NEW FORD KUGA: BORN A HYBRID
Three electrified versions of the compact and spacious SUV
As soon as it hits the market, the new Ford Kuga offers three hybrid versions - a mild hybrid, a full hybrid and a plug-in hybrid that charges from a wall outlet. This makes it the brand's most electrified model.
Moreover, the car itself is a hybrid. It manages to combine the almost sporty demeanor of the Focus with the practicality of an expansive SUV model. For the latter, increased dimensions are of great importance. The Kuga has grown 89 mm in length (4614 mm), 44 mm in width (1883 mm) and a 20 mm wheelbase (2710 mm). This translates into more interior space (best-in-class according to Ford), especially in the second row of seats, which can move forward and backward on rails in the 150mm range. Only the height has been reduced by 6 mm (1666 mm), which contributes to better traction.
The enlarged Kug is not visible from the outside. On the contrary, the new aerodynamic design makes it neater and tighter. The company said the model was developed in close collaboration with SUV owners to offer distinctive styling. Apparently, Ford customers are also very fond of Porsche, because the resemblance in front to the Stuttgart SUV lineup is more than obvious. Only the Aston Martin style grille makes the look a bit different. The taillights are narrower and extended horizontally, bringing visibility closer to the hatchback's range. A particularly pleasant accent is the noticeably grown rear bumper, in which sockets for double mufflers are cut out. Pretty sporty look.
Kosmos
Inside you are greeted by a surprisingly spacious interior.
So much space, especially in the back and above the passengers' heads, makes you wonder where it came from, against the background of the relatively compact external dimensions. Otherwise, there are no surprises in the interior design. It's like you're in the new Focus, which is good because everything is neatly laid out and easy to use. From the plastic in the cabin, which is quite tough, especially in the lower part, there is a lot to be desired, but for the more pretentious, there is a luxurious version of the Vignale with genuine leather, wood, metal, etc. HERE). For the first time, the Kuga features FordPass Connect modem technology, which allows a range of vehicle functions to be remotely controlled from anywhere using a mobile data signal. While wirelessly charging mobile devices in the center console, you can stay connected via Bluetooth with the SYNC 3 communication and entertainment system. It allows drivers to control the audio system, navigation system and air conditioning systems, as well as connected smartphones using simple voice commands or gestures such like sliding or pulling in with your fingers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is free.
Enjoy the crystal clear sound of a Bang & Olufsen luxury audio system thanks to the high level of equipment.
Soft
The test car was in a mild hybrid version combining a two-liter diesel engine with an integrated starter / generator (BISG). It replaces the standard alternator by providing recuperation and energy storage while reducing vehicle speed and charging the 48-volt lithium-ion battery. BISG also acts as an engine, using stored energy to provide additional engine torque during normal driving and acceleration, and to operate the vehicle's auxiliary electrical systems.
Thus, if until now, when accelerating a diesel engine at 150 hp. there was a small turbo hole, then the extra 16 horsepower and 50 Nm of the electric motor make up for it perfectly. Acceleration from standstill to 100 km / h takes 9,6 seconds, and with 370 Nm of torque, you almost always get reliable traction in controlled driving. Interestingly, despite the hybrid system, the transmission is a 6-speed gearbox. There is also an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is only available on non-hybrid gasoline and diesel versions. The drive goes to the front wheels, but there are also 4x4 versions in the range. The new car's fuel consumption during dynamic driving was 6,9 liters per 100 km, and Ford promises that in the combined cycle it is possible to reach 5,1 liters.
One of the Kuga's strengths is handling, which is closer to a hatchback than an SUV. The trump card here is the new platform from Focus, which reduced the weight by up to 80 kg, while increasing structural strength by 10%. All this is great for cornering at higher speeds, although the machine is focused on comfortable behavior on the road. The driver assistants are state-of-the-art, and the adaptive cruise control, which can adapt to the restrictions of road signs, is especially impressive.
Under the hood
| Engine | Diesel mild hybrid |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| drive unit | Front wheels |
| Working volume | 1995 cube |
| Power in hp | 15 0 h.p. (at 3500 rpm.) |
| Torque | 370 Nm (at 2000 rpm) |
| Acceleration time | (0 – 100 km / h) 9,6 sec. |
| full speed | 200 km / h |
| Fuel consumption (WLTP) | Combined cycle 1,5 l / 100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 135 g / km |
| The weight | 1680 kg |
| Price | from 55 900 BGN with VAT |
