The Ford Kuga: A Sensible SUV That Still Wants to Have Fun

Two independent tests agree this is the best-driving car in a genuinely crowded class — while also agreeing the interior doesn't quite match that ambition.

Illustration for editorial purposes

Proof a Family SUV Doesn't Have to Be Boring

Most cars in this segment exist purely to be practical, and drive like it too. This is one of the rare exceptions reviewers keep pointing to when they want proof that a sensible family SUV doesn't have to feel like a compromise behind the wheel.

Specs at a Glance

Body style	Mid-size SUV
Powertrains	Petrol, full hybrid (FWD/AWD), plug-in hybrid (up to 42mi electric)
Transmission	CVT automatic (hybrid/PHEV), manual/auto (petrol)
Fuel economy	Up to 52mpg (hybrid, tested), 201mpg claimed (PHEV)
Price range (new)	From around £32,000

Full Review Summary

Top Gear

Top Gear rated it the best-driving Ford SUV, and one of the sharpest handling cars in its entire class, crediting the same underlying platform and engineering knowhow that makes the Focus and Fiesta enjoyable to drive. They praised the hybrid system's smooth handover between electric and petrol power, and highlighted genuinely impressive adaptive cruise control that keeps the car centred in its lane without the wandering feel common on rival systems. Their main reservation was styling, which they described as plain rather than distinctive next to some flashier rivals.

🎬 Watch: What Car?'s Ford Kuga review

Watch on YouTube ↗

Auto Express

Auto Express focused heavily on cabin quality and found it lagging behind newer rivals like the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, with interior plastics feeling notably cheaper in places than the driving experience would suggest. They liked the all-round visibility and infotainment responsiveness, and noted the plug-in hybrid's stronger real-world performance figures against key competitors. Their overall verdict was positive despite the interior gripe, calling it a practical and efficient family SUV that's also genuinely great to drive.

Trims & Engines at a Glance

Diesel has been dropped entirely. The plug-in hybrid is front-wheel drive only, while the full hybrid can be had with either front- or four-wheel drive.

Derivative	Engine	Power	Transmission	Body	0–62mph
Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Titanium	1.5L 4-cyl turbo petrol, FWD	148bhp	6-speed manual	SUV	9.5s
Kuga FHEV Hybrid ST-Line (FWD)	2.5L full-hybrid petrol, FWD	178bhp	CVT automatic	SUV	9.1s
Kuga FHEV Hybrid ST-Line X (AWD)	2.5L full-hybrid petrol, AWD	181bhp	CVT automatic	SUV	8.3s
Kuga PHEV ST-Line	2.5L petrol + electric motor, FWD	240bhp	CVT automatic	SUV	7.3s

Trim walk runs Titanium → ST-Line → ST-Line X, with the off-road-styled Active sitting alongside. A broad exterior colour range is offered, with several metallic and premium finishes available at extra cost. Check Ford's UK configurator for current pricing.

Strengths

Sharp, engaging handling for the class
Smooth hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains
Strong adaptive cruise control and driver assistance
Spacious, practical cabin layout

Weak points

Interior plastics feel behind newer rivals
Styling seen as plain rather than distinctive

Who It Actually Suits

Family buyers who want an SUV that's genuinely satisfying to drive rather than purely practical — and who won't mind a slightly plain-feeling cabin in exchange for it. Worth cross-shopping against rivals with plusher interiors if that matters more to you than how it handles a roundabout.

Common Ford Kuga Parts & Costs

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Watch the Reviews

Ford Kuga review ↗ (same video, watch above ↗)