What is it?

Well, the Ford Puma is a subcompact crossover SUV that combines practicality with a fun driving experience. Previously offered in the 90s as a sporty coupe, the Puma has been completely revamped for the modern market. For better clarity one could say its a grown-up version of the then Fiesta. It comes in to replace both the Fiesta and EcoSport which have now been discontinued in Mzansi.

In terms of first impressions, the Ford Puma boasts a look that’s both purposeful and undeniably head-turning. It defies the sometimes boxy aesthetic of its rivals, boasting a sleek profile that incorporates a sloping roofline for a touch of sporty flair which, unfortunately, sacrifices functionality for form.

The front fascia is undeniably Ford with its prominent grille and sharp projector headlights, but there’s a hint of feline inspiration in the design. The headlights themselves have a cat-eye-like quality, adding a touch of charisma. The muscular lines along the flanks and flared arches hint at the Puma’s dynamic capabilities. The rear doesn’t disappoint either, with stylish oblong LED taillights that wrap neatly around the tailgate.

However, where the Puma truly sets itself apart is in its trim level offerings. The Titanium model features polished lines and thoughtful design that prioritize comfort and a touch of elegance. The ST-Line, on the other hand, dials up the sportiness with body-coloured cladding, more aggressive bumpers, and larger wheels. This transformation is completed with a prominent rear spoiler, ensuring everyone on the road knows you mean business.

The Puma competes with other popular compact crossovers like the Volkswagen T-Roc, Hyundai Kona, and Volkswagen Taigo. Other options include the Renault Captur, Opel Mokka, and even the Audi Q2 for those wanting a premium feel.

While the Puma’s exterior boasts a modern and sleek design, stepping inside reveals an interior that feels a touch behind the curve. The overall layout, with its physical buttons and non-premium materials, bears a resemblance to the Ford EcoSport.

It’s not necessarily unpleasant, but it fails to match the forward-thinking design of the exterior and the rest of the Ford line-up. This sense of familiarity extends to the technology on offer, which feels adequate rather than groundbreaking. Perhaps the biggest disappointment is the packaging. Its worth noting that the Puma only reached our shores a few years later than its global debut.

Elsewhere, the sloping roofline, while aesthetically pleasing on the outside, cuts into rear headroom significantly. Overall legroom is nothing to write home about either as tall passagers’ knees would rub against the front row seats. Uncomfortably so. This makes the Puma best suited for shorter passengers or occasional use in the back. On the bright side, the boot space behind the rear seats is generous, redeeming some practicality points.

Stop complaining, what is it like to drive?

Behind the wheel of the Ford Puma Titanium, the initial impression of a familiar interior fades away. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is a revelation. Forget the sluggish EcoBoost experiences of years past; this little powerhouse punches well above its weight. It delivers surprising pep, reminding me of the energetic Volkswagen Polo TSI engines. Pressing the pedal unleashes a surge of confidence-inspiring power, perfect for navigating city traffic or quick highway maneuvers.

The Puma handles beautifully, with sharp reflexes and a surprisingly engaging driving experience. It feels far more connected to the road than the average crossover.

The only caveat to this praiseworthy performance is the fuel economy. My city driving resulted in an average of 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers. While not terrible, it might be a turnoff for those seeking maximum efficiency. However, for those who prioritize a peppy and enjoyable drive, the Puma Titanium is a worth considering.

Should you really consider the Ford Puma Titanium?

With a price tag of R570,400 for the Puma Titanium, it lands right in the thick of the compact crossover battleground. Compared to rivals like the VW T-Roc or Hyundai Kona, pricing is fairly competitive.

Let’s talk practicality. While the Puma’s boot space is a saving grace, rear headroom is definitely a compromise, especially for taller passengers. The interior, while comfortable enough for daily commutes, starts to feel a tad dated with its reliance on physical buttons and the Sync 3 system, which is starting to show its age. Speaking of tech, it’s a bit of a bummer that both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t wireless at this price point. It’s a small gripe, but a missed convenience nonetheless.

Overall, the Puma Titanium is a fun and funky crossover that offers a surprising amount of punch from its 1.0-litre engine. It handles well and delivers a confident driving experience. If you prioritize a pleasurable drive over cutting-edge tech and a spacious rear cabin, the Puma is definitely worth considering.

