Ford Kuga 2.5 Hybrid AWD ST-Line X - nothing more, nothing less

What to choose? This is a very individual matter, but the most universal solution is the intermediate option. It doesn't need to be recharged all the time, which is a big deal if you don't have access to an electrical outlet or charging station nearby. You should be aware that a PHEV with an empty battery does not make much sense, because it will burn more than a classic hybrid due to its higher curb weight. The performance speaks in favor of the plug-in, but only slightly. On the other hand, a regular, full hybrid has a larger trunk (by 34 l), a larger fuel tank (by 9 l), a much lower price (by approx. PLN 20,000), and the Ford Kuga is also available with a 4x4 drive (then the difference the price is about PLN 10,000).

More text below the video:

Ford Kuga 2.5 Hybrid - pleasant and economical

This is a maintenance-free variant, without a cable, without waiting, i.e. without any problems, and bringing many benefits. Large for today's realities, the 2.5-liter gasoline engine works with an electric motor. We have 190 hp at our disposal, so just right for a medium-sized SUV. Acceleration does not crush the seat (9.8 s to "hundreds"), but the Kuga Hybrid is very efficient and pleasant to drive.

My observations show that in urban conditions the car covers about 30 percent. distance on electric drive (this is indicated by a special counter, there are also tips on appropriate braking to recover energy as effectively as possible). Then the cabin is very quiet. This also translates into moderate fuel consumption, which in light frost amounted to approx. 7 l/100 km. It can probably be lowered as well as increased. During a leisurely drive outside the city, the on-board computer indicated 6 l. I finished the week-long test with 450 kilometers driven and average fuel consumption of 7.6 l/100 km. These are reasonable values ​​for a large family car with increased ground clearance.

Ford Kuga 2.5 Hybrid - comfortable and precise driving

The Kuga is not a soft, rocking SUV. As befits a Ford, especially in the ST-Line version with sporty suspension, it will satisfy drivers who like to drive. The car drives very well on even asphalt. There is also no problem to overcome a sharp corner faster, which is also helped by the precise steering system. It turns out that even the continuously variable eCVT transmission does not have to be annoying - after a stronger addition of "gas", the engine does not "howl" bothersomely.

The design of the dashboard is almost identical to that of the Focus. The "automatic" is operated with a knob, and in front of the driver's eyes there is a digital instrument cluster (there is also an extensive HUD display on the sliding glass). In winter conditions, I quickly appreciated the heated windshield. It only took a few dozen seconds for the car to be ready to drive without scraping. The heated steering wheel and seats are also nice additions in sub-zero temperatures.

In the aforementioned ST-Line version, we also get a few sports accessories in the form of red stitching or seats with good lateral support, whose leather and fabric upholstery prevents slipping. From the outside, we will recognize this variety, e.g. after the "sharper" profiled bumpers, a different grill or two tips of the exhaust system.

Ford Kuga is an SUV, so you can't complain about practicality either. It is a comfortable car with plenty of space for small items as well as larger items. The trunk does not have a record capacity in the class (standard 475 l), but it is quite adjustable. Its size, as well as the amount of legroom for rear passengers, can be adjusted by sliding the rear seat. The flap is lifted automatically together with the roller shutter, so you do not have to remember about it. You also won't hit the door when opening it, because their edges protect the automatically extending covers. It's a really well thought out car.

Ford Kuga 2.5 Hybrid - in my opinion

The Kuga in this version is an SUV that the whole family will like. In the ST-Line styling, it looks dynamic and positively surprises with driving. In addition, it has a spacious interior, a wide range of equipment and an economical hybrid drive. What more could you want? Only a lower price, because the Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost and the HEV variant are separated by a gap in this respect.

Ford Kuga 2.5 Hybrid AWD ST-Line X - technical data