New Puma leaps in

Ford's new small crossover, the Puma, is now on sale in Ireland at a starting price of €24,465, writes Brian Byrne.

The very stylish car sits above the EcoSport small SUV in the Ford lineup and gives the company a contender in the fastest growing car segment.

The car is powered at launch only by a 1.0 petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology that uses regenerated energy to give an electrical boost on acceleration. Power output is 125hp.

There are three grades on the Irish market, and the entry Titanium specification includes 17-inch alloys, LED running lights and automatic high beam. A full suite of driver assist systems, including autonomous emergency braking.

Luggage space is enhanced over competitors by what Ford calls the Megabox, an exceptionally deep volume under the boot floor. This allows, for instance, carrying two golf club sets standing vertically.

Ford Market Lead in Ireland John Manning says, given that the Puma has lost the early 2020 sales period, that the sales of Puma this year will probably reach four digits, but next year will represent a much more substantial share of Ford sales here.

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