Embarking on a red-eye flight from Johannesburg, our early morning journey set the stage for an adventure that would soon unfold in the vibrant heart of Cape Town. Amidst the rolling waves of excitement, Ford unveiled a new chapter in its storied history – the all-new Ford Puma.
The compact SUV, poised to redefine innovation, style, and practicality, carried with it the hopes of both automotive enthusiasts and those mourning the discontinuation of the beloved Fiesta. As the plane touched down and we made our way to the launch event, the question hung in the Cape Town air: Could the Puma be the successor that fills the Fiesta-shaped void in the hearts of South African drivers?
As the key to the top-of-the-range ST-Line Vignale found its way into our hands, little did we anticipate that this launch would not only acquaint us with a stellar automobile but also gift us a pair of Veldskoen shoes – an early Christmas present, a tangible testament to Ford’s commitment to meaningful initiatives.
SYMPHONY OF STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
The grand entrance of the Puma into the South African market was nothing short of spectacular – a spectacle of SUV-inspired design, uncompromised interior comfort, and the power of Ford’s acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. The Puma’s silhouette, adorned with distinctive wing-top-mounted headlamps and aerodynamic lines, signalled a departure from the ordinary in the compact SUV segment. With raised ride height and an impressive 456-litre luggage capacity, it promised a driving experience blending confidence with functionality.
The Puma arrives with two distinct personalities – the sporty Puma Titanium and the stylish ST-Line Vignale. Reflecting individual preferences, these variants showcase Ford’s commitment to providing choices that align with the diverse tastes of their customers. The Titanium exudes a sporty allure, while the ST-Line Vignale elevates the Puma’s aesthetic to new heights with a touch of sportiness and, not forgetting, the puddle lamp with the Puma emblem.
Puma’s design philosophy is a symphony of style and practicality, from the seductive exterior featuring a sloping roofline to the intricate “canoe-shaped” headlamps. Inside, lumbar massage seats, wireless charging, and a powered tailgate create a sanctuary of comfort and convenience. The Puma’s allure extends beyond aesthetics, boasting innovative rear stowage features, including the optional Ford MegaBox for versatile storage.
THE 1.0L ECOBOOST ENGINE
At the core of the Puma’s performance lies Ford’s acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, delivering 92 kW of power and 170 Nm of torque. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures seamless shifts for a sporty driving experience, complemented by five Selectable Drive Modes catering to diverse driving conditions.
The Puma leaves no room for compromise regarding safety and is equipped with a range of active safety features. The optional Driver Assistance Pack enhances safety further, introducing features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Evasive Steering Assist, and Blind Spot Information System.
INNOVATIVE AND INVITING INTERIOR
Step inside the Puma, and you’re welcomed into an innovative and inviting interior designed to be a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Lumbar massage front seats, which came in handy during the launch drive, a wireless charging pad, and the SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system provide a luxurious driving experience.
The Puma Titanium is priced at R569,900, while the Puma ST-Line Vignale comes in at R613,900, both models coming standard with Ford Protect. This comprises a four-year/120,000 km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance, and a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Customers also have the option to extend service or maintenance plans up to eight years or 135,000 km.
LAST WORD
In the symphony of automotive excellence, the Ford Puma takes centre stage – an embodiment of style, performance, and innovation. As it graces the streets of South Africa, it leaves an indelible mark, a testament to Ford’s commitment to shaping the future of driving. The choice is yours – whether you opt for the Puma, T-Roc, Taigo, or Kona, Ford invites you to embrace a driving experience that transcends expectations and celebrates the spirit of adventure.
| FORD PUMA | ENGINE | POWER (kW @ r/min) | TORQUE (Nm @ r/min) | TOP SPEED (km/h) | 0-100 KM/H (seconds) | FUEL (l/100 km) | PRICE |
| Ford Puma 1.0T Titanium | In-line 3-cyl; 998 cc turbo | 92 @ 6,000 | 170 @ 1,400-4,500 | N/A | N/A | 5.3 | R569,900 |
| Ford Puma 1.0T Titanium | In-line 3-cyl; 998 cc turbo | 92 @ 6,000 | 170 @ 1,400-4,500 | N/A | N/A | 5.3 | R613,900 |
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © FORD SOUTH AFRICA
