Ford Puma ST Powershift Review: Worth the Compromise?

In my Ford Puma ST Powershift review, I researched how this sporty little crossover deftly balances fun-filled driving with everyday practicality.

Its punchy EcoBoost engine and sharp handling offer a surprisingly thrilling ride.

If you seek a peppy crossover with a playful personality, the Puma ST Powershift could be your perfect match.

Key Takeaways

• The Ford Puma ST Powershift offers a balance of sporty driving and automatic convenience.
• The EcoBoost engine and Powershift deliver brisk performance and surprising fuel efficiency.
• While the ride can be firm, the Puma ST’s handling prowess shines through.
• Tech features and interior quality are solid for the price point.

The Ford Puma ST Powershift delivers a surprisingly fun driving experience in a practical crossover package. Its 197-horsepower turbocharged engine and quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission provide brisk acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds) and impressive fuel economy. While the ride can be a bit firm, the Puma ST Powershift rewards enthusiastic drivers with agile handling and a playful personality.

Ford Puma ST Powershift Performance and Engine

1.5L EcoBoost Engine

• Power and Torque: The 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder EcoBoost at the core of the Puma ST Powershift generates 197 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 236 lb-ft of torque from 2,500–3,500 rpm. These figures position the Puma ST comfortably ahead of many standard crossovers, delivering genuinely satisfying acceleration.
• Mild-Hybrid Technology: The mild-hybrid system employs a belt-driven integrated starter/generator (BISG). It recovers energy during braking and provides a small torque boost during acceleration. This translates to smoother transitions when the engine’s start-stop system engages and slightly improved fuel efficiency.
• Cylinder Deactivation: For maximum fuel savings, the Puma ST’s EcoBoost engine can seamlessly deactivate one cylinder under light driving loads. This technology contributes to its surprisingly good fuel economy figures.

Powershift Transmission

• Type and Design: The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (Powershift) offers the best of both worlds: the convenience of an automatic with the fast, direct shifts often associated with manual gearboxes. Dual-clutch transmissions use two sets of clutches, one for odd gears and one for even, enabling lightning-quick pre-selection of the next gear.
• Paddle Shifters: While the transmission offers a fully automatic mode, drivers can take control using steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for a more engaging experience.

Performance in Action

• 0-60 mph & Top Speed: Expect the Puma ST Powershift to reach 60 mph in around 6.7 seconds. While not breaking records, it translates to a fun and responsive driving feel. Top speed is electronically limited to around 137 mph.
• Real-World Driving: Beyond the numbers, the Puma ST delivers snappy acceleration for merging and overtaking. The transmission shifts smoothly yet decisively, contributing to the car’s sporty character.
• Driving Modes: Selectable driving modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Track) subtly alter the throttle response and transmission shift points. Sport mode prioritizes holding gears longer and quicker downshifts for a more spirited driving experience.

Performance Note: While the Powershift transmission delivers a satisfying experience, some enthusiasts might miss the absolute control and driver engagement of the standard six-speed manual transmission.

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Ford Puma ST Powershift Ride, Handling and Driving Dynamics

ST-Specific Sport Suspension

• Upgraded Components: The Puma ST Powershift benefits from significant suspension upgrades compared to the standard model. This includes stiffer springs, re-tuned dampers, and thicker anti-roll bars, all designed to reduce body roll and improve cornering agility.
• Ride Height: The Puma ST sits slightly lower than the standard crossover, contributing to a lower center of gravity for improved stability. However, it maintains enough ground clearance to tackle everyday driving scenarios.

Steering and Feedback

• Precise and Responsive: Ford Performance has tuned the Puma ST’s steering for a quick response and direct feel. The result is a car that eagerly changes direction, inspiring confidence on twisty roads.
• Steering Weight: The steering offers a satisfying weight, providing enough feedback to the driver about road conditions and front tire grip.

Optional Performance Pack

• Mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (mLSD): Buyers can opt for the Performance Pack, which adds a crucial performance-enhancing feature – a mechanical limited-slip differential. An mLSD maximizes traction by sending more power to the wheel with the most grip, particularly helpful when accelerating out of corners and in slippery conditions.

Handling Prowess

• Cornering Grip: With its sport-tuned suspension and available mLSD, the Puma ST Powershift exhibits surprisingly high levels of grip for a crossover. It resists understeer (where the front tires tend to slide outward), giving the car a planted and composed feel.
• Body Control: Body roll is well-managed, allowing the Puma ST to change direction quickly without excessive lean. This translates to a nimble and fun-to-drive character.

Ride-Handling Compromise

• Firm Ride Quality: The trade-off for the Puma ST’s impressive handling is a noticeably firm ride. While absorbing larger bumps with relative compliance, it transmits smaller road imperfections into the cabin. The firmness might become tiresome for some drivers, especially during long journeys on rougher roads.
• Noise Intrusion: With the firm suspension and sporty tires, road noise can be noticeable, particularly on coarser surfaces.

