Ford Kuga gets auto option

“The Kuga offers exceptional space, comfort, versatility, trend-setting technology and eye-catching style, and now we’re making it even more accessible with the addition of an automatic transmission on the Ambiente model,” said Tracey Delate, general marketing manager for Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA).

“There’s a growing preference for automatic transmissions, particularly in the compact SUV segment, and the new Kuga Ambiente Automatic is poised to make a significant impact in its class due to its outstanding value for money, extensive list of smart features and the performance and efficiency offered by the 1.5 EcoBoost engine combined with the six-speed automatic transmission.”

As with the existing Trend derivative, the front-wheel drive automatic – which incorporates SelectShift manual control – is powered by the 132kW version of the 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine, which delivers an impressive 240Nm of torque from 1 600rpm all the way to 4 000rpm. The Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost manual versions have a power output of 110kW.

The 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente Automatic boasts a comprehensive set of features. As with the rest of the Kuga line-up, the renowned Ford SYNC multimedia system with Bluetooth and Voice Control is standard, along with an auxiliary input and USB port. Remote audio controls are included on the steering wheel for convenience. An integrated 230v/150W power converter is fitted in the centre console, which makes it an ideal family vehicle with the ability to charge portable devices. This is bolstered by 12v power points in the front and luggage compartment.

The comprehensive instrumentation incorporates a fully featured trip computer with EcoMode, shift indicator, seatbelt warning and ambient temperature gauge. Semi-automatic air-conditioning is standard, along with cruise control with speed limiter function, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, electrically operated heated side mirrors and power windows all-round with one-touch operation, plus the ability to open and close windows via the remote control.

The safety package, which features a five-star Euro NCAP rating, includes dual front airbags, side and curtain airbags and driver knee airbag. On the active safety front, the Kuga boasts ABS with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control and Hill Launch Assist.

As with the rest of the Kuga EcoBoost models, a four-year/80 000 km service plan is incorporated in the price.