Taking It Seriously
by Jim McCauley (30 Apr 08)

Ford can call its latest design language by any name it likes, but its strength is in getting the balance of the key features just right. The trapezoid under-grille has been emerging in the latest cohort of new models and the balance is perfect - stunning, even - when applied to the new Kuga SUV. It is a design that was begging for realisation from the original sketches and that strength of line and individuality has been successfully transferred to the production vehicle.

This is Ford's first foray into the expanding and lucrative market where nearly every other major manufacturer has an SUV as an alternative to the traditional family hatchback. Underneath there is the supporting architecture of the Ford Focus, which remains the best in class, and for the choice of power units there are no complications - just Ford's proven 2.0 Duratorq TDCi diesel unit mated to a manual six-speed gearbox with drive to all four wheels. It may be available in colours other than black, but there is just the one drivetrain.

Climb on board and things get even better with a fresh interior specifically developed for the vehicle which further adds to its individuality. This may be a Ford, but certainly not as we know it.

The engine is fired up using the central starter button located under the hazard warning switch. Unlike other push-button starters which latch on when touched briefly, the Kuga unit is held until the engine starts. It is also fitted with a timed safety device which prevents it from cutting power if accidentally touched when the vehicle is running.

It doesn't take long to realise that the quality of finish is more than skin deep as you appreciate the quietness and solid feel of the vehicle on the road. The overall refinement elevates the car and it comes together as a very well designed entity where interior and exterior design are complemented by the engineering.

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