact SUV that offers performance, efficiency, and style in one package? If so, you might want to check out the new Ford Puma ST Powershift, the first electrified Ford ST model that combines a hybrid powertrain with a sporty chassis. We will review this hybrid crossover's features, benefits, and drawbacks and see how it compares to its rivals.
What is the Ford Puma ST Powershift?
The Ford Puma ST Powershift is a new variant of the Ford Puma ST, a sporty version of the Ford Puma compact crossover that was launched in 2019. The Puma ST Powershift differs from the regular Puma ST by having a 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and a seven-speed automatic transmission. This means that it can deliver up to 170 PS of peak power and 248 Nm of peak torque while also reducing fuel consumption and emissions compared to the regular Puma ST, which has a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine with 200 PS and 320 Nm.
The Puma ST Powershift also inherits the sporty chassis and suspension of the regular Puma ST, which Ford Performance developed. It features bespoke twist-beam and anti-roll bar settings, patented force vectoring springs, and selectable drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, and Track). These elements help enhance the vehicle's handling, stability, and agility.
The exterior of the Puma ST Powershift is distinguished by its unique grille, front splitter, rear spoiler, and diffuser. It also comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and ST badges. The interior is equally sporty, with Recaro seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, carbon fiber accents, and a SYNC 3 infotainment system. The Puma ST Powershift also introduces a new signature color: Azura Blue.
The Puma ST Powershift is not only fun to drive but also practical and versatile. It has a spacious cabin with plenty of headroom and legroom and a boot capacity of 456 liters. It also features the innovative Ford MegaBox, which is a hidden storage compartment under the boot floor that can accommodate items up to 115 cm tall.
The Puma ST Powershift also comes with a range of advanced safety and driver assistance technologies, such as Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System, Rear View Camera, and more.
How much does the Ford Puma ST Powershift cost?
The Ford Puma ST Powershift is expected to go on sale in Europe in late 2023. It will be priced from €34,000 in Germany and £32,000 in the UK. This is slightly more expensive than the regular Puma ST, starting from €33,000 in Germany and £31,000 in the UK. However, the Puma ST Powershift may offer better value for money in terms of running costs and tax benefits.
According to Ford’s official figures, the Puma ST Powershift has a combined fuel consumption of 5.4 l/100 km (52.3 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 123 g/km. This compares favorably to the regular Puma ST’s figures of 6.8 l/100 km (41.5 mpg) and 155 g/km. This means that the Puma ST Powershift could save you up to €400 per year on fuel costs and up to £140 per year on vehicle excise duty in the UK.
How does the Ford Puma ST Powershift compare to its rivals?
The Ford Puma ST Powershift faces some tough competition in the hybrid crossover segment. Some of its main rivals are:
- The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: This is a larger and more spacious crossover than the Puma ST Powershift but has a lower performance level. It has a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine with a 44.2 kW electric motor that produces 230 PS and 350 Nm. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid has a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. It has a combined fuel consumption of 6.3 l/100 km (44.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 143 g/km. It starts from €37,500 in Germany and £31,350 in the UK.
- The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: This is a larger crossover than the Puma ST Powershift but has a lower performance level. It has a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor that produces 218 PS and 221 Nm. It has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a combined fuel consumption of 4.8 l/100 km (58.9 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. It starts from €36,000 in Germany and £31,225 in the UK.
- The Kia Niro Hybrid: This is a smaller and cheaper crossover than the Puma ST Powershift but has a much lower performance level. The Kia Niro Hybrid has a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor that produces 141 PS and 265 Nm. It has a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive. It has a combined fuel consumption of 4.3 l/100 km (65.7 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km. It starts from €27,000 in Germany and £26,590 in the UK.
As you can see, the Ford Puma ST Powershift offers a unique combination of performance, efficiency, and style that none of its rivals can match. It is the only hybrid crossover that can deliver both thrills and savings without compromising on quality or comfort.
Conclusion
The Ford Puma ST Powershift is a great example of how Ford combines its performance heritage with its electrification strategy. It offers an exciting and eco-friendly alternative to conventional SUVs without compromising on quality or comfort. If you’re looking for a hybrid crossover that can deliver both thrills and efficiency, you might want to try the Puma ST Powershift.
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