Ford Announces New Kuga in Japan | Ford

Ford Kuga

Ford Announces New Kuga for Japan

Ford Japan Limited has announced that the Kuga, a compact SUV sold globally as a flagship product, will undergo a full model change and go on sale in Japan starting September 7.

Text by OKADA Kazuyuki (OPENERS)

A Compact SUV Evolved with Enhanced Functionality

The new Kuga, like the Focus, adopts Ford's design language, "Kinetic Design," and is a compact SUV developed globally. OPENERS recently published a test drive review by Tatsuya Otani, and the launch date in Japan has finally been announced.

The powertrain features Ford's global "green engine," a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. This engine, along with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine introduced last year in the Explorer and highly praised in Japan, forms the core of the green engine lineup.

The transmission is a newly paired 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. While delivering a maximum output of 134 kW (182 ps) at 5,700 rpm, it achieves over 20% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the previous model equipped with a 2.0-liter, 5-cylinder engine (maximum output 147 kW (200 ps) at 6,000 rpm).

The drive system employs a newly designed intelligent AWD. By automatically distributing torque between the front and rear in a ratio from 100:0 to 0:100 depending on road and driving conditions, it not only enhances off-road capability but also swiftly corrects understeer and oversteer on-road. It is said to deliver optimal handling and traction on all surfaces.

The exterior boasts a sportier styling, with the body size being 10mm lower in overall height and 95mm longer than the previous model.

The luggage compartment has been expanded by 46 liters compared to the previous model, offering 406 liters with five occupants and up to 1,603 liters with the rear seats folded. Furthermore, the "Titanium" grade features a hands-free power liftgate. By performing a kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper while carrying the smart key, the tailgate can be easily opened and closed even when your hands are full.

In terms of safety, the Titanium model is equipped with "Active City Stop," which automatically applies the brakes to assist the driver in avoiding collisions with preceding vehicles at low speeds in traffic jams and urban driving, torque vectoring control to enhance cornering maneuverability and responsiveness, and Ford's unique stability control technology, AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control). It has evolved into a next-generation SUV with enhanced functionality, power, and safety.

The release date is September 7. Prices are 3.4 million yen for the Trend and 3.85 million yen for the Titanium.