I’ve never been much of a fan of small SUVs. I’ve always found them to be a bit too tame and uninspiring. But the new Ford Puma might just be the vehicle to change my mind.
First off, let’s talk about the design. It’s sleek, it’s modern, and it’s got a bit of an aggressive edge to it. The high-mounted headlights give it a bit of a predatory look, and the sculpted body lines add to the overall sporty vibe. It’s a far cry from the boring, boxy SUVs of the past.
But the real magic happens when you get behind the wheel. The Puma is surprisingly nimble and responsive. The steering is sharp, the suspension is firm but not punishing, and the overall driving experience is downright fun. It’s almost like driving a compact sports car, but with the practicality and cargo space of an SUV.
Under the hood, you’ve got a choice of two powertrains. There’s a peppy 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine that delivers a healthy 153 horsepower, or you can opt for the mild-hybrid version, which adds a little extra oomph and improved fuel economy. Both options are mated to a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, although there’s an automatic available if rowing your own gears isn’t your thing.
Inside, the Puma is comfortable and well-appointed. The seats are supportive, there’s plenty of tech features to play with, and the overall fit and finish is top-notch. It feels more like a premium offering than an entry-level SUV.
But the real showstopper is the MegaBox. It’s a clever bit of engineering that adds a huge, deep storage area underneath the cargo floor. It’s perfect for stowing wet or dirty gear, or even for transporting larger items that wouldn’t normally fit in a vehicle of this size. And when it’s not in use, it conveniently converts back into a regular cargo area with a simple flip of a panel.
Overall, the Ford Puma is a surprisingly enjoyable and practical little SUV. It’s got the looks, the performance, and the versatility to stand out in a crowded segment. It might just be the vehicle that finally sways me towards small SUVs. Well played, Ford. Well played.
