The smallest SUV in Ford’s European lineup will get a know-how injection to remain related in a aggressive section
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Ford has unveiled the much-anticipated facelift for the Puma, which doesn’t look as completely different as we anticipated. Nonetheless, regardless of the restricted exterior updates, the small SUV boasts an overhauled digital cockpit and enhanced gear, together with a revised lineup.
Nevertheless, the disappointing information is the discontinuation of the ICE-only 1.5-liter engine with a handbook gearbox, beforehand featured within the performance-focused ST mannequin. This leaves the mild-hybrid 1.0-liter automated as the only real remaining possibility, accessible in three energy outputs, till the absolutely electrical model debuts later in 2024.
Extra: Europe’s Ford Kuga Will get American Facelift, Improved Infotainment And Decrease Costs
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Beginning with the inside, which marks probably the most vital improve, the outgoing mannequin’s free-standing infotainment show is changed by a bigger 12-inch touchscreen that dominates a lot of the middle console, integrating Ford’s newest SYNC4 system. Moreover, a brand new 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster, sourced from the Tourneo Courier, enhances the upgraded cabin.
The 5G connectivity and Alexa built-in are welcome additions, however the omission of bodily local weather controls is one thing that not everybody goes to love. Lastly, the ADAS bundle has been enhanced with new and improved techniques together with the addition of Lane Centering and Predictive Pace Help capabilities on the Adaptive Cruise Management.
From the surface, the 2024 Ford Puma appears to be like fairly acquainted, as designers restricted their enter on the contemporary LED graphics for the headlights (optionally accessible with Dynamic Matrix LED know-how). The relocation of the Ford emblem contained in the revised grille makes the Puma look extra just like the discontinued Fiesta, with out dropping its sporty stance. The facelifted model is obtainable in Titanium, ST-Line, ST-Line X, and ST trims, whereas the colour palette now contains the Cactus Gray shade amongst six accessible shades.
Electrified-Solely Powertrain Choices
Gone are the times when you could possibly purchase the Puma ST with a turbo1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS). Probably the most highly effective guise is fitted with a mild-hybrid turbo 1.0-liter three-cylinder mill producing as much as 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS), solely mated to the seven-speed dual-clutch automated.
The remainder of the lineup options much less highly effective variations of the identical powertrain with the mild-hybrid 48V system, producing both 123 hp (92 kW / 125 PS) or 153 hp (114 kW / 155 PS) – similar to earlier than. Nevertheless, solely the least highly effective model is on the market with a six-speed handbook, which means that Pumas outfitted with three pedals and a stick will develop into uncommon following the mid-lifecycle replace.
Totally Electrical Ford Puma Gen-E Coming Quickly
Surprisingly, the already confirmed EV model of Ford’s smallest SUV wasn’t unveiled along with the facelift. As an alternative, Ford stated it’s going to comply with later in 2024, adopting the Puma Gen-E moniker. Current spy photographs recommend that the zero-emission mannequin could have a totally lined grille and a barely completely different bodykit.
The automaker didn’t get into particulars concerning the specs, however the zero-emission powertrain may very well be shared with the E-Transit Courier and E-Tournero Courier vans, as these are additionally based mostly on Fiesta underpinnings. The LCV and van siblings are fitted with a single electrical motor producing 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), and a battery pack of unknown capability. We don’t know if the Ford Puma Gen-E could have the identical output however rivals will embrace an array of EV contestants within the small SUV (B-SUV) section, together with the Alfa Romeo Milano, Jeep Avenger, Peugeot E-2008, Opel Mokka Electrical, and extra.
All variations of the facelifted Puma will likely be produced at Ford’s Ottoman manufacturing unit in Turkey, and will likely be supplied on the market in European markets.