The current third generation of the Ford Kuga was unveiled for the first time two years ago. It is similar to the Ford Escape sold in North America and, like Focus's fourth generation, is built on the current C2 platform. According to JATO, the Ford Kuga PHEV is the best-selling plug-in hybrid car in Europe in the first half of 2021. Following the PHEV variant's start-up problems the previous year. The continued SUV trend, tax breaks, and environmental benefits have all boosted demand. The new Ford Kuga surprises the investigator with specific exceptional skills during the exam.
Last year, the Ford Kuga's plug-in hybrid powertrain experienced a false start. Ford had to halt delivery last year due to a fire in the region around the battery on some models. However, the technological issues have since been rectified, and demand has not been harmed. First and foremost, consider the technology. The plug-in hybrid system in the Kuga is comprised of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine that operates on the Atkinson cycle, an electric motor, and a 14.4 kWh lithium-ion high-voltage battery.
This drive system generates a total power of 165 kW (225 hp), sent to the drivetrain via a constantly variable CVT automatic gearbox. The petrol engine generates 112 kW (152 hp), while the electric motor generates 97 kW. (131 hp). Because the Ford Kuga PHEV is on the list of approved electric vehicles, it is eligible for the environmental incentive. Furthermore, the battery in plug-in hybrid vehicles may be charged both by the combustion engine and externally at a public charging station or a home connection, allowing for trips in fully electric mode. As a result, it is not quite surprising that some old automobiles still have the charging cords intact in their original packaging. This is not unexpected, given that the maximum charging power is listed as 3.7 kW. Ford has to improve in this area.
The Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid ST-Line we tested emphasizes sporty elements. This comprises a sporty chassis as well as specific equipment options. Traditional values from earlier editions have been adopted in part. Rotary controls are used for basic operations such as air conditioning system operation and volume control. The multifunction steering wheel is well-organized and pared down to the core operational parts. While driving, a well-balanced Bang & Olufsen sound system offers delightful sound reinforcement.
The exterior of the third generation Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid has been given substantially more curves. Its larger wheelbase and 4.61 m exterior length highlight its SUV benefits. The lower front combines with a flatter windscreen and a lower roofline. A wide honeycomb grille and extended headlights draw attention to the front. The transverse lines towards the back accentuate the breadth. The trunk lid's large opening further shows the newfound generosity. The light-alloy rims and more complex bumpers on the ST-Line are designed to create discrete visual focus points.
As central infotainment in the center console, an 8-inch touchscreen with a screen diagonal of 20.3 cm is integrated and operates with a simple menu. Essential features such as GPS, phone, and radio are clearly labeled. Voice control can also be used to input the most critical instructions. After a brief time of familiarization, the touch surface may be controlled intuitively. The primary fittings are enthroned behind the steering wheel in the shape of a 12.3-inch display. The display resolution and presentation aren't as attractive as those of Audi or BMW's competitors, but the individual setup choices make up for it. Unfortunately, the only option is a bare-bones head-up display projected onto an extensible plastic screen. The projection straight onto the windscreen is definitely superior.
There are a few unique aspects to the entire driving system. According to the active principle, the naturally aspirated engine closes the inlet valve after the bottom dead center. This marginally improves efficiency, but the power and torque are meant to be lower. As a result, the performance is geared toward the leisure cruiser. The shift from pure electric to hybrid mode occurs abruptly. When you stomp on the accelerator pedal with the single-stage automatic transmission, higher engine sounds are preprogrammed. The combustion engine stays active in the long term after the modest acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds, until the automated control takes over the transfer of power to the electric motor after a considerable distance in hybrid mode.
The Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variant is a comfortable SUV with low fuel usage. In the summer test, usage ranges between 5 and 7 liters, making it particularly appealing for lengthy travels. Distances of more than 800 kilometers may be covered on a single fuel tank by employing a defensive driving style. It is now the only option in addition to the diesel and gasoline types that are still available.
Anyone who frequently drives in city traffic in the Ford Kuga will enjoy the smoothness of the electric mode. Ideally, an electric vehicle can go up to 50 kilometers. It can compete with diesel due to its extremely long range. The price-performance ratio is an appealing and well-equipped Ford Kuga PHEV SUV with environmental benefits and tax breaks. @via Ford.
