Puma prowls into view
Ford Performance dynamics can be enjoyed by greater numbers of customers with the new Puma ST arriving at dealerships in New Zealand.
Enhanced using 48-volt mild-hybrid technology to deliver 118kW of power and 200Nm of torque, the one-litre engine is combined with a paddle-shift operable, seven-speed transmission.
The new powertrain embraces the Sports Technologies moniker, and includes performance-enhancing features such as twist-beam and anti-roll bar settings.
The Puma ST, pictured, delivers a responsive 7.4-second 0-100kph acceleration alongside 6.2l/100km fuel efficiency and 140g/km of CO2.
Its mild-hybrid system engages energy recovery more quickly than in other applications for faster recharging of the lithium-ion battery pack. This enables the belt-driven integrated starter-generator to offer a longer boost period of torque supplementation for enhanced performance at lower engine rpm.
The ST’s chassis sharpens responses using a rear suspension twist-beam rated at 2,000Nm/deg torsional stiffness – an increase of more than 50 per cent compared to the standard Puma – with a 28mm anti-roll bar integrated into the u section and a 24mm front anti-roll bar.
Ford’s patented force vectoring springs also improve the Puma ST’s stability, agility and responsiveness. The non-uniform, non-interchangeable, directionally wound springs apply vectoring forces to the rear suspension and enable cornering forces to travel directly into the spring for increased lateral stiffness.
This advanced technology is combined with Hitachi twin-tube frequency-reactive dampers at the front and rear. They deliver the stiffness needed for enhanced body control alongside the compliance to isolate smaller road imperfections for high-speed refinement.
An 11.4:1 steering ratio – almost 25 per cent faster than the standard Puma – uses a combination of ST-specification front knuckles, steering arm and rack gearing for heightened response during turn-in compared to the standard model.
Enhanced braking performance is provided by 325mm front discs – 17 per cent larger in diameter than the standard specification. The ST’s brake booster is tuned for modulation, feel and feedback that supports performance driving.
Combining form and function
A Ford Performance-embossed splitter integrated into the front bumper not only makes the Puma ST’s sports credentials immediately clear, but also increases front-end downforce by almost 80 per cent versus the standard model.
A large rear-roof spoiler and distinctive rear diffuser also feature, while signature ST upper and lower front grilles maximise engine-cooling capability and efficiency.
The Puma ST introduces an exclusive blue signature colour among seven exterior options. Complemented by standard black grille surrounds, side spears, door mirror caps and rear-roof spoiler, the SUV also offers a magnetite finish on the standard 19-inch performance alloys.
Inside, standard highlights include Ford Performance-developed sports seats, B&O sound system with 10 speakers, a wireless charging pad, front and rear-parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, FordPass Connect modem, and the marque’s SYNC communications and entertainment system.
Available from Ford dealers now, the Puma’s recommended retail price starts at $46,490 plus on-road costs.
