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Ford Kuga — UK review

Ford Kuga Review (2025–)

Specs, Features, Pros & Verdict

Ford UK review Since 2025 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

The 2025 Ford Kuga is a compact SUV that combines Ford’s Dynamic Crossover styling with a broad powertrain lineup—from efficient mild-hybrid petrol to plug-in hybrid (PHEV)—and a spacious, tech-rich cabin. Now in its third generation, the Kuga offers engaging driving dynamics, generous practicality, and advanced safety, making it a strong contender in the segment previously dominated by the Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan.

SegmentCompact SUV
Body Style5-door crossover
Model Year2025
Trim LevelsTitanium, ST-Line, ST-Line X, Active

Key Specifications

Engine / VariantPower / TorqueTransmissionDrivetrain0–100 km/h / Top SpeedWLTP Fuel/Energy
1.5 EcoBoost mHEV150 PS / 240 Nm7-speed DCTFWD9.7 s / 190 km/h Ultimate Specs5.6 L/100 km Ford From the Road
2.5 PHEV (225 PS)225 PS combined / 284 NmF-CVTFWD7.9 s / 200 km/h1.1 L/100 km; 56 km EV
2.5 FHEV (203 PS)203 PS combined / 240 Nme-CVTFWD8.8 s / 180 km/h5.3 L/100 km

Dimensions

Length4,620 mm
Width (inc. mirrors)2,178 mm
Height1,666 mm
Wheelbase2,710 mm Top Gear
Boot Capacity612 L (seats up), up to 1,653 L (seats folded) Top Gear

Exterior Design

The 2025 Kuga adopts Ford’s “Dynamic Front Grille” and swept-back headlight signature, giving it a poised yet athletic stance. Notable design cues include:

LED projector headlights with C-shaped DRLs

Sculpted bonnet and flared wheel arches

Two-tone roof and mirror caps on ST-Line models

Roof rails, body-colour skid plates, and 17″–19″ alloy wheels

The overall effect is a modern, sporty SUV that stands out from its class rivals.

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Inside, the Kuga blends soft-touch surfaces with ergonomic design:

Digital Cockpit12.3″ configurable instrument cluster
Infotainment8″ touchscreen (Titanium) or 12″ portrait SYNC 4 system (ST-Line X) with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

Heated front seats and dual-zone climate control on higher trims

Quality cloth upholstery base; optional leatherette with contrast stitching

Ample passenger spacelegroom up to 1,054 mm front and 950 mm rear Ford From the Road

Practical touches include deep door bins, an under-floor storage compartment, and a sliding center armrest.

Features & Infotainment

Key tech highlights

SYNC 4 with over-the-air updates and cloud-connected navigation

FordPass integration for remote start, vehicle status, and scheduling

Wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports

Optional B&O sound system (10-speaker) on ST-Line X

PHEV models add charge-scheduling and pre-conditioning via FordPass

The interface is intuitive, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls.

Safety & Ratings

The Kuga maintains a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating with these standard and optional aids:

Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection

Lane-Keeping Aid and Lane-Centring

Blind-Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert

Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go

Rear-view camera and front/rear parking sensors

These systems work seamlessly to deliver confident, semi-automated driving on highways.

Driving Performance

1.5 EcoBoost mHEV: Turbocharged three-cylinder with 48 V assist offers smooth torque delivery and crisp throttle response, making it well-suited for both city and highway driving.

PHEV (225 PS)Electric motor provides instant torque off the line; petrol engine kicks in smoothly, and EV-only mode easily covers daily commutes.
FHEV (203 PS)Hybrid system optimises efficiency—ideal for long journeys with seamless transitions between electric and petrol power.

Suspension is tuned for a composed ride without sacrificing agility; steering feedback is precise, reinforcing Ford’s “Fun to Drive” ethos.

Fuel Efficiency / EV Range

1.5 EcoBoost mHEV: 5.6 L/100 km WLTP combined Ford From the Road

FHEV5.3 L/100 km WLTP combined
PHEV1.1 L/100 km (WLTP), up to 56 km in electric mode

The PHEV variant also supports 3.7 kW AC charging, filling the battery in under 3 hours.

Practicality & Everyday Usability

Boot612 L of cargo space, flat load floor, and a low loading lip Top Gear
Seating60:40 split-fold rear seats with recline and slide adjustment
Storage“MegaBox” under-floor compartment (PHEV and mild-hybrid) for wet or dirty items
TowingUp to 2,000 kg braked on PHEV AWD models

Whether it’s family gear, shopping hauls, or towing a small trailer, the Kuga adapts to a wide range of needs.

Warranty & Maintenance

Warranty3 years / 100,000 km
Battery Warranty (PHEV)8 years / 160,000 km
Service Intervals24 months or 30,000 km for petrol/HEV; 12 months for PHEV
Maintenance PlansFord Options prepaid servicing and extended protections available

Price & Value for Money

Starting Price (UK)

EcoBoost 150 PS£28,000
PHEV 225 PS£37,500
FHEV 203 PS£32,000

Competitive against the VW Tiguan, Nissan Qashqai, and Toyota RAV4, the Kuga undercuts many rivals on price while offering a richer standard equipment list.

Comparison with Rivals

ModelPrice (From)PowerBoot (L)WLTP EconomyEV Variant
Ford Kuga£28,000150–225 PS612 L5.6–1.1 L/100 km56 km PHEV
VW Tiguan£29,500150–245 PS615 L6.0 L/100 km50 km PHEV
Nissan Qashqai£27,900140–190 PS504 L5.9 L/100 km
Toyota RAV4£33,000222 PS HEV580 L4.5 L/100 km

Pros & Cons

Pros

Broad powertrain choice, including PHEV and FHEV

Spacious boot and clever storage solutions

Engaging driving dynamics for the segment

Feature-rich cabin with advanced connectivity

Cons

Base petrol lags turbo-charged rivals in refinement

PHEV’s battery reduces rear legroom slightly

Higher trims can approach premium-brand pricing

Overall Rating

4.3 / 5 stars

The 2025 Ford Kuga is a highly versatile compact SUV that balances fun driving, broad electrified options, and everyday practicality—offering one of the strongest value propositions in its class.

Final Verdict

Built for families, commuters, and eco-minded drivers, the 2025 Ford Kuga stands out with its PHEV and hybrid offerings, spacious interior, and engaging road manners. Whether you need zero-emission city driving or confident performance on the motorway, the Kuga adapts—making it an exceptional all-rounder in the competitive compact SUV market.

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Pros & cons

Pros
  • Raised driving position and practical cabin layout
  • Useful family-friendly versatility
  • Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
  • Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
Cons
  • Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
  • Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
  • Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year

Final verdict

True Motion Auto verdict

The Ford Kuga is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.

Buyer checkpoints

Buyer checkpointTrue Motion Auto view
Best forDrivers wanting a raised driving position and useful family practicality.
Body styleSuv/Crossover
Powertrain focusPetrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim
UK ownership noteCheck insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying.
VerdictWorth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Ford Kuga good for UK roads?
Yes, provided the trim and wheel size suit your roads. Always test the car on rough urban surfaces as well as a faster road.
Should I buy new or used?
New can make sense with strong finance support and full warranty. Used can be better value if depreciation has already taken effect.
What should I check before ordering?
Check live UK pricing, standard equipment, insurance group, VED, servicing costs, delivery times and warranty terms.
Is it suitable for families?
That depends on rear-seat access, boot shape and child-seat fit. Test those items in person rather than relying only on figures.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.