The much anticipated new Ford Puma has just arrived in Ireland. This Puma introduces Ford’s advanced, fuel-saving mild-hybrid powertrain technology alongside class-leading practicality and head-turning design for compact crossover customers. Powerful, responsive performance and optimised fuel efficiency is delivered using Ford’s EcoBoost Hybrid 48-volt technology – seamlessly integrating electric torque assistance with a low-friction, three-cylinder 1.0‑litre EcoBoost petrol engine to delivering 125 PS. Puma is a new chapter in Ford’s design identity with styling cues including distinctive wing-top mounted headlamps and athletic lines. SUV-inspired proportions deliver a raised ride-height for a confidence-enhancing driving experience, and support class-leading uncompromised luggage capacity of 456 litres.
Advanced driver assistance technologies delivering a simpler and less stressful driving experience include: Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane Centring, for effortlessly negotiating highway and stop-start traffic New Local Hazard Information, which can inform the driver of hazardous situations in the road ahead before they become visible to the driver or vehicle sensors
“We think new Puma will prove very popular in the Irish market”, said John Manning, Ford Ireland Market Lead. “The small crossover / SUV segment is very much a growing one in Ireland with a wide range of models available to prospective buyers. We really feel that Puma has the attributes to stand out from among its competitors: mild hybrid technology, class leading cargo space thanks to the novelty and practicality of the MegaBox, up to the minute technology, great looks and most of all, great driveability. Put all of them together and that is a winning formula”.
EcoBoost Hybrid technology enhances Puma’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with an 11.5 kW belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG). Replacing the standard alternator, the BISG enables recovery and storage of energy usually lost during braking and coasting to charge a 48‑volt lithium-ion air-cooled battery pack. The BISG also acts as a motor, integrating with the engine and using the stored energy to provide torque assistance during normal driving and acceleration, as well as running the vehicle’s electrical ancillaries. Puma’s styling belies unprecedented compact crossover practicality, supported by rear stowage solutions that offer practical solutions to everyday storage problems. Puma delivers best-in-class uncompromised load space and rear luggage space of 456 litres. A flexible load compartment can comfortably accommodate a box 112 cm long, 97 cm wide and 43 cm high with the second row of seats folded flat.
Developed to meet and exceed customer requirements for practical luggage space, the Ford MegaBox provides a deep, versatile storage space with a capacity of 80 litres. Measuring 764 mm wide, 753 mm long and 306 mm deep, the storage solution can house unstable items up to approximately 115 cm tall – such as houseplants – in an upright position. Alternatively, with the lid down, the space can be used to conceal dirty sports equipment or muddy Wellington boots. The Ford MegaBox’s synthetic lining and drain plug in the bottom makes it easy to clean with water.
For even greater versatility, the Puma’s boot floor can be easily adjusted using just one hand to suit load requirements, and to hold one of three positions in the cargo area:
In the lowest position, the maximum storage volume available while concealing the Ford MegaBox is delivered
In the high position, the area underneath increases to create a cargo floor that is level with the fold-flat second-row seats
Removed, the floor can be securely stored vertically against the back of the second-row seats for full 456-litre capacity
Loading the Puma is made even easier with Ford’s segment-first hands-free tailgate technology. The system allows access to the boot space even with arms full of groceries, kids or sports equipment, using a simple kicking motion under the rear bumper. The Puma tailgate also features an innovative incorporated parcel shelf solution – solving the challenge of what to do with the parcel shelf when loading, unloading and carrying large items. The tailgate-mounted luggage cover moves in unison with the tailgate and removes the need for side supports, ensuring unhindered access to the rear load area. The flexible luggage cover easily moulds itself around bulky items.
In Ireland, new Puma is offered in three series: Titanium, ST-Line and ST-Line X. Spec for Puma Titanium includes: 17-inch machined alloy wheels; projector headlamps with LED day time running lamps; auto high beam; Pre-collision assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking; 8-inch SYNC with Navigation and FordPass Connect modem; keyless start; electronic a/c; lumber massage driver & passenger seats; ambient lighting; wireless charging; cruise control with adjustable speed limiter; rear spoiler. Spec for Puma ST-Line adds: ST-Line sports body kit; large rear spoiler; fog lamps with cornering feature; ST-Line sports exhaust; 12.3-inch digital cluster; dark sports headliner; flat-bottom steering wheel; alloy pedal and gear knob. Spec for ST-Line X adds: 18-inch matt black alloy wheels; SYNC Gen 3 8-inch touchscreen with navigation & B&O premium sound system; partial leather sports trim; privacy glass; shark fin antenna.
