The Ford Kuga has consistently been a standout success in the UK’s automotive market. Originally launched in 2008, Ford’s first venture into the SUV market soon proved to be a wise move, evolving from a novel concept into one of the UK’s most popular models. By 2022, the Kuga secured its spot as the nation’s best-selling plug-in hybrid, marking a significant achievement in the growing hybrid sector.
Fast forward to 2024, and the Kuga has undergone strategic updates aimed at rejuvenating its appeal in a fiercely competitive market. The refreshed design and enhanced technology suite signal Ford’s efforts to counter slowing sales and keep pace with a rapidly evolving segment. In today’s SUV landscape, the Kuga is up against formidable rivals like the roomy Volkswagen Tiguan and timeless Toyota RAV4, alongside more premium competitors, including the Volvo XC40, BMW X1, and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Crucially, the popularity of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) is on the rise, especially among company car buyers, which has encouraged Ford to place a particular emphasis on its hybrid Kuga in recent marketing efforts. The question remains: are these enhancements enough to sustain the Kuga’s appeal, or has Ford’s SUV reached the limit of its competitive edge?
The Kuga Line-Up: Powertrain Choices
The Kuga’s engine options remain straightforward, offering a choice between three variants: a mild hybrid, a full hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid.
The entry-level model is powered by a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbo petrol engine with 148bhp and 177lb ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This front-wheel-drive option can reach 62mph from a standstill in 9.7 seconds, with a top speed of 121mph, presenting a solid choice for everyday urban and suburban driving.
Moving up the range, the 2.5-litre full hybrid offers a bit more versatility. This version is available with either front- or four-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive variant produces 178bhp and 147lb ft of torque, achieving 0-62mph in 9.1 seconds, while the 4×4 model boosts power to 181bhp, lowering the 0-62mph time to 8.3 seconds. Both versions max out at 122mph, providing a slightly more robust performance for those seeking extra power and traction.
At the top of the range is the 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid, delivering an impressive 240bhp. This model combines a four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with a 14.4kWh battery and electric motor, enabling a swift 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 125mph. Both the full hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are equipped with a CVT transmission, contributing to a smooth, if sometimes slightly unrefined, driving experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Ford Kuga comes with a blend of advantages and drawbacks that reflect its hybrid-focused setup:
Strengths
- Stable handling, even with the added battery weight
- Potential for impressive fuel economy with regular charging
- Powertrain effectively manages the SUV’s weight
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent interior quality
- Some lack of refinement in the plug-in hybrid powertrain
- Steering feels overly responsive, sometimes unsettlingly quick to return to centre
Design and Styling
Pros
- Striking, refined design
- Compact enough for urban driving ease
Cons
- Weighty at nearly 1,860kg, affecting agility
- Lack of a diesel option may deter some buyers
The 2024 Kuga sees a move toward a more refined aesthetic. Gone is the softer styling of previous versions, replaced with a sharper, almost oval front grille, enhanced by a light bar in the technology package. The updated design also features a softened front bumper and redesigned taillights, lending the SUV a more modern and purposeful look.
Both the Active and ST-Line trims offer the most visually appealing configurations, thanks to additional black gloss accents and a more defined, sporty front bumper. This style evolution resonates with many buyers at this end of the market, as evidenced by Ford and Volkswagen’s expectations that their sportier trims—ST-Line and R-Line, respectively—will remain their top sellers.
In sum, the Ford Kuga’s 2024 update reflects a calculated response to an increasingly competitive SUV market, with a focus on hybrid powertrains and refined aesthetics. While it faces significant pressure from both traditional and premium competitors, the Kuga’s blend of hybrid options, modern styling, and strategic updates keeps it well-positioned for those seeking a practical, efficient, and stylish SUV
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