Ford Kuga Range now with added Ambiente automatic model

The Ford Kuga range has been expanded with the addition of an all-new 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente Automatic derivative for the first time, increasing the range to a total of eight models.

As with the existing Trend derivative, the front-wheel drive automatic model, which incorporates Select Shift manual control, is powered by the 132 kW version of the 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine, which delivers an equally impressive 240 Nm of torque from 1 600 rpm all the way up to 4 000 rpm. The Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost manual versions have a power output of 110 kW.

Combined cycle fuel consumption is rated at seven litres per 100 km, matched to a corresponding CO2 emissions figure of 162 g per km.

The Kuga 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente Automatic boasts a comprehensive set of features.

As with the rest of the Kuga line-up, the renowned Ford SYNC multimedia system with Bluetooth and Voice Control is standard, along with an auxiliary input and USB port. Remote audio controls are included on the steering wheel for added convenience.

An integrated 230 v or 150 W power converter is fitted in the rear of the centre console, which makes it ideal as a family vehicle with the ability to charge portable devices. This is bolstered by 12 v power points in the front and in the luggage compartment.

The comprehensive instrumentation incorporates a fully featured trip computer with EcoMode, shift indicator, seatbelt warning and ambient temperature gauge.

Semi-automatic air-conditioning is standard, along with cruise control with speed limiter function, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, electrically operated heated side mirrors, and power windows all-round with one-touch operation, plus the ability to open and close the windows via the remote control.

The safety package, which features a five-star Euro NCAP rating, is equally impressive, and includes dual front airbags, side and curtain airbags and driver knee airbag.

On the active safety front, the Kuga boasts ABS with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control and Hill Launch Assist.

As with the rest of the Kuga EcoBoost models, a four-year or 80 000 km service plan is incorporated in the purchase price. This is complemented by a four-year or 120 000 km Comprehensive Warranty and three-year or unlimited km roadside assistance. Service intervals are every 20 000 km.

Model range and prices:

• 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente – R328 900

• 1.5 EcoBoost Ambiente – R344 900

• 1.5 EcoBoost Trend – R365 900

• 1.5 EcoBoost Trend – R379 900

• 1.5 EcoBoost Trend – R407 900

• 2.0 EcoBoost Titanium – R448 900

• 2.0 TDCi Trend – R433 900

• 2.0 TDCi Titanium – R468 900.