Ford Puma ST Review: The Final Chapter of a Legacy

Review: Ford Puma ST – The Enthusiast’s Crossover

The Ford Puma ST, a derivative of the popular Fiesta ST, emerges as a curious blend of practicality and performance. The decision to embed it with the DNA of Ford’s iconic hot hatch was daring, and the execution is nothing short of intriguing.

The Market Perspective

Despite my skepticism about the need for crossovers, the Ford Puma is undeniably a hit in Britain, both as a Crossover and as a leading car model in general. This reality necessitates a closer examination: Is the Puma ST crafted for the typical Crossover buyer, or does it cater more to the automotive enthusiast?

Price Point and Value Proposition

Entering the market with a price tag of £33,985, the Puma ST leaves a formidable first impression. You’ll find it priced roughly £5,000 above its sibling, the Fiesta ST, although the latter’s discontinuation makes it less relevant for comparison. However, in the sphere of sub-£35,000 manual hot hatches, the Puma ST’s closest rival is the Hyundai i20n, notably more budget-friendly at £26,230.

Feature-Rich Experience

So what justifies the extra expenditure on the Puma ST? The standard specification offers an impressive array of features: the "Performance Pack" (previously optional on both Fiesta and Puma ST models) is now standard, complemented by amenities like Auto Parking, Auto lights and wipers, Navigation, Apple CarPlay, and a phenomenal B&O Stereo. While the initial price disparity might seem daunting, an equivalently equipped Fiesta ST narrows the cost gap significantly.

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The Puma ST’s aesthetics have sparked mixed reactions, especially with its exclusive "Mean Green" paint. Initially, I was averse to its design and the appropriation of the Puma moniker for a compact SUV. Yet, over time, the look has grown on me. Key exterior indicators of the ST model include 19” wheels, a “Ford Performance” embossed splitter, red ST badges, and distinctive twin tailpipes.

Interior and Tech

Inside, the Puma ST continues to remind you of its sporting heritage. The model boasts Ford Performance sill plates, an ST-branded steering wheel, and commendable bucket seats. These seats, while sporty, sacrifice some ease of entry and exit for enhanced support and comfort. However, the interior quality doesn’t quite align with its £30k+ price tag, maintaining the rather utilitarian feel typical of Ford.

The tech suite includes a touchscreen infotainment system, though its responsiveness could be improved, and a high-quality B&O stereo system. Physical HVAC controls are a practical touch, despite some lag in the display interface.

For added convenience, the active tailgate and the comprehensive “Driver Assistance Pack” provide advantages like automated parking and advanced parking cameras.

Driving Dynamics

But let’s talk performance, the crux of any hot hatch. Contrary to my expectations of a blunted-down Fiesta ST, the Puma ST delivers an enthusiastic driving experience. The car’s keen responsiveness on B-roads and its unyielding handling emphasis hark back to the iconic MK1 Focus RS. However, this precision comes at the cost of ride comfort, which might deter the casual Crossover client.

Boasting a mechanical LSD, launch control, and multiple performance modes, the Puma ST demonstrates its mettle on challenging test routes. The suspension, while firm, excels at absorbing high-speed compressions, paired with impressive steering feedback and unwavering grip from its Michelin PS4S tires.

The engine performance, a 1.6L 3-cylinder turbo pushing 197bhp, might feel a tad underwhelming given the extra mass compared to the Fiesta ST. However, it compensates with engaging dynamics and an addictive auditory experience, courtesy of the synthesized engine growl, turbo chirps, and exhaust crackles.

Practicality versus Performance

Despite its performance prowess, the Puma ST’s practicality shouldn’t be overlooked. Rear passenger space isn’t significantly enhanced over the Fiesta, with the sloping roof contributing to a somewhat claustrophobic rear cabin. The boot, however, is substantially larger at 456L compared to the Fiesta’s 292L and the i20’s 352L, featuring the innovative "megabox" for additional waterproof storage.

Final Thoughts

After a week with the Puma ST, I remain conflicted about its target demographic. Perhaps it’s for enthusiasts needing a bit more cargo space than a traditional hatchback offers, or maybe for Crossover buyers seeking a sporty edge. Regardless, the Puma ST proves that performance engineering can infuse fun into almost any vehicle category. If the market continues to pivot from super-minis to Crossovers, it’s reassuring to see someone upholding the hot hatch legacy.

For those in the market for a new hot hatch, the choice narrows predominantly between the Puma ST and the Hyundai i20n. My verdict? By the slimmest of margins, the Hyundai clinches it, but the Puma ST certainly holds its ground well.