The modern interpretation of the 90s Racing Puma sport coupe has been launched.
Back in the late 90s, Ford Europe had brought out the Puma sports coupe, a little front wheel drive two-door coupe that competed with the growing number of cheap and cheerful Japanese sports cars at the time. While it wasn’t exactly a commercial hit for the American automotive giant, the little Puma did become a cult classic among automotive enthusiasts.
So fans of the original then were undoubtably enthused when the Blue Oval recently announced the return of the Puma nameplate. Like the fate that had befallen the Mitsubishi Eclipse however, Ford has decided to slap the Puma name on a compact crossover, much to the anguish of the fans of the original version. Nevertheless, perhaps this latest sporty addition to the Ford Puma lineup in the form of this Ford Puma ST may go some way in swaying the minds of even the most die-hard old school fast Ford fanatics.
The latest in the ever-growing lineup of modern fast Fords, the Puma ST could be thought of as the spiritual successor to the original Racing Puma. That said, with this new crossover being based on the latest generation Fiesta, it should then also not be wrong to call this sporty Puma a jacked up (and slightly bloated) Fiesta ST. Which, on the face of it, is no bad thing of course, because the Fiesta ST is a genuinely peppy little pocket rocket.
Under the hood, the typical 1.0 litre turbocharged three-cylinder of the normal Puma has been ditched in favour of a larger 200 PS 1.5 litre turbo Ecoboost unit, much like what is seen on the Fiesta ST. The Fiesta ST has also generously donated its six-speed manual transmission for use in the Puma ST.
To offset the increased 96 kg of heft on this crossover though, the Puma’s all-aluminium powertrain has been fettled slightly. Bumping up the torque figure to 320 Nm, and thus allowing the Puma to match the Fiesta’s century sprint time of 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h.
Power aside, this 1.5 litre turbo unit also Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing and cylinder deactivation technology to improve engine efficiency and bolster its green credentials. So despite ditching the mild-hybrid system found on the normal variants, this performance Puma still manages an impressive 6.0 litre/100 km fuel economy figure and a CO2 emissions figure of 134 g/km based on the NEDC testing cycle.
Moving onto the handling aspect of this fast Ford, the Puma ST promises an ‘energised driving experience’ thanks to an ‘optimised chassis’ featuring a multitude uprated suspension components, not to mention a short ratio steering rack. Available on this sporty crossover too is an optional Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential that words alongside the standard Ford Performance Torque Vectoring Control and Torque Steer Compensation systems to enhance handling performance and reduce understeer under hard cornering.
Handling performance is also further improved by the wide 19-inch wheels wearing Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres that were custom developed for the Puma ST. Hiding behind those huge wheels meanwhile are larger disk brakes on all four corners.
A Ford Performance-embossed splitter integrated into the front bumper adds a sporty exterior aesthetic to the Puma ST, as well as supposedly increasing front end downforce by up to 80%. Up front too on the performance Puma is an ST styled front grille, which goes some way to improve the look of this bug-eyed bulbous crossover, while a rear roof spoiler, an exposed rear diffuser, a black roof and standard black accent pieces are the rest of the exterior highlights on this sporty crossover.
Stepping inside, various ST interior trim pieces are to be found within the standard Puma cabin, with the Recaro sports seats embossed with the ST logo being the highlight. Other notable mentions include bespoke Ford Performance skid plates, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, an ST gear knob and ST-branded floor mats.
Prices for this latest addition to the Ford Performance lineup begins at £28,495 (RM 155,000) in the UK, with the Performance Pack costing an additional £950 (RM 5,200).
In regards to whether this fast Ford will ever come to Malaysia, while there is a market for compact crossovers locally and Ford had brought in the feisty Fiesta ST prior, the chances of the Puma arriving on our shores any time soon is slim to say the least.
PRESS RELEASE: The all-new Ford Puma ST introduces acclaimed Ford Performance driving dynamics to the compact SUV segment for the very first time in Europe.
Enhanced with sophisticated Sports Technologies including a unique-in-segment limited-slip differential (LSD) option and patented force vectoring springs, Puma ST also features selectable Drive Modes including Sport mode and – for the first time on a Ford Performance vehicle – Eco mode; providing drivers with options for a wide range of road driving scenarios.
Combined, these innovations deliver the energised driving experience Ford Performance models are famous for across Europe, while retaining the comfort and flexibility offered by Ford’s new compact SUV.
The Ford Puma ST is powered by a 200 PS 1.5 litre EcoBoost engine delivering 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 6.7 seconds. An optimised chassis features bespoke twist-beam, anti-roll bar and damper configurations. Steering responses are 25 per cent faster and brakes 17 per cent larger than the standard Puma. Specially-developed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres also help deliver the most agile Ford SUV driving experience yet.
