Ford introduces the new Puma ST Powershift, featuring the most powerful version of the award-winning 1.0L EcoBoost engine and seven-speed automatic transmission
Elements that have long been hallmarks of all Ford Performance creations, such as supreme responsiveness and a driver-rewarding fun drive, are now becoming accessible to an even greater number of SUV customers as Ford today revealed the new Puma ST Powershift, powered by the most powerful version ever of Ford’s award-winning 1.0L EcoBoost engine.
Upgraded using 48V mild hybrid technology to deliver a maximum power of 170PS and a maximum torque of 248Nm, the award-winning 1.0-litre engine is mated to a Ford Powershift 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel paddles, seamlessly marrying the dynamic driving experience with everyday usability.
The new drivetrain fully embraces the Sports Technologies philosophy but also the existing performance upgrade features from the optimized chassis of the Puma ST 1.5L EcoBoost – launched in 2020 – including both the special setup of the semi-rigid axle and anti-roll bars, as well as the patented lateral load redistribution springs.
Combined with the comfort, uncompromising interiors and innovative practicality of compact SUVs such as the Ford MegaBox, the versatile new Puma ST Powershift makes Ford Performance driving experiences accessible to a wider, enthusiast audience by offering 0-100 km acceleration /h in 7.4 seconds combined with fuel consumption of 6.3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 144 g/km.
“The Ford Performance team used all of their experience in developing the original Puma ST to deliver the signature fun-to-drive of an ST model without losing the practicality of our compact SUV. So our new version of Powershift is even more flexible. We use 48V mild hybrid technology not only to improve efficiency, but also to boost peak power and torque,” said Stefan Muenzinger, director of Ford Performance in Europe. “The award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is mated to a Ford Powershift 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel controls, marrying a dynamic driving experience with everyday usability.”
Genuine ST performance, mild hybrid efficiency
The 48V mild hybrid technology of the 1.0L EcoBoost Hybrid engine offered to Puma customers since the launch of the SUV in 2019 is upgraded to deliver even more performance for the Puma ST Powershift.
The mild hybrid system activates energy recovery faster than in other applications for faster recharging of the 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This allows the built-in belt-driven starter/generator (BISG) to deliver additional torque for longer to ensure improved low-rpm performance. In addition, increased energy recovery offers an additional 10 PS of electric assist from the starter/generator which boosts peak power.
Combined with the unique software tuning of the turbocharged, three-cylinder direct-injection petrol engine, an increase in maximum power of almost 10% is achieved compared to the 155 PS 1.0L EcoBoost Hybrid. Delivering up to 170 PS at 5,750 rpm. and up to 248Nm of torque at 3,000rpm, the Puma ST Powershift produces exactly twice the power per liter of the 2002 Focus ST170.
The new Puma ST Powershift benefits from the same active exhaust valve technology found in the Puma ST for increased performance, while at the same time it features a typical ST model engine sound under acceleration. Controlled by the selectable Drive Modes, the active exhaust valve remains closed in Normal and Eco modes for refined everyday performance, but opens in Sport to intensify the sporty sound.
“The combination of a downsized engine and electrified technology helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions while providing affordable, everyday performance. Together with the retuned Powershift transmission, this package delivers intelligent performance and an emotional ST convertible drive,” said Muenzinger.
Powershift gives control to the driver
Developed to work seamlessly with Ford’s 1.0L EcoBoost Hybrid engines, the 7-speed Powershift transmission has been optimized with revised software mapping, maximizing performance and efficiency for Puma ST Powershift customers.
In fully automatic mode, the dual-clutch transmission offers smooth shifts and effortless comfort and convenience – particularly in stop-and-start driving conditions – and helps keep the mild hybrid system at optimum revs for even greater efficiency. Beyond that, to really take advantage of the engine’s performance, sequential downshifts of up to three gears allow for quicker overtaking when drivers demand maximum acceleration. With Sport mode engaged, the transmission also holds lower gears for longer, for a sportier response. In addition, steering wheel controls allow manual control of shift points for full driver involvement.
The Powershift automatic transmission also supports the Stop & Go function for the optional Adaptive Cruise Control, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop in stop-start traffic conditions and restart it automatically if the stop is less than three seconds long; or resume after three seconds at the press of a button or throttle. The transmission also supports Remote Start via the FordPass app.
High specification ST chassis
The Puma ST Powershift shares the same chassis as the award-winning Puma ST, which sharpens response using a semi-rigid rear axle with 2,000 Nm/deg torsional stiffness – a value increased by over 50% compared to the base Puma – and a 28mm anti-torsion beam integrated into the U-shaped part of the shaft. Up front, the new Puma ST Powershift adopts a 24mm anti-roll bar.
Ford’s patented side load redistribution springs also improve the stability, agility and responsiveness of the Puma ST Powershift. These state-of-the-art springs work with Hitachi dual-chamber shock absorbers front and rear that adjust the damping force based on the frequency of vibrations transmitted by the road surface, ensuring the stiffness required for better vehicle control, but at the same time comfort and quality driving at the highest speeds on roads with minor irregularities.
The new Puma ST’s steering has a reduction ratio of 11.4:1 – almost 25% faster than the base Puma – and uses a combination of ST-spec front axles, steering arm and rack for increased corner entry response compared to with the basic Puma, further supported by Torque Vectoring Control.
The improved performance of the braking system is provided by 325 mm front discs – 17% larger in diameter compared to the standard version of the Puma. The brake assist of the new Puma ST is tuned to provide optimal feel and feedback in sporty driving, while the drivetrain’s optimized energy recovery also supports increased engine braking.
Design that combines appearance and functionality
A Ford Performance splitter integrated into the front bumper not only ‘declares’ the sporty credentials of the Puma ST Powershift, but also increases the vertical downforce of the front section by around 80% compared to the base Puma. A large rear roof spoiler and distinctive rear diffuser are also present. Also, the upper and lower grilles at the front, a trademark of the ST models, are designed to maximize cooling capacity and engine efficiency.
The Puma ST Powershift introduces the new ST model-exclusive Azura Blue exterior colorway, which is among six options in total. A gloss black finish for the roof is available, while the grille surrounds, side trims, exterior mirror caps and rear roof spoiler are all also black as standard. The SUV additionally offers a Magnetite finish on the standard 19-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, standard features include Ford Performance-engineered sports seats trimmed in premium Sensico leather-feel synthetic material, a wireless charging pad, a heated Quickclear windshield, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, a FordPass Connect modem, and Ford’s SYNC 3 communication and entertainment system, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™. Available driver assistance technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Active Braking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking, and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
Underscoring the versatility of the Ford Performance model, the new Puma ST Powershift retains the space and practicality of a Puma, offering a 456-litre load space with the rear seats in place, as well as the innovative Ford MegaBox providing a storage space 80 liters under the boot floor which can comfortably accommodate two golf bags in an upright position.
“And, of course, the new Puma ST Powershift also offers the award-winning dynamic capabilities that our customers love,” said Muenzinger.
Source: Skai
I have worked as a journalist for over 10 years, and my work has been featured on many different news websites. I am also an author, and my work has been published in several books. I specialize in opinion writing, and I often write about current events and controversial topics. I am a very well-rounded writer, and I have a lot of experience in different areas of journalism. I am a very hard worker, and I am always willing to put in the extra effort to get the job done.
