The Ford Puma was introduced at a time when the local market was screaming for a Ford other than an Everest or Ranger. But does it fill the gap left by the Fiesta, Figo, and EcoSport? We find out.
Due to market and manufacturing factors, popular models like the Focus, Fiesta, Figo and EcoSport, all waved goodbye to the South African market, thus leaving the Mustang as one of the sole passenger offerings available at the time.
It was only towards the end of 2023, after much speculation, Ford introduced the overseas-based Puma to the local market to bridge the passenger segment gap in their line-up.
This also set in motion the start of an influx of new Ford models set to be launched in 2024. For anyone wondering whether the Puma is or isn't a direct replacement for the EcoSport, here is all you need to know about the Puma compact SUV.
Derivatives and engine(s)
The Ford Puma is only available in two trim levels: Titanium and ST-Line Vignale. Ford's thinking behind this was to offer customers comprehensive pre-set packages with a chunk of features offered as standard rather than a slew of optional extras.
If you know about Ford and their trim naming conventions, the Titanium is usually the range's flagship model. However, the Titanium is the Puma's entry point, with the ST-Line Vignale being the flagship trim.
While there are aesthetic and interior differences, both derivatives are equipped with a turbocharged 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine that delivers 92kW and 170Nm of torque and is matched to seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It is worth noting that even though it wears the ST badge, the ST-Line does not come with extra performance tweaks.
There are also five selectable drive modes (Normal, Eco, Slippery, Sport, and Trail) via a button on the centre console.
Ford claims an average fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100km. For those interested in performance, the Puma runs to the 100km/h mark from a standstill in (a claimed) 9.5 seconds.
Mechanicals aside, the Titanium comes packed with a good chunk of standard features: wireless charging, automatic headlight & high beam, a 6-speaker sound system, engine push start button, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision assist and auto high-beam assist. The ST-Line Vignale takes it a step further and adds features like a fully digital instrument cluster, B&O sound system, lumbar massage seats, powered tailgate and sports suspension.
Design and layout
The Titanium derivative features 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome elements for the grille, side skirts, and fog lights. The rear diffuser and skid plate are finished in metallic grey, and the window surrounds are high-gloss black.
A palette of five vibrant exterior colours is available: Frozen White (non-metallic), Fantastic Red, Grey Matter, Desert Island Blue, and Magnetic. Having seen all the colours at the model's local launch, we can confirm they all look good in both trims.
Inside, there is a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, high-quality cloth seats, fabric inserts on the door cards, and an 8-inch infotainment screen (with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity). Despite its diminutive stature, drivers can make use of the 456-litre boot capacity available.
The Ford Megabox, which provides an additional capacity of 80 litres, is offered as an optional extra. The box is 763mm (wide), 752mm (long), and 305mm (deep) in depth.
In terms of cleaning, it comes with a synthetic lining and a drain plug in the bottom for easy cleaning.
The drive
Behind the wheel, it feels very much like a hatchback (Fiesta Titanium) but is better laid out, as you'd expect of a car at its price. The handling is agile, and we quite liked how the transmission made the engine feel (at times) like a 4-cylinder in the various driving modes. During the review period, most of the driving was done in Normal mode, which returned a final fuel consumption of 5.6 litres. We managed to drive for 734km before the fuel light came on.
Despite its diminutive nature, the Puma handled Cape Town's high winds with aplomb, speaking to the solid build quality we've come to expect from Ford.
Specs, pricing and aftersales
Titanium - R569 900
ST-Line Vignale - R613 900
Included as standard is Ford Protect, which has a four-year/120 000km mechanical warranty, four-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance, and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. The recommended service interval is 15,000 km or annually, whichever occurs first.
Customers can purchase service or maintenance plans for up to eight years or 135,000 km. The warranty can be extended for up to seven years or 200,000 km, while Roadside Assistance can be extended for an additional one or two years.
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