The Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) unveiled an exciting new addition to its line-up at the Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) today.

The Ford Kuga is a five-seater cross-over vehicle that offers an elevated seating position, versatile interior, dynamic on and off road ability and striking styling. With its intelligent all-wheel drive system the Kuga is perfectly suited to changes in road conditions. Traction is maintained by automatically applying power to the wheels that need it most, ensuring you stay in control whatever the road throws at you.

A split rear tailgate means there are two ways you can access the rear, depending on what you want to load or unload. If you have something small to pop in the back or you are in a restricted area you can simply open the upper section of the tailgate. When transporting something bigger, one can open the tailgate fully. The floor can fold completely flat ensuring maximum load space.

The Kuga conveys a sense of energy in motion through Ford’s Kinetic Design. Distinctive headlights, a contoured bonnet and large trapezoid grille set it apart in the Crossover market. The pronounced wheel arches, stylish air vents and muscular shoulder line provides an energetic stance. The sporty off-road look continues with the Kuga’s front and rear bumpers, plus standard twin exhausts.

“We are very excited to showcase the Kuga at JIMS for the first time in South Africa, and are looking forward to launch it to the local South African market,” says Ford Marketing Manager Ben Pillay.”

The Ford Kuga will be launched in two specification levels, namely Trend and Titanium. The higher spec Titanium models features 18-inch wheels and a panoramic sunroof.

Both Kuga models are powered by a detuned version of the Focus ST’s 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder engine that produces 147kW and 320Nm.

Pricing will be made available closer to the vehicle’s official introduction later this year, but expect the Kuga to start around the R350 000 mark.