Is Ford Kuga good in snow?
The Ford Kuga can be good in snowy conditions, especially when it’s equipped with all-wheel drive and winter tires. In deeper snow or on icy surfaces, performance depends on tires, driving style, and the specific drivetrain you choose.
Snow presents a real test for any crossover, and the Kuga’s performance hinges on how its system handles low traction, how much torque is available when you need to get moving, and how well you manage throttle and braking on slick surfaces. Below, we break down how the Kuga performs across configurations and offer practical guidance for winter driving.
How the Kuga performs in winter conditions
Drivetrain options and traction delivery
Ford offers Intelligent All-Wheel Drive on many Kuga variants, with the Plug-in Hybrid (Kuga PHEV) version providing an additional electric motor that can deliver torque to the rear axle for smoother traction on slippery roads. In practice, AWD helps keep the front wheels from losing grip during acceleration and when climbing or starting on snow, while the rear-biased torque split in some setups can improve stability during light cornering on slick surfaces.
Tires and tire maintenance
Winter tires are the most important upgrade for snow performance. Even with AWD, if you’re running all-season or summer tires, you’ll see significantly less grip in cold, snowy, or icy conditions. Proper tire pressure is also crucial because cold weather reduces tire pressure and can alter handling characteristics.
In addition to choosing the right tires, consider how you drive in snow. AWD improves traction, but it does not improve braking efficacy. A skilled driver with winter tires will outperform a less prepared vehicle with better tires but poor technique in snowy conditions.
Snow performance also hinges on road conditions and local weather. Forested lanes, slush, and black ice present different challenges, and even a well-equipped Kuga may struggle in deep, unconsolidated snow or on ice without appropriate tires and cautious driving.
Practical driving guidance for snowy roads
Before you head out in winter conditions, there are several practical considerations to maximize safety and maintain control with the Kuga.
Here are the factors and tips that influence snow handling in the Kuga:
- Drivetrain choice matters: AWD variants generally provide better traction in snow than front-wheel-drive models, especially when combined with winter tires.
- Tire choice is critical: Winter tires dramatically improve grip, braking, and overall stability in cold, snowy conditions.
- Driver technique is key: Gentle throttle, steady steering, and gradual braking help maintain traction on snow and ice.
- Vehicle electronics help but aren’t a magic fix: ESC and traction control assist with stability, but they don’t substitute for proper tires and cautious driving.
- Depth of snow and surface type vary: Deep snow, ice, or packed slush require different approaches; in some cases, snow chains may be legally required or recommended.
Concluding that information in the list: The best snow performance comes from a combination of AWD (where available), winter tires, and careful, anticipatory driving. If you’re in consistently snowy climates, opting for the Kuga with AWD and ensuring you equip winter tires is the most reliable setup.
Summary
In snowy conditions, the Ford Kuga performs well when it features all-wheel drive and winter tires, and when driven with appropriate caution. The Plug-in Hybrid variant with eAWD can offer smoother torque delivery for slippery starts, while front-wheel-drive versions rely more heavily on tires and driving technique. For most drivers facing regular winter weather, upgrading to AWD and winter tires will provide the most reliable snow performance.
Ultimately, the Kuga’s snow performance is a balance of drivetrain, tires, and driver behavior. With the right setup and mindful driving, the Kuga can be a competent winter vehicle rather than just a summer-friendly crossover.
Are Ford Kugas good in snow?
Like any car, the Ford Kuga is only useful in snow when fitted with winter tyres, designed for cold conditions or mud and snow tyres. Even with 4WD, the Ford Kuga won't perform any better than a 2WD in snow unless fitted with the correct tyres.
What does slippery mode do on a Ford Kuga?
Slippery mode lowers throttle response and, if provided with an automatic transmission, optimizes shifting for slippery surfaces.
What are the disadvantages of the Ford Kuga?
Ford Kugas often suffer from engine issues, especially diesel models, ranging from rough idling to full-blown engine damage. There have also been reports of software bugs causing misfires or delays in response, especially after updates.
Is the Ford Kuga AWD or 4WD?
Drivers of the all-new Ford Kuga are sure to be impressed when they get to grips with the vehicle's new intelligent automated all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
