Ford introduces new version of Puma ST with Powershift transmission

The new Puma ST offers direct response and typical Ford Performance driving dynamics that will appeal to a larger group of SUV buyers. It's all thanks to Ford's new Powershift Puma ST unveiled today and the most powerful variant of the award-winning 1.0 EcoBoost engine introduced with it.

New Puma ST with Powershift gearbox

Through the use of a 48-volt mild hybrid system, The 1.0-liter engine develops a maximum power of 170 hp. and maximum torque of 248 Nm.and the seven-speed dual-clutch Powershift transmission, which gives the driver the ability to select gears via paddle shifters, combines dynamism and convenience in everyday use.

The new powertrain is fully compliant with the Sports Technologies branding, along with other performance-enhancing components taken from the chassis upgrade of the 1.5-liter Puma ST EcoBoost launched in 2020. These include model-specific torsion beam and anti-roll bars, as well as patented reversible suspension springs.

In addition, the versatile Puma ST with Powershift continues to offer innovative practical solutions such as the Ford MegaBox. The car brings the great feeling of driving a car from the Ford Performance line to a larger group of thrill enthusiasts guaranteed acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, with low fuel consumption 6.3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 144 g/km.

“The Ford Performance team has brought all of its expertise to the development of the new Puma ST to capture the driving pleasure of the ST brand without sacrificing the practicality of a compact SUV, and the new Powershift version is even more versatile. We are using a 48-volt mild hybrid system not only to reduce fuel consumption, but also to increase maximum power and torque,” said Stefan Münzinger, Ford Performance Europe Manager.

True ST performance, mild hybrid economy

Hybrid powertrain based on 1.0-liter EcoBoost and 48-volt engine Offered to Puma owners since the launch of the SUV in 2019, the mild hybrid version of the ST with Powershift transmission has been upgraded for increased performance.

The mild hybrid system turns on energy recovery earlier than other applications, which is quickly transferred to a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack. This allows the integrated belt-driven starter-generator (BISG) to extend the periods when it replenishes the combustion engine's torque, improving low-rpm performance. The increased level of energy recovery also means the transmission gets an extra 10 hp. power thanks to BISG electrical support.

This, combined with the direct injection performance of the three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, results in an almost 10 percent increase in peak power compared to the 1.0-liter EcoBoost Hybrid, which produces 155 hp. New Thus, the Puma ST with Powershift develops 170 hp. at 5750 rpm and a torque of 248 Nm. at 3000 rpm, exactly twice the power per liter of the 2002 Focus ST170.

The Puma ST with Powershift uses the same active exhaust valve system as the Puma ST. The result is higher performance and a characteristic hint of a sports engine when accelerating. The active valve, controlled by ride modes, remains closed in normal and economy modes for everyday quiet sound, but opens in sport mode for enhanced sporty sound.

“The combination of downsizing and the mild hybrid electrical system reduces fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining good day-to-day performance for the driver. Together with an upgraded Powershift transmission, this system delivers superior performance and driving enjoyment for ST models,” Münzinger said.

Powershift transmission leaves the driver in control

Designed to work flawlessly with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost Hybrid engines, Ford's seven-speed Powershift transmission has been upgraded for the new Puma ST with software settings that promote maximum performance and economy.

In fully automatic mode, the dual-clutch transmission ensures smooth gear shifting and driving comfort and convenience – especially in city traffic. It also takes care of maintaining the optimum rotational speed of the hybrid powertrain. However, to make the most of the transmission's capabilities, the automatic transmission allows for downshifts of three gears and faster overtaking when the driver presses the accelerator and expects maximum acceleration. In sport driving mode, the transmission stays in lower gears longer for sportier response. In addition, paddle shifters located on the steering wheel allow the driver to fully control the situation and change gears independently.

The Powershift automatic transmission also allows Stop & Go with Adaptive Cruise Control 4, which can stop the car in city traffic and automatically follow the car in front if the stopping time is less than three seconds. It can also resume driving after three seconds by pressing a button on the steering wheel or accelerator pedal. The transmission also allows you to remotely start the engine via the FordPass app.

Best ST Chassis

The new Puma ST with Powershift uses the same chassis as the award-winning Puma ST. Response has been enhanced by stiffening the rear suspension torsion beam to 2,000 Nm/deg, more than 50 % more than the standard Puma rear suspension. There is also a 28mm sway bar on the frame and a 24mm sway bar on the front.

Patented reversible wheel suspension springs provide improved cornering stability, agility and more precise response of the new Puma ST with Powershift transmission. The model uses a set of individual, non-interchangeable, directionally coiled springs that allow you to achieve a change in the direction of forces in the rear suspension. The system allows the lateral forces during cornering to be transferred directly to these springs, increasing the lateral stiffness of the suspension.

The springs work in tandem with Hitachi twin-tube shock absorbers that adjust the damping force in response to frequency, adjusting stiffness and giving you better control of the car while maintaining precision at smoothing out small bumps in the road at high speed. .

The gear ratio of the Puma ST with Powershift is 11.4:1, which is almost 25% faster than the stock Puma. This is achieved by combining a specially designed front knuckle with tie rods and rack and pinion for better cornering response, and works in conjunction with Torque Vectoring Control.

Better braking performance comes from the 325mm front discs, which are 17% larger than the standard Puma specification. The Puma ST's Powershift Brake Assist is tuned for the varying braking force, feel and deceleration feedback required for dynamic driving, while additional deceleration assistance is also provided through the model's specially tuned recuperation characteristics.

Design that combines form and function

The Ford Performance logo splitter integrated into the front bumper not only underlines the sporty features of the new Puma ST, but also increases front downforce by almost 80 % compared to the standard Puma. Attractive aerodynamic features include a large roof spoiler and distinctive rear diffuser, while the distinctive upper and lower grilles are designed to improve engine cooling.

The Puma ST with Powershift will be available in six colors, including an exclusive Azura Blue colorway. Glossy black roof trim, grille surround, side vents, exterior mirror housings and a rear roof spoiler distinguish this version of the SUV, as do standard 19-inch magnetite alloy wheels.

Standard interior enhancements include Ford Performance sport seats with Sensico luxury synthetic leather, inductive smartphone charger, Quickclear heated windshield, front and rear parking sensors, rain sensor, FordPass Connect modem, Ford SYNC communication and entertainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and android auto. ™. Driver assistance systems are also available: Active Brake Assist with autonomous braking at intersections, Park Assist, Crossing Traffic Alert with Active Brake Assist and adaptive cruise control.

It is worth noting that the Puma ST with Powershift confirms the versatility of Ford Performance models, retaining full volume and functionality - 456 liters of luggage compartment 10 when fully loaded, as well as the innovative Ford MegaBox, an 80-liter storage compartment under the trunk floor, capable of storing two bags for golf in an upright position.

Photo: Ford