Ford is reviewing its offer for its small Puma SUV. Alongside the ST and micro-hybrid (mHEV) versions, there is now a mixed E85 superethanol/micro-hybrid (mHEV) engine. All of which is only available with an automatic transmission.
Last weekend, the Monte-Carlo rally saw the victory of the Sébastien Loeb-Isabelle Galmicheau crew driving a Ford Puma Rally1 Hybrid from the M-Sport team. Coincidence or marketing strategy, this success falls just right when Ford announces the availability of a Ford Puma Flexifuel E85 incorporating micro-hybridization (mHEV). Indeed, until now, this SUV was offered in micro-hybrid (mHEV) or Flexifuel (SP95 – E10 – E85).
From now on, it is possible to acquire either a Puma 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid developing 125 hp and associated with a 7-speed automatic transmission (Powershift), or the Flexifuel Hybrid (mHEV) version of 125 hp. In the latter case, you will only be entitled to a 6-speed manual transmission. This new Puma is marketed from €26,400 in Titanium X finish.
Note that the ST-Line X and ST-Line Vignale finishes are also offered with a 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid engine with a power of 155 hp coupled to a Powershift automatic gearbox. Let heel-toe enthusiasts rest assured, the 200 hp Puma ST 1.5 EcoBoost is still in the catalog.
Superethanol or the perfect Ford heist
With a range of six E85 compatible vehicles, Ford is THE manufacturer with the widest offer. And this is felt on the orders, since 50 to 85% of them relate to E85 models.
For example, the Puma Flexifuel E85 “represented 65% of orders at the end of 2021, compared to 20% for the Puma mHEV 125 hp”, told us a manager of Ford France. And to add that this new Puma E85 mHEV should constitute between “80 and 90% of Puma’s sales”. The manufacturer being the only one in this niche, there is no doubt that the brand will see the arrival of new customers.