Which Ford Kuga engine is best?

Around most buyers, the Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) stands out as the best overall engine option due to its electric-only drive for short trips, strong combined performance, and lower running costs when charged.

The choice depends on how you drive, where you drive, and what you value—fuel economy, range, or upfront cost. This article looks at the current engine lineup, how they perform in real-world use, and who should consider each option.

Current engine lineup and what they offer

The latest Kuga range includes petrol, diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Each option targets different needs, from urban commuting to long-distance cruising and towing. Below is a concise guide to what each engine brings to the table.

• 1.5-liter EcoBoost petrol: typically around 150 PS; light and responsive, well-suited to city use and lighter loads; affordable upfront but higher running costs and CO2 emissions than hybrids.


• 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel: available in a range of outputs (roughly 150–190 PS); strong low-end torque, excellent highway economy, and steady performance for long trips or towing; diesel taxation and fuel costs vary by market.


• Kuga Hybrid (HEV): a self-charging hybrid using a 2.5-liter petrol engine and electric motor; no plug-in capability; smoother operation with improved city fuel economy and efficient hybrid feel; good all-around option when you don’t need to plug in.


• Kuga Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): combines the 2.5-liter engine with a larger battery for electric-only driving; total system output around 225 PS; electric range up to about 56 km (WLTP) on battery alone; requires regular charging for maximum benefit; highest potential for low running costs in urban use.

Conclusion: The engine lineup is designed to cover different use cases—from affordable petrol to long-distance diesel and electrified options. The PHEV offers the strongest efficiency gains if you can charge regularly, while the HEV and diesel provide practical alternatives when charging is less convenient or when longer trips dominate.

Best engine for different usage profiles

To help you decide, consider how you typically drive, how often you can plug in, and what you value most—costs, convenience, or performance.

Charging availability and usage patterns

The most telling factor is whether you have reliable access to home or public charging. If you can regularly recharge the battery, the Plug-in Hybrid delivers the best real-world economy and the most electric driving comfort, especially for city commutes and short trips.

• Urban daily driving with charging: Kuga PHEV is the best choice for efficiency and low running costs.


• Regular long-distance highway use with limited charging: Kuga Hybrid or diesel may be better depending on access to charging and fuel prices.

Conclusion: When charging is practical, the PHEV leads the pack for efficiency; otherwise, HEV or diesel become more sensible options depending on mileage and trips.

Practical considerations: ownership costs and reliability

Beyond sticker price and horsepower, consider how each engine affects running costs, taxes, and maintenance. Availability can vary by market and model year, so check your local configuration.

• Fuel and electricity costs: PHEV generally offers the lowest per-kilometre cost with regular charging; HEV improves efficiency without plug-in need; diesel can be economical on long trips depending on fuel prices.


• Tax incentives and levies: PHEVs may qualify for regional incentives or reduced company-car taxes; diesel incentives vary by country and policy.


• Maintenance and complexity: Hybrid and plug-in systems add complexity; ensure a technician trained in electrified powertrains handles servicing and battery checks.


• Resale considerations: Market demand for electrified models varies; in many regions, well-charged PHEVs can retain value where charging infrastructure is strong.

Conclusion: Your total cost of ownership hinges on usage and charging habits. A well-utilized PHEV often yields the best running costs, while HEV or diesel may be preferable where charging is scarce or mileage is consistently high.

Bottom line and takeaway

In short, the best Ford Kuga engine for you depends on charging ability, daily mileage, and budget. For most urban and suburban drivers who can plug in, the PHEV offers the strongest efficiency and practicality. If plugging in isn’t feasible, the HEV provides a solid balance, and the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel remains the strongest option for long trips or towing in markets where diesel remains cost-effective.

Summary: The Kuga lineup spans petrol, diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid delivers the best real-world efficiency when charged regularly; the hybrid is a reliable non-plug-in alternative; the diesel suits high-mileage or towing needs; the petrol option remains the simplest and most affordable entry point. Choose based on your charging access, annual mileage, and willingness to invest upfront for long-term savings.

Which Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating. 
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates 

• 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures. 
• 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues. 
• 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks. 

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

• 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. 
• 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans. 

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

What is the best Ford Kuga to buy?

Best buy: Ford Kuga 2.5l Duratec FHEV ST-Line
We'd suggest going for the least expensive version of the hybrid (the ST-Line) because it has smaller wheels than the ST-Line X and a more comfortable ride as a result.

Are Ford Kuga engines reliable?

The Kuga finished in 19th place out of 24 cars in the large SUV class in our most recent What Car? Reliability Survey with a score of 89.6%. That put it above the Audi Q5 and the Range Rover Velar, but below the BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60.

Is the Ford 2.0 TDCi a good engine?

The Ford 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine is a cutting-edge powertrain designed for efficiency, performance, and lower emissions. However, like all modern engines, it requires diligent maintenance to ensure longevity and reliability.