However, for those seeking the most up-to-date features and maximum passenger space, competing options might be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice boils down to your priorities. If you crave a bit of spice in your daily commute, the Puma Titanium might just surprise you.

Battery and range

The Mach-E is available with two battery pack options: a 70 kWh pack and a 91 kWh pack. The 70 kWh pack has a WLTP-rated combined-cycle range of up to 440 kilometers, while the 91 kWh pack can support up to 600 kilometers on the Premium model. In the high-performance GT version, the larger battery caps out at 490 kilometers.

Power and torque

The Mach-E is available with a variety of power and torque outputs, depending on the model and configuration. The base Select model with the 70 kWh battery pack produces 198 kW and 430 Nm of torque. The Premium model with the same battery pack produces 211 kW and 580 Nm of torque. The GT model with the 91 kWh battery pack produces 358 kW and 814 Nm of torque.

Acceleration

The Mach-E is a quick vehicle, thanks to its electric motors and instant torque delivery. The GT model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds.

Driving dynamics

The Mach-E is a well-handling vehicle, thanks to its low center of gravity and balanced suspension. It is also fun to drive, with a sporty and responsive character. Hopefully soon, we’ll have a detailed review on the vehicle.

Charging

The Mach-E can be charged using a variety of methods, including standard household outlets, public charging stations, and Ford’s own home charging solutions. The 70 kWh battery pack can be charged from 0 to 100% in about 10 hours using a standard household outlet. The 91 kWh battery pack can be charged from 0 to 100% in about 12 hours using a standard household outlet.

The all-electric Mustang Mach-E is coming to South Africa in 2025.

The Ford Everest boasts an impressive 3,500 kg towing capacity, making it a go-anywhere vehicle that enables owners to bring everything they need for epic adventures. Whether you’re hauling a boat trailer for a weekend on the water or a camper for a few days in the great outdoors, the Everest is designed to make towing a breeze.

Rob Hugo, dynamic experience supervisor for Ranger and Everest at Ford Australia, emphasized the importance of towing performance, stating, “Ultimate towing performance is absolutely essential for thousands of adventure-craving owners.” Ford has designed and engineered the Everest to cater to both novices and experts, ensuring that the towing experience is seamless and stress-free.

Hitching a trailer is often a challenging task, but the Ford Everest simplifies it. The 360-degree camera provides a top-down view to guide the Everest close to the trailer, while reverse view with dynamic lines and distance guides helps align the tow ball and receiver. For pinpoint accuracy, the hitch view button offers a bird’s-eye view of the tow ball and receiver.

The Everest also offers a trailer connection checklist integrated into the SYNC system, walking owners through the steps required to safely connect the trailer. You can even check your trailer lights without a spotter, thanks to the SYNC screen or the FordPass app.

When it comes to confidence on the road while towing, the Everest has you covered. The dedicated Tow/Haul drive mode optimizes power and control, especially in hilly terrain, and provides engine braking. A trailer brake controller adapts its output based on brake pressure, enhancing braking performance and reducing the risk of trailer brake lockup.

Innovative trailer sway control is another remarkable feature of the Everest. It works alongside the electronic stability control system to detect and eliminate trailer sway, ensuring a safe towing experience.

For added peace of mind, Ford’s blind spot information system (BLIS) now includes trailer coverage, helping you change lanes with confidence. By creating a profile for your trailer on the SYNC touchscreen, BLIS extends its radar sensors to monitor adjacent lanes for hazards.

In conclusion, the Ford Everest is the ideal companion for adventurers who demand the best in towing capability, safety, and convenience. With its innovative features, it transforms towing into a hassle-free and enjoyable experience, allowing you to focus on the thrill of your next adventure.

The new generation Ford Ranger is a mid-size bakkie that is designed to meet the needs of both urban and rural drivers. With its brand new rugged and durable construction, advanced technology, and powerful performance, the Ranger is a versatile vehicle that can handle a wide range of tasks and activities.

One of the first things that you will notice about the new Ranger is its striking and aggressive design. The front of the truck has been completely redesigned and now features a bold grille and sleek headlights that give it a bold and imposing look. Those C-shaped daytime LED lights are a looker, even from your reverse mirror. The body of the truck is also designed to be aerodynamic, which helps to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency. I couldn’t help but notice how much bigger the shoulders of the vehicle have grown, compared to the outgoing model.

