Ford has launched a new ‘ST Powershift’ version of its Puma - which sits just a rung down from the max-power, full fat Puma ST.
The Puma is one of the UK’s best-looking hatchback-SUV crossovers, and acts as a rival to lease cars like the Nissan Juke, Volkswagen T-Roc and Toyota C-HR.
At the very top of the Puma range is the 1.5 litre petrol-engined Puma ST, which comes with power of 200 PS and a 0-62 mph time of just 6.7 seconds.
Now, however, Ford has launched an entry-level Puma ST - called ‘ST Powershift’ - which joins the race just behind the very hottest Puma in the pride.
It takes the 155 PS 1.0-litre mild hybrid ‘EcoBoost’ petrol engine that’s available further down the Puma line-up and adds an extra 15 PS to make 170 PS overall, as well as peak torque of 248 Nm.
A paddle-shift, seven-speed, dual-clutch Ford Powershift transmission means the Puma ST Powershift can pounce from 0-62 mph in 7.4 seconds, while still returning close to 45 miles to the gallon.
You can enjoy a fully-automatic mode, for when you’re pootling around town in heavy traffic, or you can engage ‘Sport Drive Mode’ and use the manual paddle shifters on the steering wheel to really get going.
An uprated chassis and suspension system compared with the regular Puma is also built for hooning around twisties.
Stefan Muenzinger, Ford Performance manager, Europe, tells us:
“The Ford Performance team called on all of its experience developing the original Puma ST to deliver ST signature fun-to-drive without losing the practicality of our compact SUV, and our new Powershift derivative is even more versatile. We’re using 48-volt mild hybrid technology not just to improve efficiency but also to enhance peak power and torque. The multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is combined with a paddle-shift-operable, seven-speed, dual-clutch Ford Powershift transmission – fusing an energised driving experience and everyday usability.”
While the Puma ST Powershift isn’t a range-topper, you can still expect the ‘distinctive’ ST exhaust note that has intoxicated so many fast Ford fans, particularly when you slip it into ‘Sport’.
You can also expect plenty of driver assistance and safety software on board, including adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, pre-collision assist with active braking, and Ford’s ‘Active Park Assist’ system, which not only spots a parking spot, but will actively steer the car into the space for you.
Design wise, there’s a unique front splitter, large rear roof spoiler, and distinctive rear diffuser, as well as signature ST upper and lower front grilles that are designed to ‘maximise engine cooling capability and efficiency’, says Ford.
The Puma ST Powershift also introduces a new ST-exclusive colour - Azura Blue - which is one of the six exterior paint options.
The precise pricing for the Ford Puma ST Powershift is yet to be revealed, but we expect it to be cheaper than the £31,045 Puma ST - a price reduction that should also be reflected in your monthly leasing fee.
The current Ford Puma ST is available to lease from £399* per month.
There’s another Ford ST model you simply have to check out - the Fiesta ST (below), which is, pound for pound, one of the greatest hot hatches ever conceived.
The Fiesta ST is available to lease from £381 per month*.
*Prices include VAT. Credit is Subject to Status, Ts and Cs and Arrangement Fees apply. Excess mileage may apply. Stock levels and prices correct as of 09/03/23
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