40 Facts About Ford Puma

The Origins of the Ford Puma

The Ford Puma has an interesting history that many car enthusiasts might not know. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic vehicle.

1. The Ford Puma was first introduced in 1997 as a small sports coupe.
2. It was produced by Ford Europe and was primarily sold in the European market.
3. The Puma was based on the Ford Fiesta platform, sharing many components with its sibling.
4. Designed by Ian Callum, the Puma's sleek and sporty look quickly gained popularity.
5. Production of the original Puma ended in 2002, making it a relatively short-lived model.

The Return of the Ford Puma

After a long hiatus, the Ford Puma made a comeback in a new form. Here's what changed.

6. In 2019, Ford reintroduced the Puma, this time as a compact crossover SUV.
7. The new Puma is built on the Ford B2E platform, also used by the Ford Fiesta and Ford EcoSport.
8. Unlike its predecessor, the new Puma is available in markets outside Europe, including Australia and New Zealand.
9. The modern Puma features a more rugged design, catering to the growing demand for SUVs.
10. It offers a range of advanced technologies, including Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system.

Performance and Engine Options

The Ford Puma is known for its impressive performance and variety of engine options. Let's take a closer look.

11. The original Puma was powered by a 1.7-liter Zetec-SE engine, producing 123 horsepower.
12. It also had a 1.4-liter engine option, which was less powerful but more fuel-efficient.
13. The new Puma offers a range of EcoBoost engines, including a 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine.
14. There's also a mild-hybrid option, combining the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine with a 48-volt battery system.
15. The Puma ST, a high-performance variant, features a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine with 197 horsepower.

Design and Features

The Ford Puma's design and features have evolved significantly over the years. Here are some highlights.

16. The original Puma was praised for its agile handling and sporty design.
17. It featured a unique "New Edge" design language, characterized by sharp lines and bold curves.
18. The new Puma retains some of the original's sporty elements but adds a more rugged, SUV-like appearance.
19. It offers a spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements and ample cargo space.
20. The Puma's "MegaBox" storage solution provides an additional 80 liters of storage space under the boot floor.

Safety and Technology

Safety and technology have always been a priority for the Ford Puma. Let's explore some of its key features.

21. The original Puma came with standard safety features like airbags and ABS.
22. The new Puma takes safety to the next level with advanced driver-assistance systems.
23. It includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
24. The Puma also offers a rearview camera and parking sensors for added convenience.
25. Ford's Co-Pilot360 technology suite is available on higher trim levels, enhancing overall safety.

Market Reception and Awards

The Ford Puma has received positive feedback and numerous awards over the years. Here are some notable achievements.

26. The original Puma was well-received for its fun-to-drive nature and stylish design.
27. It won several awards, including the What Car? Car of the Year award in 1998.
28. The new Puma has also garnered praise for its blend of style, performance, and practicality.
29. It was named the 2020 What Car? Car of the Year in the Small SUV category.
30. The Puma ST has been lauded for its thrilling driving experience and sporty performance.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Let's wrap up with some fun facts and trivia about the Ford Puma that you might not know.

31. The original Puma was featured in the 1998 film "The Avengers" (not the Marvel one).
32. Ford produced a limited-edition Puma called the "Racing Puma," with only 500 units made.
33. The Racing Puma featured a wider track, upgraded suspension, and unique bodywork.
34. The new Puma offers a "First Edition" model with exclusive features and styling elements.
35. Ford's "EcoBoost Hybrid" technology in the Puma helps reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
36. The Puma's interior features sustainable materials, including recycled fabrics for the seats.
37. The new Puma has a "FordPass Connect" modem, allowing remote access to certain vehicle functions via a smartphone app.
38. The Puma's headlights are designed to resemble the eyes of a puma, adding to its distinctive look.
39. The original Puma was available in a variety of vibrant colors, including "Melina Blue" and "Imperial Blue."
40. The new Puma continues this tradition with bold color options like "Desert Island Blue" and "Lucid Red."

Final Thoughts on Ford Puma

The Ford Puma stands out with its unique blend of style, performance, and technology. From its eco-friendly hybrid engine to its sleek design, this compact SUV offers a lot for drivers. The spacious interior and advanced safety features make it a great choice for families and individuals alike. Plus, the innovative MegaBox storage adds practicality to its list of perks.

Whether you're drawn to its fuel efficiency or its modern aesthetics, the Ford Puma is a vehicle that doesn't compromise. It’s a testament to Ford’s commitment to innovation and quality. If you’re in the market for a versatile, reliable, and stylish car, the Ford Puma deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s more than just a car; it’s a smart investment for the future.