Dreaming of a compact SUV that blends sporty style, everyday practicality, and a touch of rally-inspired flair? Meet the 2025 Ford Puma, a versatile ride that’s turning heads from city streets to winding country roads. With its bold design, efficient mild-hybrid engines, and innovative features like the MegaBox storage, the Puma is a standout in the crowded compact SUV market.
In this Ford Puma review, we’ll explore its design, performance, tech, practicality, and why it’s a favorite among drivers and social media influencers alike. Ready to see why the Puma could be your next dream car? Let’s get started!
What Makes the Ford Puma Special?
The Ford Puma is a compact SUV that balances style, fun, and utility. Originally a sporty coupe in the 1990s, the modern Puma has evolved into a dynamic SUV based on the Ford Fiesta platform. It’s perfect for urban commuters, small families, and even thrill-seekers who love its rally-inspired DNA. Competing with rivals like the Nissan Juke and Volkswagen T-Roc, the Puma offers a unique mix of affordability, agility, and clever features.
Striking Design That Turns Heads
The Ford Puma grabs attention with its athletic, sculpted exterior. Its sleek curves, bold grille, and sporty shoulder lines give it a dynamic look, especially in the ST-Line trim with its pumped-up wheel arches. Available in vibrant colors like Electric Yellow, it’s a social media star, often spotted on Instagram with hashtags like #carsofinstagram.
Inside the Cabin
Step inside, and the Puma surprises with a spacious, driver-focused interior. While some plastics feel less premium, the layout is practical, with intuitive controls and comfy seats. Higher trims add faux-leather accents and red stitching for a sporty vibe. The 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital driver display make the cabin feel modern and tech-savvy.
Ford Puma Engine Options: Power Meets Efficiency
The Ford Puma offers a range of 1.0-liter EcoBoost mild-hybrid engines that deliver both performance and fuel savings:
| Engine | Power | Transmission | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| EcoBoost mHEV 125 | 125 hp | 6-speed manual / 7-speed auto | ~52.3 MPG |
| EcoBoost mHEV 155 | 155 hp | 7-speed auto | ~51.4 MPG |
| ST Powershift | 168 hp | 7-speed auto | ~47.1 MPG |
- EcoBoost mHEV 125: Great for city driving, with zippy acceleration (0-60 mph in 9.6 seconds).
- EcoBoost mHEV 155: Offers more power for highway cruising, paired with a smooth auto gearbox.
- ST Powershift: The sportiest option, delivering 168 hp but only available with an automatic.
The mild-hybrid system boosts efficiency by recovering energy during braking, achieving up to 52.3 MPG in real-world tests. However, there’s no full hybrid or diesel option, though the Puma Gen-E electric model is now available.
Driving the Ford Puma: Fun on Every Road
The Ford Puma is a joy to drive, thanks to its Fiesta-derived chassis and sharp handling. Its light steering and responsive brakes make it a breeze in city traffic, while the ST-Line trim’s sporty suspension adds excitement on twisty roads. However, the ride can feel firm on rough surfaces, especially with larger 18- or 19-inch wheels.
Rally-Inspired Performance
Ford’s motorsport heritage shines through, with the Puma Rally1 competing in the World Rally Championship since 2022. This rally DNA translates to agile handling and precise steering, making the Puma one of the most engaging compact SUVs to drive.
Practicality: More Than Meets the Eye
The Ford Puma punches above its weight in practicality:
- Boot Space: 456 liters, including the innovative MegaBox—a 68-liter underfloor storage with a drain plug for wet or muddy items.
- Seating: Comfortably fits four adults, though rear legroom is tighter than some rivals like the Skoda Kamiq.
- Storage: Door bins, cupholders, and a wireless charging pad (higher trims) keep essentials organized.
The MegaBox is a game-changer, perfect for stashing groceries, sports gear, or even using as an icebox for picnics.
Ford Puma vs. Ford Fiesta: Which Is Right for You?
The Ford Puma and Ford Fiesta share a platform but cater to different needs:
| Feature | Ford Puma | Ford Fiesta |
|---|---|---|
| Body Style | Compact SUV | Hatchback |
| Boot Space | 456 liters | 311 liters |
| Ride Height | Higher, SUV-style | Lower, sporty |
| Engines | Mild-hybrid only | Petrol, mild-hybrid |
| Starting Price | ~£25,800 | ~£19,000 (discontinued) |
The Puma offers more space and a commanding driving position, ideal for families. The Fiesta, now discontinued, was better for solo drivers or those wanting a nimbler hatchback.
Advanced Tech and Safety Features
The Ford Puma is packed with modern tech:
- Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
- Safety: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera (optional).
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi hotspot and over-the-air updates keep the Puma cutting-edge.
Despite a four-star Euro NCAP rating, its safety suite provides peace of mind for families.
Ford Puma Gen-E: The Electric Future
The Ford Puma Gen-E, launched in late 2024, brings electric power to the lineup. With a 43 kWh battery, it offers a 233-mile range and 165 hp, hitting 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds. It’s a strong contender against electric rivals like the Kia EV3 and Jeep Avenger, combining the Puma’s practicality with zero-emission driving.
Why the Ford Puma Is a Social Media Star
The Puma’s bold looks and sporty vibe make it a hit on platforms like Instagram, where it’s tagged with #fordperformance and #wrc. Its rally heritage and eye-catching design resonate with car enthusiasts and influencers, boosting its online buzz.
Any Downsides to the Ford Puma?
While the Ford Puma excels in many areas, it’s not perfect:
- Interior Quality: Some hard plastics detract from the premium feel.
- Rear Space: Tighter than competitors like the Renault Captur.
- Ride Comfort: Sporty suspension can feel firm on rough roads.
Despite these, its value and driving dynamics keep it ahead of many rivals.
FAQs About the 2025 Ford Puma
What is the price of the 2025 Ford Puma?
The Ford Puma starts at around £25,800 for the base model, with higher trims like the ST-Line X reaching £29,000. The Puma Gen-E starts at £29,995.
How fuel-efficient is the Ford Puma?
The mild-hybrid models achieve up to 52.3 MPG (TCe 125 manual), while the Puma Gen-E offers a 233-mile electric range.
Is the Ford Puma good for families?
Yes, with 456 liters of boot space and a practical interior, it’s great for small families, though rear legroom is average.
How does the Ford Puma compare to the Ford Fiesta?
The Puma is a compact SUV with more space and a higher ride height, while the Fiesta was a nimbler hatchback suited for city driving.
What is the Ford Puma Gen-E?
The Puma Gen-E is the all-electric version, offering a 233-mile range and 165 hp, ideal for eco-conscious drivers.
Is the Ford Puma fun to drive?
Absolutely! Its sharp handling, responsive steering, and rally-inspired DNA make it one of the most engaging compact SUVs.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Ford Puma is a compact SUV that delivers style, practicality, and driving fun in spades. From its eye-catching design and clever MegaBox storage to its efficient mild-hybrid engines and rally-inspired handling, it’s a versatile choice for city dwellers and adventure seekers alike. The Puma Gen-E adds an exciting electric option, making it future-ready. Ready to experience the Puma’s charm? Head to a Ford dealer for a test drive and see why this SUV is a social media and road favorite in 2025!