Car of the Year Awards 2026: Best small SUV to drive
A small SUV's compact size mustn’t come at the expense of practicality and should be reflected by low running costs. It should ride comfortably, too, while maintaining a sense of fun...
Ford Puma 1.0 Ecoboost 125 mHEV ST-Line
With a huge boot, generous equipment levels and good fuel economy, there are a number of reasons why the Ford Puma is continually somewhere near the top of the UK’s best-sellers chart. However, the way it drives is what most distinguishes it from other small SUVs.
With taut body control, direct steering and an uncanny eagerness to turn in to corners, the Puma feels more athletic than the Volkswagen T-Roc and other rivals. Just bear in mind that the price you pay for this is a firmer ride. And while the engine emits a sporty rasp under acceleration, the Puma isn’t great at keeping less desirable noises from your ears.
The entry-level mild hybrid 1.0-litre Ecoboost 125 engine is so good that we don’t think it’s worth bothering with the more powerful Ecoboost 155 (which is available only in conjunction with pricier trims anyway). This punchy three-cylinder unit gets you up to speed eagerly, and it has a smoother, more even spread of power than the 155.
What’s more, the 125 is now the only engine in the Puma line-up available with a six-speed manual gearbox. This is a joy to use, with a slick, positive shift action that makes driving the Puma even more fun.
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