We review the Ford Kuga (2008) from price to economy and all its features
THE Ford Kuga is undoubtedly the hottest 4x4 on the road right now.
I’ve just had an exclusive first drive in Scotland of the new 4x4 and the Kuga beats all its rivals in most departments. Crucially in this market, it’s the best-looking, which is why I think it will be a huge hit.
The Kuga’s ace is its distinctive styling. So many rivals are cloned cousins, such as the Peugeot 407, Citroen C-Crosser and Mitsubishi Outlander, which share the same body and engines, as do the Vauxhall Antara and Chevrolet Captiva.
The Kuga is a chunky cross between a Ford S-Max and the Mondeo, with styling cues such as the reversed double front grille, the angled rear-side quarter windows and similar swept-back lights treatment.
The Kuga’s sporting intentions are completed by a small rear-mounted roof spoiler and twin exhaust pipes. And unusually the back-end, such a downfall for most 4x4s, looks cool with a blend of chrome and a chunky chassis-protector.
Fortunately the Kuga also shares the Mondeo’s dynamic driving capabilities, which leaves the opposition trailing.
This Ford may have four-wheel-drive, but it handles more like an agile coupé.
On country roads, the Kuga’s steering is pin-sharp and responsive, the ride is sporty but comfortable, while the six-speed gearbox is as slick as any hot hatch.
Performance is from a 2-litre turbo diesel that is quiet, fast and relatively economical.
Ford boast a combined figure of 44.1mpg, but the best I got was 35mpg. The Kuga also has best-in-class CO2 emissions for an all-wheel-drive diesel of 169g/km.
The Kuga continues Ford’s ongoing push to improve their interior quality. The feel of the plastics and fabrics is a big leap forward, while the aluminium trim gives the Kuga an upmarket look.
Again, the Kuga benefits from the S-Max and Mondeo and shares the same easy-on-the-eye and easy-to-use centre console, while the twin cowling of the main instrument dash in front of the driver emphasises the sporting nature.
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Where the Kuga doesn’t lead is in practicality and interior space. It’s a limited five-seater and the rear passenger and boot space is adequate rather than extensive — although it increases to 1,355 litres with the seats folded and a handy dual-split tailgate.
Prices start at £20,495 and go up to £22,495, which may seem expensive for a Ford. But the Kuga is a class act and well-equipped with keyless entry, air con, 17in alloys, hi-tech electronic stability control and those very individual looks — plus it’s useful off-road.
And that will be more than enough to make the Kuga the hot compact 4x4 for the summer.