Ford has finally revealed the new Puma, the long-awaited addition to its dwindling passenger vehicle line-up.
The Puma is the Blue Oval’s prominent new nameplate within the South African motoring scene, boasting all new tech and features.
With the EcoSport, Figo and Fiesta all gone, Ford’s remaining passenger vehicles consist of the Ranger-based Everest SUV and Mustang, neither of which can be considered particularly mass market.
As a result, the Puma is ostensibly the automaker’s new entry-level passenger model, available in two specifications with prices starting at R569,900.
At this price, the new vehicle is competing in the premium crossover category in South Africa where it will have to contend with models like the VW T-Roc, which retails from R596,200.
This is how Ford’s newest vehicle compares to one of the class leaders in its segment.
Engines
Both versions of the Puma rely on a 1.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine, which supplies 92kW and 170Nm to the front wheels.
This is exclusively mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox, giving the Ford a fuel consumption of 5.3l/100km.
Looking at the VW, it can be had with two drivetrains, starting with a 1.4-litre turbo-petrol plant with 110kW and 250Nm, which pairs with an eight-speed auto to achieve a consumption of 6.3l/100km.
The T-Roc is also available with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol powerplant and four-wheel drive, though it is important to note this option is noticeably more expensive at R663,300 – making it nearly R50,000 pricier than the range-topping Puma.
The 2.0-litre option is naturally the most powerful of the group, clocking in at 140kW and 320Nm with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission giving it a fuel usage of 7.3l/100km.
Features
In both the Ford and VW, prospective owners can expect automatic LED headlights, daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, keyless start, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, ambient lighting, two USB ports, automatic climate control, a leather multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, hill assist, rear parking sensors, cloth upholstery, and tyre-pressure monitoring.
As for where they differ, the base Puma comes with a wireless charger, lane-keep assist, and FordPass Connect, which grants access to satellite navigation and a vehicle locator.
The T-Roc, on the other hand, receives keyless entry, paddle shifters, front parking sensors, a hands-free tailgate, and a digital driver display.
If you end up going for the flagship variant of either car, you can also expect sport suspension, front sports seats with lumbar support, and larger 18-inch alloy wheels.
The range-topping Puma gains a hands-free tailgate, keyless entry, and a digital driver display, and sets itself apart with a massage function for the front seats, aluminium pedals, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo.
The top-spec T-Roc, meanwhile, is on the receiving end of a sport steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, Nappa leather upholstery, heated front seats, and stainless steel pedals.
Notably, a rearview camera is an optional extra on both vehicles regardless of trim level.
Pricing
The South African pricing for the new Ford Puma is as follows:
This includes a 4-year/120,000km warranty and a 4-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance plan.
The South African pricing for the VW T-Roc is as follows:
- VW T-Roc 1.4TSI Design – R596,200
- VW T-Roc 2.0TSI 4Motion Design – R663,300
- VW T-Roc 2.0TSI 4Motion R-Line – R698,400
Each purchase comes with a 3-year/120,000km warranty and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.
Ford Puma
VW T-Roc
Join the discussion