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Ford has revealed its new-look Kuga, which gets not only a new face but a redesigned interior and new engines too.
It's part of a five-model SUV line-up expansion that will also include a new version of the EcoSport, the larger and more luxurious Edge and two other yet to be revealed models, one of which is expected to be a Focus-based Qashqai rival.
The Kuga has been significantly restyled, with a big new jutting front grille and narrower more piercing lights. There are new lights at the back too and some new colour options, while the interior has been updated and revised as well. The biggest interior change is the addition of Ford's new-generation SYNC3 infotainment system. It comes with an eight-inch touchscreen and a voice command system that can supposedly interpret colloquial commands such as "I'm hungry", which will get the satnav to find nearby restaurants. It's also equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There's new driver assistance tech too including a self-parking system that can deal with nose-in parking spaces, and can help you get out of a tight parking spot, as well as warning you of traffic approaching from either side when backing out.
There's also an updated city braking system, which now works at speeds of up to 50km/h, and active bi-Xenon lights. The Kuga keeps its power tailgate (with hands-free kick-under-the-bumper activation) and gains an optional power-operated retracting tow-bar.
On the engine front the Kuga gets two new 1.5-litre units, the first time the model has ever been offered with an engine smaller than 2.0-litre in capacity. The headline unit is the new 1.5 TDCi diesel with 120hp, and CO2 emissions of 115g/km. Also available will be an updated 2.0-litre 150hp diesel and a petrol option - the 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbo with either 120-or 150hp with front-wheel drive or an optional 182hp version with four-wheel drive.
"New Kuga offers cutting-edge new features and technologies that will help drivers stay connected, comfortable, safe and stylish on the road," said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. "The sophisticated redesign has given Kuga a fresh and modern feel, while SYNC 3 enables drivers to communicate with their vehicle and connected devices in seamless ways that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago.
"Ford is delivering a European SUV line-up that offers the stylish design, car-like dynamics, and sophisticated technologies that consumers desire. Demand for SUVs is stronger than ever, and Ford is expanding its range to offer everything from rugged models with true go-anywhere ability to sporty models designed to suit urban lifestyles."