Ford is to revive a nameplate from the brand’s recent past on an all-new coupe crossover.
The Puma badge was previously worn by a small two-seater sports coupe but will now be used on the crossover with a mild-hybrid petrol powertrain.
First glimpses of the new model were revealed at an event in Amsterdam that also saw the unveiling of the third-generation Kuga SUV.
Ford says that the Puma will offer class-leading boot space and athletic styling. It will further extend the Ford SUV line-up, which now includes the Fiesta and Focus Active models, as well as the EcoSport, Kuga, Edge and Explorer.
SUVs now account for more than 20% of Ford total sales, with registrations rising by 19% in 2018 alone.
Developing 155hp, the EcoBoost Hybrid setup pairs a 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol turbo engine with a belt-driven starter/generator, which helps improve the model’s efficiency and recovers energy for the electrical system through braking and coasting. Ford claims the Puma will achieve at least 50mpg and CO2 emissions of 124g/km.
In terms of styling, the Puma maintains its sporty roots as it comes with high-mounted headlights, smooth lines and short overhangs. It also has a raised ride height for a ‘confidence-enhancing driver experience’.
Stuart Rowley, Ford of Europe president, describes the new model as innovatively engineered and seductively styled. “We think Puma is going to really resonate with compact-car customers in Europe. If you want a car that can turn heads on Friday night, and swallow your flat-pack furniture with ease on Saturday afternoon, then you’ve found it.
“We’ve gone to every length to give customers the flexibility they want, with progressive and evocative styling, so that they can drive the best-looking car they’ve ever owned.”
Prices for the new Puma are yet to be confirmed, but Ford says that sales will begin by the end of 2019, the car produced at the brand’s Craiova plant in Romania.
