The Ford Kuga has always been one of the more popular SUVs in the class, due to its great combination of ride quality, wide engine lineup and attractive design. However, the current generation has been around for a while, so it’s time for updates. It looks like we won’t be seeing a full redesign. Instead, the Kuga will receive a mid-cycle refresh and we expect to see pretty much the same changes we saw in the 2023 Escape, which is pretty much the same model, offered in North America. All this indicates pretty comprehensive updates for the 2024 Ford Kuga.
This would mean changes in various aspects, starting from the new exterior design. Interior updates are coming as well, while the powertrain lineup will include a broad range of options on offer, which includes petrol, diesel and hybrid options.
With all the updates to come, we presume that the 2024 Ford Kuga would arrive a little bit earlier than usual, though still within the second half of the year.
2024 Ford Kuga Design
In terms of the overall design, things won’t change. We will see pretty much the same mechancis, based on a familiar C2 platform, which also underpins the Ford Focus. So, the chassis and suspension setup probably won’t feature any notable changes, which indicates that we may expect the same ride quality, which offers engaging handling but feels smooth as well.
On the other hand, visual changes will be numerous. We are about to see a completely new face, with new, bolder and sharper headlights, along with a more prominent grille and other updates, such as the new bumper. The rear end will come with a few updates as well, which things like new taillights, a new rear bumper etc. To keep things simple, the new model will bring the same appearance as the recently updated escape.
Interior
Interior updates will come as well and from what we can see inside the new Escape, the dashboard will come with some interesting tweaks, where the main updates will be the new tech features, such as new infotainment screens, optional digital instrument cluster and similar things. Furthermore, we will see a few tweaks in terms of the materials, color schemes and similar things.
On the other hand, the overall cabin layout is about to remain the same, which means that you may count on the same seating configuration as in the current model. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, and we also like the driving position very much. The second row is also very spacious and accommodates adults with ease.
As for the cargo area, things should also remain pretty much the same, which means that you may count on about 475 liters behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo area volume increases to 1,534 liters.
Trim Levels
When it comes to trim-level organization, we expect familiar grades on offer. However, each model should come with notable updates. We already mentioned new tech features, but there is probably much more to come. Currently, there are six grades on offer. Base models come with cloth seats, and a basic audio system, as well as just a couple of safety features such as a rearview camera and airbags.
The SE Trim Level is the first upgrade, with goodies like 17-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable driver’s seat, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility etc. The SEL adds leather upholstery, a premium audio system and a panoramic roof, among other upgrades. The Titanium and Vignale grades gradually add more and more standard equipment, while the ST-Line also adds unique exterior styling elements, 19-inch alloy wheels, and sport-tuned suspension.
2024 Ford Kuga Engines
We expect to see a broad range of powertrain options in the 2024 Ford Kuga, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid models. The petrol engines are expected to be turbocharged EcoBoost units, ranging from a 1.5-liter four-cylinder to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, with power outputs ranging from around 120 to 250 horsepower.
The diesel engines are expected to include a 1.5-liter EcoBlue and a 2.0-liter EcoBlue, with power outputs ranging from around 120 to 190 horsepower. Finally, there are hybrid models, available both in classic, self-charging and plug-in hybrid variants. Both are based on a 2.5-liter petrol engine, with max outputs of 200 and 221 horsepower, respectively. The PHEV also comes with a much bigger battery that provides around 37 miles of all-electric range.
2024 Ford Kuga Release Date
We expect that the 2024 Ford Kuga will arrive in the second half of the year. Key competitors are models like Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, VW Tiguan etc.
