Ford Kuga 2024, a new twist on an old recipe?

Ford renews its SUV, the Kuga, with a more conventional exterior style and updated mechanics. Will the customer be sensitive to this?

It’s difficult to stand out in a market where new players are multiplying, and to survive, one must show boldness. Renault and Peugeot demonstrate this with their new Scenic and E-3008 with extremely edgy and daring designs.

Conversely, it must be admitted that Ford plays it safe. Its new Kuga is not uninteresting, but by hiding the logo on the grille, only the cleverest will be able to distinguish it from an MG or other Asian-made vehicle. In trying to appeal to everyone, there’s a risk of pleasing no one… However, a more rugged Active X trim with plastic wheel arch extensions can be noted.

Ultimately, this “new Kuga” is a significant update. Ford is therefore opting for rationality and seems unwilling to invest in a vehicle that meets the current (urgent?) expectations with an electric model. The Explorer SUV, promised more than a year and a half ago, has yet to be announced. What is happening at the American manufacturer whose sales are plummeting in Europe?

In its communications, Ford first proudly states that its family SUV is equipped with mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. In 2024, this should no longer even be a sales argument but a standard feature. Inside, the row of rear seats can slide by 150 mm to increase trunk capacity.

What about the powertrains?

The engine lineup continues to revolve around a 2.5-liter turbo unit, with power ranging from 180 to 243 horsepower depending on hybridization. The transmission is invariably automatic, with 0 to 100 km/h acceleration times from 9.1 to 7.3 seconds. Fuel consumption ranges from 5.2 to 6.7 liters per 100 km, and the tax penalty will be €100 at worst.

Prices start in France at €39,490 for the Titanium trim with two-wheel drive, rising to €51,090 in the most powerful ST-Line X version.

The equipment has also been modernized with increased connectivity. But the recurring question remains: would you buy a Ford Kuga or a Renault Scenic at least €5,000 cheaper and with lower running costs? And let’s not forget the Tesla Model Y, also priced more competitively than Ford. Tough dilemma…

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