Ford Kuga vs Ford Puma: The Ultimate 2025 SUV Comparison

In the ever-evolving world of compact and mid-size SUVs, the Ford Kuga and Ford Puma stand as two of the most compelling contenders. Both vehicles embody Ford’s legacy of innovation, combining modern design, performance, and hybrid efficiency. However, each model caters to distinct driving styles and lifestyles. In this in-depth guide, we’ll dissect every key detail — from engine performance to interior space, fuel economy, and pricing — to help you determine which one suits your needs best.

Overview: Two Fords, Two Purposes

The Ford Kuga is a mid-size SUV that emphasizes space, comfort, and versatility, ideal for families or frequent travelers. It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions for optimal balance between performance and economy.

The Ford Puma, on the other hand, belongs to the compact SUV segment, tailored for city dwellers who value agility, efficiency, and bold styling. Despite its smaller footprint, it’s impressively practical with clever storage solutions.

Performance and Engine Options

The Kuga provides a broader range of powertrains:

• 1.5L EcoBoost Petrol (150 HP)
• 2.5L Full Hybrid (FHEV) (183 HP)
• 2.5L Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) (243 HP)

The Puma focuses on efficiency without sacrificing spirit:

• 1.0L EcoBoost MHEV Petrol (125–168 HP)
• Electric Variant (with a 43 kWh battery and 136 HP equivalent output)

Transmission and Drivetrain

The Kuga offers both manual and automatic gearboxes, including CVT systems for hybrids. You can also opt for front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations — ideal for varied terrains.

The Puma keeps things simpler with manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions, exclusively with front-wheel drive, focusing on urban agility.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid achieves exceptional fuel efficiency:

• Consumption: 0.9 – 6.8 L/100 km
• Electric Range (PHEV): up to 69 km

The Ford Puma MHEV models deliver strong urban efficiency:

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• Consumption: 5.4 – 6.0 L/100 km
• Electric Version: 13.1 – 13.7 kWh/100 km

The Puma’s smaller engine ensures low running costs, while the Kuga’s hybrid powertrains shine on longer journeys.

Electric Range and Battery Technology

The Puma EV offers far greater range for fully electric driving, while the Kuga PHEV caters to hybrid users seeking shorter electric commutes.

Dimensions and Weight

The Kuga dominates in cabin size and payload capacity, while the Puma remains the lightweight, city-oriented alternative.

Interior Space and Boot Capacity

Despite being smaller, the Puma’s boot is surprisingly larger, thanks to its clever floor design. The Kuga focuses on comfort and versatility for passengers.

Technology and Infotainment

Both models come loaded with Ford’s SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 infotainment systems, featuring:

• 8"–12" touchscreens
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Digital cluster displays
• Advanced navigation with live traffic

The Kuga also includes optional B&O premium sound systems, wireless charging, and smart climate control.

Comfort and Ride Quality

• Kuga: Prioritizes refinement and smooth cruising. Adaptive suspension and optional AWD make it ideal for long drives.
• Puma: Offers a firmer, sportier ride that feels agile in corners, perfectly tuned for city dynamics.

Safety Systems and Driver Assistance

Both vehicles carry Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Parking Sensors and Cameras

The Kuga adds Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Active Park Assist 2.0, reinforcing its family-oriented safety profile.

Design and Exterior Features

• Kuga: Sophisticated, aerodynamic design with muscular lines and SUV proportions.
• Puma: Sportier, compact, and dynamic with athletic contours and a bold stance.

Each model reflects Ford’s evolving design language — Kuga for maturity and elegance, Puma for youthful sportiness.

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CO₂ Emissions and Environmental Efficiency

The Puma EV leads in zero-emission driving, while the Kuga Plug-in Hybrid bridges the gap between performance and sustainability.

Pricing and Value for Money

The Puma offers exceptional value for city drivers, while the Kuga justifies its higher cost through advanced hybrid tech and greater versatility.

Which SUV Should You Choose?

• Choose the Ford Kuga if:
  You need a family SUV with advanced hybrid options, space, and long-distance comfort.
• Choose the Ford Puma if:
  You prefer a stylish compact SUV that’s efficient, urban-friendly, and optionally electric.

Comparison Summary Table

Final Verdict

The Ford Kuga delivers more versatility and hybrid sophistication, making it the superior choice for families and long-distance drivers. Meanwhile, the Ford Puma excels in urban maneuverability, affordability, and style — especially in its electric form.

Both represent Ford’s commitment to efficient, forward-thinking SUVs — the choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle.

FAQs

1. Which is more fuel-efficient, the Ford Kuga or Puma?
The Puma EV and MHEV versions are more efficient for short urban trips, while the Kuga Plug-in Hybrid excels in mixed driving with its hybrid-electric balance.

2. Does the Ford Puma have an AWD version?
No, the Puma is strictly front-wheel drive, unlike the Kuga, which offers both FWD and AWD.

3. Which SUV has more boot space?
The Puma, with up to 523 liters, surprisingly surpasses the Kuga’s 412 liters.

4. Are both models available as hybrids?
Yes. The Kuga comes as a full hybrid and plug-in hybrid, while the Puma features a mild hybrid or full electric version.

5. Which offers better performance?
The Kuga, with up to 243 HP, outperforms the Puma in acceleration and torque, ideal for dynamic highway driving.

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