It’s interesting to look back a few years at the best technology in cars and realise that some of the coolest gear from back then is so very close to becoming standard fare in some popular vehicles on the market today. EFTM has spent some time behind the wheel of the all-new Ford Kuga SUV recently and this is one tech packed car.
The Kuga is a small SUV, sitting below the Territory in the Ford line-up in terms of size and has some strong competition in this compact SUV category. The optional tech-pack is where the real value of the Kuga shines above its competitors.
The Kuga offers a smooth drive, very stable with minimal body roll through the obligatory city roundabouts and a good drive and performance in and out of traffic.
I doubt too many people shopping for a compact SUV who might be trailing competitors like the VW Tiguan or the Mazda CX5 – both very capable and quality vehicles – will be anything but impressed by the Kuga.
There is a distinct european feel about the design and build to the Kuga making whatever model you’re in the market for seem to justify the price tag.
The Kuga’s stance is high, but not overwhelming for those coming from a non-SUV class of vehicle which is not uncommon in these days when SUV’s seem to be all the rage.
Like many Fords today the dash and centre console on the Kuga are a little overwhelming with more buttons than it’s possible to count – in particular for the stereo which is probably the one place where the Kuga falls behind – you do expect a large touch-screen to control all those features, yet in the Kuga the screen is recessed in the upper dash with loads of buttons for stereo control within reach.
Overall though, you’ll come away from your test drive satisfied the Kuga lacks nothing if the size meets your needs.
The 1.6 litre petrol ecoboost 134kW/240Nm engine on the test vehicle was hardly a brisk performer. Upgrading to Ford’s decent 2.0 litre Duratorq Diesel which produces 120kW / 340Nm of torque is probably worthwhile if you like more punch.
Let’s move past the engine options, the many and varied model types that Ford offer – you’ll read about those elsewhere and the dealer will walk you through the range right the way up to the Titanium model which will have you hitting close to $50,000.
Here’s where it gets very cool. At that level you’re getting almost everything possible by way of technology.
Keyless entry and start – this is becoming more and more standard among new cars, and it’s on the Kuga – walk up to the car and simply pull the door handle to unlock and get right in. Keep the key in your pocket and push the dashboard mounted button to fire up the engine.
Now, for the ultimate technology packed car – let’s add the Ford Kuga Tech pack ($2650):
Lane keeping assistance – Out on the highway it’s not uncommon to veer out of your lane either through poor attention or perhaps a tired moment. The Kuga doesn’t just beep to warn you it’s happening, it actively steers you back into your lane. Just subtle movements to correct your errors, it won’t swerve if you have swerved away, but for those moments where you glance over the lines the Kuga will push you back.
That’s a pretty amazing list of items to have on a $50,000 vehicle. You’ll struggle to understand them all on your first test drive
The Kuga offers some great bragging rights – even if it’s the wife’s car. Great design, good interior quality and all that tech. This is as close as you can get to the “self-driving” car. It’s a pretty amazing thing which your mates will struggle to not be impressed by. Plus, it drives well, and has plenty of space.
If you want all those bragging rights you aren’t getting away from the dealer for much less than $50,000. Sure the Kuga starts at $28,000 but if all of the above appeals to you, you will drive away pretty unhappy. Stump up the cash – you won’t regret it.
It’s hard to imagine a good old Ford could pack so much cool stuff in the dash. For the Kuga itself this is a clear PASS, but if you option up and throw in the Tech-pack – a CREDIT is well deserved.
Finding a fun experience while on a holiday is even easier, with AirBNB announcing Icons,…
After 24 hours of news and speculation around a potential privacy breach of up to…
Ring has expanded their indoor security camera lineup once again, this time with a camera…
It’s a good time to look at updating your gaming monitor, with LG slashing prices…
It was just a few weeks ago that I reviewed the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless…
The flagship NISMO edition is now a permanent part of the Nissan Z sports-car range…