Picking up the new Ford Puma for a two-week, 1200km journey instantly impressed. The sleek lines and sporty stance, especially in the ST-Line trim, turn heads. The Puma manages to be both stylish and practical, with a surprising amount of cargo space thanks to the innovative MegaBox storage compartment hidden beneath the boot floor.
Living with the Puma: City and Country Comfort
The Puma’s interior is comfortable for both driver and passengers. The seats are supportive even on longer journeys, and the overall cabin design feels modern and well-put-together. The infotainment system, while not the most advanced, is user-friendly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
The Puma truly shines in city driving. Its compact size makes navigating tight streets and parking a breeze. The steering is responsive and precise, delivering a surprisingly fun driving experience. Venturing out onto highways, the Puma held its own comfortably, with good stability and decent sound insulation keeping road noise at bay.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
This review focused on the 1.0L EcoBoost 125 hp engine with the 7-speed automatic transmission. While not a powerhouse, it provides enough pep for city driving and highway cruising. Fuel efficiency is impressive, averaging around 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (around 42 mpg) during the mixed driving conditions of the trip.
A Note on Cargo Space:
The boot itself offers a decent amount of space for everyday groceries or luggage. The clever MegaBox hidden beneath the boot floor provides additional storage for taller items or groceries you don’t want rolling around the main cargo area. While a minor inconvenience, keep in mind that utilizing the MegaBox reduces the overall boot height when its lid is open.
Two Weeks In: Final Thoughts
The new Ford Puma makes a compelling case for itself in the compact SUV segment. It offers a stylish design, surprising practicality, a comfortable and fun driving experience, and impressive fuel efficiency. Over the 1200km journey, the Puma proved to be a reliable and enjoyable companion, perfect for city commutes and weekend getaways alike.
Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons based on the two-week experience:
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Surprisingly spacious interior with clever storage solutions
- Comfortable for driver and passengers
- Responsive handling and fun to drive
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- User-friendly infotainment system with smartphone integration
Cons:
- Infotainment system might feel basic compared to some rivals
- Engine power might be underpowered for some drivers
- Utilizing MegaBox reduces overall boot height
Overall, the Ford Puma is a strong contender for those seeking a stylish, practical, and fuel-efficient compact SUV. It’s a great choice for city dwellers and those who value a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
