The Ford Kuga is the European version of the Ford Escape. The model has of late lagged behind its competitors such as the Mazda CX-5 hence the need to update it to remain competitive. The 2018 Ford Kuga is redesigned version of the compact crossover flaunts a contemporary design and also blends performance with efficiency. The new upgrade has also helped bring the subcompact crossover in line with Ford’s other models in terms of the exterior design language. In fact, its front fascia looks similar to that of the new Ford Edge or the Ford EcoSport.
2018 Ford Kuga Exterior
The new model comes with two grilles at the front fascia. The upper grille which is trapezoidal in shape is the larger of the two. The grille is surrounded by LED headlights. The fog lights have also been revised to make the model look more appealing. The rear end has also been revised to make the Kuga look more modern. Base models ride on 17-inch wheels but buyers can opt for 18-inch or 19-inch wheels.
The subcompact crossover measures 4,541 mm long, 2,096 mm wide (inclusive of side mirrors) and 1,749 mm tall. At 2,690, the Kuga’s wheelbase is the longest in the segment which translate to a more spacious cabin and as well as better cargo space.
Interior
The interior has also been upgraded; although the changes are not very radical, they have made the cabin look more refined. The model has also been hooked up with a host of new equipment and technologies. The2018 Ford Kuga has a well-designed dashboard with a more modern-looking center cluster a well as the instrument panel. The seats are well mounted to offer comfort for all passengers. Top trims feature leather upholstery with heating on front seats.
The most notable piece of equipment in the cabin is the SYNC infotainment system that is hosted in an 8.0-inch touch-screen. The system supports voice commands, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay as well as Appling features. Buyers who prefer more style or power in their Kuga can opt for the Vignale or ST-Line trims which are further customized to offer more style or energy respectively.
Despite the model’s large body and wheelbase, at 442 liters, the Kuga,s cargo space ranks among the lowest in the segment. However, the model boasts the largest cargo space once the rear seats are folded. Upon folding the rear seats flat, cargo space expands to 1,928 liters.
Engine and performance
The 2018 Ford Kuga will be powered by an array of gasoline and diesel engines. The gasoline engines include a turbocharged 1.6 L, EcoBoost engine that produces 147 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The engine has a fuel economy of 35 mpg on combined drives. The second gasoline power-plant is a 1.8 L, 4-cylinder mill good for 180 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque.
There are also two diesel engines; the base diesel engine is a 1.5 L, turbo-diesel unit that produces 120 hp and posts impressive fuel economy of 64 mpg. The second diesel mill is a 2.0 L, TDCi in two states of tune with the lower state rated at 150 hp and the higher one 180 hp.
All engines will use a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed PowerShift automatic system.
Price and release date
Ford is yet to confirm the official release date and prices of the 2018 Ford Kuga. Most likely, sales of the model will commence in the last quarter of 2017 or early 2018. As for the price, the Ford Kuga prices will range between £21,000 ($28,000) and £31,000 ($41,000).
Competition
The 2018 Ford Kuga competes with Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, VW Tiguan, Kia Sportage and Peugeot 3008.
