The market conditions have dramatically shifted since Ford introduced the Puma in 2019. With a plethora of ambitious contenders in the small SUV segment and Ford’s decision to abandon the Fiesta, the Puma’s role has become more crucial than ever in attracting new customers from both the hatchback and crossover B segments. To aid in this mission, the refreshed Puma boasts an impressive technological package.
Ford is confident that these enhancements will entice more buyers, despite the lack of noticeable design changes. The front of the Puma features a new Ford badge and redesigned daytime running lights, resulting in a fresh light signature. Depending on the trim level, the Puma may sport either a chrome-delete grille (Titanium) or a more aggressive front bumper (ST-Line versions). Additionally, new exterior colors add to the overall visual appeal.
However, the most significant changes lie beneath the surface. The new headlights, which we previously discussed, can be equipped with the optional Dynamic Matrix LED technology. This innovative feature utilizes Predictive Dynamic Bending Light to illuminate corners and provide drivers with clearer visibility.
Ford has also worked its magic on the interior, introducing a new dashboard layout, a larger infotainment screen, and a two-spoke steering wheel design. While the trend of replacing physical buttons with touchscreen controls continues, Ford compensates for this change by offering larger screens. The 12.8-inch digital instrument panel can be customized to display the most relevant information to the driver, while the infotainment screen has been expanded to 12 inches, up from the previous 8-inch screen.
Not only has the interface changed, but the internals have also received upgrades. The infotainment screen now features SYNC 4, boasting twice the computing power of its predecessor. Integration with Amazon Alexa enables improved voice recognition using natural language, even without a connected smartphone, thanks to the integrated 5G modem. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available for those who prefer their smartphone’s interface.
In terms of driver assistance, the new Puma excels. It introduces Intersection Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking Assist to correct driver errors. The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system now includes Lane Centering and Predictive Speed Assist, which considers road curves, roundabouts, and on- and off-ramps when adjusting the vehicle’s speed. Additionally, a 360-degree surround-view camera system provides a comprehensive view of the car’s surroundings, offering a bird’s eye perspective.
Fans of the ST variant will be disappointed to learn that the Puma has done away with its bigger displacement engine. Instead, the car now features 1.0-liter mild-hybrid engines. These engines come in two power options for the regular models, with either 123 or 153 horsepower. The Puma ST, on the other hand, boasts a 168-horsepower version. While this is still impressive, it is a step down from the previous model’s 197 horsepower provided by its 1.5-liter engine. Additionally, only the lower-powered engine is available with a manual transmission, while the rest are paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
