tldr; The Ford Kuga ST is a tantalizing blend of tech and torque, bringing a dash of sportiness to your everyday SUV. It’s like your trusty ol’ retriever learning new tricks, and some of those tricks involve setting lap records.
Tech Specs
- 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, 190 horsepower
- 8-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift
- Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system with 8″ touchscreen
- Embedded Modem for vehicle status updates
- 12.3″ digital instrument cluster
- Advanced driving assist tech: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping System
- B&O sound system with 10 speakers
- EPA-estimated fuel economy: 33 MPG combined
What We Loved (and What Made Us Meh)
Here’s what had us grinning like a Cheshire cat:
- The zippy performance from the EcoBlue engine
- Sleek and intuitive SYNC 3 infotainment system
- Impressive fuel economy for an SUV
- The B&O sound system is a treat for audiophiles
- Smooth driving experience with advanced assisting tech
- Spacious and comfortable interiors
And here’s what made us go ‘meh’:
- Lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- The 8-speed automatic transmission can be a tad jerky
- Modest cargo space compared to rivals
- Base model misses out on the B&O sound system
- Some may find the ST Line styling a bit too sporty
- Higher trims can get pricey
The Ford Kuga ST doesn’t just give you a taste of sportiness, it provides a full-course meal. The 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine is like a caffeinated hare, offering 190 horses that are always ready to gallop. Coupled with the 8-speed automatic transmission, the Kuga ST feels sprightly around town and on highway jaunts.
Inside, the Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system is both a feast for the eyes and fingers. It responds snappily to touch inputs and the 8″ screen is bright and crisp. It’s just a shame that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto decided to skip this tech party.
If you’re an audiophile, the B&O sound system will have you doing a happy jig. It’s the kind of sound system that makes you want to drive aimlessly, just so you can listen to one more song. Or ten.
Driving assist features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Keeping System add an extra layer of safety and comfort. They’re like having a loyal butler, always ready to step in when you need a hand.
On the downside, the cargo space is on the modest side, especially when compared to some rivals. It’s as if the Kuga ST went on a diet and lost a bit too much weight. Also, the lack of smartphone integration feels like a missed opportunity. It’s like being at a party but your best friends weren’t invited.
Overall, the Kuga ST is a compelling package. It offers a blend of performance, technology and comfort that’s hard to resist. It’s like a Swiss Army Knife on wheels – it might not excel at everything, but it’s definitely handy to have around.
Verdict
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆
It’s a solid offering from Ford, with a dash of sportiness and a helping of tech. But it’s not without its “meh” moments.
Would we buy it?
Yes. It’s not perfect, but then again, who is? It’s a reliable, tech-loaded SUV that offers good value.
Value for Money
It’s like a good buffet – you get a lot for what you pay, but don’t expect caviar and lobster in every dish.