Aussie buyers are flocking to SUVs, attracted by their high driving position and versatile cabins. Unfortunately most are fairly dull to drive.
Ford is riding high on the success of its Ranger ute, but the rest of its range has been overlooked by buyers.
The city-focused Ford Puma SUV sells in small numbers, but is well worth a look.
VALUE
The Puma is the Blue Oval’s entry-level vehicle after it axed the Fiesta hatchback several years ago and ditched the Focus small car from its local line-up earlier this year.
The three-tier Puma range starts at about $33,800 drive-away and rises to a little less than $40,000 for the top-spec Puma ST-Line V.
We are testing the mid-grade ST-Line, priced at about $36,200 drive-away. This is expensive compared to rivals such as the Mazda CX-3, Volkswagen T-Cross and Kia Stonic.
The Puma is a cute looking little SUV with smooth lines and a curvy profile. Chunky 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler give it a sporty vibe.
There are auto headlights, while the auto folding side mirrors are great for tight streets.
Inside there are all the desired mod-cons: an eight-inch central touch screen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and paired with a 12.3-inch digital display in front of the driver.
There is a faux-leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter with red contrast stitching, sports pedals, USB charging points and rain sensing wipers.
Ford covers its vehicles for five years/unlimited km and serving is reasonable at $1516 over five years.
COMFORT
Passengers are greeted with snug and supportive sports seats. The driver’s is four-way manually adjustable and the passengers is two-way adjustable. They are wrapped in black cloth trim with contrast red stitching.
The Puma’s cabin is tight, so bigger driver’s might feel claustrophobic. The back seat is fine for shorter trips but long-limbed adults might find it uncomfortable on longer hauls.
There is single-zone airconditioning, but back seats passengers don’t get any coverage and there are no USB points in the rear, either.
The boot is generous at 410 litres, which is well above most competitors and rivals hatchbacks a full size bigger. A space saver spare is par for the course.
Sportier suspension makes for a firmer ride around town than most SUVs of its size, but the Puma recovers well enough over small and larger bumps alike.
Road and engine noise is kept to a minimum but can be intrusive over rougher surfaces.
SAFETY
The Puma is lacking some gear you’d expect in a mid-$30,000 vehicle.
It’ll automatically brake if it detects a potential collision with a car or a pedestrian. It also helps you stay centred in your lane by gently tugging the steering wheel if you wander.
However, the Puma does without blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts, which are standard on some rivals.
DRIVING
The Puma shines on the open road.
Power comes from a charming little 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes an above-average 92kW and 170Nm. Torque is delivered low down in the rev range, which translates to plenty of zip off the mark.
It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto that can feel a bit jerky in stop-start traffic but the gear changes smooth out as you pick up pace.
The firmer suspension gives the Puma excellent body control and poise through corners, while accurate steering adds to the enjoyment.
ALTERNATIVES
Mazda CX-3 sTouring, from about $33,500 drive-away
Long list of standard equipment and plenty of safety kit. Tight cabin and unrefined engine.
Kia Stonic GT-Line, priced at $30,490 drive-away
Plenty of standard equipment, cool styling at a sharp price. Safety is sub-par and the engine is underdone.
Volkswagen T-Cross Style, priced at $35,490 drive-away
Outstanding turbo petrol engine with great driving manners and plenty of safety. Cabin fit out could be better.
VERDICT
Three and a half stars
Sweet driving small SUV, but lack of standard safety equipment at this price is a let down.
VITALS
Price About $36,200 drive-away
Engine 1.0-litre three cylinder turbo petrol, 92kW/170Nm
Warranty/servicing Five years/unlimited km, $1516 over five years
Safety Auto emergency braking, lane-keep assist
Thirst 5.3L/100km
Spare Space saver
Cargo 410 litres
Originally published as Ford Puma ST-Line review: baby SUV impresses on the road
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