Under the bonnet, the Ranger is powered by a choice of either a 2.0-litre Single Turbo and Bi-Turbo in-line four-cylinder diesel engines as well as Ford’s proven 3.0L V6 turbodiesel. The latter, only found in the Wildtrak derivative, is a powerful engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps to provide smooth and responsive acceleration. Its certainly a favourite. But if we’re being honest, you’d be perfectly fine off with the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine. Trust me.

The Ranger also comes with a variety of advanced driver assistance features, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera.

There’s also a variety of advanced technology features that make it one of the most connected and convenient bakkies on the market. It comes with Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system, which allows you to easily control your audio, navigation, ventilation and other features using voice commands. All mated to a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment display. It’s super clear and responds quickly to the touch. A needed improvement compared to the outgoing model. As with all Ford models of late, there’s support for FordPass too. FordPass enhances the ownership experience with features like remote start, vehicle status check and health alerts, digital owner’s manual and remote lock and unlock functions via your mobile device.

If we’re being honest, you’d be perfectly fine with the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine.

When it comes to cargo and towing capacity, the Ranger is one of the most capable bakkies in its class. The Ranger can tow up to 3500 kg when properly equipped. The Ranger also comes with a variety of bed and cargo management features, such as a bed liner and a built-in cargo management system. Circling back to towing, the Ranger has a Tow Haul drive mode for use whilst towing or carrying heavy loads. It optimises gear shift timing to maintain best power delivery and engine braking and reduced shift busyness. 

As is the norm, the Ranger also comes with a variety of off-road features that make it well-suited for those off-road adventures. The bakkie comes with a 4×4 drivetrain and a variety of off-road modes, such as mud, sand, and rock. The Ranger also comes with a variety of suspension and tyre options, which allow you to customize your bakkie to meet your specific off-road needs.

With a growing list of over 200 factory-backed adventure, urban and commercial accessories, you will be able to personalise the Rangers to suit your unique lifestyle.

Overall, the new generation Ford Ranger is a versatile and capable bakkie that is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. With its rugged and durable construction, advanced technology, and powerful performance, the Ranger is a bakkie that can handle a wide range of tasks and activities. Whether you are looking for a truck for work or for play, the Ranger is a great choice.

Pricing for the new Ford Ranger starts at R486 600. But if you’re eyeing the Double Cab Wildtrak with the V6 engine, that will set you back R953 500.

Following the new Ranger’s debut, there’s a few things we’ve been more curious about than anything else, and that is all the tech found in the new bakkie.

One of the biggest changes inside the bakkie is the addition of a large portrait-mode touchscreen. Two varied sizes are available depending on the trim level, including a 10.1-inch and a 12-inch screen. The big screens go along with the fully digital instrument cluster. In addition, Ranger will also have an embedded FordPass modem providing connectivity to devices in the car and features such as remote starting, remote vehicle status reports, and the ability to lock and unlock the doors from a smartphone.

The large screen also gives drivers access to the 360-degree camera view in some models making parking easier and allowing drivers to see what’s going on around the vehicle when off-roading.

Other interesting touches for the new Ranger include zone lighting, which can be controlled using the Sync screen or the FordPass app. Zone lighting is a 360-degree lighting system around the truck designed to improve visibility. Lighting is also provided inside the cargo box underneath the left and right handrails to provide light for loading or unloading cargo.

Along with the development of the truck, Ford is also developing its own accessories and working with third parties like ARB. A full range of 150 factory-backed accessories for work and play will be available for the new Ranger.

Details such as availability and pricing should be offered closer to launch.

There is, for better or worse, a design language we expect from bakkies. While practicality is king, they also have to look burly and tough; we expect road presence and a sense of invulnerability, too. The original Ranger was odd-looking enough that the conversation instantly shifted to that love-it-or-hate-it appearance, but Ford’s third attempt – and with the XLT Double Cab deriv – was just close enough to a family SUV to be an outlier in its segment. Much like the Everest, or is it the other way around?

Ironically, of course, a family-minded bakkie is just what the Ranger always has been, and what it excels at. Driving one is a reminder that bakkies don’t need to be lumpy and coarse; they don’t need to wallow and flex across pockmarked asphalt. The Ranger’s issue was that it looked a little too much like the SUV it drove like, and so that’s what Ford has changed.

The 2021 Ranger FX4 gets a sporty black mesh grille up front. The grille is beefier and more dominant, with wider, scalloped mesh. It even looks like its more upright, too, between a set of LED daytime running headlamps, while the bonnet bulges to emphasize the standard 2.0l engine.

