Ford Kuga - a classic with a twist
SUVs are increasingly reminiscent of a slightly raised combination of a hatchback and a van or a van and a coupe. Kuga is one of those that still retains classic SUV-like styling. However, because of the steering wheel, this is a completely working car on asphalt.
The massive body has proportions and lines characteristic of SUVs, which emphasize the strong character of the car. Interesting details contrast with this massive figure. The grille and headlights remind me of other Ford models, especially the Mondeo. The headlights have long turn signals with upturned ends. An interesting effect is created by placing narrow slots in the bumper under them. A crease above the door handles and boat-shaped side windows make the car a bit flatter. Behind - a heavily embossed tailgate and funny taillights, which, thanks to the white "pupils" on a red background, resemble the eyes of an angry cartoon creature. In general, the classic form is complemented by interesting details.
In the interior, the emphasis is probably more shifted towards the classics. The dashboard is quite clean and simple, but it lacks some of the same interesting and expressive details as in the exterior. The large and angular silver-painted center console panel seems too bulky to me. Radio and air conditioning controls are clear and easy to read, almost intuitive to use. A small button marked Ford between the vents at the top of the console turns the engine on and off. There is a narrow shelf above the console. There are two cup holders in the tunnel between the seats, and a large storage compartment in the armrest. There are double pockets on the door - above rather narrow pockets at the bottom of the upholstery there are also small shelves a little higher.
The front seats are comfortable and provide good lateral support. There is a lot of space in the back, but when the front passenger seat is 180 cm removed, the same tall person sitting in the back seat is already resting his knees on the backs of the front seats. The upholstery of this car is interesting. White stitching and white stripes stand out against a dark background, which optically divide the seats in half. When I was sitting in the back seat, I had a luggage compartment with a capacity of 360 liters behind me, which, by folding the sofa, could be increased to 1405 liters. can manage the available space better.
The two-liter turbodiesel produces 140 hp. and maximum torque of 320 Nm. The type of engine without a box reveals its sound. Fortunately, the distinct diesel noise is not too tiring. The engine gives the car a pleasant dynamic. You can count on significant acceleration even at fairly high speeds. The car accelerates to 100 km / h in 10,2 seconds. The maximum available speed is 186 km/h. According to factory data, the car burns an average of 5,9 l / 100 km. I didn’t even manage to get close to the zone of such fuel consumption, but I drove this car in ten-degree frosts, and this does not contribute to fuel economy.
I especially liked the suspension when driving this car. It's stiff and tuned for a dynamic ride, so the relatively tall body doesn't give up too much in corners. On the other hand, the suspension is so flexible that bumps don't hit hard on passengers' spines. The car is agile and precise when driving around the city. Wheel arches, increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive, however, also allow you to safely slide over not too difficult terrain. I didn’t go into the forest, but I felt much more confident behind the wheel, having all-wheel drive at my disposal. In winter, this is a particularly useful feature, even in the city.
