Ford is engaged on a mid-lifecycle replace for the Puma, which is anticipated to coincide with the debut of a totally electrical variant. A closely camouflaged prototype of the small SUV was caught testing on public roads in Europe, with its bodykit, wheels, brakes, and twin exhaust pipes suggesting it’s the performance-focused ST mannequin with a combustion engine beneath the bonnet.
The Ford Puma was reborn in 2019, coming into the extremely aggressive B-SUV section. Following the discontinuation of the mechanically-related Fiesta supermini, the facelifted Puma will function the brand new entry level in Ford’s lineup, turning into an much more essential mannequin for the model.
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The Puma ST prototype was totally lined in camouflage wrap, making an attempt to cover the small visible updates. These seem like centered on the entrance finish, together with a barely revised decrease bumper space and new LED graphics for the headlights. The Ford emblem will possible transfer contained in the grille, in the same method to the facelifted Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.
The profile seems to be unchanged, as with the rear finish which may get revised taillight graphics and minor modifications on the trim. As with the present Puma, the ST will share many of the bodywork with the ST-Line, except for the toned-up aero parts. The EV will possible be distinguished thanks to a couple version-specific particulars, whereas it’s not clear if Ford will preserve providing the usual bodykit of the Titanium trim.
The facelift may also carry inside updates, as hinted at by the relocated local weather vents on the prototype. The present 8-inch free-standing infotainment touchscreen might be changed by a bigger 12-inch unit that includes the newest software program model and extra connectivity options, alongside a revised model of the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, extra refined ADAS, and new choices for the inside trim.
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The powertrain lineup is anticipated to incorporate gentle hybrid petrol and totally electrical choices. The turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost mHEV which at present produces 123 hp (92 kW / 125 PS), 153 hp (114 kW / 155 PS), or 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) within the auto-only ST Powershift will most probably be carried over within the facelifted vary. What we don’t know is whether or not Ford will electrify the extra highly effective turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost which makes 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS) within the handbook ST, because the mill would should be up to date with a view to adjust to future emission rules.
As for the zero-emission choice, the Puma EV is anticipated to return fitted with a single electrical motor producing 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and a lithium-ion battery of unknown capability, sourced from the mechanically-related E-Transit Courier and E-Tourneo Courier.
The facelifted Ford Puma will probably be produced in Craiova, Romania, beginning within the second half of 2024. The official debut of the mannequin ought to be anticipated a bit sooner than that.