The market conditions have significantly changed since Ford introduced Puma in 2019. Not only is the small SUV segment filled with ambitious competitors, but Ford itself has discontinued the Fiesta. Consequently, Puma’s role has become more crucial than ever in attracting new customers from both the hatchback and crossover B segments. To facilitate this mission, the refreshed Puma now boasts an impressive technological package.
Ford is undoubtedly confident that these enhancements will entice more buyers, despite the absence of design changes. On the front, there is a new Ford emblem and redesigned daytime running lights, providing a new light signature. Depending on the trim level, the Puma may feature a chrome-delete grille (Titanium) or a more aggressive front bumper (ST-Line versions). Aside from these alterations, the new exterior colors are the only noticeable changes from the outside.
However, the changes are more substantial beneath the surface. As we have previously discussed the new headlights, they can be equipped with the optional Dynamic Matrix LED technology. This technology utilizes Predictive Dynamic Bending Light to monitor the road ahead and illuminate corners, enhancing visibility for drivers.
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 Ford has embraced the current trend of replacing physical buttons with touchscreen controls, they have compensated for this change by offering larger screens. The 12.8-inch digital instrument panel can be customized to display the most relevant information for the driver. Additionally, the infotainment screen has been upgraded to 12 inches, an increase from the outgoing model’s 8-inch screen.
Not only has the interface changed, but the internals have also been upgraded. The infotainment screen now features SYNC 4, which boasts twice the computing power of the previous version. With the integration of Amazon Alexa, Ford promises improved voice recognition using natural language. This functionality is available even without a connected smartphone, thanks to the 5G integrated modem. Furthermore, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered for those who prefer to utilize their smartphone’s interface.
The new Puma excels in the driver assistance department, featuring new Intersection Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking Assist systems that are prepared to rectify driver errors. The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system now includes Lane Centering and Predictive Speed Assist, which consider the road’s curves, roundabouts, and on- and off-ramps when adjusting the speed. Additionally, a 360-degree surround-view camera system provides a comprehensive view of the car’s surroundings.
All of these improvements are well-received, but supporters of the ST model will be disappointed by the absence of a larger engine. The 1.5-liter powerplant has been discontinued, and the Puma now exclusively utilizes 1.0-liter mild-hybrid engines. These engines produce either 123 or 153 horsepower in the regular versions, while the Puma ST relies on a more powerful 168-horsepower version. This represents a decrease from the previous model’s 197 horsepower provided by the 1.5-liter engine. The manual transmission is only available with the less powerful engine, as all others are paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.