Ford has been on a roll with its ST performance models, offering a range of hot hatches and SUVs that combine sporty driving dynamics with everyday practicality. The latest addition to the lineup is the 2023 Ford Puma ST Powershift, which is now available.
The Puma ST is based on the compact crossover that Ford launched in 2019 but with a host of upgrades to make it more fun to drive. It features a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 200 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 220 km/h.
But what makes the Puma ST Powershift stand out from its rivals is its new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is a first for a Ford Performance model in Europe. The transmission offers faster and smoother gear changes, as well as paddle shifters for manual control. It also has a launch control function that optimizes acceleration from a standstill.