Ford is working on a mid-lifecycle update for the Puma, which is expected to coincide with the debut of a fully electric variant. A heavily camouflaged prototype of the small SUV was caught testing on public roads in Europe, with its bodykit, wheels, brakes, and dual exhaust pipes suggesting it is the performance-focused ST model with a combustion engine under the bonnet.
The Ford Puma was reborn in 2019, entering the highly competitive B-SUV segment. Following the discontinuation of the mechanically-related Fiesta supermini, the facelifted Puma will serve as the new entry point in Ford’s lineup, becoming an even more important model for the brand.
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The Puma ST prototype was fully covered in camouflage wrap, trying to hide the small visual updates. Those appear to be focused at the front end, including a slightly revised lower bumper area and new LED graphics for the headlights. The Ford emblem will likely move inside the grille, in a similar manner to the facelifted Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.
The profile appears to be unchanged, as with the rear end which could get revised taillight graphics and minor changes on the trim. As with the current Puma, the ST will share most of the bodywork with the ST-Line, with the exception of the toned-up aero components. The EV will likely be distinguished thanks to a few version-specific details, while it is not clear if Ford will keep offering the standard bodykit of the Titanium trim.
The facelift might also bring interior updates, as hinted at by the relocated climate vents on the prototype. The current 8-inch free-standing infotainment touchscreen could be replaced by a larger 12-inch unit featuring the latest software version and more connectivity features, alongside a revised version of the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, more sophisticated ADAS, and new options for the interior trim.
The powertrain lineup is expected to include mild hybrid petrol and fully electric options. The turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost mHEV which currently produces 123 hp (92 kW / 125 PS), 153 hp (114 kW / 155 PS), or 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) in the auto-only ST Powershift will most likely be carried over in the facelifted range. What we don’t know is whether Ford will electrify the more powerful turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost which makes 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS) in the manual ST, as the mill would need to be updated in order to comply with future emission regulations.
As for the zero-emission option, the Puma EV is expected to come fitted with a single electric motor producing 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and a lithium-ion battery of unknown capacity, sourced from the mechanically-related E-Transit Courier and E-Tourneo Courier.
The facelifted Ford Puma will be produced in Craiova, Romania, starting in the second half of 2024. The official debut of the model should be expected a bit earlier than that.
