The Ford Kuga is Ford of Europe's first entry into the highly competitive crossover market and promises a blend of rewarding on-road driving quality and surprising off-road capability.
The genesis for Kuga was first seen in the dramatic Ford iosis X Concept car which made its debut at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. John Fleming, the company's President and CEO confirmed then that Ford of Europe would be developing a production vehicle inspired by the iosis X Concept for launch within two years.
At the 2007 Frankfurt Show, Ford demonstrated that this commitment was soon to become reality with a preview of the production model.
Signalling its significance as a new direction for Ford of Europe, the new model was given its own name. The Ford Kuga was born and destined to join the Ford of Europe model portfolio during the first half of 2008.
"With the new Ford Kuga we are keeping the promise we made at Paris in 2006, and delivering a highly capable, expressive and charismatic vehicle which will extend the Ford model range further," said John Fleming. "I firmly believe Kuga will appeal to many loyal Ford customers looking for something a bit different, as well as repeat the success of S-MAX in bringing new customers to the Ford brand.
"A distinctive 'kinetic design' exterior, Ford's acclaimed on-road vehicle dynamics and premium-like product quality are just some of the highlights Kuga will bring to this fast-growing market segment."
High Style Interior
The interior of the new Ford Kuga has a spacious feel, with or without the optional large panoramic glass roof.
The clean, ergonomic design of the instrument panel and centre stack converge into a large centre console for maximum accessible storage. All interior components contribute to a comfortable surrounding for the driver and front seat passenger. The high seat position contributes to the light and airy environment for passengers and provides the driver a commanding view of their surroundings. The bonnet is visible to the seated driver and front seat passenger and enhances the 'on top of the road' feeling.
"With the Kuga we wanted to give the driver and their passengers an 'affordable yet premium' finish with a range of brand new complementary interior colours and high quality finishes," said Smith.
The materials chosen for Kuga's interior also demonstrate close links to the Ford iosis X Concept. The eye-catching production interior incorporates fine leathers, high quality fabrics and gloss finishes on key areas in a choice of shades depending on the series chosen. Colour-matched details and integrated colours highlight the instrument panel and door trims, creating a complete, unified look of design-led quality and sportiness.
Each of the two available series represents distinct choices for customers. The Trend offers expressive orange or blue highlights. On the Titanium model, a highly contemporary 'techno' feel matches the vehicle's top-of-the-range aspirations, and is synonymous with the positioning of Titanium series on other recent Ford products. A darker, coloured part- or full-leather trim is offered on the Titanium.
The interior styling is perfectly complemented by attention to detail and the ergonomics of the primary controls; steering wheel, pedal positions and gear shifter as well as multiple seating positions, switches, in-car entertainment and infotainment features. All are carefully situated and all have their own special attention to detail.
Everything from the amount of pressure that is necessary to activate the 'Ford Power' start button to the thumb indents on the steering wheel are all carefully considered to offer the most inviting and satisfying experience to driver and passengers. Other thoughtful additions include additional stowage areas for small items plus dedicated areas for drinks, sunglasses, coins, pens and a power socket for additional electrical devices.
