Providing a claimed total range of 965 km, the Kuga Hybrid includes "fuel economy that can compete with a diesel engine, as well as easy cable-free charging and electric driving."
The latest Kuga combines a "self-charging" 1.1 kWh battery with a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, together delivering a claimed 65 miles per gallon. The total range of 965 kilometers is more than 30% better than the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid.
The hybrid transmission, with a power output of 187 hp, allows the new Kuga Hybrid to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds, aided by Ford's latest power-split transmission, which adjusts gear ratios for optimal performance.
The simulated gear shifting function automatically adjusts engine speed as the vehicle's speed changes, reducing the "rubber band" effect typical of traditional continuously variable transmissions.
The Kuga Plug-In Hybrid is aimed at customers who need an electric powertrain but have limited access to external charging at home or work. The Kuga Hybrid is available in three trims, including the entry-level ST Line Edition, mid-level ST Line X Edition, and top-of-the-line Vignale.
Following the recently introduced all-electric Ford E-Transit and the launch of the electric Mustang Mach-E, the Kuga Hybrid will be the latest of 17 new electrified vehicles that Ford plans to introduce by the end of 2021.
The car is currently produced at Ford's plant in Valencia, Spain. It can be ordered now starting at $44,000. The reason for the slight price increase compared to the existing model is that the plug-in model is available with a lower specification level.
