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3.8/5· Ford

Ford Kuga (2012 - 2020)

2012 – 2020· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.6/10

Very good

Imagine gliding through the city streets in a stylish SUV that’s not only eco-friendly but also packed with retro charm. The Ford Kuga, a beloved name in the compact SUV segment, has been reborn as an electric icon, blending nostalgia with modern technology. Let’s dive into what makes this electric marvel a must-have for budget-conscious commuters.

At a glance

179

hp · Power

501

miles · Range / tank

9.8s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £451/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Stylish design with modern aesthetics
  • Advanced safety features and technology
  • Comfortable ride with spacious interior
  • Good fuel efficiency, especially in hybrid variants

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited boot space compared to some rivals
  • Some interior materials feel less premium
  • Hybrid models may have a higher initial cost

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£451/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £2,700 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Affordable

Above average monthly commitment.

Ratings breakdown

performance38/10
practicality45/10
running costs32/10
behind the wheel40/10
comfort40/10
equipment35/10
green credentials30/10
handling35/10
reliability42/10
safety40/10

Theo's AI summary

The Ford Kuga (2012 - 2020) is a versatile and well-rounded SUV that caters to a diverse range of drivers. With its blend of style, comfort, and advanced technology, it stands out in a crowded market. The introduction of hybrid options further enhances its appeal, making it a smart choice for those seeking an eco-friendly vehicle without compromising on performance. Overall, the Kuga is highly recommended for families, urban dwellers, and anyone looking for a reliable and efficient SUV.

Best match for

  • Practical families
  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£155/month

Insurance

£109/month

Road Tax

£25/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£349/month

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Safe, secure and confidential

Handling is one of the standout features of the Ford Kuga, with its precise steering and balanced chassis providing a sense of security and confidence. Whether tackling sharp corners or cruising on the motorway, the Kuga maintains composure, making it an ideal choice for those wh

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Ford Kuga (2012-2020) is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance, particularly with the diesel engines. However, some critics note that the infotainment system can be confusing and the boot space isn't as generous as rivals. Overall, it’s a solid choice for families looking for a practical SUV.

Read full review
Autocar

The Kuga's design is modern and appealing, with a stylish exterior and a well-laid-out interior. The materials used are generally of good quality, although some cheaper plastics are present. The driving position is high, providing good visibility, but rear visibility can be compromised by the design.

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WhatCar

Reliability ratings for the Ford Kuga are average, with some owners reporting issues with electrical components and the infotainment system. However, the overall build quality is decent, and many owners have had trouble-free experiences. Regular servicing is recommended to maintain reliability.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Ford Kuga are flexible, with various leasing and loan packages available to suit different budgets. Ford's reputation for reliability and resale value also makes it a sound investment for buyers looking to finance their vehicle.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Ford Kuga are competitive within its class, particularly with the introduction of hybrid models that offer improved fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance is straightforward, and Ford's extensive service network ensures that parts and servicing are readily available. Insurance costs are also reasonable, making the Kuga an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

Charging & fuel

For the hybrid variants, charging is convenient with home charging options available, while traditional petrol models offer a range of fuel types to suit different driving needs. The Kuga's fuel economy is commendable, especially in urban settings, where the hybrid technology shines.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2012

    Launch of the first-generation Ford Kuga

  2. 2016

    Facelift introduced with updated styling and technology

  3. 2019

    Introduction of hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants

  4. 2020

    End of production for the second-generation Kuga

Read full launch story

The Ford Kuga was designed to meet the growing demand for compact SUVs, offering a blend of practicality, style, and performance for urban and rural drivers alike. Since its launch in 2012, the Kuga has evolved significantly, incorporating advanced technology and eco-friendly options, including hybrid models, to stay competitive in the ever-changing automotive landscape.

Compare with alternatives

The Ford Kuga (2012 - 2020) competes well in the compact SUV segment, offering a balance of practicality, driving enjoyment, and value against its rivals.

