Ford Kuga claws market share

FORD’s decision to introduce the Kuga towards the end of last year is a reflection of the growing significance of the compact SUV or all-wheel drive crossover vehicle. Improvements in technology and engineering are eroding the boundaries of traditional categories as much as are market dictates. SUV, MPV and traditional sedan inch closer to one another in what they offer. The Kuga boasts an intelligent AWD system for those who want to use it cross country but at the same time offers the kind of driving dynamic that makes a quick trip just that quick. Well, reasonably so anyway.

The Kuga is not quite a sedan when it comes to handling, the only thing on the market that is, is well, a sedan. Having said that the Kuga is pretty good, which is probably why Ford were happy to bring it to South Africa so late in its life cycle. As far as they are concerned I imagine they feel it is as good, or better, than rivals like the Tiguan, so why not grab a share of the market. Having driven the Kuga I would say that is not an unreasonable view. Its primary focus is road and it handles well given the class of vehicle. The ride is good and remained so on a brief stretch of dirt road.

The intelligent AWD system uses an “on demand” rear-wheel-drive system. The electronically controlled intelligent AWD system transmits as much torque to the rear wheels as needed to ensure the best traction under all possible cornering and accelerating conditions, while being careful to avoid a negative impact on the fuel consumption. The Kuga is available with a 2.5-litre Duratec Turbo petrol engine as well as a Durashift 5-tronic automatic transmission. With a maximum power output of 147kW and 320 Nm response is decent and a top speed claimed at more than 200km/h is more than adequate. Combined fuel consumption is claimed at 10.3l/100 km and you will be taxed at an average CO² output of 244g/km.

A split tailgate with separate access to either the upper tailgate section only or both sections simultaneously ensures maximum flexibility, although not unique to the Kuga it is a truly useful feature in this type of vehicle. Second row underseat storage is able to swallow the rear headrests when the rear seatbacks are folded down, although it is not necessary to remove them anyway. A generous cargo area and a high compartment sill ensure ease of use when loading heavy items in the car. Furthermore loose items can be tethered using four D-ring tie-down points. A “one-touch” push function for the rear tonneau cover and flexible netting in the luggage area (only available in the Trend) that automatically moves is joined to the tonneau cover for maximum security. The Kuga has disc brakes all-round which is an essential aid in stopping a reasonably high and heavy vehicle. ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Anti Rollover Mitigation (ARM) and Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) are all standard which is particularly importnat in this type of car.

The Kuga comes well equipped with a host of smart technology features. A Ford Power start button, cruise control, Bluetooth with voice control functionality, full leather trim with 6-way power driver seat and heated front seats, power windows and heated, powered door mirrors are available as standard features. Rain sensitive wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror Dual Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (DEATC) air conditioning, rear parking sensors (all available only on the Titanium) are just a few of the standard features that make the Kuga a luxurious place to be. Additional features such as green tinted privacy glass, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic glass roof further on the Titanium, add to the overall appeal of the Kuga.

The Kuga comes with a comprehensive 4-year / 120 000km warranty and 4-year / 80 000km service plan. Added piece of mind comes in the way of a 3-year /unlimited km roadside assistance plan while service intervals are staggered at 20 000km.