Ford's previous form in crossovers is a bit spotty. Spoiler alert: this one's a good 'un
Pros Engine,chassis, room,clever ideas. A well-rounded effort
Cons Ford needs it, but do we? We'll just take a Focus
With its agile cornering and surprisingly nippy performance, the Ford Puma will put a bigger smile on your face than any other small SUV. But it’s a car you can buy with your sensible hat on, too, thanks to its low CO2 emissions, excellent real-world fuel economy, a clever boot and attractive monthly PCP costs.
Pros Great fun to drive Remarkable blend of performance and fuel economy Big, clever boot
Cons Rear space is adequate rather than outstanding Visibility could be better VW T-Roc is more comfortable and refined
The all-new Ford Puma SUV has the potential to really shake up the well stocked compact crossover class. Some rather drab-looking dashboard and interior materials disappoint, but in other areas it’s punching to be the best car of its type. It’s good to drive, and one of the most practical models in this highly competitive segment, too. We can’t wait to test one in the UK; even with a surfeit of new rivals – and those rather divisive looks – Ford appears to be onto a winner with the Puma.
Toyota will likely position the Corolla Cross between the C-HR small SUV and RAV4 medium SUV, and of course given the name, it’ll sit in a triangular pocket between those two SUVS and as a wagon-alternative to the Corolla sedan and hatch. Key competitors will include small SUVs like the Hyundai Kona, Nissan Qashqai, Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30 amongst others in the segment. Don’t expect to see the Corolla's head-up display. There’s no mention of it overseas, or premium audio for that matter with no mention of JBL-supplied audio as seen in other Toyota models.
In terms of size, the small crossover slots between the subcompact C-HR and the compact RAV4. Oddly enough, it bears little resemblance to the rest of the Corolla family. With sharp headlights and more rounded proportions than the RAV4, the design is pleasing, albeit conventional. Like the RAV4, the Corolla Cross is designed with practicality in mind. The automaker promises large door openings for easy entry and exit, an elevated driving position, and a spacious interior. Toyota is aiming for class-leading luggage space in the Thai market. Comfort and convenience features include a 9.0-inch touchscreen, a power moonroof, rear USB outlets, LED headlights and taillights, a foot-activated liftgate, and more.
