Road Test Review: Ford Puma ST Line X

Independent review by Jon Smith

4-minute read

Highlights

The Ford Puma ST Line X is a mid-spec model with top-spec charm, thanks to a stylish design and lots of modern tech.

Packed with technology
Comfortable cabin

Large boot
Great fun to drive

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Introduction

So, the Ford Fiesta is a tad too small for you, and the Kuga slightly on the bulky side.

Before you consider leaving the Ford brand, take a look at a smaller feline, the Puma.

Based on the evergreen Fiesta, this is a small SUV with a deceptively roomy cabin and enough luggage space for a family holiday.

What’s more, like its smaller hatchback brother, it's available as a mild hybrid, boosting economy and acceleration and the ST Line X model driven here is bristling with modern technology.

Engines and Performance

As with most Fords, there's an array of engine options, but the one driven here is the 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine supported by a small battery.

This battery allows the stop-start system to shut the engine down in slow moving traffic and keep it switched off for longer.

The system aids economy and also increases engine torque. Despite the relatively small capacity, the unit knocks out a healthy 124bhp, endowing the 5-door SUV with lively acceleration – 62mph comes up in under 10 seconds, beating most of the opposition.

A 6-speed manual box is standard issue, but the 7-speed, twin clutch automatic is an absolute treat and well worth the premium if you do a lot of town driving.

The Puma is a sharp handler, and among the most agile small SUVs on the market. It steers precisely and the suspension soaks up the bumps nicely but rolls little during fast cornering. It’s one of the few of its breed that’s serious fun to drive.
Jon Smith

Activate the Sport button and responses are sharpened up and there’s a distinct snarl from the exhaust.

On the economy side of things, most owners will nudge towards the 50mpg mark, but bury the accelerator pedal into the floor and this figure will slump to under 40mpg.

Practicality

The cabin is roomy enough, particularly for those in the front seats, with decent leg and shoulder space. Legroom in the back is less generous, and headroom is tight if you’re more than six foot.

There are plenty of trays, bins, and cubbies to park your clutter and the boot is really spacious with room for 456 litres of luggage space.

There’s also a deep area beneath the floor where you can hide away any valuables. Fold the rear seats down and there’s space for more than 1,200 litres of cargo.

There’s a sense of déjà vu sitting in the Puma’s cabin because much of the switchgear and dials are the same as the Fiesta. They all work nicely and are well laid out.

Driver and passengers sit slightly lower than in most comparable crossovers, which could disappoint some prospective buyers who choose an SUV for its extra height.

Equipment and Technology

There's no shortage of standard kit inside the Puma.

Parking sensors, forward collision warning with automatic braking, cruise control, lane keeping steering, and rain sensitive wipers are all there. And the ‘quick clear’ windscreen proves an absolute delight during icy winter months.