Massive, expensive, high fuel consumption – many have the image of the SUV. But they do exist, the smaller representatives such as the Kuga from Ford, which are also inexpensive when used. What should prospective buyers look out for? The current TÜV report sees the model at least as a “family carriage” qualified.

The Kuga is the first compact SUV in the Ford range and is therefore one of the main competitors of models such as the VW Tiguan or Opel Grandland X. It is popular – in terms of sales figures. During the main inspection (HU), the sporty and dynamic image crumbles due to some ailments.

Model history

In 2013, the second edition of the Kuga considered here replaced the first generation from 2008, with which the manufacturer had entered the segment.

The 2016 facelift brought fine-tuning to the exterior and interior as well as improved assistance systems and a refreshed infotainment system. Under the hood, an economical diesel engine complemented the range. The current Kuga has been on the market since 2020.

Dimensions (according to ADAC)

4.52 meters x 1.84 to 1.86 meters x 1.69 to 1.70 meters (L x W x H), trunk volume: 456 to 1653 liters.

body variants

The Kuga is a five-door, five-seat SUV. There are no variants in the construction.

Strengthen

Correspondingly motorized, the Cologne compact SUV is also fast on the road, the chassis is always designed to be more comfortable. Together with the interior, the “Auto Bild TÜV Report 2023” sees the model as qualified for a “family carriage”.

At the HU steering and springs and dampers remain inconspicuous, rust on the chassis is a foreign word. Adjusted low beam is just as little a problem as the rear lighting. The brake components shine with low complaint rates – with one exception.

weaknesses

The exception is the brake discs, which, according to the report, are far too often worn out in younger models. Older Kuga II stand out negatively with defective axle mounts, as well as the often malfunctioning front lighting.

Especially at the third HU date there is criticism on the drive side: Oil loss is the topic. And the exhaust system tends to bum.

breakdown behavior

In the ADAC breakdown statistics, the Kuga only occupies places in the midfield, and if it was first registered in 2013 and 2014, even in the lower midfield. The focus of breakdowns, which ruined the balance sheet, is above all the battery (2012 to 2017 and 2019).

The engine

Market prices (according to “DAT Marktspiegel” from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand with each statistically expected kilometers)