NEW 2023 Ford Puma ST (Powershift) - Visual REVIEW interior, exterior

The Ford Puma ST has proven itself as a fun, practical hot hatch since its debut last year. Now Ford is expanding the lineup with a new mild-hybrid automatic variant aimed at broadening the appeal of the spunky crossover. Dubbed the Puma ST Powershift, this new model pairs a 1.0-liter turbo three-cylinder with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
On paper, the swap to a smaller turbo engine and auto gearbox may seem like it compromises the spirit of the Puma ST. But during our first drive of the new variant, we found the Powershift model retains much of the charm and talent of its row-your-own sibling.
The Powershift produces 168 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque from its tiny 1.0-liter eco boost engine, down from the standard Puma ST's 197 hp and 214 lb-ft. Acceleration to 60 mph now takes a leisurely 7.5 seconds, over half a second behind the manual model. But around town the Powershift feels plenty peppy thanks to the instant boost from its 48-volt hybrid system. Mash the throttle and the belt-driven motor fills in torque gaps while the turbo spools. The mild hybrid tech makes the Powershift's power delivery feel more muscular than its numbers suggest.
Shifting duties are handled by a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Its fast, smooth gearchanges are well-suited to the torquey nature of the downsized triple. Occasional low-speed clunkiness is the only blemish to an otherwise polished transmission. For maximum control, steering wheel-mounted paddles allow manual gear selections, rev-matching downshifts included.
As hoped, the switch to a dual-clutch 'box hasn't significantly altered the Puma's athletic character. Turn-in remains sharp and precise thanks to nicely weighted steering. The sport-tuned suspension delivers controlled body motions and impressive grip when attacking corners. Only when pushing hard does the Powershift display slightly more understeer compared to its row-your-own stablemate.
While acceleration trails the manual, the Powershift's superior traction off the line helps it nip the 6-speed to 30 mph in our testing. The auto also stopped shorter from 60 mph despite using the same brakes, taking just 110 feet to the manual's 115 ft.
Fuel efficiency and emissions represent two more advantages of the new Powershift model. Official figures aren't yet available, but we saw an indicated 36 mpg average over mixed driving compared to around 31 mpg for the manual model. Lower CO2 also means cheaper annual tax bills for UK buyers.
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[@thespencerarms2022]

Just got one and it’s awesome 👏🏻 😎

[@AUTOTVO]

That's great to hear! I'm glad you're enjoying it. Very good choice!

[@MahendraSingh-ry4zd]

❤ well come 🎉🤗

[@colincoulter4931]

Why an old fashioned hand brake?

[@chirpywiggins5796]

No thanks l. Big downgrade from the 197bhp Puma, ive driven both and there's a massive difference .

[@marklori7906]

Pooma

[@bernamartin8252]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