Eco-Friendly Meets Family-Friendly: The Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid Review

As we know, Cardino is adding Hybrids to their assortment. Hence we can’t forget to introduce you to the most beloved Hybrids in Europe. Let’s start with the Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid, which emerges as a contender in the SUV segment, aiming to blend efficiency with practicality and driving enjoyment. Known for its dynamic driving experience akin to the Ford Focus, but with the added practicality and elevated viewpoint of an SUV, the Kuga PHEV stands out for its low running costs and environmental consciousness. Here's what you need to know.

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A Deep Dive into the Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid’s Technical Data

The Kuga PHEV combines the rugged appeal of an SUV with the latest in hybrid technology. From its cutting-edge drivetrain to its sophisticated interior features, every aspect of this vehicle has been designed with the modern driver in mind. Let’s have a closer look at what makes this vehicle stand out. The price in Germany starts at approximately 35.000 Euro.

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• Engine & Performance: The Kuga PHEV is powered by a combination of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, producing a total of 225hp. This setup allows for a 0-100 km/h time of 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. The vehicle features a 62-km electric range, thanks to battery and electric motor improvements.
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• Charging & Economy: Charging via a standard 3kW three-pin plug takes around five hours for a full charge, while a 7kW fast charger reduces this time to two hours. Ford claims an impressive fuel economy of over 200mpg, although achieving this figure requires frequent charging and predominantly electric driving.
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• Interior & Practicality: Inside, the Kuga PHEV offers a curvy design with an 8.0-inch touchscreen display for infotainment, supporting smartphone connectivity. While space is ample in the rear, the boot capacity is reduced compared to non-PHEV models, offering 475 liters of space.
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• Safety: The Kuga PHEV has earned a five-star crash test rating from Euro NCAP, with high scores across the board for adult and child occupant safety, as well as for vulnerable road users’ protection.

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Weighing the Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid's Highs and Lows

In the quest for the perfect hybrid SUV, potential buyers often find themselves weighing the benefits against the compromises. Below, we have an honest look at what makes the Kuga PHEV a contender in its class, as well as the considerations that might give pause to some drivers.

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Pros

• Driving Enjoyment: One of the Kuga PHEV's standout features is its engaging drive, especially on country roads, thanks to sharp steering and plentiful grip.
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• Low Running Costs: For those able to charge regularly, the Kuga PHEV promises exceptionally low running costs, with an official CO2 output of 32g/km and high fuel economy figures.
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• Practical Features: The vehicle is equipped with practical features such as a hands-free electric tailgate, sliding rear bench for flexible space, and an easy-to-use infotainment system.

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Cons

• Reduced Boot Space: The necessity to accommodate the hybrid system's battery means boot space is compromised compared to other models in the Kuga lineup.
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• Average Electric Range: While the electric range has improved, it remains only average compared to some rivals, potentially limiting its appeal for longer commutes.
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• Performance: Despite a decent horsepower rating, the Kuga PHEV feels somewhat slow under acceleration, which might disappoint those looking for a more spirited driving experience.

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Europe's Preferred Eco-Friendly Drive Achieves Remarkable Sales Milestone

Marking its territory as one of Europe’s most favored plug-in hybrids for two consecutive years, the Kuga PHEV’s success story is a testament to the shifting paradigms in automotive preferences towards more sustainable, electric-powered journeys. Here’s the success story:

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• Best-Selling Status: The Kuga PHEV has been Europe's top-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle for two consecutive years, emphasizing its popularity among eco-conscious drivers.
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• Significant Sales Growth: There was a 20% increase in year-on-year deliveries, showcasing the growing demand for this eco-friendly SUV.
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• High Electric Usage: Nearly half of the Kuga PHEV's total driven distance was covered using electric power alone, indicating a strong preference for electric mode among owners.
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• Suitability for Short Trips: The majority of trips made by Kuga PHEV owners were short, local journeys that fell within the vehicle's electric range, highlighting its practicality for everyday use.

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Cardino’s Role: Cardino removes all unnecessary difficulties in buying and selling cars for both used car dealers and private sellers. We make a seamless process for EV owners to sell their cars and for dealers to buy them. By freeing the EV sellers from the complicated process of selling their EVs in a traditional marketplace way and providing a platform for dealers to broaden their inventory.

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Conclusion

Bridging efficiency with the dynamic driving experience synonymous with SUVs, the Kuga PHEV emerges on top of practical, eco-friendly transportation. Its acclaim as Europe's preferred plug-in hybrid, underlined by remarkable sales milestones and a fervent adoption of its electric driving mode, reflects a broader shift towards sustainable mobility. Cardino plays an important role in this transition, simplifying the vehicle trading process and fostering a marketplace that values innovation, sustainability, and consumer satisfaction.

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FAQs

What is the electric range of the Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid?

‍The Kuga PHEV boasts an electric range of 62 km, allowing for significant portions of daily driving to be conducted on electric power alone, emphasizing its efficiency and eco-friendliness.

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How long does it take to fully charge the Kuga PHEV?

‍Charging the Kuga PHEV using a standard 3kW three-pin plug takes approximately five hours, while a 7kW fast charger can reduce this time to just two hours.

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What safety ratings does the Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid have?

‍The Kuga PHEV has earned a five-star crash test rating from Euro NCAP, highlighting its commitment to passenger safety alongside environmental sustainability.

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How does the Kuga PHEV's boot space compare to non-hybrid models?

‍The Kuga PHEV's boot space is slightly reduced due to the accommodation of the hybrid system's battery, offering 475 liters of space, which showcases a balance between practicality and hybrid technology integration.

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Can the Ford Kuga PHEV be driven on electric power alone?

‍Yes, nearly half of the total distance traveled by Kuga PHEV vehicles has been on electric power alone, with many owners utilizing the vehicle's all-electric mode for short, local trips within its electric range.

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