Is the Ford Kuga a good car to buy?
The Ford Kuga has gained popularity in the compact SUV market, appealing to a wide range of drivers with its blend of style, practicality, and performance. In this article, we will explore the key features, advantages, and potential drawbacks of the Ford Kuga to help you determine if it’s the right vehicle for you.
Performance and Handling
The Ford Kuga is known for its responsive handling and comfortable ride. It offers a variety of engine options, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants, catering to different driving preferences and fuel efficiency needs. The Kuga's suspension system is designed to absorb bumps effectively, providing a smooth driving experience both in urban settings and on the highway.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Ford Kuga boasts a spacious cabin with high-quality materials and a modern design. The seating is comfortable, with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. Key technological features include:
- Ford's SYNC infotainment system with a touchscreen interface
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
These features enhance the overall driving experience, making it a tech-savvy choice for families and tech enthusiasts alike.
Safety Ratings
Safety is a crucial factor when considering a new vehicle. The Ford Kuga has received high safety ratings from various organizations, thanks to its robust build and comprehensive safety features. Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems that help prevent accidents.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the Ford Kuga, especially with its hybrid models. Depending on the engine choice, the Kuga can achieve competitive miles per gallon (MPG) figures, making it an economical option for daily commuting and long trips.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Ford Kuga has many strengths, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Some drivers may find the infotainment system slightly less intuitive compared to competitors.
- The base engine may feel underpowered for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
- Pricing can be on the higher side when opting for additional features and trims.
Conclusion
In summary, the Ford Kuga is a solid choice for those in the market for a compact SUV. With its blend of performance, comfort, safety, and technology, it caters to a wide audience. However, potential buyers should weigh the drawbacks against their personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and good fuel efficiency, the Ford Kuga could be an excellent addition to your driveway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common problem with Ford Kuga?
Common problems with the Ford Kuga
Turbo Failures: Common in diesel models, leading to loss of power and unusual noises. Oil Leaks: Oil leaks have been reported, particularly around the turbocharger and the oil cooler. This can lead to decreased engine performance and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
What is Ford Kuga called in the USA?
the Ford Escape
The Kuga is marketed as the Ford Escape in North America, Australia, Middle East, and several countries in the Americas.
Is the Ford Kuga a reliable car?
Ford paid for 80% of repairs on Kuga diesels, but 4% of owners had to pay up to £1500. As a car brand, Ford performed decently, ranking 14th out of 31 manufacturers featured. Its reliability score of 91.5% makes it a more reliable brand than Seat and Volkswagen, but less reliable than Hyundai and Kia.
Which Ford Kuga was recalled?
4556 Kuga 1.6-litre Ecoboost
Ford recalled 4556 Kuga 1.6-litre Ecoboost models, produced from December 2012 to February 2014, in January 2017 following several reports of its utility vehicles bursting into flames. Ford SA said: "In the event of a frontal collision, these vehicles have been identified as having a possible risk for a B-Pillar fire.
Why did Ford discontinue the Kuga?
Bosses at Ford say that the slide in demand is down to an increased thirst for petrol and hybrid models. The Kuga was previously available with a choice of a 1.5- or 2.0-litre Ecoblue diesel engines, which produced up to 187bhp. However research found that diesels accounted for just 10 per cent of Kuga sales.
Which Ford Kuga engine is best?
Best Ford Kuga for...
- Best for Economy – Ford Kuga Zetec 1.5 TDCi 120PS.
- Best for Families – Ford Kuga Zetec 2.0 TDCi 150.
- Best for Performance – Ford Kuga ST-Line 2.0 TDCi 180.
- One to Avoid – Ford Kuga Zetec 1.5 EcoBoost 120PS.
- Engine 2.0 TDCi 180.
- Trim Titanium.
- Gearbox Powershift.
- Driven wheels AWD.
How long will a Ford Kuga last?
The estimated lifespan of a Ford Kuga is131,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Factors such as ULEZ compliance and BHP are major when looking into a vehicle's lifespan/life expectancy.
What are the negatives of the Ford Kuga?
While many owners praised the Kuga for its overall dependability, several reported recurring issues with electrical components. Faulty warning lights, problems with the infotainment system, and issues with keyless entry systems were among the most common complaints.
What happened to Ford Kuga?
Increased engine compartment fires were reported in January 2016. In December 2016, a maintenance check was initiated. More than 1 000 Kugas were inspected, which yielded the data needed for Ford to establish a definitive cause. A safety recall was initiated on 16 January 2017.
Are Ford Kuga expensive to maintain?
The Kuga has the lowest CO2 at 25g/km and the highest residual value of £14,582. However, it has the most expensive service, maintenance and repair cost of the three at 5.29ppm.
