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Wonderful cruiser, such a Ford Puma ST Powershift

The Ford Puma ST has been a guest of our editorial staff on numerous occasions. And every time, we unanimously agree: it is and always has been a wonderful ripping machine. Because with the Fiesta ST’s powertrain, there is little reason to complain. An eager three-cylinder with an output of 147 kW (200 hp) and 320 Nm of torque, and then equipped with a Limited Slip Differential upon request. Well, there is little to argue with that. Fast forward to the Ford Puma ST Powershift.

Puma ST 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid

Because yes, there is news surrounding the Ford Puma ST. A version appeared with automatic transmission. Oh nice, so 200 hp with automatic? Well, no so. The Puma ST 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid has a different powertrain, but really completely different. Up front is a smaller 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, mated to a seven-speed Powershift dual-clutch automatic transmission.

48-volt mild-hybrid technology

On top of that, then, comes 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. The mHEV system provides faster energy recovery, allowing faster charging of the 48-volt lithium-ion battery – placed under the passenger seat. The belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG) can provide additional torque for an extended boost period. In addition, the increased energy recovery allows another 10 hp of electrical support to the BISG to increase peak power.

A mild-hybrid FORD PUMA ST? He exists! – REVIEW – AutoRAI TV

Three-cylinder turbo gasoline engine for Ford Puma ST Powershift

Through specific software tuning for the direct-injected three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, Ford achieves nearly 10 percent higher peak power compared to the 114 kW (155 hp) 1.0-liter EcoBoost Hybrid engine. Producing up to 125 kW (170 hp) at 5,750 rpm and 248 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, the Puma ST Powershift produces exactly twice as much power per liter as a 2002 Focus ST170.

Active exhaust valve technology

The Ford Puma ST Powershift benefits from the same active exhaust valve technology as the Puma ST for improved performance and a distinctive ST engine sound on acceleration. The active exhaust valve remains closed in Normal and Eco Drive Modes for everyday refinement, but opens in Sport Mode to enhance the sporty sound.

Fine chassis for Ford Puma ST Powershift

All other ingredients have remained, including the fine but firm chassis of the Puma ST. And so is that fine steering. Although, if you leave the lane assist on, you continuously experience an annoying heaviness around the center position. Fortunately, the system can be turned off. Because that system is a big fun spoiler. Without it, the steering feels much more natural, the way the car is actually supposed to feel.

Average fuel consumption

Average fuel consumption is also not too bad. Over a distance of nearly 140 kilometers – mostly highway miles – we achieved an average fuel consumption of 5.5 l/100 km. Those are neat numbers for a sporty crossover! In the end, we realized about 6.2 l/100 km, really not bad considering the performance.

The differences in the lineup

Let’s look at other differences in the Ford Puma ST’s lineup. Starting with prices. The Ford Puma ST-X 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid automatic with 125 kW (170 hp) comes from 46,220 euros. The Ford Puma ST-X 1.5 EcoBoost with six-speed manual transmission and thus 147 kW (200 hp) is 5 euros cheaper, at 46,215 euros. So the automatic version is a bit more expensive, but not really significant.

By default, a Puma ST is pretty rich in stuff. You can think about 19-inch alloy Magnetite rims with 225/40 R19 tires, Full LED headlights with LED Signature daytime running lights, a B&O premium audio with 10 speakers (including subwoofer) and a contrasting roof and mirror caps in black. The model also has power heated door mirrors, Ford Keyless Entry, a soundproof windshield and scrumptious Ford Performance seats with perfect lateral support.

To finish it off, Ford also applies ST entry moldings, disc brakes all around with red calipers, a sport steering wheel and exit lights with ST projection on the sidewalk. No, it’s really not a struggle with this fast Ford Puma.

Performance Pack, also for Ford Puma ST automatic?

The manual transmission version of the Puma ST can be ordered with a so-called Performance Pack, consisting of a Limited Slip Differential (LSD), Launch Control and Performance Shift Lights. This package costs 1,115 euros. Small note: this package is not (!) available on the automatic version. And that, of course, is unfortunate. After all, a car with a limited slip drives even better.

Luggage space

Luggage space is the same for both transmission versions. So you have 456 liters of luggage space or 1,216 liters when the rear seats fold down. Both models also feature the Ford Megabox, a handy extra storage compartment 30 centimeters deep under the cargo floor of 81 liters (maximum 70 kilograms). With drainage, so you can place wet items in it as well. It also fits a plant. This feature is unique to the Puma.

Technical specs

ST-X 1.5 EcoBoost Manual Transmission

• 147 kW (200 hp)
• 320 Nm
• Top: 220 km/h
• 0-100: 6.7 seconds
• Weight: 1,258 kg
• Towing weight braked: 750 kilograms
• Average consumption: 6.6 l/100 km

ST-X 1.0 EcoBoost Powershift

• 125 kW (170 hp)
• 248 Nm
• Top: 210 km/h
• 0-100: 7.4 seconds
• Weight: 1,234 kg
• Towing weight braked: 665 kilograms
• Average consumption: 6.0 l/100 km

Conclusion review Ford Puma ST Powershift

Well, choosing between a manual or automatic never had such big implications. Because it’s choosing between two powertrains. Choose between 170 hp/248 Nm or 200 hp/320 Nm. But also choose between extra sportiness or just more comfort. Focus especially on the latter. The Ford Puma ST Powershift offers more comfort compared to the manual transmission, while the manual version impresses more with extra power and especially extra torque. In either case, you are choosing driving pleasure. So in that sense, both versions do not disappoint at all. One piece of advice, though: don’t wait too long. For the days of the Ford Puma ST in the Netherlands seem to be due to increasingly stringent environmental requirements. Although a fast electric Ford Puma also seems interesting to us.