The Kuga is Ford’s new compact crossover SUV. The car is based on the C1 platform like the Ford Focus and Ford C-MAX. Since the Kuga Europa’s launch on May 8, 2008, in Brentwood, Essex, customer and media reaction to the vehicle has confirmed its success.
The Kuga’s look is highlighted by the aggressive new front spoiler, with modified grille, chrome accents and larger air intake. The design blends SUV and estate car design elements with a coupe-like profile in a package similar in size to a Focus hatchback. The rear end will get a new spoiler and a lower base along with 20-inch wheels to complete the package. Pearl White is also available, meaning the Kuga will look a bit like the Iosis X Concept.
The Kuga’s engine will initially feature Ford’s 136-hp 2.0-liter Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engine mated to a Durashift 6-speed manual transmission. Ford says torque, performance and pulling power under all engine and load conditions have been perfectly calibrated and intelligent all-wheel drive delivers an impressive fuel economy of 6.4 liters per 100 km, using the figure from combined fuel consumption. With the lowest CO2 emissions in its segment, the Kuga is expected to be another winner with retail customers. In early 2009, the dynamic Kuga range will be expanded with the availability of a new 200PS 2.5-litre Duratec Turbo petrol engine, as well as a new optional Durashift 5-tronic automatic transmission.
The interior of the new Ford Kuga has a spacious feel, with a large panoramic glass roof that will be available as a production option. The trunk is accessed through a split tailgate. Together with the split taillights, this ensures that the maximum overall load width is available.
Although the introduction of the Kuga in all European markets continues, the car is doing very well, with some 30,000 units produced by the end of September. Ford plans to build around 45,000 examples of the new model in Saarlouis, Germany, this year, which is equivalent to nearly 10% of the plant’s annual production volume.
We’ll have to wait and see if the Kuga gets in front of its competition like the Toyota RAV4 or the VW Tiguan.