Volkswagen Tiguan

Reference only

Premium compact SUV known for its quality and driving dynamics.

vs features
The Tiguan offers a more refined driving experience with a high-quality interior and advanced tech features, often seen as more premium than the Kuga.
vs price
Typically, the Tiguan is slightly more expensive than the Kuga, reflecting its premium positioning and build quality.
No Motoring.Today review

Nissan Qashqai

Reference only

Popular compact crossover with a focus on practicality and comfort.

vs features
The Qashqai is known for its spacious interior and comfort, but may lack some of the sporty driving dynamics of the Kuga. It offers a good range of tech features.
vs price
The Qashqai is generally priced similarly to the Kuga, making it a direct competitor in the compact SUV market.
No Motoring.Today review

Peugeot 3008

Reference only

Stylish compact SUV with a focus on design and comfort.

vs features
The 3008 stands out with its unique interior design and comfortable ride, but may not offer the same level of driving engagement as the Kuga.
vs price
The 3008 is usually priced similarly to the Kuga, appealing to buyers looking for style and comfort.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Ford Kuga (2012 - 2020) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

1.5 EcoBoost (182bhp) Titanium X Sport 5d AutoPetrol Automatic · 2014–2016
Power
179 bhp
0–60 mph
9.8 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
240 Nm
Economy
38 mpg
Range
501 mi
CO₂
171 g/km
Insurance group
24
Road tax
£305
New price
£32,755
1.5 EcoBoost Titanium X Sport 2WD 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2016
Power
147 bhp
0–60 mph
9.4 s
Top speed
121 mph
Torque
240 Nm
Economy
45 mpg
Range
594 mi
CO₂
143 g/km
Insurance group
22
Road tax
£210
New price
£28,750
2.0 TDCi (150bhp) Titanium X Sport 2WD 5dDiesel Manual · 2014–2016
Power
147 bhp
0–60 mph
9.8 s
Top speed
121 mph
Torque
370 Nm
Economy
60 mpg
Range
792 mi
CO₂
122 g/km
Insurance group
24
Road tax
£160
New price
£30,595
2.0 TDCi (180bhp) Titanium X Sport 5dDiesel Manual · 2014–2016
Power
177 bhp
0–60 mph
8.9 s
Top speed
126 mph
Torque
400 Nm
Economy
54 mpg
Range
712 mi
CO₂
135 g/km
Insurance group
27
Road tax
£190
New price
£32,465
2.0 TDCi (180bhp) Titanium X Sport 5d PowershiftDiesel Automatic · 2014–2016
Power
177 bhp
0–60 mph
9.7 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
400 Nm
Economy
52 mpg
Range
686 mi
CO₂
140 g/km
Insurance group
27
Road tax
£190
New price
£33,950
1.5 EcoBoost (182bhp) Titanium 5d AutoPetrol Automatic · 2014–2016
Power
179 bhp
0–60 mph
9.8 s
Top speed
124 mph
Torque
240 Nm
Economy
38 mpg
Range
501 mi
CO₂
171 g/km
Insurance group
23
Road tax
£305
New price
£27,005

+ 146 more trim variants

FAQs

What are the key features of the Ford Kuga 2012-2020?
The Ford Kuga 2012-2020 boasts a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a stylish design. It offers impressive fuel efficiency, making it an eco-friendly vehicle suitable for families and commuters.
How does the Ford Kuga perform in urban driving?
In urban driving, the Ford Kuga excels with its compact size, light steering, and excellent visibility, making it easy to manoeuvre and park. The electric powertrain provides instant torque for quick getaways.
What is the running cost of the Ford Kuga?
The running costs for the Ford Kuga are low, especially with the electric variant. Charging is cheaper than petrol, and maintenance is reduced due to fewer servicing requirements for electric vehicles.
Is the Ford Kuga suitable for families?
Yes, the Ford Kuga is a family-friendly SUV with a spacious interior and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, ensuring comfort and safety for all passengers.
What is the electric range of the Ford Kuga?
The electric range of the Ford Kuga may not suit long-distance drivers, but it is ideal for daily commutes and urban use, providing a budget-friendly option for eco-conscious consumers.

Ford Kuga (2012 - 2020) (2012–2020)

From £451/month