Loading

Is the Ford Kuga a good car to buy?

The Ford Kuga is a compact SUV that has been on the market since 2008. It has undergone several updates and redesigns over the years, and the latest model is generally considered a good option for those in the market for a small to mid-size crossover SUV. The Kuga offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a range of engine options, making it a versatile and practical choice for many buyers.


Pros of the Ford Kuga



  • Spacious Interior: The Kuga offers a roomy cabin with ample space for passengers and cargo. The rear seats can fold down to provide additional storage space when needed.

  • Comfortable Ride: The Kuga's suspension is tuned for a smooth and comfortable ride, making it well-suited for both city driving and longer road trips.

  • Variety of Engine Options: Buyers can choose from a range of petrol and diesel engines, including turbocharged options that provide good performance.

  • Decent Fuel Economy: The Kuga's fuel efficiency is generally on par with its competitors in the compact SUV segment.

  • Good Safety Features: The Kuga comes equipped with a range of advanced safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.


Overall, the Ford Kuga is a well-rounded and capable compact SUV that offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and performance. While it may not be the most exciting or stylish option in its class, it is a solid choice for those in the market for a reliable and versatile family vehicle.


Cons of the Ford Kuga



  • Dated Interior Design: The Kuga's interior design and materials can feel a bit dated compared to some of its more recently updated competitors.

  • Limited Cargo Space: While the Kuga's interior is spacious, its cargo capacity is on the smaller side for a compact SUV.

  • Uninspiring Handling: The Kuga's handling, while competent, is not as engaging or sporty as some other compact SUVs on the market.

  • Higher Pricing: The Kuga can be more expensive than some of its rivals, particularly when equipped with optional features.


In conclusion, the Ford Kuga is a solid and practical compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a range of engine options. While it may not be the most exciting or stylish option in its class, it is a reliable and versatile choice for many buyers. Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Kuga will depend on individual needs and preferences, as well as the specific features and pricing of the model being considered.

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.



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.



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.



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.



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.



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 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.



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.



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.



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.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.