► Baby performance SUV has landed
► 197bhp, 6.7sec 0-62mph for full-fat ST
► 168bhp, 7.4sec 0-62mph for Powershift ST
This is the Puma ST Powershift, a new hot-hybrid version of the SUV that trades engine capacity for electric power an increased efficiency. Following the trend of other performance categories, the Puma ST has had its ICE reduced from a 1.5-litre turbo unit to a compact three-cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system.
‘The Ford Performance team called on all of its experience developing the original Puma ST to deliver ST signature fun-to-drive without losing the practicality of our compact SUV, and our new Powershift derivative is even more versatile,’ said Stefan Muenzinger, Ford’s performance manager for Europe. ‘We’re using 48-volt mild-hybrid technology not just to improve efficiency but also to enhance peak power and torque.’
Capable of 168bhp (a 15bhp and 10% increase over the standard mild-hybrid Puma) and 183lb ft of torque, it’s a little slower than the full-fat ST; the Powershift takes 7.4 seconds from 0-62mph, a smidge over the 6.7 of the standard ST.
The whole powertrain now goes through a seven-speed automatic system with paddles. Ford says the new ‘box will be optimized to make the most out of the hybrid’s increased torque – and the exhaust will provide a soundtrack just as fizzy as the 1.5-litre ST.
Storage space remains unchanged despite the new hybrid ancillaries, and the 80-litre Megabox remains intact.
What else do I need to know about the standard ST?
This is the performance version of an SUV that replaced a Ford performance car in the first place. Confused, don’t worry – it gets better. See, the Puma ST is based on the same platform as the Fiesta ST and also happens to share many of its parts, too. So, what you’ve hopefully got here is a more practical version of one of the finest hot hatches of the 21st century. Interested yet?
What makes it a proper ST?
For starters, it’s got the same 197bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ecoboost engine as the ST, but – whisper it – torque has been bumped up to 320Nm. Ford reckons it’ll be good for 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 137mph, both comparable figures to the Fiesta ST. You’ll also get the same drive modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport and Track all available.
Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, with a Quaife limited slip differential working in tandem with Torque Vectoring Control to ensure maximum traction at the front end. Ford is also keen to point out that the Puma ST is the first small SUV in Europe to be fitted with an LSD. Who knew, eh?
How else does it differ from a regular Puma?
Aside from the above, there’s been a good number of changes under the skin – and on it. There’s a Ford Performance splitter at the front that increases downforce by 80%, a rear roof spoiler, chunky 19-inch alloy wheels and bolstered Recaro seats in the cabin. It’s also shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, slightly more versatile than the Pilot Super Sports you get as standard on the Fiesta ST.
Steering responses have been quickened up (25% faster than Puma), while the brakes are also 17% larger. What’s more, the rear twist-beam suspension is increased to 2,000Nm/deg torsional stiffness, which, in plain English, is a 40% increase over the Fiesta ST. If it’s not already obvious, this is far more than merely adding a spoiler and whacking the turbo up.
What’s the cabin like?
Pretty much the same as a regular Puma, although there are a few changes. Chief among which are the super-supportive Recaros – even if they do pinch a bit of rear legroom. You’ll also find ST puddle lights (all the rage now), Ford Performance skid plates, a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and ST gear knob. Something else worth noting is the drive mode selector and performance buttons on the steering wheel (the former is less handily positioned on the centre console in the Fiesta ST).
The regular Puma’s 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is included and replaces traditional dials with a TFT screen that displays functions such as media, sat-nav, telephone and vehicle settings. Driver assistance technologies are offered, including Pre-Collision Assist with Active Braking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Sign Recognition and Lane Centring.
Does it still have that clever boot?
The MegaBox? Yes, it does. The bootspace itself totals up at 456 litres (excellent by class standards) but it’s the 80-litre MegaBox that really sets it apart. Hidden under the main boot floor, it features a ‘plug hole’ in the bottom so it can be easily hosed down and – if you’re into golf – it can take two golf bags in their fully upright position. Clever.
Anything else I need to know?
Orders for the Puma ST will be opening in October 2020, with prices starting from £28,495. Want one with that limited-slip differential? Add £950 onto that.
Oh yes, and if you don’t fancy the zany Mean Green hue, other colours are also available – including Agate Black, Desert Island Blue, Fantastic Red, Frozen White and Magnetic. But go for the green, you know you want to.
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