Other improvements include a set of 18-inch multi-spoke black alloy wheels, plus black mirrors and door handles, and – edging on a little too much for my tastes – various FX4 decals and emblems. Alternatively there are more practically-minded options packs, like the Ranger XL, XLS and XLT.

Pricing starts at R618 900 (4×2) and climbs to R687 900 for the 4×4 version.

The new garb hasn’t diluted the Ranger FX4’s core usability, though, and that’s what stands out most. Bakkies are a playground for automakers looking to throw in some cunning cubbies and tie-downs, but the Ford arguably got that first with its imaginatively usable extras. Like the drop-in bedliner which protects the bin from damage during everyday use, with six cargo tie-down points provided.

In addition there’s a practical 12-volt power socket is provided in the bedliner, which is ideal for powering a portable fridge or other accessories. Two further 12-volt sockets are located in the front of the cabin. It’s one of my favourite bakkie features.

Compared to the AWD systems on rival bakkies, the FX4 is positively space-age. On the road, it contributes significantly to how SUV-like the FX4 feels: planted and steady, with the suspension level and predictable, and none of that unexpected squirming some bakkies can suffer when they’re underloaded and you suddenly turn things up. The 10-speed automatic transmission is dependable and shifts with greater urgency if you tap the shifter into Sport mode.

I’m of a mind that, for the target audience – and, quite frankly, most bakkie drivers were they to buy with their head not their heart – this is more than enough. If your motivation to get a bakkie is for those occasional times you need to haul something, the FX4 will probably be up to the task. The rest of the time you can drive it as comfortably as you would around Hyde Park.

Step inside and you’ll notice, the changes are a little less dramatic. There’s new leather seats on this trim, and new red stitching accents on the dashboard, centre console, and steering wheel. Cubbies and bins aplenty ape the bed practicality, including a huge lidded central box and big door pockets. The second row gets plenty of legroom. Everything feels sturdy and reliable, though that’s not to say it’s uncomfortable or spartan.

The 8-inch SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard now. The FX4 has a high level of standard specification, including dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless Passive Entry and Passive Start, a rear-view parking camera, and front and rear sensors to aid manoeuvrability in tight parking spaces.

Like in the best makeover shows, you’re rooting from the FX4 from the start. Ford’s bakkies always had most of the practicality required to satisfy everyday drivers. What it lacked wasn’t ability but aesthetic, and don’t let anybody tell you bakkies buyers are any less swayed by that than those shopping for a sports car.

What stands out in the 2021 Ford Ranger FX4 is how comprehensively Ford has addressed that while avoiding diluting any of the bakkie’s underlying charm. It’s eminently drivable, leaves you no more tired when you slip from behind the wheel after a long journey than a Ranger might, and its on-road dynamics are a level above what most rivals bring to the table. Potential bakkie buyers who don’t genuinely consider it are doing themselves a disservice, and now they don’t have looks to excuse that oversight.

By introducing this kind of technology Ford plans to get customers back on the road faster. From a dealership perspective this technology leads to increased productivity and a reduction in the repair orders that would go through the dealership.

What’s behind the technology?

The RealWear HMT-1 virtual reality set consists of a high-definition camera, flashlight, array of microphones and voice-activated controls. With it, dealership service technicians can safely demonstrate technical issues to the engineer and get immediate real-time support.

Engineers can also control the direction of the camera, take photos and notes and even share screens from service bulletins and wiring diagrams with the technician via the built-in display on the headset, thereby allowing them to remain hands-free while conducting the repairs.

According to Pieter Verster, SEO director for Ford Middle East and Africa, big dealerships around the country will be prioritised for the rollout of these devices which they plan to complete by the end of Q2/beginning of Q3. Each dealership will receive one RealWear HMT-1 headset and accompanying training.

This strategy also complements the recent launch of the Ford Repair Centre concept, which supports Ford dealers in their vicinity should they have a vehicle that is difficult to repair.

The reality it, this period is one of the worst on our roads. We even see many road safety associations, including the AA, predict that road accidents during the Easter period will be on the rise this year, following yesteryear’s lockdown hiatus.

In contrast to last year, when South Africans were forced to spend the Easter Holidays at home during the country’s first response to COVID-19, all road networks are now open and being used regularly.

