Ford’s most affordable crossover is just around the corner. It’s called the Puma and it shares its underpinnings with the latest Fiesta, with sales to kick off before the end of 2019.
Thanks to a couple of teaser images released a few days ago, we have a good idea on what to expect: an urban-like approach emphasized by the lack of plastic cladding and distinctive, wing-top mounted ‘bug eye’ headlights, which are not present in this render from KleberSilva.
The digital images portray a more Fiesta- and Focus-inspired styling, clean lines that run across its length, the traditional Ford grille at the front and taillights that kind of remind us of the Subaru Impreza. With the addition of a tailgate-mounted wing, small diffuser and dual exhaust tips, the car has a sporty vibe.
Offered as an alternative to Europe’s crowded small SUV segment, which includes offerings such as the Peugeot 2008, Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Opel/Vauxhall Mokka X, Hyundai Kona, Kia Stonic and others, the new Puma wants to appeal to buyers with its good look. Or at least that’s what Stuart Rowley, the brand’s Europe President, said.
At launch, the Puma will be offered with a mild-hybrid powertrain, with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol unit and a 48V belt-driven integrated starter/generator. It will produce up to 155 PS (153 hp / 1114 kW), so don’t look at it as a high-riding alternative to the Fiesta ST. More engines are expected to be added later on.
