Ford has shaken up the European SUV scene with the unveiling of the 2024 Kuga, featuring a complete makeover that emphasizes ruggedness, enhanced technology, and a dynamic trim and engine lineup. Let’s delve into what makes the new Kuga a compelling contender, with a special focus on its competitors and pricing in the UK and European markets.
Rugged Appeal of the Kuga Active:
Taking center stage is the adventurous Kuga Active model, inspired by the popular Focus Active. Its exterior boasts silver scuff plates, extra cladding, and a distinctive grille with vertical bars. Inside, unique seat trim, floor mats, and a wood dashboard finish create a distinct ambiance. But the Active offers more than aesthetics. A 15mm increased ride height and Trail Mode enhance capability on diverse terrains, making it an ideal partner for weekend escapes.
Exterior Updates and Fresh Colors:
Beyond the Active, other models receive sleek headlight and grille updates, with specific trims adding their own flair. Titanium shines with chrome accents, ST-Line gets a sporty body kit, and ST-Line X flaunts red brakes and branded scuff plates. New color options like Desert Island Blue and Bursting Green alongside five new alloy wheel designs further personalize the driving experience.
Tech-Focused Interior:
A major upgrade comes in the form of a massive 13.2-inch central touchscreen powered by the latest Sync 4 technology. With fewer physical buttons and key controls readily accessible, the simplified layout is intuitive and convenient. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 5G data connection for over-the-air updates, and a customizable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster ensure the Kuga stays at the forefront of in-car connectivity.
Efficient Powertrain Options:
Engine choices remain diverse, featuring a 148bhp 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol, a Hybrid (FHEV), and a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV). Electrified models benefit from a larger motor and upgraded transmission, pushing towing capacity to 2,100kg for both versions. The PHEV delivers a punchy 0-62mph acceleration in 7.3 seconds, boasts a 43-mile electric range, and achieves an attractive eight per cent Benefit-in-Kind rating in the UK.
Advanced Lighting and Driver Assistance:
Ford equips the new Kuga with cutting-edge Dynamic Pixel LED headlights. These intelligent lights selectively turn off individual bulbs to avoid blinding oncoming traffic and adapt to curves and weather conditions for optimal nighttime visibility. Furthermore, an array of driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Predictive Speed Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, and Cross Traffic Alert, prioritize safety and convenience.
Rivals and Prices:
In the UK, the Kuga faces close competition from:
- Volkswagen Tiguan: Starting at £26,865, it offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, but lacks the PHEV option of the Kuga.
- Nissan Qashqai: Priced from £23,895, this popular SUV focuses on practicality and affordability, but misses out on the rugged character of the Kuga Active.
- Peugeot 3008: With a starting price of £27,045, it delivers a stylish and premium experience, but the Kuga PHEV boasts superior electric range and towing capacity.
European pricing remains unannounced, but expect it to be broadly similar to the UK market with adjustments for individual countries.
Conclusion:
The 2024 Ford Kuga emerges as a versatile and innovative SUV, catering to a spectrum of preferences with its rugged Active model, tech-savvy interior, and efficient powertrains. With competitive pricing and a compelling feature set, the new Kuga is poised to carve its own path in the European SUV landscape, offering an enticing blend of style, capability, and advanced technology.
