Ford Kuga

The model unveiled at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show is a "near production" vehicle, and adopts many design ideas from the iosis X concept that debuted at Paris in 2006.

The powertrain will feature the 2.0-litre, 136 hp TDCi common-rail diesel engine, mated to the slick Durashift six-speed manual transmission and a all-wheel-drive system.

Further details of the Kuga will be released closer to launch, which is scheduled for Summer 2008.

Design

The design combines elements of SUV and estate car design with a coupé-like profile in a package similar in size to a Focus hatchback.

Kuga adopts many of the styling cues from Ford’s iosis X Concept, is finished in the same "Ice White" body colour and the wheel arches are filled with the same 19 –inch alloy wheels.

The athletic look is highlighted by bold features such as the trapezoidal front grills, rising belt-line and kick-up of the rear window graphic and the dramatic swept back headlamp shapes.

For the production Ford Kuga the roof profile of the iosis X Concept has been adjusted to a slightly higher silhouette offering comfortable accommodation for five people.

The luggage compartment is accessed via a split tailgate. Together with the divided rear lights this ensures the maximum full load width is available for loading and unloading.

The rear end also incorporates the graphic elements of ‘kinetic design’ such as the high mounted tail lamps, facetted rear glass and sculptured rear bumper. 

The rear bumper neatly integrates the tailpipes into the contours of the diffuser.

"Our kinetic design form language is very flexible and is giving an exciting look to all our new vehicles," said Martin Smith, Executive Design Director, Ford of Europe.

"The iosis X Concept demonstrated how kinetic design could be adapted to the C-sized crossover segment of the market. 

"All the expressive design elements of iosis X are clearly visible in the production vehicle. The new Ford Kuga is a dramatic addition to the Ford portfolio which develops our brand significantly."

Interior

The interior of the new Ford Kuga has a spacious feel, with a large panoramic glass roof that will be available as an option in production.

The design of the instrument panel and centre stack converge into a voluminous centre console for maximum accessible storage.

The high seat and shoulder line position of the doors allows the glazed areas to give a light and airy environment for passengers.

Trims and colors include fine leathers and striking orange piping dominate. The Ebony interior is set off by a centre console and details in the door which also feature the piano-white finish from iosis X.

The Blaupunkt navigation system incorporates a 7" colour display that can show images from a rear view camera incorporated into the tailgate.

(Source: Ford)