Ford Puma headed to SA

Ford South Africa has confirmed that the Puma will go on sale locally from October 2023. The Puma is a vibrant SUV-inspired crossover that blends impressive load space and interior comfort with Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine.

Since its introduction in Europe the Ford Puma has become a firm favourite thanks to its charismatic styling cues, including distinctive wing top mounted headlamps and athletic, aerodynamic lines.

The Puma boasts an extensive range of high-end features including a large, fully digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, premium B&O sound system, lumbar massage seats, powered tailgate, sport suspension, selectable drive modes and advanced driver assistance technologies.

Modern SUV design

The Puma is based on Ford’s B-car architecture which uses an optimised wheelbase and track to deliver head-turning SUV proportions.

A low, sloping roofline ensures a dramatic, instantly recognisable silhouette and a flatter beltline that delivers balanced proportions. The expressive front-end features intricately designed canoe shaped headlamps that sit high on the wings while the LED fog lamps are positioned directly below. Extending forward to the front grille, the LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights give the Puma a bold, aerodynamic front design and approachable face. The amplified proportions of the Puma are further enhanced by a unique floating A-pillar design. The uninterrupted connection of belt line to cowl positions the visual mass of the cabin further rearward, delivering a powerful yet distinctly elegant silhouette.

Titanium models are fitted with black-machined 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome elements for the grille, side skirts and fog lamps. The rear diffuser and skid plate are finished in metallic grey with window surrounds in gloss black. Inside the Puma Titanium will be offered with a leather-trimmed steering wheel, wood effect appliques for the cluster bezel and instrument panel and distinctive fabric inserts for the door interiors.

The sportier Puma ST-Line Vignale will be offered with black 18-inch machined alloy wheels and a sports suspension. Upfront the ST-Line grille features matt black elements and a gloss surround, high-gloss foglamp surrounds and a larger, functional roof spoiler.

Inside story

Inside, the Puma ST-Line features a flat-bottomed steering wheel and signature red stitching. Alloy pedals, an aluminium gear shifter and signature black headliner further enhance the sporty character.

The interior features a variety of luxury appointments, including seats that are trimmed in partial leather with metal grey stitching and feature a lumbar massage function on the ST-Line Vignale or cloth trim with metal grey stitching on the Puma Titanium.

Connectivity is taken care of by Ford’s SYNC 3 communication and entertainment system that facilitates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a wireless charging pad is present. A 12.3-inch fully configurable digital instrument cluster allows drivers to personalise and prioritise the display of information.

The Puma offers excellent compact crossover practicality including 456 litres of rear luggage capacity, which can be enhanced by options such as the Ford MegaBox.

Under the bonnet

Both derivatives of the Puma are fitted with Ford’s tried and tested 1.0 litre EcoBoost engine that offers 92kW at 6 000rpm and 170Nm from 1 500rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an advanced seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.

The driver has access to five selectable drive modes including Normal, Eco, Slippery, Trail and Sport which adjusts various settings, including throttle response, steering feel and gearchange behaviour.

Confidence inspiring technology

Driving safety is ensured thanks to a variety of active safety features including ABS, Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Launch Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, Auto High Beam headlight activation and the Lane Keeping System which incorporates Road Edge Detection functionality.

A range of advanced technologies helps drivers safely negotiate busy urban environments including pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection and post-collision braking technology. Occupants are protected by a total of six airbags, including dual front, side and curtain airbags.

Model range and pricing

The Puma will be available in two derivatives, including the sporty Puma Titanium and the range topping Puma ST-Line Vignale. Pricing includes a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Customers have the option of purchasing service plans up to eight years or 135 000km.

Puma Titanium                                  R569 900

Puma ST-Line Vignale                       R613 900

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