The new Kuga is safer and roomier than before. Less fun, but a better family car
Pros Safer, more affordable, more spacious and more convenient than before
Cons Not as fun as it used to be. It's grown up and got some proper trousers...
The Ford Kuga has recently been facelifted to keep it competitive, but its dashboard still lags behind some rivals.With attractive styling, decent practicality and an impressive safety record, the Kuga is a convincing family SUV. It can't quite match the extremely high all-round standards of some of its latest rivals – the SEAT Ateca in particular – but for the right deal it's worth considering.
PROS Good value and well equipped Economical diesel engines Spacious interior
CONS Too many buttons inside Outshone by several rivals Inferior automatic gearboxes
Amongst other family SUVs, the previous Ford Kuga was a good looking car. Now, though, it’s even more distinctive to look at and its engine choices are bang up to date.
Pros Good fun to drive for an SUV Keen price and generous equipment Plug-in hybrid has a decent electric range
Cons Alternatives have plusher interiors Smaller boot than alternatives Poor tow rating for plug-in hybrid
Pros Zesty turbo engine, high-class cabin, pleasing to drive.
Cons Just-average warranty coverage, wireless smartphone charging only offered on top trim, less headroom than in a CX-5.
Pros Quick acceleration from optional turbocharged engine Sharp handling Upscale interior design Decent off-road capability for a small crossover SUV
Cons Ride quality is bit stiff Slightly more expensive than rivals Middling cargo capacity
Pros Posh, comfy interior Zippy engine performance Athletic handling Many standard features
Cons Busy ride quality Below-average cargo space