Ford Puma review

The Ford Puma is a spunky small crossover SUV that goes up against alternatives such as the Skoda Kamiq, Renault Captur and Volkswagen T-Cross.

To look at it’s much the same as those cars. It’s got the raised up driving position, the eye-catching design, and a sort of miniature SUV shape; but rather unlike those models the little Ford also places a huge amount of emphasis on simple driving fun too.

Those of you with particularly long memories might be able to recall the original Puma Coupe of the 1990s, but don’t think this new version is some half-hearted come-back tour from a washed-up classic rock band – it’s much better than that.

To start with, it still looks pretty great. Traces of that original car’s design still shine through in here – particularly from the front. It just manages to mix just the right amount of cheeky character on the one hand and visual aggression on the other. A Nissan Juke might wear an even sharper suit, but this Puma is by no means scruffy.

Unfortunately, its cabin drags the chain a bit. There’s nothing wrong with it from a functionality standpoint, but fairly heavy use of scratchy plastics means it looks and feels a bit bland and cheap. A Peugeot 2008’s interior is much more modern and classy.

Still, the Ford is at least well-equipped on the tech front. Even the entry-level Titanium Design models get an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity; and regular sat nav is available on all other models in the range. A wireless charge pad is available on certain variants too; as is a fully-digital instrument cluster – just like you get on plenty of posh German SUVs.

The Ford Puma is worth considering if you're looking for something that’ll carry bulky luggage as easily as it’ll turn your frown upside down on a twisty country road

That said, those cars do have a fair bit more space in the back than the Puma. Taller adults will probably find it to be a wee bit cramped, so if that’s a concern for you then maybe take a look at a Volkswagen T-Cross or Skoda Kamiq instead.

Luckily, it does have a pretty handy boot. Outright space is decent enough, but one particularly clever feature is the so-called ‘Megabox’ that sits beneath the floor. Basically, it’s a waterproof compartment with a plug in the floor for easy cleaning and drainage, and it’s the perfect place for things like muddy hiking boots or soaked wet-weather gear.

But just because the Puma has somewhere you can stash your outdoor equipment, don’t be fooled into thinking that it’ll be able to follow you off the beaten trail. It’s front-wheel-drive only; and its engine line-up is made up of economical 125hp and 155hp 1.0-litre petrol engines with mild-hybrid assist – so it’s far more suited to city streets than muddy fields.

Still, it is a very easy, stress-free car to drive around town. The steering is light and accurate, and its six-speed manual gearbox is slick and smooth. The view out the back is a bit tight, though.

It’s ride is a bit firmer over bumps than a Skoda Kamiq’s – particularly if you go for one of the ST-Line models with their sports suspension – and there’s a bit more wind noise and tyre roar out on the motorway too. But the little Puma more than makes up for this on windy country roads – it really is one of the most eager and entertaining compact SUVs around. There’s even a full-fat 200hp Puma ST model if you want even more sporting flair.

Read on for our in-depth Ford Puma colour, interior, practicality and driving review sections or head over to our Ford deals page to see how much you can save on your next new car.

Ford Puma Colours

Depending on the trim level you go for, you’ve got nine colours to choose from when buying a new Ford Puma. On Titanium Design, Titanium, ST-Line Design, ST-Line and ST-Line X models, the standard colour is Blazer Blue. This is a no-cost option.

Then you come to what Ford calls the Premium body colours. First up is Frozen White, which is a £275 on Titanium Design, Titanium, ST-Line Design, ST-Line and ST-Line X models. On ST-Line Vignale and ST models, it’s a no-cost colour.

Next up are Agate Black and Solar Silver. On Titanium Design, Titanium, ST-Line Design, ST-Line and ST-Line X cars they cost £525. On ST-Line Vignale and ST models they’re set at £275 – although Solar Silver isn’t available on ST models.

Then you come to the Exclusive colours: Magnetic, Desert Island Blue, Fantastic Red and Grey Matter. On Titanium Design, Titanium, ST-Line Design, ST-Line and ST-Line X cars, Magnetic and Desert Island Blue cost £675; on ST-Line Vignale and ST, they’re £425.

Meanwhile, Fantastic Red and Grey Matter are £775 on Titanium Design, Titanium, ST-Line Design, ST-Line and ST-Line X cars; and £525 on ST-Line Vignale and ST models.

Finally, Mean Green is available exclusively on ST cars and costs £525.

Ford Puma Colours

	Name	Cost
	Blazer Blue	No Cost
	Frozen White	£275
	Agate Black	£525
	Solar Silver	£525
	Magnetic	£675
	Desert Island Blue	£675
	Fantastic Red	£675
	Grey Matter	£675
	Mean Green (ST models only)	£525