Ford is promoting social distancing in the Puma ST’s new teaser video, which reveals the model’s official unveiling date.
While it’s not the most exciting video we’ve seen, it’s actually the caption (and second to last frame) that interests us, as it reveals that the Puma ST will debut on September 24.
The Blue Oval’s rival for the Hyundai Kona N and Volkswagen T-Roc R is pretty much a Fiesta ST on stilts as it shares the same platform with the subcompact hot hatch. It will sit at the top of the Puma range and will appeal to driving enthusiasts with its sporty credentials.
Watch Also: New Ford Puma ST Gets Thrown Around The ‘Ring, Looks Like A Tall Hot Hatch
The sound of something exciting, from the people who helped make it. Coming September 24th.#PumaST pic.twitter.com/S3le5UQnMf
— Ford News Europe (@FordNewsEurope) August 5, 2020
Keeping our fingers crossed that it will retain at least some of the driving characteristics of its hot hatch sibling, which is one of the most engaging in the segment, we will remind you that the Puma ST will adopt the latter’s 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine.
In the Fiesta ST, the unit pumps out 197 HP (200 PS / 147 kW) and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) of torque in combination with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. The setup should help the performance crossover hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in around 7 seconds, considering that the lighter Fiesta ST can do it in 6.5 seconds.
Besides the punchy mill, tuned chassis, and upgraded brakes, the 2021 Puma ST will set itself apart from the rest of the lineup thanks to the beefier body kit consisting of bigger bumpers, small front apron and large roof spoiler. The dual exhaust pipes, lowered sports suspension, model-specific wheels, Recaro seats, ST branding and so on will round out the package.