FORD CHARGES UP THE KUGA (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Ford's Kuga Hybrid now makes quite a bit more sense, thinks Jonathan Crouch

Ten Second Reviewword count: 52

Ford sees its self-charging Hybrid powertrain as the core volume engine with this uprated version of its third generation Kuga upper mid-sized family SUV. The big change with this update is the introduction of a 4WD option for Kuga Hybrid customers. Who will also notice the smarter looks and much improved cabin.

Backgroundword count: 107

Ford's range of electrified SUVs is growing. But you might not be quite ready for the brand's mid-sized full-EV crossover, the Explorer. If that's the case and you need AWD, then the brand wants you to consider this much improved version of its third generation Kuga as an alternative, reviewed here in Hybrid form. This 2.5-litre non-plug-in model is now available with the AWD system it lacked from launch - and can now tow a lot more too. Plus it has a rejuvenated cabin. Do you really need that Ford family EV cossover quite yet? If not, then maybe it's worth looking at one of these first.

Driving Experienceword count: 402

In its original form, this Kuga Hybrid could only be had with front wheel drive (in our market anyway). That issue's been addressed as part of this facelift, which with AWD boosts the petrol/electric powertrain's usual 180PS output fractionally to 183PS. As before, this car uses a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine assisted by an electric motor powered by a tiny 1.1kWh liquid cooled battery, which is replenished by both the engine and the energy recovered under braking. Choose the AWD version and you can make the most of this updated Kuga Hybrid's improved towing capability, now boosted to an impressive diesel-like 2,100kg, a best-in-class figure. Special sat nav functionality allows owners to enter the dimensions of their car and trailer, then the software will plan a route avoiding low bridges tight corners: neat. The other reason you might choose a Kuga Hybrid is much as before: it remains one of the more engaging mid-sized SUVs to drive. Which means you can make the most of the quite eager performance: engage the sportiest drive mode and the 4WD Hybrid makes 62mph in 8.3 seconds, nearly half a second quicker than the front-driven Hybrid version. The top speed is 122mph. As before, there's what Ford describes as a "smooth and linear response to acceleration", partly in thanks to this car's power-split CVT auto gearbox. Simulating gear-shift functions, this transmission is designed to adjust the ratios for optimum performance and fuel efficiency and will adjust the engine's rpm as the speed changes to reduce the "rubber band" effect commonly associated with CVT set-ups. This simulated gearshift function is available in 'Normal' and 'Sport' driving modes, and, according to the car's chief programme engineer, Glen Goold, gives a "more engaging drive with the familiarity of traditional 'cog swaps', plus the added benefit of limiting engine noise." On the subject of noise, the car also features a 'Silent Key Start' feature, enabling it to pull away from standstill in pure electric mode, which is ideal for those early morning starts, or in the cut and thrust of stop-start driving. What else? Well off-road ability has been enhanced - well it has if you opt for the new 'Active' variant, which has a ride height raised by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear. This version also gains an extra 'Trail' driving mode, which optimises traction control and throttle response for progress on different surfaces.

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