The Ford Kuga range has been expanded with the addition of an all-new 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente Automatic derivative for the first time, increasing the range to a total of eight models.
Ford has also, for the first time, added a six-speed automatic transmission model to the entry-level Ford Kuga.
The Kuga model line-up now has eight models, including three specification levels, three gearbox options, two and four-wheel drive.
“The Kuga offers exceptional space, comfort, versatility, trend-setting technology and eye-catching style, and now it’s even more accessible with the addition of an automatic transmission on the Ambiente model,” says Tracey Delate, General Marketing Manager for Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.
There’s a growing preference for automatic transmissions, particularly in the compact SUV segment, and the new Kuga Ambiente Automatic is poised to make a significant impact in its class due to its outstanding value for money, extensive list of smart features and the performance and efficiency offered by the 1.5 EcoBoost engine combined with the six-speed automatic transmission.
As with the existing Trend derivative, the front-wheel drive automatic model – which incorporates SelectShift manual control – is powered by the 132 kW version of the 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine, which delivers an equally impressive 240 Nm of torque from 1 600 r/min all the way to 4 000 r/min. The Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost manual versions have a power output of 110 kW.
The Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente Automatic boasts a comprehensive set of features. As with the rest of the Kuga line-up, the renowned Ford SYNC® multimedia system with Bluetooth and Voice Control is standard, along with an auxiliary input and USB port. Remote audio controls are included on the steering wheel for added convenience.
An integrated 230v/150W power converter is fitted in the rear of the centre console, which makes it ideal as a family vehicle with the ability to charge portable devices. This is bolstered by 12v power points in the front and in the luggage compartment.
The comprehensive instrumentation incorporates a fully featured trip computer with EcoMode, shift indicator, seatbelt warning and ambient temperature gauge.
Semi-automatic air-conditioning is standard, along with cruise control with speed limiter function, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, electrically operated heated side mirrors, and power windows all-round with one-touch operation, plus the ability to open and close the windows via the remote control.
The safety package, which features a five-star Euro NCAP rating, is equally impressive, and includes dual front airbags, side and curtain airbags and driver knee airbag.
On the active safety front, the Kuga boasts ABS with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control and Hill Launch Assist.
As with the rest of the Kuga EcoBoost models, a 4-year/80 000 km Service Plan is incorporated in the purchase price. This is complemented by a 4-year/120 000km Comprehensive Warranty and 3-year/unlimited km Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are every 20 000km.