By Ian Strachan.
Ford’s popular large SUV, the Kuga has taken a further step into motoring of the future with the launch of a plug-in hybrid version. The Kuga’s 2.5 litre petrol engine is helped by an electric motor to give better mpg and lower emissions.
The Kuga FHEV’s range on just electric power is 39 miles, so if you’re a high mileage driver you’ll need to keep the electric motor charged, but this is still more than many hybrids and may be enough for a low mileage company car driver. The reward is decent combined economy of 47.9 miles to the gallon and low CO2 emissions of 134g/km.
The Ford Kuga has a pleasing design, with lots of curves, a strong front end with a deep grille and large sloping headlights.
I test drove the Kuga PHEV in top-of-the-range ST Line X-Edition spec, with selectable drive mode, four wheel drive and a CVT automatic gearbox.
The Kuga has a quality feel to it inside and out. It feels substantial, both to sit in and to drive. The doors close with a satisfying clunk – always a good sign.
The Kuga is certainly a good looker – every bit as attractive as some of its more exalted competitors. It has a strong side-on presence, helped by beefy 19-inch machined alloy wheels.
Inside the car has a lot of class about it. My test vehicle had very high quality nicely trimmed sports seats which are heated, along with the rear seats and steering wheel. The dash is simple and attractive, with sensibly placed, easily accessible controls. Ford has added an electronic park brake and extra storage.
Interior space is good, and can be further improved with the 60/40 folding split rear seat which can be folded flat. Specification includes all-round parking sensors with rear view camera, satellite navigation via an eight-inch colour touchscreen, automatic climate control and a good DAB radio with Apple CarPlay, MP3 compatibility and Bluetooth.
You also get red brake callipers, a large rear spoiler, front LED cornering fog lights, a panoramic roof, black roof rails, hands-free powered tailgate, heated windscreen and lane departure warning.
I drove the 2.5 litre petrol version which, with its electric motor, gives good performance and economy. Acceleration is pleasingly brisk for a vehicle of this size with a 0-60 mph time of around nine seconds.
The Ford Kuga ST-Line X 2.5 FHEV automatic comes at £38,045 on the road. My test vehicle came with a solar silver paint finish (£600) a mini spare wheel (£150) a technology pack with head-up display (£550) and a detachable towbar (£890.97) .
It’s difficult to fault this offering from Ford which has won awards and deservedly so. It’s a good way to dip your toe into the waters of electric vehicles.
