Ford Puma gains new gearbox and trim level

Ford has expanded the Puma’s line-up, adding a new automatic gearbox and a highly-specced ST-Line X Vignale trim level.

The Puma’s 123bhp turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine is available with a seven-speed automatic transmission – with prices starting from £22,945. The gearbox lowers the crossover’s claimed WLTP fuel economy and emissions figures to 45.6mpg and 138g/km – compared to the manual-equipped model’s 49.6mpg and 127g/km.

• Best crossovers on sale now

Ford’s new, highly-specced ST-Line X Vignale trim level is priced from £25,240. Upgrades over the ST-Line X model include 18-inch alloy wheels, a satin-finish aluminium grille and a body-coloured rear bumper. Buyers also get LED headlamps, leather upholstery, heated front seats, keyless entry and a heated steering wheel.

Later this year, the Puma line-up will expand again with a flagship ST model. It’ll use the same 197bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine as the Fiesta ST and feature a host of chassis and styling upgrades including larger brakes, stiffer springs, lowered suspension, an aggressive body-kit and a choice of lairy paint finishes.

What does the updated Ford Puma have to beat? Read our list of the best crossovers on sale in the UK now…