Ford Puma ST Powershift Exterior Design

The Ford Puma ST Powershift features several visual enhancements that distinguish it from the standard Puma crossover:

• Aggressive Front End: A unique front bumper with a larger grille and a prominent honeycomb mesh pattern gives the Puma ST a more assertive look. A subtle ST badge sits within the grille.
• Sporty Profile: Side skirts and unique ST-specific wheels (usually 19-inch) add to the car’s sporty stance. Wheel arches receive a subtle flare to accommodate the wider track.
• Rear Styling: A sporty rear diffuser houses twin exhaust outlets, while a larger roof spoiler adds a touch of performance-car flair. An ST badge sits proudly on the tailgate.
• Color Options: Alongside standard colors, Ford usually offers a signature bold color choice for the ST models. Examples have included Mean Green and the new Azura Blue.

Ford Puma ST Powershift Dimensions: Compact and Athletic

The Ford Puma ST Powershift retains the compact footprint of the standard crossover, giving it an advantage in urban maneuverability. Key dimensions include:

• Length: Approximately 4,226 mm (166 inches)
• Width: Approximately 1,805 mm (71 inches) without mirrors
• Height: Approximately 1,533 mm (60 inches)
• Wheelbase: Approximately 2,588 mm (102 inches)

Design Philosophies

• Functionality with Flair: The Puma ST blends the practical shape of a crossover with sporty design cues. The raised height provides decent ground clearance without excessive bulk.
• Subtle Aggression: While it features several sporty accents, the overall design avoids being overly aggressive, making it a more approachable daily driver.
• Differentiating Details: The ST badging, unique mesh patterns, and subtle design touches signal its performance intentions to those in the know.

Overall Impression

The Ford Puma ST Powershift successfully injects a dose of sportiness into the crossover form factor. The design changes are noticeable yet tasteful, creating a car that balances everyday usability with a fun and athletic demeanor.

Ford Puma ST Powershift Interior and Features

Cabin Design and Quality

The Puma ST’s interior features supportive sports seats (Recaros are optional) and a driver-focused layout. Materials are a mix of plastics and soft-touch surfaces, suitable for the price point.

Technology

The infotainment system is responsive and relatively easy to use, though its screen might feel a bit small to some. Navigation is optional. A digital instrument cluster provides a modern touch and configurable driving information. Standard driver assistance features include automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

Comfort and Space

Front seat space is generous, and the seats provide excellent support. The rear can accommodate adults but might feel a touch cramped on longer trips. The standout feature is the ‘Mega Box’ under the trunk floor, a unique deep storage area ideal for wet or muddy items.

Ford Puma ST Powershift Pricing and Value Proposition

Pricing

The Ford Puma ST Powershift carries a slight price premium over the manual version. The exact difference depends on your region, but expect a starting MSRP in the ballpark of [add approximate starting price based on your region]. Options and packages like the Performance Pack can increase the price further.

Value Analysis

Balancing performance, features, and price, the Puma ST Powershift offers a compelling package. It stands out as one of the few options in the sporty small crossover segment, and the practicality it offers adds versatility. It might not be the cheapest option, but the driving experience and overall fun factor go a long way.

Ford Puma ST Powershift Practicality and Everyday Use

City Driving

The Puma ST’s compact dimensions and maneuverability make it well-suited for city driving. The Powershift transmission handles stop-and-go traffic smoothly, easing the strain on the driver in congested areas.

Highway Cruising

The Puma ST Powershift is comfortable for long highway journeys as well. The engine settles into a relaxed hum at cruising speeds, and the suspension, while firm, is not punishing. Fuel economy is also a strength here, helping to extend your range between fill-ups.

Family-Friendliness

While not the most spacious crossover, the Puma ST can work for smaller families. Rear legroom will be tight with taller adults in the front, but child car seats can be fitted reasonably easily. The ‘Mega Box’ adds a convenient storage solution for bulkier items like strollers.

Should you buy the Ford Puma ST Powershift?

Target Audience

The Ford Puma ST Powershift is an ideal choice for those who want a spirited, engaging driving experience without sacrificing the ease of an automatic transmission. Its practicality and peppy engine make it a well-rounded daily driver with a fun twist.

Pros

• Fun-to-drive handling
• Peppy and efficient EcoBoost engine
• Practical crossover design with the unique Mega Box
• Well-equipped with technology

Cons

• Ride comfort can be harsh on rough roads
• Pricing premium over the manual model
• Some competitors offer more interior space

Alternatives to the Ford Puma ST Powershift

Model	Engine	Transmission	Pros	Cons
Hyundai Kona N	2.0L Turbo 4-cyl	8-speed DCT	More power, aggressive styling	Costlier, less fuel-efficient
Volkswagen T-Roc R	2.0L Turbo 4 cyl	7-speed DSG	Refined, AWD system	More expensive, less playful handling
Mini Countryman JCW	2.0L Turbo 4-cyl	8-speed Automatic	Unique style, strong brand	Cramped rear seats, firm ride

Ford Puma ST Powershift Review: Conclusion

The Ford Puma ST Powershift successfully expands the Puma ST’s appeal. It delivers a high percentage of the manual version’s fun factor, while adding convenience and improved fuel economy.

Though it might not satisfy purists who prefer the full control of a manual, for many drivers, it hits the sweet spot in the sporty crossover segment.

FAQs

Key points to remember for your decision-making:

• Test drives are crucial: Ensure the power delivery and ride firmness of the Puma ST Powershift suit your preferences.
• Prioritize features you value: Do you want the limited-slip differential? What must-have tech features are on your list?
• Consider used options: If the price is a concern, exploring used Puma STs can offer excellent value.