Ford has created the most powerful version of its one-litre turbocharged ecoboost petrol engine yet to launch the new Puma ST Powershift.
The performance leaning crossover delivers 170PS and 248Nm peak torque via a seven-speed automatic transmission in its new guise and claims 7.4-second acceleration to 62mph alongside 44.8mpg fuel consumption and 144 g/km CO2 emissions.
A 48-volt mild hybrid helps the new entry-level ST model to achieve its balance of performance and economy, while features from the 1.5-litre EcoBoost Puma ST bestow it with improved dynamic capabilities, Ford said.
Stefan Muenzinger, Ford Performance manager for Europe, said: “The Ford Performance team called on all of its experience developing the original Puma ST to deliver ST signature fun-to-drive without losing the practicality of our compact SUV, and our new Powershift derivative is even more versatile.”
The enhancements to Ford’s three-cylinder petrol engine deliver a 10% increase in peak power compared with the 155PS one-litre EcoBoost Hybrid engine.
Application of the Powershift automatic transmission also enables ‘Stop & Go’ functionality for the available adaptive cruise control, according to Ford.
The system can bring the vehicle to a complete halt in stop-start traffic and automatically pull away if the stopping duration is less than three seconds.
Among the defining features of the new Puma ST Powershift is a Ford Performance-embossed splitter integrated into the front bumper which increases front end downforce by almost 80%, while a large rear roof spoiler and distinctive rear diffuser also feature.
A new ST-exclusive Azura Blue signature colour makes its debut among six exterior paint options and is complemented by a gloss black finish for the roof and standard black grille surrounds, side spears, door mirror caps and rear roof spoiler.
Inside, leather-effect seat trim, a wireless charging pad, Quickclear heated windscreen, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, FordPass Connect and Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system are all present.
Among the available driver assistance technologies are Pre-Collision Assist with Active Braking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking, and an Intelligent Speed Limiter.
At this stage Ford has not revealed pricing or delivery dates for the new model, however.
