Ford Puma ST long-term test: report 4

The car Ford Puma ST Run by John Bradshaw, chief photographer

Why it’s here To see whether a sports SUV can cut it as an everyday workhorse, without costing a fortune to run

Needs to Carry heavy, bulky equipment long distances without breaking a sweat and while putting a smile on the driver's face

Mileage 8146 List price £30,545 Target Price £29,050 Price as tested £31,185 Official economy 41.5mpg Test economy 36.6mpg

15 January 2022 – Crowd participation

My Ford Puma ST isn’t short of visual theatre. Opening the door of this sports SUV is like parting the curtains for the show ahead – you step over illuminated 'Ford Performance' kick plates and are treated to an animated puma on the 12.3in digital driver display as soon as you thumb the starter button. 

But, as I documented in my last report, its peppy engine and agile handling mean that the fun begins in earnest when you start moving. The Puma ST really is a hell of an entertainer, and, what’s more, it’s only too happy to accept group bookings.

I stand 5ft 10in tall, and if I was cloned, four of me could take a trip in the ST in reasonable comfort. John and John in the back would have plenty of head room, and would be left with just enough leg room when the two Johns up front have their seats set to suit. It would be rather a squeeze for a fifth me, but the world probably doesn't need one of those.

Sometimes experiences are all the better when you share them, and the Puma makes doing that easy.

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