WHAT CAR? WINNER
What Car? Overall Car of the Year
2020
Ford Puma 1.0 Ecoboost mHEV 155 ST-Line X
ighting off tough competition in this year’s line-up, the Ford Puma scooped the coveted top prize at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards. What Car? described it as “truly outstanding” and recognised the small SUV for its handling, affordability, gutsy engine, style and its excellent mild hybrid technology. Who can argue with that?
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You would be forgiven for thinking the mild hybrid technology that the Ford Puma possesses means it is a car all about fuel economy, but you would be wrong. For a 1.0litre petrol engine, the Puma is surprisingly punchy. The beauty of the mild hybrid technology is that it is intelligently applied. When the car senses you are coming to a stop it shuts off the engine but leaves enough power running to the steering and brakes. Tap into gear and the engine will quietly spring to life again and a small electric motor will kick in, making your getaway quick and seamless. This particular engine boasts 0-60mph in just 8.5secs, not too shabby for an economical, small SUV. You won’t have any complaints in the handling arena either. It is nimble, nippy and can hold its own overtaking on motorways and country roads. It comfortably darts round corners with great control, keeping you comfortable and secure on any journey. All Puma models offer varying driving modes; Sport gives the car
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