Try it, Ford Puma Hybrid: the compact but spacious city SUV

Try it, Ford Puma Hybrid

When Ford introduced the new Puma, for many of those who experienced it as the small two-seater sports car (2 + 2 actually, but the back seat was anything but comfortable) it was a little shock. The modern Puma is a B-SUV, which incorporates the tapered lines of the historic model, but transforms them into a car with a completely different concept. In any case, this car was an immediate success, with many who saw Puma as an excellent compromise between sportiness, elegance and ease of use, suitable for all ages, regardless of gender. Perhaps Ford has given itself the chance to launch a small sports car, but certainly the success of this small SUV is undeniable. Puma's success was so important that in the first 8 months of marketing in Italy, in 2020, it reached the very first positions of "best-selling car" and still, to this day, remains among the most popular models; naturally the most acclaimed versions are those equipped with a 95 and 125 hp EcoBoost engine, while the ST variant, the subject of a previous test, still remains a niche choice.

As usual, we do not dwell on the aesthetic description , the photos accompanying this article speak for themselves. There will be some who won't like it, but we believe that Puma's charm and sportiness are undeniable.

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Driving position, fairly direct steering and snappy engine provide a spirited ride, while the ground clearance makes maneuvering easier. Puma's interiors are fairly neat, considering the price range of the car. Maybe we expected something more, but on balance there is everything you need. Digital instrument panel and CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on the 8 "central screen remind us that we are in a modern car, but some elements, such as the climate control controls, very bare and with a little too much plastic, do not convince until At bottom. The graphics of the onboard software itself are a bit "old", certainly an update to this effect could improve its appearance. There is no shortage of two front USB ports and an area for wireless charging of the smartphone.

Having tried Puma during these cold months we appreciated the steering wheel rim and heated seats, even if the implementation of these accessories is not particularly refined. The heat on the seat is very concentrated, to the point that it becomes annoying after a few minutes and the same can be said for the steering wheel rim, while on the other hand the heating system is not very homogeneous. In short, many accessories at an attractive price, but only a discreet implementation.

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Puma is a city SUV, thanks to the fast engine at low revs and the driving position. In the extra-urban it is fine, as well as for long journeys, but in these contexts it does not have the qualities that make it stand out from other competitors and the noise is perceived more. Average consumption is around 15 km per liter, a value that drops to around 13 at higher speeds and if you are not careful with the accelerator. Okay, but there are engines that are able to do better.