Ford Kuga

U.S-based automaker has implemented the new ‘One Ford’ strategy, which simply focusses on launching the same product in different markets of the world - hence, saving truck loads of money in the process. The Ford Kuga hatchback, is one such product that is expected to hit in multiple markets of the world.

As far as the front fascia is concerned, there is a bold radiator grille with chrome accents, with the company emblem lying at its centre. Large air dams on the bumper have integrated fog lamps and turn indicators which add to the visibility of driver. The distinct shoulder line runs along the sides and rear and the wheel arches add to the styling quotient. The ORVMs come with integrated side indicator. The sloping roofline accentuates the overall impression of sporting elegance and powerful dynamics. When it comes to the rear, the Ford Kuga gets split wrap around tail lamps, body colored bumper with skid plates and twin exhaust tips in chrome add a bit of muscle to the rear.Dimensionally Kuga sits between Ford EcoSports and Endeavour. This SUV measures 4416 mm in length, 2036 mm in width and has 1695 mm height with 2576 mm wheelbase.

The dual tone interiors on the Ford Kuga offer a high quality fit and finish and the dashboard looks attractive. The seats are very generous in terms of space and comfort. Seat cushioning is good while legroom and headroom are very good too. Seats are covered with premium leather or fabric upholstery, depending on the variants. Driver seat comes with electrically adjustable function and lumbar support. The car offers a spacious cabin to accommodate five adults comfortably in 2+3 seating layout. Steering design looks similar to that of the EcoSport. AC does a fine job of keeping the cabin cool, it also comes with rear AC vents. The instrument cluster displays a variety of information like service details, fuel efficiency, digital tachometer, outside temperature, fuel levels, average speed, trip details etc. There is impressive boot space which is expandable, if you fold down the second row.

Talking about features, the new Kuga is expected to get dual-zone climate control, cruise control, push-button start, multi-functional steering wheel with electrically adjustable steering column, rear AC vents, rear view camera, parking sensors, touchscreen infotainment, SYNC-3 Infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Electric Tailgate are just to name the few.

Ford Kuga comes powered by a 2.0-litre TCDi engine and a 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine. The diesel unit has been tuned in two states: 140PS and 163PS and comes mated to the famous PowerShift automatic gearbox. The hatchback comes loaded with features and tech gadgety, the most notable of which, is the hands-free tailgate. You can simply kick the rear bumper to open the boot of the car.

The 2.0 liter turbocharged diesel engine is expected to deliver a mileage of 21 kmpl on highway and 16 kmpl in city driving conditions while the 2.7 liter EcoBoost engine is expected to deliver a mileage of 11 kmpl within the city limits and 17 kmpl on highway.

Its front wheels are expected to get disc brakes, while the rear ones are most likely to be paired with drum brakes. Brakes will be aided by ABS to offer efficient stopping power. Expected list of other safety features includes dual front airbags, seat belts with pre-tensioner and load limiters, ISOFIX, alarm with immobilizer for preventing the vehicle from etc.

The ride quality of Ford Kuga is excellent for the most part and so is the handling with tight body control and eagerness to dive into corners. Cruising on the highway is very easy because the engine offers peppy performance and overall the vehicle is very sprightly to drive. The steering also has brilliant feel and feedback and is very precise too. Acceleration was very impressive with linear power delivery. The top speed of diesel model is around 170-175 kmph while of petrol model is around 195-200 kmph. Ford Kuga comes with a robust suspension system where its front axle has been assembled with Independent McPherson Strut system and the rear axle is fitted with Torsion beam type of system. The suspension manages to absorb most bumps very well. Braking duties are performed well by the brakes which do the job of shedding speed remarkably well. The ground clearance is ample for our roads and it doesn't scrape the underbelly even on the worst of speed-breakers. The SUV does stay nicely planted at high speeds and even the tyres have extremely good levels of grip.

High on comfort, quality, the upcoming Ford Kuga offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, ride and handling, something which is bound to go down well with prospective buyers.

If the Kuga lands on the Indian shores, it will rival the likes of Mahindra XUV500 and will be slotted between the Ford EcoSport and the Endeavour SUV.

*Disclaimer: The date of launch is tentative and purely based on the information received from OEMs. Autoportal will not be responsible for any discrepancy and delay with the launch dates.

This SUV takes on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano.