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Good review. Just bought a hybrid ST-Line X. Also have 2020 Focus ST Estate. Replaced 2016 Kuga. Huge huge change and improvement. Very impressed and a huge leap more upmarket. Technology works very well. I was cynical about screen heating, but as per Tish, it has big icons and works very well. Note that heads up display is an extra part of technology pack including light bar and headlamps that move and split the full beam- do not bother. My ST Focus has the flash headlamps, and I am constantly flashed. I did not choose this option with the Kuga - and have not been flashed. That heads up / light bar / headlamps option is £900 - leave alone. Also, the towing kit is not standard. But great car - and good review by Trish. I'm very very happy - having owned many Jags and RR.
Another top review Tish, we hear the good, the could do better and the comparisons to some features used in alternative vehicles. As for the virtual pedal tailgate, it took me only a few minutes to work mine out when I got my car (not a Kuga) over 5 years ago. Step away from the back and it opens every time after you swing the foot under the bumper. Stand next to it and you'll be waiting a long time. It's obvious for safety reasons that the hatch should not open if there is an obstruction behind (it possibly uses reversing sensors) so it does not open smacking you in the chin causing painful dental work. My car even pauses opening the hatch if you move too close and beeps like a beaver that's bitten its tongue if you do. Many thanks for sharing.
I took delivery of an ST-L X FHEV 2.5 Ltr. end of October after a 5 month wait, it was well worth it we absolutely love it. Your review is very informative and fair we enjoyed it.
Great review as ever but we're never told especially with different hybrids whether cars have a spare wheel, this can be a deal breaker for some people 😁
Im a fan of Ford…my last 4 cars have all been Fords (spanning 25 years). I really wanted to like this car, had one (ST Line X FHEV) for a 24 hour test drive, and I think it was the best car to drive of the 4 models I tested. However, considering the price, I thought that the interior quality of the cabin was poor (worst of all the cars I sat in - never mind tested). Also I just didn’t like the infotainment screen and the fact that even the heating controls could only be accessed via that screen. In the end I just couldn’t go for it….it’s a shame, because if they paired those driving dynamics with better interior design and build quality, it would have been a winner for me. Just to add, it had the best fuel economy of the cars I teased too. In the end I went for a Hyundai Tucson N Line S Hybrid (facelift model) - it was just a better all round package.
I have nothing against the Kuga, but this being the latest edition, the dash really lets it down. Quality materials may exist, but it's uninspiring and many competitors have much better ergonomics. Even a budget MG out does the Kuga.
This may sound dramatic but I can't see a future for Ford as they currently are. I'm a massive Ford fan, I've owned so many and most recently a MK3 Galaxy that was utterly brilliant even having racked up 172k miles. The interior of this Kuga if you removed the touchscreen could easily be mistaken for a 15 year-old car in terms of design. They really have dropped the ball. When it came to replacing our Galaxy we've now got a Peugeot e-5008...not as roomy but it looks like a spaceship compared to this Kuga. What Ford needs to do is somehow bring back the Fiesta and Focus (and Mondeo....love those!). Only time will tell
Im sorry but it shouldnt take 2 minutes and 51 seconds for a review video to begin. I would stick to the rule of show don't tell, and I wouldn't stick the #Ads back to back at the start of the video. Keep up the good work, just some advice from a videographer.
Aka the Ford Escape in North America. The facelifted Escape in this generation was first unveiled in 2022, but the facelifted Küga in this generation came out for Europe only in 2024.
I have the 2009 diesel , 4x4. Why do the manufacturers have to make the car bigger every time a new model comes out. I like my little car and will keep it until it dies. No high tech, no blowing up engines. I’ve had the belt changed and the DPF cleaned out so hopefully it will be good for a long time to come
After 7 fords of various models I will never buy one again our latest Puma has been a huge disappointment but the worst thing is the dealer network, truly abysmal.
