Hotted-up Ford Puma ST now on sale in NZ

Ford New Zealand is today welcoming a new most powerful variant of its compact SUV, with the Puma ST going on sale across the country.

Pricing for the hotted-up new model is $46,490 plus on-road costs, with orders and test drives available now.

The Puma ST’s extra pep in its step is owed to a new 48-volt mild-hybrid system found under the bonnet alongside a 1.0-litre petrol engine, which produce a combined 118kW and 200Nm of torque.

Power is sent through a seven-speed automatic transmission that can be controlled via the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, allowing the Puma ST to hit 100km/h from a standing start in 7.4 seconds and yet achieve a fuel efficiency figure of 6.2-litres per 100km.

Other drivetrain enhancements include a stiffer twist-beam suspension set-up at the back, new anti-roll bars at both ends, and new “force vectoring” springs in addition to a faster lock-to-lock steering rack and bigger 325mm front brake discs.

It wouldn’t be an ST without a few cosmetic upgrades, which is why Ford has equipped the sporty new model with a more aggressive front splitter, rear spoiler, and diffuser, as well as distinct upper and lower grilles.

A new exclusive Vasttraffic Blue paint option exclusive to the top-of-the-line variant is also available among the now seven-strong palette, complemented by the standard black rear spoiler, grille surrounds, and mirror caps. The Puma ST also rides on new 19-inch alloy wheels.

Upgrades to the interior include newly designed seats developed by Ford Performance, a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 10 speakers, a wireless charging pad for devices, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and more.

The Puma ST is available to order and test-drive now at your local Ford dealership. Alternatively, customers can configure and order their car online.