Ford Mzansi has launched the dynamic looking Ford Puma, a model set to take pride of place where the EcoSport was but with added style.
The Puma is available in two distinctive models, the sporty Puma Titanium and the stylish range-topping Puma ST-Line Vignale. The front-end features “canoe-shaped” headlamps halogen headlamps with LED daytime running lights that sit high on the wings, while the LED fog lamps are positioned directly below, integrated into the front air curtain inlets that guide airflow across the front wheels. On the ST-Line Vignale, adaptive LED lights are standard which optimise visibility when cornering. the ST-Line grille features matt black elements and a high-gloss surround, high-gloss foglamp surrounds, and a larger, functional roof-spoiler.
Puma features a low, sloping roofline for a recognisable silhouette, and bucks the trend for wedge-style crossover side profiles with a flatter beltline to deliver balanced proportions. The Titanium, which features unique black-machined 17-inch alloy wheels, Puma ST-Line Vignale is offered with black 18-inch machined alloy wheels and a sports suspension.
The amplified proportions of Puma are further enhanced by a unique “floating” A-pillar design. This uninterrupted connection of belt line to cowl positions the visual mass of the cabin further rearward, delivering a powerful yet distinctly elegant silhouette.
Puma’s innovative and upscale interior is designed to help owners take control of – and offer a sanctuary from – the pressures of everyday life. The sports seats on the ST-Line Vignale are trimmed in partial leather with Metal Grey stitching, while cloth trim with Metal Grey stitching is found on the Puma Titanium. Bold signature ST-Line lower wing elements direct air to the air-curtain inlets. 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 heighten the sporty character. Owners are greeted with a warm welcome each time the doors are unlocked thanks to the eye-catching puddle lights that illuminate the ground with the Puma logo. As part of the optional ST-Line Styling Pack, which is available on the range-topping model, a full-length opening panorama roof comprising two almost-full-width panes of toughened, tinted glass creates an even more spacious and airy feel for occupants in the front and rear.
The ST-Line Vignale is equipped with a high-end B&O sound system that has been dynamically tuned to ensure a premium audio experience.
There is a 12.3-inch fully configurable digital instrument cluster on the ST-Line Vignale which allows drivers to personalise and prioritise the display of information including driver assistance technology and satellite navigation notifications. The cluster uses free-form technology that allows curved upper edges for seamless interior design. The free-form panel features circuitry embedded across the display, enabling designers to mould it into shapes beyond the traditional rectangular design.
The 1.0L three-cylinder EcoBoost engine is common to both derivatives of the Puma. It produces 92kW of power at 6 000 r/min matched to 170Nm of torque across a broad range from 1 500 to 4 500 r/min. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which provides seamless performance allied to fast shifts for sporty driving.
The driver has access to five Selectable Drive Modes to suit the conditions, comprising Normal for everyday driving, Eco which optimises fuel economy, Slippery for low-traction surfaces, Trail for more challenging terrain, and Sport for moments when the driver wants to exploit the impressive dynamic attributes.
Overseas, there is a full spec ST model with 150kW/320Nm from a 1.5-litre 3-Cylinder EcoBoost engine. There is also a Hybrid version of the ST with a 1.0-litre 3-Cylinder EcoBoost engine linked to an electric motor delivering 126kW/248Nm. Unfortunately Ford SA confirmed that these models are not coming to Mzansi
Pricing (includes VAT):
- Puma Titanium R569 900
- Puma ST-Line Vignale R613 900
Included as standard is Ford Protect comprising a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. The recommended service interval is 15 000km or annually, whichever occurs first.
Customers have the option of purchasing service or maintenance plans up to eight years or 135 000km. The warranty can be extended up to seven years or 200 000km, while the Roadside Assistance can be extended for an additional one or two years.