Warm Puma SUV with far more muscle mass than Fiesta ST enable free in Europe, but automobile wanted for Oz entry
The superior-overall performance flagship of the all-new Ford Puma array, the Ford Puma ST, has just been released in Europe but Australian consumers will have to great their heels as the very hot tiny crossover is not heading Down Less than – for now.
Produced by Ford General performance along with the Ford Fiesta ST, which now carries the flame for the Blue Oval brand’s compact hatch line-up in Australia, the Puma ST capabilities the exact same 1.5-litre turbo-triple engine that belts out 147kW and an uprated 320Nm of torque (+30Nm), and is furthermore paired solely with a six-speed manual gearbox.
And therein lies the rub: no automatic transmission signifies no Ford Puma ST for Australia, based mostly on the frustrating choice for autos amongst Aussie SUV customers.
We hasten to increase that Ford has a background of launching its large-general performance ST types with only a handbook gearbox, prior to bowing to well known need and subsequent up with an vehicle.
The hottest Ford Focus ST is a situation in issue, and Ford Australia is hoping for a repeat general performance with Puma ST, Fiesta ST and other styles in the pipeline.
Though the scorching Puma is taller, heavier and fewer aerodynamic than the associated Fiesta, Ford Performance powertrain and chassis engineers have built substantial variations to the pint-sized front-generate wagon to ensure it is worthy of the ST badge – and not much behind the hatch in benchmark general performance criteria.
With the additional torque (peaking from 2500-3500rpm) and a shortened closing-drive ratio, the Puma ST can speed up from -100km/h in 6.7 seconds, just two-tenths driving the Fiesta ST, while best speed is 220km/h, down 12km/h.
Hefty emphasis was also put on the Puma ST’s dynamic effectiveness, with a total workover to its suspension (together with 40 for every cent stiffer rear torsion beam) and the availability of a Quaife mechanical confined-slip differential that operates alongside a torque vectoring management process.
Specify the optional LSD and Ford’s patented ‘force vectoring’ springs are also worked in, even more honing the Puma ST’s on-street conduct in live performance with other actions such as 25 for each cent speedier steering (11.4:1 ratio), 17 per cent larger front disc brakes (325mm diameter) and a specifically made 19-inch wheel-and-tyre combination (with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber).
Front-close downforce has also amplified by nearly 80 for every cent with the integration of a Ford Efficiency-embossed splitter into the entrance bumper, whilst other aero aids (and visual treats) are pointed out with the large rear roof spoiler and a exclusive diffuser in the rear bumper.
Tempering the intense nature of the Puma ST is the inclusion of an ‘Eco’ selectable driving method (a 1st for a Ford Overall performance motor vehicle, while ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ mode are there far too) and a a little quieter be aware (-1dB) from the free of charge-flowing exhaust procedure when compared to the unapologetically raucous Fiesta ST.
Cabin characteristics include things like ST-branded Recaro athletics seats, a flat-bottomed leather-based-clad steering wheel and ST gear knob.
“Real driving fanatics are not going to settle for considerably less excitement just mainly because life requires a a lot more ‘sensible’ auto,” stated Ford General performance supervisor (Europe) Stefan Muenzinger.
“Our number a person precedence was that the Puma ST experienced to be as exhilarating and capable as each and every ST model, without the need of sacrificing any of Puma’s practicality.
“We think that we have the finest-handling little SUV in its segment. It definitely does come to feel linked and has the legitimate ST feel. It is a joy to drive.”
As Australia waits, British isles buyers can order the Ford Puma ST now for £28,495 ($A51,469).
