Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi 163 Titanium 4×4: Test Drive Review

Ford has replaced its small off-roader and surprise success, the Kuga, with a new more practical but less strikingly styled all-new version.

The first-generation Kuga was significantly more of a smash hit than the company ever expected, but this time Ford is aiming at the small 4×4 heartland with a more grown-up all-round proposition than the sportier-looking predecessor.

It’s a little less distinctive, but Ford’s aims of a spacious and high-quality interior are realised, and it has a better driving experience than any of its sector rivals, primarily the likes of Toyota’s Rav4 and the Honda CR-V.

RVs are excellent, and even this higher-powered 4×4 has reasonable emissions, although they drop from 154g/km to a range best of 139g/km with the two-wheel drive 140hp diesel.

The mix of whole-life costs, practicality, competitive emissions and driving experience should see the Kuga’s success story continue.