Performance enhancements and aggressive styling sit side-by side with innovative features including Local Hazard Information connected-car technology and the Ford MegaBox that provides 80 litres of storage beneath the boot floor for everyday practicality.
“Real driving enthusiasts aren’t going to settle for less excitement just because life demands a more ‘sensible’ car, so our number one priority was that the Puma ST had to be as exhilarating and capable as every ST model, without sacrificing any of Puma’s practicality,” said Stefan Muenzinger, Ford Performance manager, Europe. “We believe that we have the best-handling small SUV in its segment. It really does feel connected and has the true ST feel. It is a joy to drive.”
Redefining SUV agility
Ford Performance worked alongside Michelin to develop a bespoke tyre specification to complement the Puma ST’s enhanced chassis, without sacrificing the refined ride quality – one of the most compelling SUV attributes.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres can fully exploit the additional traction offered by the optional Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential, delivered as part of the available performance pack.
The Ford Puma ST is the only small performance SUV in Europe to be offered with an LSD, which optimises front-end traction to enhance cornering ability and minimise understeer, in particular on the exit of corners.
The purely mechanical system distributes engine torque to the wheel with the most grip, reducing wheel spin and allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine performance.
The LSD option works alongside Torque Vectoring Control, which improves road-holding and reduces understeer by applying brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering. The balance between the two features has been fine-tuned by Ford Performance to optimise grip on dry surfaces and smoothness on wet surfaces.
Puma ST further enhances Ford’s B-car architecture to counterbalance the vehicle’s naturally higher centre of gravity. The rear suspension twist-beam is uprated to 2,000 Nm/deg torsional stiffness, an increase of more than 40 per cent compared with Fiesta ST and 50 per cent compared to the standard Puma, with a 28 mm anti-roll bar integrated into the U section. A front 24 mm anti-roll bar also contributes to cornering stability.
Ford’s patented force vectoring springs also improve the Puma ST’s stability, agility and responsiveness. The non-uniform, non-interchangeable, directionally-wound springs apply vectoring forces to the rear suspension and enable cornering forces to travel directly into the spring, for increased lateral stiffness.
The spring technology works in combination with Hitachi twin-tube frequency-reactive dampers at the front and rear, with the stiffness needed for enhanced body control alongside the compliance to isolate smaller road imperfections for high-speed refinement. Bespoke bump stops have been specified to maintain control under high suspension loads.
Ford Puma ST’s steering delivers an 11.4:1 ratio – almost 25 per cent faster than the standard Puma – provided by a combination of revised front knuckle featuring a shorter steering arm and faster steering rack gearing, for heightened turn-in response.
“Steering is a focal point of any ST model as it’s key for the interaction between driver and vehicle. The Puma ST turn-in response is exceptional. The direct and precise vehicle reaction provides confidence – a key ingredient for fun-to-drive,” Muenzinger said.
Braking performance is also optimised for a true ST driving experience. Front discs are increased by 17 per cent in diameter compared with the standard Puma specification to 325 mm, and 271 mm discs feature at the rear. Puma ST’s brake booster is tuned for modulation, feel and feedback that supports performance driving.
Powerful, responsive EcoBoost performance
Ford’s sophisticated 200 PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine – first introduced for the multi-award-winning Fiesta ST – features advanced turbocharging and high-pressure fuel injection technologies alongside Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing to deliver sports car performance with optimised fuel efficiency.
The all-aluminium engine’s three-cylinder architecture provides naturally high torque at low rpm, and performance is enhanced by a radial-axial turbocharger and an integrated exhaust manifold that minimises the distance exhaust gasses travel between cylinders and turbocharger – both helping build boost pressure faster and minimise lag.
Peak power is available at 6,000 rpm, with peak torque increased to 320 Nm between 2,500 rpm and 3,500 rpm, contributing to linear acceleration and enhanced responsiveness.
In addition to a bespoke air-intake and a free-flowing exhaust system for maximum performance, the Puma ST also features new roll-restricting engine mounts that minimise unwanted movements particularly during hard cornering, while supporting everyday refinement.
Active exhaust valve technology amplifies the naturally sporty three-cylinder engine sound to enhance the driving experience. Ford Performance tuned the exhaust note to better suit the Puma ST’s more refined SUV character – the model is approximately 1 decibel quieter than the Fiesta ST for a more composed cruising experience.
Industry-first innovation further enables the 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine to be as sensible as it is sporty. Ford’s cylinder deactivation technology was the first to feature for a three-cylinder engine and can automatically stop fuel delivery and valve operation for one of the engine’s cylinders in conditions where full capacity is not needed, such as when coasting or cruising with light demand on the engine.
