Ford’s future plans in Europe, also reflected in the recent launch of the 2024 Kuga, come in the form of a strategic pivot that is both bold and necessary in the face of changing automotive trends and consumer demands. This shift is driven by a commitment to electrification and a redefined approach to vehicle design and functionality, catering to an evolving market prioritizing sustainability and advanced technologies.
With the Mondeo and Fiesta already phased out and the Focus scheduled for discontinuation in 2025, this pivot towards electrified drivetrains positions the newly-released Kuga in a crucial role.
The 2024 Kuga’s exterior redesign sports a confident new look, highlighted by full-width LED light bar frames and a revamped front grille. Inside, the Kuga is equally impressive, boasting a 13.2-inch landscape touchscreen featuring the latest SYNC 4 infotainment system, ensuring that connectivity and advanced features are at the forefront of the driving experience.
In addition to its rejuvenated visual appeal, the 2024 Kuga will come equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies, including an enhanced Adaptive Cruise Control and a comprehensive 360-degree camera system, enhancing safety and driving comfort.
Electrifying the Journey
Central to Ford’s strategy in Europe is the transition to an all-electric fleet by 2035. This move underlines the company’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions and contributing positively to environmental stewardship. This commitment is not just about meeting regulatory requirements but is also a reflection of Ford’s recognition of the pressing need for greater care of our planet, aligning with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Ford’s strategy also involves significant investment in manufacturing and infrastructure to support this electric transition. Key to this is the development of their EV manufacturing centers, such as the Cologne Electrification Centre in Germany, playing a significant role in Ford’s European EV production, building an ecosystem that further supports the growth of electric mobility, including advancements in battery technology and the establishment of key partnerships to bolster Ford’s EV manufacturing capabilities.
The Kuga model, having claimed the title of Europe’s best-selling plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in 2021 and 2022, is on track to continue this trend in 2023. This accolade underlines the vehicle’s growing popularity and the increasing consumer shift towards more sustainable driving options.
A vision of modernity
Photo: Ford
The 2024 Kuga, a bold and assertive redesign, showcases impressive performance from its hybrid powertrains. The Kuga PHEV, particularly noteworthy for its ability to deliver up to 69 km (43 miles) of pure electric driving, caters to those who have access to home or public charging facilities. This feature is especially beneficial for urban drivers, promoting a cleaner, more sustainable mode of transportation within city environments.
The full hybrid Kuga Hybrid presents an appealing alternative for those who may not always have convenient access to charging stations. It offers the comfort and convenience of an electrified powertrain combined with the practicality of a traditional fuel engine, boasting up to 900 km (559 miles) of driving range on a single tank of fuel. This hybrid variant is capable of up to 64 percent pure electric driving in urban settings, making it an ideal choice for both city and longer-distance journeys.
The 2024 Ford Kuga, both in its Plug-In Hybrid and Hybrid AWD variants, marks a significant leap in performance capabilities, particularly in terms of acceleration. These models blend the efficiency of electrified powertrains with enhanced performance, offering a driving experience that is both dynamic and environmentally conscious.
Photo: Ford
In addition to performance, the new Kuga stands out for its towing capacity, which surpasses its rivals at up to 2,100 kg (4,630 lbs.), showcasing its versatility and strength. This capability enables the Kuga to handle a wide range of towing needs, from large caravans to horseboxes, making it an ideal vehicle for a variety of lifestyles and adventures.
Jon Williams, General Manager of Ford Blue Europe, encapsulates this sentiment, highlighting the Kuga’s long-standing popularity since its introduction in 2008. According to Williams, the latest iteration is the best version yet, pushing the boundaries in capability, connectivity, and comfort, further cementing the model’s position as a popular choice in its segment.
The exterior of the new Kuga has been given a fresh look, evident in the distinct personalities of its various models – the sophisticated Titanium, the sporty ST-Line, and the rugged Active. Each model brings unique design elements to the forefront, with an eye-catching full-width LED light bar and a redesigned front grille that proudly displays the Ford Blue Oval with strength and purpose.
Hybrid prowess
Photo: Ford
Marking the end of an era, the Kuga bids farewell to its last diesel engine, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, paving the way for more sustainable and technologically advanced solutions.
Leading the charge is the Kuga’s Plug-in Hybrid version, which sits at the top of the power spectrum. This model is equipped with a 2.5-litre petrol engine and all-wheel drive, delivering an increased power output of 243 PS. Not only does it offer a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h) and accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 7.3 seconds, but it is also complemented by an impressive electric range, highlighting a noteworthy blend of power and eco-friendliness.
