The Ford Kuga is still good to drive, but it’s falling behind in some key areas, finds Al Suttie.
1 – Few in the small 4×4 and crossover sectors can hold a candle to the Kuga’s enlightened driving manners.
2 – Even on optional 19-inch rims, our test car rode the bumps with glossy smoothness and the handling is still an exemplar.
3 – Performance ain’t bad, either, with the 180hp 2.0-litre TDCi diesel providing 0-62mph in 10.0 seconds.
4 – The six-speeder Powershift auto makes seamless progress through the ratios and suits the refined nature of the Ford.
5 – The manual over-ride for the gears on the side of the stick is a half-hearted measure. Ford: ditch it or give us steering wheel paddles.
6 – Emissions are okay for the engine and transmission at 140g/km, but still have us choosing the 120hp 1.5 TDCi in preference.
7 – The same goes for economy, with 52.3mpg reasonable but easily bettered by several rivals or its smaller-engined sibling.
8 – Elsewhere, the Titanium X is kitted out in fine style with leather, electric seat adjust, keyless start and powered tailgate.
9 – However, it seems positively mean not to provide rear parking sensors in this spec, especially given the limited rear vision when parking.
10 – Is the Kuga still in the hunt? Yes, but not in this large-engined, top spec variant.