This one seems ok too (if not that exciting). I just find the whole current market paralysing when looking to buy a newer car. I have a 5 year old Peugeot- it’s been pretty good but underpowered. I would like to upgrade to a car I keep for several years; but the current price of newer cars £30k+ for something decent ,then the current choice of SUV’s/estates all seem to be lacking something or other , do I go EV or not?(probably not as not practical for family emergencies) and then how do I finance? PCP’s don’t seem like good value and interest rates on loans are still quite high; this leaves me stuck and unable to make a decision; too many variables. Tish - I trust you I think now, if I give you my money can you go and buy a car for me, for a middle-aged man with a family who doesn’t want something too conservative- likes gadgets but not at the expense of common sense and wants just a bit of luxury and comfort?😂. Surely I’m not the only one stuck in this state?.😂 thanks for the review.
The Ford Kuga had tremendous problems here in South Africa. It caught fire on multiple times, often burning passengers alive inside whilst it's burning and also locked itself. I was really hoping that Ford would be sensitive to the situation enough to discontinue the Kuga name.
Ford are destroying themselves this facelift and design is awful the interior is awful Ford will be gone in a few years Basic small Alloys for the money unacceptable
#AD Join the growing VIXA community and take control of your driving experience. Sign up today at Vixa.co.uk and get your one month free trial with code 'AUTOSOCIALUK'.
www.vixa.co.uk/?
Offer is subject to availability - head to Vixa.co.uk/terms-and-conditions for full T&Cs.
Good review. Just bought a hybrid ST-Line X. Also have 2020 Focus ST Estate. Replaced 2016 Kuga.
Huge huge change and improvement. Very impressed and a huge leap more upmarket. Technology works very well. I was cynical about screen heating, but as per Tish, it has big icons and works very well. Note that heads up display is an extra part of technology pack including light bar and headlamps that move and split the full beam- do not bother. My ST Focus has the flash headlamps, and I am constantly flashed. I did not choose this option with the Kuga - and have not been flashed. That heads up / light bar / headlamps option is £900 - leave alone.
Also, the towing kit is not standard.
But great car - and good review by Trish. I'm very very happy - having owned many Jags and RR.
Another top review Tish, we hear the good, the could do better and the comparisons to some features used in alternative vehicles. As for the virtual pedal tailgate, it took me only a few minutes to work mine out when I got my car (not a Kuga) over 5 years ago. Step away from the back and it opens every time after you swing the foot under the bumper. Stand next to it and you'll be waiting a long time. It's obvious for safety reasons that the hatch should not open if there is an obstruction behind (it possibly uses reversing sensors) so it does not open smacking you in the chin causing painful dental work. My car even pauses opening the hatch if you move too close and beeps like a beaver that's bitten its tongue if you do. Many thanks for sharing.
I took delivery of an ST-L X FHEV 2.5 Ltr. end of October after a 5 month wait, it was well worth it we absolutely love it. Your review is very informative and fair we enjoyed it.
Great review as ever but we're never told especially with different hybrids whether cars have a spare wheel, this can be a deal breaker for some people 😁
Im a fan of Ford…my last 4 cars have all been Fords (spanning 25 years). I really wanted to like this car, had one (ST Line X FHEV) for a 24 hour test drive, and I think it was the best car to drive of the 4 models I tested. However, considering the price, I thought that the interior quality of the cabin was poor (worst of all the cars I sat in - never mind tested). Also I just didn’t like the infotainment screen and the fact that even the heating controls could only be accessed via that screen.
In the end I just couldn’t go for it….it’s a shame, because if they paired those driving dynamics with better interior design and build quality, it would have been a winner for me. Just to add, it had the best fuel economy of the cars I teased too. In the end I went for a Hyundai Tucson N Line S Hybrid (facelift model) - it was just a better all round package.
The AGR front seats are a great improvement.
I have nothing against the Kuga, but this being the latest edition, the dash really lets it down. Quality materials may exist, but it's uninspiring and many competitors have much better ergonomics. Even a budget MG out does the Kuga.
Trust me, the ergonomics are spot on...probably you meant aesthetically
Nice car, bought one. Owned several VW's but this is better value for you money. Technical a Toyota, so better than the rest.
I have just ordered the new kuga st line x in bursting green
Outfit matches the car, nice review!
