Ford Unveils Refreshed European Kuga with Visual Updates and Advanced Infotainment

European Model Gets Facelift and Improved Interior Features, Mirroring Changes Introduced in the U.S. as the Escape

Ford has introduced the refreshed European version of the Kuga, reflecting visual updates and improved interior features similar to those introduced in the U.S. as the Escape. The facelift includes a new grille, headlights, bumper, and hood, giving the crossover a boxier and more SUV-like design. The changes aim to enhance the Kuga’s modern appeal and distinguish it from the family connection to the Focus hatch.

The European Kuga is now available with a light bar running across the leading edge of the hood, extending across the upper part of the headlight, providing the car with a more assertive look. Different trim grades, including Titanium, ST-Line, and Active, offer their own distinct appearance. The Active trim, with black fender and sill moldings and faux skid plates, gives the Kuga an SUV-like demeanor, accompanied by a slight increase in ride height.

Inside, the Kuga receives a significant upgrade with a 13.2-inch touchscreen running Ford’s latest Sync4 software. The touchscreen features double the processing power of the previous system and offers 5G connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Alexa Built-in for improved voice command functionality. The new Trailer Tow Navigation feature helps drivers select routes that avoid challenging turns and low bridges.

While most of the interior remains unchanged, Ford has integrated the climate controls into the touchscreen, simplifying the design. However, some may consider this a backward step from the previous rotary HVAC dials.

Under the hood, the base engine is a 148 hp (150 PS) 1.5-liter EcoBoost, and the alternative options are hybrids. Two regular 2.5-liter hybrids are available, with one sending power to the front wheels, and the other distributing power to all four wheels. The PHEV version of the 2.5-liter engine leads the range, now delivering 240 hp (243 PS) to the front wheels, compared to the previous 222 hp (225 PS).

While the changes aren’t radical, they are expected to maintain the Kuga’s competitiveness in the crossover market and appeal to a broad audience.