NEWS
| 10 November 2008 |
| The all-new Ford Kuga |
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The all-new Ford Kuga is Ford of Europe's first entry into the highly competitive crossover market and promises a blend of rewarding on-road driving quality and surprising off-road capability.
The genesis for Kuga was first seen in the dramatic Ford iosis X Concept car which made its debut at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. John Fleming, the company's President and CEO confirmed then that Ford of Europe would be developing a production vehicle inspired by the iosis X Concept for launch within two years.
• An all-new addition to Ford of Europe's passenger car portfolio – a crossover
• Kuga is Ford of Europe's first entry into the compact crossover segment
• Kuga is the latest model created around Ford's 'kinetic design' styling
• Impressive on-road driving dynamics with substantial off-road ability
• Model range features 'intelligent' AWD and FWD systems and two distinct series – Trend and Titanium
• Powered by Ford's acclaimed 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi 136 PS diesel engine, with the 200 PS Ford Duratec 2.5-litre 5-cylinder petrol option coming later in 2008
• High level of standard equipment on all Kugas includes ESP with combined Anti Rollover Mitigation (ARM), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and 'Ford Power' start button
• Intelligent AWD system distributes engine torque up to a ratio of 50/50 front/rear
• Kuga delivers best-in-class intelligent AWD CO2 figure of 169g/km
• Brand new Ford of Europe features showcased on the Kuga for the first time include an available rear view camera and split 'tailgate in tailgate' rear opening
• Targeted low noise levels and optimised Sound Quality and Vibration (SQ&V) contribute to relaxed driving and ease of communication
• Plastic front wings reduce weight and provide enhanced damage protection
• To be produced exclusively at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany and launched progressively across Europe during the first half of 2008
Kuga Overview
The all-new Ford Kuga is Ford of Europe's first entry into the highly competitive crossover market and promises a blend of rewarding on-road driving quality and surprising off-road capability.
The genesis for Kuga was first seen in the dramatic Ford iosis X Concept car which made its debut at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. John Fleming, the company's President and CEO confirmed then that Ford of Europe would be developing a production vehicle inspired by the iosis X Concept for launch within two years.
At the 2007 Frankfurt Show, Ford demonstrated that this commitment was soon to become reality with a preview of the production model.
Signalling its significance as a new direction for Ford of Europe, the new model was given its own name. The Ford Kuga was born and destined to join the Ford of Europe model portfolio during the first half of 2008.
"With the new Ford Kuga we are keeping the promise we made at Paris in 2006, and delivering a highly capable, expressive and charismatic vehicle which will extend the Ford model range further," said John Fleming. "I firmly believe Kuga will appeal to many loyal Ford customers looking for something a bit different, as well as repeat the success of
S-MAX in bringing new customers to the Ford brand.
"A distinctive 'kinetic design' exterior, Ford's acclaimed on-road vehicle dynamics and premium-like product quality are just some of the highlights Kuga will bring to this
fast-growing market segment."
Sound Foundation
The new Ford Kuga is based unashamedly on Ford's acclaimed C-car architecture – well proven in both the Ford Focus and the Ford C-MAX. With Kuga, the designers and engineers have successfully integrated key driver and passenger requirements for a niche model into the distinctive new design.
The exterior is handsome and sporty, demonstrating how the company's flexible 'kinetic design' form language can be applied successfully to the crossover genre.
Well-balanced and with good proportions, the dynamic Kuga provides spacious accommodation for driver and passengers despite being based on a compact footprint.
A high quality interior has been designed to complement the exterior to offer a highly practical and contemporary vehicle. These styling elements, combined with the new drive systems and proven powertrain are a clear invitation to customers to 'Feel the Difference'.
Kuga comes with full-time, intelligent All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), while a Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD) model is also available, depending on market, which is perfect for drivers attracted by the style and presence of Kuga but not requiring AWD capability.
The Ford Kuga is available in a choice of two distinct series levels – Trend and Titanium - with further options available to enable the driver to personalise his or her car exactly to their needs.
A high level of standard equipment includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with combined Anti Rollover Mitigation (ARM), and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), both significant driver assistance technologies, plus all Kuga models are equipped with a 'Ford Power' start button.
A range of in-car entertainment options offers both connectivity and functions, while available satellite navigation systems give confidence that the right course is always being taken.
The Ford Kuga is a feast for all senses and has been styled and finished with a high level of attention to detail. Every aspect of the car has been designed and manufactured to promote positive emotional responses from the driver and passengers.
The ambience created by the flowing and integrated design shown on the original iosis X Concept has been enhanced on the production model. The availability, for the first time on a Ford of Europe production vehicle, of a rear view camera to aid parking along with a
230 Volt socket accessible to rear seat passengers are additional convenience features.
The stylish and charismatic Kuga is a further demonstration of the exciting direction Ford of Europe's new products are taking. Fresh and modern styling is the starting point with the substance of the car matching this styling promise. This is delivered through Ford's acclaimed driving dynamics, a strong and competent safety pedigree, high levels of quality and craftsmanship and a competitive crossover package.
A high seating position, the intelligent AWD option and large stowage volumes also make the Kuga a very attractive proposition.
"We're confident that Kuga's arrival will raise the bar in the crossover segment," said Stephen Odell, Ford of Europe's vice president for Marketing, Sales and Service. "Our 'kinetic design' styling has given the car great personality and this gives it tremendous showroom appeal to potential customers."
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