Next in line is the Kuga’s 2.5-litre hybrid variant, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive configuration offers 180 PS, whereas the all-wheel-drive version slightly increases power to 183 PS. These models prioritize fuel efficiency alongside performance, making them suitable for a range of driving needs.
Additionally, the Kuga lineup introduces a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine. This engine, providing 150 PS with a front-wheel drive and 6-speed manual transmission, showcases efficient fuel consumption and robust performance. It is designed for drivers seeking a balance between power, environmental consideration, and pricing but still capable of commendable top speed and acceleration.
A noteworthy aspect of the 2024 Kuga is its up to 2,100 kg (4,630 lbs.) towing capacity, especially in the Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid AWD models. The inclusion of a new automatic transmission in these variants allows for a 30% increase in towing capacity, reaffirming the Kuga’s versatility and capability.
Intuitive technologies for safer journeys
Photo: Ford
Inside, the Kuga takes a significant leap forward in technology with Ford’s latest-generation SYNC 4 infotainment system. This system represents a significant upgrade, offering twice the computing power of its predecessor. It brings 5G connectivity for swift access to information and cloud-connected navigation, ensuring drivers stay informed and ahead of traffic.
The smartphone integration is seamless, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for effortless access to key applications and information. Adding to the convenience, Alexa Built-in is a standard feature, enabling drivers and passengers to interact with the system even without a smartphone connected.
The SYNC 4 system in the new Kuga also enriches the driver’s experience behind the wheel while towing. It includes a Trailer Connection Checklist to assist drivers in ensuring safe and secure connections.
Photo: Ford
Additionally, the Trailer Tow Navigation is a thoughtful feature that allows drivers to input their vehicle and trailer dimensions, enabling the SYNC 4 system to suggest routes that avoid potential obstacles, such as tight turns and low bridges, assuring a safer and less worrisome travel itinerary.
The vehicle also comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems designed to make driving effortless, even in challenging conditions. The new generation Adaptive Cruise Control is a standout feature, capable of automatically applying brakes for curves, junctions, and other traffic scenarios. This enhances not only the safety but also the comfort of driving the Kuga.
Not least, the Kuga is fitted with a 360-degree camera system, providing drivers with an aerial view that makes maneuvers like parking, hitching up a trailer, or navigating through an automatic car wash significantly easier. This comprehensive view assists in avoiding potential obstacles, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience.
Photo: Ford
Inside, the Kuga balances practicality with comfort. The interior is thoughtfully designed for versatility, offering sliding second-row seats that can either provide over one meter of legroom for rear passengers or create up to 150 liters of additional boot space.
This adaptability makes the Kuga ideal for various needs, from daily commuting to adventurous getaways. Furthermore, the inclusion of optional comfort seats, approved by a leading spinal health organization, ensures ergonomic support and comfort for the occupants, underlining Ford’s commitment to driver and passenger well-being.
The Kuga lineup also introduces the brand-new Active series, tailored for those seeking a more rugged vehicle in terms of both appearance and capability. This variant is engineered to handle diverse terrains, including sand and mud, making it a perfect choice for drivers who love off-road adventures and need a vehicle that can tackle more challenging conditions.
The 2024 Ford Kuga incorporates advanced lighting technology that significantly enhances the nighttime experience behind the wheel. It is equipped with full LED headlights, which include Automatic High Beam Control as a standard feature, enhancing visibility for the driver.
Furthermore, the Kuga offers the option of Dynamic Pixel LED headlights, which use navigation data and a windscreen-mounted camera to read road signs and adapt the light pattern according to the road’s layout, such as curves, junctions, and roundabouts.
Setting the pace in Europe
Photo: Ford
The new Kuga will be manufactured at Ford’s advanced plant in Valencia, Spain. The building process will take advantage of state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, which will play a crucial role in producing highly accurate and sustainable parts.
Additionally, artificial intelligence is employed in tandem with engineers to uphold the highest standards of quality and production. This approach improves manufacturing standards and aligns with Ford’s commitment to more sustainable practices for the future.
As the 2024 Ford Kuga makes its highly anticipated debut in the market this month, potential buyers will be keen to apprehend its pricing structure. For example, in Germany, the pricing for the new Kuga begins at €39,950 for the Titanium model, with other models like the ST-Line and ST-Line X priced at €41,650 and €45,650, respectively.
The Active and Active X models, considered top-tier variants, are priced at €45,550 and €49,550. On the other hand, in the UK, the pricing strategy for the Kuga range spans from £32,080 to £39,670, encompassing models like the Titanium, ST-Line, Active, and ST-Line X.
With its arrival in showrooms, the 2024 Ford Kuga is set to offer a compelling blend of innovation, efficiency, and style, catering to a broad spectrum of customers looking for a vehicle that encapsulates the essence of the modern Ford driving experience.
