Ford Kuga Compact SUV to be Released in Australia in 2012

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December 5th 2011

Ford Australia today announced it will add the stylish Ford Kuga compact SUV to its local model range from March next year.
The European-built five-door SUV wears Ford's signature "kinetic" design and is expected to be a popular addition to Ford's Australian vehicle catalogue, mixing SUV practicality with sharp driving dynamics that have been designed for adventure both on and off the road.
"The Ford Kuga will be an exciting addition to our Australian model range," Bob Graziano, President and CEO of Ford Australia, said,
"The Ford Kuga is certain to appeal to customers looking for a stylish, practical and fun compact SUV."
Today's announcement is the latest in a number of exciting product developments for Ford Australia. Over the past 12 months, the company has transformed its local model range with an impressive line-up of new and updated models as part of its ongoing plan to offer customers a choice of vehicles that deliver quality, safety, intelligent technologies and sustainable driving.
"During the last year we have either replaced or updated around 85 per cent of Ford's Australian model line-up and we are certain the Ford Kuga will be another compelling offer for our customers," he said.

Australian model range
Customers will be able to choose from two versions of the Ford Kuga: Trend and Titanium. The Ford Kuga Trend will come comprehensively equipped with a generous array of comfort, convenience and safety features. Adding even more will be the Ford Kuga Titanium. These standard features are summarised below.

Ford Kuga Trend

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Rear tailgate with flip glass
• Bluetooth®1 connectivity
• Voice control
• Sony CD 8-speaker sound system with USB port
• Keyless start/stop button
• Air conditioning
• Cruise control
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Power adjustable heated side mirrors with puddle lamps
• Front fog lamps
• Silver roof rails
• Follow-me-home lighting
• Capless refuelling

Ford Kuga Titanium

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Fixed panorama glass roof
• Dual-zone climate control
• Leather-trimmed seats (front seats with variable heating controls)
• Leather-trimmed gear shifter
• 6-way power driver's seat
• Rear privacy glass
• Rear parking sensors
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Auto headlamps
• Velour floor mats
• Stainless steel front scuff plates[/B]

Engine and transmission

Both the Ford Kuga Trend and Titanium will be powered by Ford's Duratec five-cylinder turbo petrol engine. Drivers will enjoy spirited performance from this efficient power unit, which produces a maximum power level of 147 kW and peak torque of 320 Nm from as low as 1600 rpm.
Both versions in the Ford Kuga range will be fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission matched to an intelligent all-wheel drive system, giving drivers sure-footed handling and practical off-road ability.
On the road, the Ford Kuga will return 10.3-litres per 100km travelled (combined cycle; according to ADR81/02).

Chassis and suspension
Customers will experience a dynamic driving experience and all-road performance thanks to the combination of a MacPherson strut front suspension and Ford's Control Blade multi-link suspension system at the rear. Electric power-assisted steering has been designed to give drivers easy manoeuvrability and control at speed.

Safety
Occupant safety is demonstrated by the Ford Kuga's 5-star safety rating by both ANCAP and EuroNCAP. Standard-fitment safety features are extensive and include:

• Intelligent Protection System
• Driver and front passenger air-bags
• Driver and front passenger side thorax and pelvis air-bags
• Side curtain air-bags
• ABS anti-lock brakes
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with roll-over mitigation
• Traction control
• EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) system
• Driver and front passenger belt-minder

The Ford Kuga will go on sale in Australia in March 2012. Australian Manufacturer's List Prices (MLP) will be announced closer to the date of release.