Ford prepares updated Puma crossover for European market

Ford is gearing up to launch a revamped Puma crossover in Europe. With the discontinuation of its Fiesta counterpart, the Puma is now Ford's entry-level option. This new position is accompanied by a facelift, as the carmaker intends to refresh the model’s interior and exterior design.

The upcoming Puma won’t undergo a complete redesign since the existing model was introduced in 2019. The mid-cycle refresh will introduce a revised front end, including updated headlights, a new grille, and a revamped bumper. The logo will be repositioned inside the grille, while rear alterations are subtler. The test model keeps the current version’s taillights.

While recent spy images haven’t exposed the interior, earlier photos did offer a sneak peek. The modernized Puma is expected to come with an updated driver’s display and an enlarged 12.0-inch infotainment screen. Adjustments to the dashboard and air vent layouts will be necessary to accommodate the new configuration.

One of the most significant transformations for the vehicle will be under the hood when the all-electric variant is unveiled. The electric Puma will borrow its electric-drive components from the E-Transit Courier van, boasting a potential output of around 136 horsepower.

When it comes to charging, the Puma EV should be able to gain 86 km (54 miles) of range within just 10 minutes using 100-kilowatt DC charging. The electric Puma is expected to have distinctive front-end features, such as a sealed grille and other powertrain-specific details.

Ford will also continue to provide the Puma with traditional gasoline engines. The standard 1.0-liter, three-cylinder EcoBoost hybrid is expected to remain in the revamped model, delivering around 125, 155, or 170 horsepower, based on the setup. Additionally, Ford is likely to keep offering the manual Puma ST with its turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that generates 200 horsepower. This variant has already been seen in test drives.

While Ford has yet to disclose the release date for the updated Puma, production will take place in Craiova, Romania, alongside the E-Transit Courier. Speculation indicates that the new model won't roll off the production line until late next year, with an official debut likely set for some time in the coming year.

Source: Motor1