Is Ford discontinuing the Kuga?
Direct answer: No — Ford has not announced any plan to discontinue the Kuga, and the model remains in production and listed in Ford's European lineup as of late 2025.
The question has circulated amid broader automaker portfolio reshuffles and electrification plans. This article reviews official statements, current market listings, and what buyers should expect in the near term regarding the Kuga.
Current status and official stance
What follows summarizes Ford’s public communications and showroom availability to clarify whether the Kuga is being phased out.
- Ford continues to offer the Kuga with multiple powertrains, including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, alongside traditional petrol and diesel engines.
- The Kuga remains a staple of Ford’s European SUV lineup and is featured on Ford’s official European and UK sites with ongoing model year updates.
- In North America, Ford markets a related model as the Escape; the Kuga name is not used there, reinforcing regional branding rather than a global discontinuation.
Conclusion: There is no official discontinuation announced for the Kuga in markets where it is currently sold. Ford continues to support and update the model within its European lineup.
Market scope and model specifics
These points explain where the Kuga fits in Ford’s portfolio and what buyers can expect in terms of features and availability.
- Markets: The Kuga is primarily sold in Europe and some other non‑US markets, where it competes with compact SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Hyundai Tucson.
- Powertrains: It is offered with a range of engines, including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, aligning with Ford’s electrification push in Europe.
- Branding: The Kuga name is used in Europe; the corresponding model sold in the United States is marketed as the Ford Escape, reflecting regional branding rather than model discontinuation.
Conclusion: The Kuga remains integrated in Ford’s European strategy, with ongoing updates and variant options, while regional branding differences continue to apply outside Europe.
What this means for buyers and listeners
For prospective buyers, dealers, and observers, the absence of an official discontinuation announcement means continued availability cues, price listings, and aftersales support for current and upcoming model years.
Summary
At present, Ford has not announced the discontinuation of the Kuga. The model continues to be produced and marketed in Europe with multiple powertrains, including hybrid options, and remains part of Ford’s European SUV lineup. The Kuga’s branding varies by region (Kuga in Europe vs. Escape in North America), but there is no confirmed plan to stop offering the Kuga in its active markets as of late 2025. For the latest details, check Ford’s official regional sites and your local dealer.
What happened to Ford Kuga?
This is the second time the Ford Kuga has been recalled because of a potential fire hazard. In 2020 the manufacturer had to replace the battery units of more than 27,000 cars after seven caught fire while charging. Get updates about our journalism and ways to support and enjoy our work.
Is the Ford Kuga discontinued?
There are not many classic cars left for Ford to retread. One model that will survive the reorganisation of the brand for the time being is the Kuga. And it is now getting a comprehensive update after the third generation was launched on the market in 2020.
What is Ford discontinuing in 2025?
Escape
Ford will stop producing the Escape and Corsair SUVs at the end of 2025, but anticipates having enough inventory to last through 2026.
What is the US equivalent of the Ford Kuga?
The US equivalent of the Ford Kuga is the Ford Escape. The two vehicles are essentially the same model, with the name change being due to different regional markets. They are identical cars, distinguished primarily by minor differences in engine options, specifications, and market-specific features.
This video reviews the facelifted 2024 Ford Kuga and discusses its similarities to the US-market Escape: 59sAutoChamp WandelenYouTube · Jun 2, 2024
- Same vehicle, different name: The Ford Kuga sold in Europe and other global markets is the same vehicle as the Ford Escape sold in North America.
- Regional variations: The main differences are the engine options available to suit local regulations and fuel types, and slight variations in trim levels and features.
- Historical context: While the first generations of these models were distinct, the second generation Kuga and third generation Escape have been largely identical since around 2013.
- Name change reasons: The name change was likely due to market research, trademark laws, or because the name "Kuga" has a negative meaning in some languages.
