Ford Puma Gen-E: Small player

Since the puma now represents the entry into the Ford world, the Puma Gen-E should quickly become one of the load-bearing columns of the model range-especially now that the struggle for affordable electric cars only begins. Affordable does not necessarily mean « cheap » at Ford. The entry-level price of 34,316 euros does not make him competitive to the aggressive small SUVs such as the Citroën C3 Aircross or the BYD Atto 2. But the American (developed and produced in Europe) plays in a different league-almost already « lifestyle »-with a focus on equipment, design and, above all, driving behavior!

Overview of details

Visually, little has changed. Apart from the smoothed front section, which underlines the electrocular character, supported by stylistic details such as aerodynamic rims (17 to 19), a newly designed light signature, a somewhat more prominent rear spoiler for better air supply and a white « puma » lettering on the rear flap. Not to forget some exclusive colors like this Electric Yellow, if desired by the customer. The vehicle does not revolutionize all of this, but since the design is one of the main criteria when choosing this model, there was no reason for profound changes.

The largest trunk in the segment

What changes without seeing it immediately: This electrical version offers an even larger trunk than its thermal sister models – 574 liters! This is more than the models mentioned above, although they are 10 to 20 cm longer. The trick? A huge compartment under the trunk floor (two height adjustable), which can also be cleaned with water. For the charging cables, a « frunker » (front trunk – front loading room) is intended under the front hood. But this opens manually – like a classic car – and does not have gas pressure springs, which makes handling in everyday life rather impractical.

The rest of the interior and the equipment justify the somewhat high entry price. Even in the basic version, the Puma Gen-E offers significantly more than the necessary, including a modern double screen system, wireless smartphone connection, digital instrumentation, inductive charging and a reversing camera. For equipment such as electrical tailgate, matrix LED headlights or B&O sound system, however, you have to either choose options or use the premium equipment (36,744 euros).

Full of character

The Puma Gen-E is equipped with a 163 hp electric motor-a performance that corresponds to that of the sporty ST petrol engine (160 hp). Even if he does not take over all the characteristics of the muscular version, the newcomer also conveys real temperament and a lot of driving pleasure. In curves, it reminds of the dynamic driving experience of the other Puma models. The chassis and steering are efficient and precise, the traction convinces under all conditions, and the ESP never interferes excessively if you attract the pace and want to have some fun. There is always a high level of security and the comfort that you can expect from a family vehicle. The latter point even masters the Gen-E significantly better than its petrol counterpart. Despite the 19  » rims of our test car, the suspension was never hard, and the compromise of tightness and comfort is remarkable. However, it is a little less lively – the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 8 seconds.

Realistic range

According to WLTP standard, the rather modest 43 kWh battery enables a range of 376 km. No record value, but the relatively low weight of around 1,500 kg ensures excellent efficiency: During our test, we determined a consumption of 14 kWh/100 km – i.e. exactly in the area specified by Ford (13.1 – 14.7 kWh), and without avoiding driving fun. Charging is limited to 100 kW, but it is still quick enough to offer a certain suitability for everyday use: 23 minutes of loading time are enough for another two hours. The Gen-E could therefore play a role in a segment that is slowly but surely bordering saturation.