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Facelifted Ford Kuga more “comfortable and connected” than ever before

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Author: | Updated: 21 Feb 2016 21:02

Ford has revealed further details of its new and updated Kuga SUV, that promises to be more “connected, comfortable, safe and stylish” than ever.

While it does benefit from a new look, its new tech is the highlight, while a new engine is also available and offers improved economy.

Ford has revealed price and specs for the facelifted Kuga SUV.

Find more Ford Kuga leasing deals right here: Business / Personal

Inside, the dashboard is dominated by the new and improved Sync 3 infotainment system which, while using the same 8in touchscreen as its predecessor, features a new voice control system that’s much more intuitive and recognises “more conversational” commands.

The software has also been updated to become more user friendly, making use of larger buttons and ‘pinch-and-swipe’ navigation. The system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto too, which are both included in the package.

The main talking point inside is the Sync 3 infotainment system, which gets a software update to make it more user-friendly.

Sync 3 promises improved smartphone connectivity too, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included in the package. Sync AppLink is also included, allowing drivers to activate smartphone apps via voice commands.

Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe commented: “The sophisticated redesign has given Kuga a fresh and modern feel, while SYNC 3 enables drivers to communicate with their vehicle and connected devices in seamless ways that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago.”

Making driving simpler

The new Kuga also gets several driver aids, chief among which is a semi-autonomous parking system that can tackle both perpendicular and parallel spaces – the driver controls the pedals, but no steering input is required.

As well as effectively parking itself, the new Kuga will be able to steer itself out of spaces, as well as knowing whether there is a vehicle approaching from the side as it reverses out. Other safety gizmos include the latest Active City Stop system, which can now stop the car from speeds of up to 31mph if it detects an obstruction the driver has not responded to.

Active City Stop and a semi-autonomous parking function makes the Kuga easier and safer to drive.

Visual update

As eagle-eyed readers will have seen from the images here, the Kuga has been given a relatively significant facelift. The basic silhouette is pretty much identical to that of the current car, but the new front end brings the Kuga into line with the larger Edge, and the rear gets several new creases and sharper lines.

Inside, the changes are slightly less obvious, but those familiar with the incumbent car will notice a slight reduction in the number of buttons on the steering wheel and dashboard.

It might have a similar sillhouette, but the new Kuga gets a sharp new face that stands it in good stead against rivals like VW's Tiguan.

Apart from the new aesthetics, the Kuga is more or less unchanged under the skin. The only mechanical upgrade of note is the new 118bhp 1.5-litre diesel engine, which is capable of up to 64mpg.

Other than that, it will be a case of the usual suspects, with a range comprising 2.0-litre diesel engines with four-wheel drive and 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engines available with front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.

A new 1.5-litre diesel engine offers more economy than bigger 2.0-litre option which remains available.

New trims

Two new variants of the Kuga will be available from launch – the performance-inspired ST-Line, and the opulent Vignale model that will top the range. As the title suggests, the ST-Line gets a sportier demeanour and features unique alloy wheels, beefier bumpers and sport seats.

The upscale Vignale forms part of a sub-brand that Ford has created to tempt customers away from more exclusive marques such as Audi and BMW. As such, it gets a number of premium touches such as hexagonal-quilted leather, a honeycomb grille, exclusive alloy wheels and several Vignale-only colour options.

Kuga Vignale gets innumerable luxurious touches such as Windsor "Tuxedo" leather upholstery.

Read more about the Kuga Vignale here

Ford claims these two models give Ford customers a wider spectrum of Kuga models than ever before, while the Ecosport and Edge SUVs ensure Ford offers a comprehensive line of SUVs, too.

Available to order now, the new Kuga is priced from £20,845 in the showrooms, but lease prices for the new model are as attractive as ever. Check out these Kuga ST-Line lease deals out or, if you’re after something with a little more luxury, how about the Vignale?

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