Ford Puma ST: Powerful Screens and Compact 1.0-Liter Engine

Refreshed compact crossover debuts SYNC4 and streamlined engine options.

Following the discontinuation of the Ford Fiesta in 2023, there is an increased burden on the Puma crossover to continue the legacy left by the now-defunct supermini. As Ford’s top-selling passenger vehicle in Europe, this hatchback on stilts carries a significant weight in the market. In 2024, it is set to receive a mid-cycle refresh.

The appearance of the subcompact crossover remains largely unchanged, although Ford assures us that the headlights now use matrix LED technology and feature a distinct claw-like signature. The previously inconspicuous badge has been relocated to the front grille. There seem to be no notable modifications at the back, but buyers can select from six different colors, including the recently introduced Cactus Gray, as well as choose from a range of 17 to 19-inch wheels.

As you enter, the doors swing open to reveal a projected Puma emblem on the floor. The interior has undergone noticeable changes thanks to the installation of the latest Sync 4 entertainment system. The dashboard now boasts dual screens, while the central air vents have been repositioned towards the top to allow space for the impressive 12.0-inch touchscreen. To the left, the 12.8-inch digital gauge cluster is no longer seamlessly incorporated into the dashboard.

Ford is streamlining their engine options as the Puma has been discontinued in Europe, resulting in the removal of a four-cylinder 1.5-liter diesel engine. Additionally, the turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine and six-speed manual gearbox will no longer be offered for the high-performance ST model. Instead, the sporty option will now come equipped with a smaller 1.0-liter engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The recent reduction in power is quite significant when compared to the previous iteration of the Puma ST, which boasted an impressive 197 horsepower and 320 Newton-meters (236 pound-feet) of torque. The current model, introduced nearly a year ago, only produces a modest 168 hp and 248 Nm (183 lb-ft). Thanks to its mild-hybrid engine, the car is able to accelerate from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.4 seconds, which is 0.7 seconds slower than its predecessor with the larger 1.5-liter engine. At full throttle, it can reach a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

The non-ST versions of Puma are set to receive a turbo 1.0-liter engine, with two power options – either 123 horsepower and 210 Nm (154 lb-ft) or 153 horsepower and 240 Nm (176 lb-ft). The entry-level model can be purchased with a six-speed manual transmission, achieving a sprint time of 9.8 seconds. Alternatively, choosing the seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic will see the acceleration time drop slightly to 9.6 seconds.For those seeking more power, the higher variant of the compact EcoBoost engine is only available with an automatic transmission. This option allows the trendy crossover to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 8.7 seconds.

As announced in 2022, Ford is set to introduce the Puma Gen-E, a fully electric version of its popular vehicle. The release is scheduled for later this year and the design is expected to closely resemble the gasoline-powered model as it utilizes the same platform. Production of the EV will take place in Craiova, Romania alongside its traditional counterparts at Ford’s factory.

Source: Ford