The technology can disengage or re-engage one cylinder in 14 milliseconds – 20 times faster than the blink of an eye – saving fuel and seamlessly contributing to anticipated 6.0 l/100 km fuel efficiency and 134 g/km CO2 emissions NEDC (6.9 l/100 km and 155 g/km WLTP). A rapid light-off gas particulate filter also reduces soot emissions.
Ford Puma ST is offered with the same direct, smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission as the Fiesta ST, with a shortened final drive ratio to enable 6.7-second 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration and a 220 km/h (137 mph) top speed while accommodating statement 19-inch alloy wheels.
Modes to suit your mood
Selectable Drive Modes are key to the Puma ST’s versatility. From a Track mode that configures the performance SUV for maximum fun-to-drive, to Eco mode, offered for the first time on an ST model, Drive Modes alter Puma ST’s character to suit scenario or mood.
- In Normal mode, engine mapping, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), active exhaust valve and electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) are configured to deliver natural responsiveness and a connected feel
- In Eco mode, engine mapping and throttle response are configured for maximum fuel efficiency
- In Sport mode, engine mapping and throttle pedal response are sharpened, and EPAS settings adjusted to deliver more feedback and finer control for fast road driving. The active noise control valve opens to intensify the sporty exhaust note. Sport mode is accessible immediately using a dedicated button on the steering wheel
- In Track mode, all vehicle dynamics features are tuned for the fastest possible lap times, traction control is disabled, and ESC interventions are set to wide-slip mode for the purest driving experience
In addition, three-mode ESC enables drivers to choose between full system intervention; wide-slip mode with limited intervention; and full system de-activation.
Developed for use on track only and available as part of the optional performance pack, Launch Control enables drivers to achieve maximum satisfaction with consistently fast standing starts. Selected using steering wheel controls, the system activates a dedicated graphical display in the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Holding the throttle fully open will instruct the system to build engine rpm and automatically hold at the rev limit – filling an on-screen gauge that indicates when the car is prepared for launch. Releasing the clutch fully then enables an optimised standing start with ESC, traction control, Torque Vectoring Control and Torque Steer Compensation systems managing power and torque delivery.
Eye-catching looks and specification
Puma’s sporty styling – including a sloping roofline silhouette and pronounced wheel arches – lends itself to a more extreme Puma ST design that combines form and function.
A Ford Performance-embossed splitter is integrated into the front bumper to increase front end downforce by almost 80 per cent for greater stability and traction. The large rear roof spoiler also supports optimised aerodynamics, with a distinctive diffuser incorporated into the rear bumper. Signature ST upper and lower grilles are designed to deliver increased engine cooling capability.
The Ford Puma ST offers Magnetite or machined metal finishes for the standard 19-inch alloy wheels, and six available exterior body colours include Agate Black, Desert Island Blue, Fantastic Red, Frozen White, Magnetic and bold, ST-exclusive Mean Green. A gloss black finish for the roof, grille surrounds, side spears, door mirror caps and rear roof spoiler are all standard, making the model even easier to identify.
The interior is equally charismatic; but even before entering, standard power-foldable door mirrors project the ST logo onto the ground when unlocking.
Inside, heated, bolstered Recaro sports seats – embossed with the ST logo and finished in grippy Miko Dinamica material – hold driver and front passenger firmly in place. Ford Performance skid plates, a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and ST gear knob also feature. Seats, gear lever gaiter and ST-branded floor mats are finished with Metal Grey stitching.
The exclusive Puma ST interior continues to offer best-in-class uncompromised loadspace of 456 litres, supported by the innovative Ford MegaBox. The adaptable storage solution provides a deep, versatile, 80-litre storage space beneath the boot floor – capable of comfortably accommodating two golf bags in an upright position.
Standard features to maximise comfort and convenience include a wireless charging pad, Quickclear heated windscreen, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers and Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system – allowing drivers to control audio, navigation and connected smartphones using simple voice commands.
The system delivers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility at no extra cost and is supported by an 8-inch central touchscreen that displays the Ford Performance logo on start up. A premium B&O sound system also is available.
Standard FordPass Connect modem technology allows Puma ST owners to remotely control a selection of vehicle features – including Door Lock Unlock and Vehicle Locator – via the FordPass mobile app. The modem also enables cloud-connected Local Hazard Information, which can inform drivers of a hazardous situation on the road ahead, even if the incident is not visible due to a bend in the road or other vehicles.
Further available driver assistance technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Active Braking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking, and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
“Our new Puma ST is practical and refined with head-turning SUV proportions, but able to deliver hot-hatchback thrills,” Muenzinger said.
