Ford ready to introduce an electric version of its entry level leopard lion crossover in 2024, and this looks set to coincide with the innovation of the internal combustion-powered model.
This could be a subtle upgrade or an early distinctive prototype, as the taillights appear to have remained unchanged. Production versions may have different lighting graphics, although their shape may not change.
Camouflage obscures the front details, but the headlights, grille and bumpers appear to have been redesigned.
An intro of Puma EV coming soonwill launch in Australia in 2024, displaying a unique LED daytime running light signature, and it is unclear if these will be carried over to the upgraded internal combustion engine vehicle.
The prototype was found to be clearly not an electric vehicle, as the exhaust pipes could be seen. Expect the EV to be distinguished, like other rival ICE-based EVs, through its unique grille and other subtle touches.
Interestingly, a glimpse of the side window shows that the front center vent has been moved upwards and there’s no tablet-style infotainment touchscreen.
If Ford moves the infotainment touchscreen down and gives it a more integrated appearance, that would be quite unusual for a car in 2023. We’ll have to wait for close-up shots. than to draw conclusions.
Regardless, we expect Ford’s latest generation of Sync infotainment system – Sync 4 – and potentially a larger screen than the current 8.0-inch screen.
Aside from getting an electric powertrain, it’s still unclear what else the Puma 2024 will have mechanically.
In Europe, it’s currently offered with the 93kW/170Nm and 116kW/190Nm tunes of the turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, featuring a 48V mild-hybrid system.
The Puma for the Australian market has a 92kW/170Nm 1.0-litre turbo, without a mild-hybrid system, while some markets also offer a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 88kW and 285Nm.
The European market ST Powershift there is a 48V mild hybrid 1.0-litre turbo-three with 125kW and 248Nm, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while the ST uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder with 147kW and 320Nm, resulting matched with a six-speed manual.
With Ford Australia discontinuing the Escape this year, the Puma will be Blue Oval’s only sub-$50,000 SUV here – although we expect the electric model to outpace the ST’s $36,390 sticker price -Line V current.
Ford sold 2408 Pumas in Australia last year, ahead of the competition Nissan Juke (1084) and Renault Captur (1207) but behind rivals like Volkswagen T-Cross (5146), Toyota Yaris Cross (8432) and predominate (if aged) Mazda CX-3 (11,907).
THAN: Everything Ford Puma
