Frugal engines give Ford Kuga fighting chance

The all new Ford Kuga debuting in South Africa is set to shatter the myth that an SUV can't be green, high-tech, capable and exceptional all at once.

The Kuga offers ample space, a sharp design, enhanced driving dynamics, fuel efficient engines and a host of clever technologies including Sync, Ford's hands-free automatic tailgate, Ford's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, Active City Stop, Lane Keeping Aid, Blind Spot Indication System and more.

The Kuga launch heralds the introduction of a new range of engines including a turbocharged 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol plant and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine.

The 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine is available with two power output levels. The 110kW version is available with front-wheel drive and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission which achieves fuel consumption figures of 6.6l/100km on a combined cycle run, while emitting just 154g/km.

The 134kW derivative is available in all-wheel drive and is paired with six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift. This version uses 7.7l/100km of fuel on a combined cycle, while emitting 179g/km CO2.

Both variants produce 240Nm of torque between 1600 and 4000rpm.

The all-new Kuga is also available with a 2.0-litre TDCi Duratorq diesel engine producing 120kW and 340Nm between 2000 and 3250rpm. It features AWD and features Ford's six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission with SelectShift. It uses 6.2 l/100km and emits 162g/km CO2.

The Kuga was awarded a maximum five-star rating by EuroNCAP, after achieving an overall protection score of 88%, the highest ever for a mid-sized SUV.

Further driver assistance technologies offered as optional extras include Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Information System, Active City Stop, Lane Keeping Aid, and Lane Departure Warning.

All models in the lineup feature seven airbags, Isofix child seat attachments, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Electronic Stability Control (ESP).

The new range consists of six derivatives with three spec levels on offer.

The entry level Ambiente is well-equipped with features such as power heated side mirrors, front and rear fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, Auto-Start-Stop (FWD models only) and Ford Keyless push button start.

The Trend has automatic folding mirrors with puddle lamps, rear parking sensors, leather sports seats and a Sony Audio system with nine speakers. The Titanium models are fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels, BiXenon headlamps and a hands-free tailgate, among other features.

The range:

1.6 EcoBoost Trend FWD - R324900

1.6 EcoBoost Trend Auto AWD - R364900

1.6 EcoBoost Titanium Auto AWD - R398900

2.0 TDCi Trend Powershift AWD - R384900

2.0 TDCi Trend Powershift AWD - R418900.