When it comes to the Ford Kuga, choosing the right engine can make all the difference. With numerous options to choose from, it can be tough to determine which one is ideal for your driving style and preferences. From fuel efficiency to impressive power output, each engine has its advantages and disadvantages.
When it comes to engine choices, you basically have a choice between Ford’s popular EcoBoost gasoline engines, EcoBlue diesel engines, and PHEV models. There are quite a few differences between these three categories which are inherent with different types of propulsion.
As such, the best Ford Kuga engine for you is not exactly going to be the best for everyone. This means that you should evaluate your daily use scenarios and how you tend to use your car. Those who mostly drive in the city are better off with PHEV or gasoline models while those that typically do long-distance cruising are going to prefer diesel.
Other important factors such as charging, gas prices, emissions, power outputs, and driving feel will all play a role in deciding which Ford Kuga engine is best. In order to come up with the best Ford Kuga engine for you, be sure to read this article as we are going to go in-depth about Ford Kuga gasoline vs diesel vs PHEV powertrains.
It is important to get the right engine when buying a used Ford Kuga, but it is not the only thing. This is the years to go for when getting a used Ford Kuga.
EcoBoost Ford Kuga Engines
The Ford Kuga offers a range of EcoBoost petrol engines known for their power and efficiency. The 1.5-liter EcoBoost is a popular choice, delivering a balance of performance and fuel economy. The 1.5L is one of Ford’s most popular engines these days with smaller cars because it is efficient, quiet, and fairly popular.
With power outputs ranging from 120 to 182 horsepower, the 1.5L powertrain suits most driving needs. For those seeking more power, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, available in different variants from 180 to 250 horsepower, provides a spirited driving experience.
Both engines utilize turbocharging and direct fuel injection technology for responsive acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. These gasoline engines are best for those who usually spend their driving time in the city but are also often taking their cars for long-distance journeys.
The 2.0L is the sporty driver’s choice while the 1.5L is the cost-effective gasoline engine that is going to suffice for most people.
EcoBlue Diesel Ford Kuga Engines
Compared to gasoline/petrol engines, diesel has a few distinct advantages and a few drawbacks. Diesel fuel is more power dense which means that diesel engines make more energy out of a similar amount of fuel which often makes the 10-30% more efficient. This makes them perfect for long-distance journeys and long highway slogs.
On the other hand, diesel engines aren’t the best when it comes to performance driving as they don’t tend to rev high enough and often feel a bit lazier than gasoline engines. You can get the 2.0L diesel engine with power varying between 118hp and 187hp. The mid-spec 148hp engine seems to be a fairly popular option as it balances efficiency and power the best.
The 118hp engine is a bit weak while the 187hp engine is the closest thing you’ll get to a gasoline engine in a Ford Kuga without having to actually buy a gasoline engine. Either way, if you are usually cruising and doing long-distance journeys at the speed limit, the 187hp 2.0L diesel engine is likely the best of both worlds.
Ford Kuga PHEV
The PHEV Ford Kuga model uses a 2.5L Duratec engine mated to an electric motor for a combined output of 225hp, just 23g Co2/100km, and an all-electric range of about 32 miles. This does seem very appealing, but it only makes sense to buy a PHEV if you are actually going to use it as a hybrid.
This means that you should be charging it whenever you can to always take advantage of the electric powertrain. If you don’t charge the car up constantly, you are not going to get these results or anything close to these results which means that you will be paying a premium, but you won’t be getting the benefits.
Therefore, a PHEV is by far the best powertrain option of them all if you can either save some money through incentives and tax cuts or if you constantly charge it up and don’t use it for long-distance journeys all the time. In every other situation, you are best off with gasoline or diesel options.
These are the common problems that Ford Kuga Turbo gets
FAQ Section
Are Ford Kuga Gasoline Engines More Reliable than Diesel Engines?
On one hand, diesel engines are more robust as they need to withstand higher compression ratios and heavier loads which makes them beefier compared to most gasoline engines. However, gasoline engines are a bit simpler in construction which means that they have fewer overall components which can fail and cause problems.
The reliability of an engine type depends on factors such as maintenance, adherence to service intervals, and driving conditions. As such, it’s all about how well these engines are taken care of and you should expect them both to eventually experience some issues.
Should I Buy a Ford Kuga PHEV?
Recommending plug-in hybrids is not as straightforward as most people think as most brands out there are downright fooling everyone with their efficiency and fuel consumption estimates. First of all, you are going to use electricity as well which means that your “fueling“ bills aren’t going to be as low as everyone thinks.
Second of all, hybrids are the worst powertrains out of them all if they are not constantly charged up and are constantly relying on the battery to power the car. If you don’t charge them up, you are not going to gain any benefits in efficiency while also driving a much more complex car with much higher potential repair bills.
How Good is the Ford Kuga?
For those wanting a relatively affordable, well-equipped, and decently powerful family crossover/SUV, the Ford Kuga is actually a really good choice. You can choose between diesel, gasoline, and PHEV variants with various power figures to perfectly tailor your experience to your preferences.
The Kuga also offers good technology, safety, and convenience features which are all wrapped up in a pretty good-looking package, both inside and out.