European Ford Puma Revealed: Will it come to the US?
After releasing a few teasers, Ford has finally unveiled the European version of the all new Puma, the latest in a series of hatchbacks masquerading as tiny crossovers. The Puma places an emphasis on style and technology, with a more athletic stance than the EcoSport and a clear resemblance to the recently-revealed Ford Escape.
Based on the Fiesta platform, the 2020 Puma is powered by a 1.0L three-cylinder EcoBoost engine, available with either 123 horsepower or 153 horsepower, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system in both versions. No AWD version will be available, at least at launch, so the three-cylinder engine will power only the front wheels.
As far as technology goes, there is an abundance in the Puma. It is available with the CoPilot360 package, which gives the Puma semi-autonomous capability in stop-and-go traffic. Other technology features include a wide-angle rear camera, 8″ touch screen infotainment system, fully digital 12.3″ gauge cluster, massaging seats, and a 10-speaker sound system. A dual-pane panoramic sunroof is also available on top trim levels. Speaking of trim levels, at launch, the Puma will only be available in the Titanium and the ST-Line (pictured here).
US availability is supposedly not planned right now, but we think Ford would be crazy not to bring this tiny crossover stateside. With an increasing number of available crossover vehicles and a decline in sedan sales, US consumers can’t get enough of their utility vehicles. If this does make it to the United States, it will compete with the Mazda CX-30, Nissan Kicks, and Toyota C-HR.
Ryan had an obsession with cars from a young age, reading NADA books and MotorTrend magazine as well as sketching cars in elementary school. He has since moved on to creating renderings in Photoshop and writing about auto news. You can reach Ryan at +1.516-531-4021.