This may sound dramatic but I can't see a future for Ford as they currently are. I'm a massive Ford fan, I've owned so many and most recently a MK3 Galaxy that was utterly brilliant even having racked up 172k miles. The interior of this Kuga if you removed the touchscreen could easily be mistaken for a 15 year-old car in terms of design. They really have dropped the ball. When it came to replacing our Galaxy we've now got a Peugeot e-5008...not as roomy but it looks like a spaceship compared to this Kuga. What Ford needs to do is somehow bring back the Fiesta and Focus (and Mondeo....love those!). Only time will tell
Im sorry but it shouldnt take 2 minutes and 51 seconds for a review video to begin. I would stick to the rule of show don't tell, and I wouldn't stick the #Ads back to back at the start of the video. Keep up the good work, just some advice from a videographer.
They really need to get the physical buttons back, rather than those silly touch screens.
Aka the Ford Escape in North America. The facelifted Escape in this generation was first unveiled in 2022, but the facelifted Küga in this generation came out for Europe only in 2024.
I have the 2009 diesel , 4x4. Why do the manufacturers have to make the car bigger every time a new model comes out. I like my little car and will keep it until it dies. No high tech, no blowing up engines. I’ve had the belt changed and the DPF cleaned out so hopefully it will be good for a long time to come
After 7 fords of various models I will never buy one again our latest Puma has been a huge disappointment but the worst thing is the dealer network, truly abysmal.
The same in here in Ireland. Its like they don't care. The Dad had 3 Fords in a row but then left them because if it.
Great car review Tish ❤ big fan of style and channel 👏hope you have a wonderful day 🙂
You look lovely today, though i just wish you could say 'because ' rather than 'becuuse' 😂
Hi Tish, what are you thoughts on the new VW ID 4 2024 model?
This one seems ok too (if not that exciting). I just find the whole current market paralysing when looking to buy a newer car. I have a 5 year old Peugeot- it’s been pretty good but underpowered. I would like to upgrade to a car I keep for several years; but the current price of newer cars £30k+ for something decent ,then the current choice of SUV’s/estates all seem to be lacking something or other , do I go EV or not?(probably not as not practical for family emergencies) and then how do I finance? PCP’s don’t seem like good value and interest rates on loans are still quite high; this leaves me stuck and unable to make a decision; too many variables. Tish - I trust you I think now, if I give you my money can you go and buy a car for me, for a middle-aged man with a family who doesn’t want something too conservative- likes gadgets but not at the expense of common sense and wants just a bit of luxury and comfort?😂. Surely I’m not the only one stuck in this state?.😂 thanks for the review.
Is this a great first car?
I enjoyed watching the video review, In my opinion a very good 👍 looking SUV 😊
Went to buy a st-line a couple of weeks ago, until the salesman said it was nearly £600 a year road tax. Didn’t get it
Was you looking to buy the plug-in hybrid?
That rear armrest is just terrible.
Tish...the flimsy rearvparcel shelf and much lower battery range killed it for me. I prefer the tiguan phev.
Hi, Tish 💙
Nice. But too pricey. With about 5-7 k per each model.
Only £ 40k !,😂🎉
Start at £28K
Bargain 😂🤡🤡🤡
"Affordable at nearly 40k"... ffs get a grip... totally out of touch...
No diesel option?, no thanks
Why when the petrol is as economical snd tows just as well?
Who comes up with these prices? 🤔🤔🤔🤔
OMG 😳 40 k cheap 😂 I don't think so..
Too expensive 😂
The Ford Kuga had tremendous problems here in South Africa. It caught fire on multiple times, often burning passengers alive inside whilst it's burning and also locked itself.
I was really hoping that Ford would be sensitive to the situation enough to discontinue the Kuga name.
That sounds awful, I'm sorry I didn't know that
@AutoSocialUK oh well, it happened in Africa. 🤷
Esta jamona esta Britanica.
Ford are destroying themselves this facelift and design is awful the interior is awful Ford will be gone in a few years
Basic small
Alloys for the money unacceptable
I don't think I would say these models are the issue but they certainly could have done more.
Lol what's a joke nothing has changed in updates of the Kuga pure joke.... Fords proper gone down hill avoid
You joking you just sound like a hater because you can't afford one
All their ice car interiors are well dated.