“The Easter long-weekend has traditionally been disastrous as far as road crashes and road fatalities are concerned. In the past decade, 2469 people have died on the country’s roads over the Easter period. To prevent this annual carnage, road users must be vigilant and focussed when on the roads,” says the AA.

As such, we’ve partnered with our friends at Ford South Africa together with Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) to put together five easy tips that can make these Easter Holidays safer and more enjoyable for yourself and those around you.

Work

Arriving safely at your destination takes work. The first step is ensuring your vehicle’s maintenance is in order. Make sure your services are up-to-date, windscreen wipers have not degraded, tyres are not worn and correctly inflated. Crashes as a result of ill-maintained vehicles are a common occurrence.

Way

Plan your route before departing. This includes paying close attention to areas where crashes are common and planning where to stop. Once you have the route, stick to it.

Watch

Employ defensive driving techniques throughout the trip. Pay attention to the drivers around you and watching out for any reckless behaviour that could endanger other drivers.

Wait

Studies in recent years suggest that fatigued driving is becoming as large a threat to motorists as drunken driving. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before setting off. If you did not sleep well the night before, get a few more hours shut eye and arrive at your destination slightly later.

If you feel sleepy while driving, take a break and wait until you feel refreshed before continuing along your journey.

Water

Ensure you are properly hydrated and nourished. Take time to prepack plenty of healthy snacks and water. This will assist with your concentration levels and avoid the energy crash that often follows unhealthy

Visually, what sets the Everest Sport apart from its established siblings is the black mesh grille and unique Everest badge on the bonnet, along with black mirror caps and door handles – replacing the chrome finishes on the Everest XLT. Further reinforcing the dynamic appearance is the black treatment for the front bumper chin and rear valance in place of silver, along with ebony roof rails, special Sport decals on the rear doors and striking 20-inch black alloy wheels.

Step inside and you’ll notice the model-specific embossed leather seats with distinctive blue stitching, soft-touch leather treatment for the dashboard and a driver’s seat with eight-way power adjustment.

There’s also the standard with LED headlamps and daytime running lights, cruise control and front and rear park sensors with a rear-view camera. Ford will throw in heaps of active safety tech for good measure, too.

Pricing for the models is set at R662 800 for the 2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×2 and R704 400 for the 2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×4.

The FordPass Connect consists of a plug-in LTE modem and Ford’s companion smartphone app, and together they can bring new XL, XLS, XLT, Wildtrak, FX4 and Ranger Raptor models from February 2021 production and even Ranger models from 2017 up to speed with the cutting-edge in in-car tech.

On the connectivity side, the system relies on a 4G LTE modem that plugs into the ODB-II port below the steering wheel. Through that, it gains access to the car’s engine management, security, and other systems. It also could work as a WiFi hotspot.

Other than the usage of mobile data for the user’s smartphone, there are no data costs associated with the FordPass Connect modem, which connects to the cloud via the 4G mobile network.

With the companion app, a wide range of information about the car’s systems is then unlocked. For example, drivers will be able to see the car’s location on a map in real-time, along with getting a read-out on the health of the vehicle’s systems. They’ll also be able to remotely lock and unlock the car.

Clearly, this isn’t the first such smart car adapter we’ve seen. The likes of Volkswagen and Audi have recently launched the technologies in the market.

From 2023, we’ll see the first Ford models to use Android in the dashboard. That will include the Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to the Google Play store for third-party apps and services tailored to in-vehicle use.

We’ve seen Android Automotive OS used this way already, of course, with Volvo and Polestar already having vehicles relying on the car-centric platform in dealerships. Unlike Android Auto, which projects a smartphone interface on top of the vehicle’s native software, Android Automotive OS runs in the vehicle itself. That allows it deep connections with things like engine status, battery charge level, and more.

What it may not mean, though, is an end to the now-familiar SYNC design we’ve seen in recent Ford vehicles.

Manufacturers using Android Automotive OS can customize its UI, to match the rest of their cabin aesthetic. The end result could be an interface that looks like what you’d find in, say, the new Mustang Mach-E electric crossover, but with a completely different – and more flexible – OS behind it. For now, Ford isn’t giving details though it is confirming that things like Apple CarPlay and Ford Smart Device Link (SDL) will continue to be supported even after the Android transition, as will Alexa integration.

Ford and Google won’t stop at what’s shown on the dashboard touchscreen, though. The two are creating what’s being described a collaborative group, Team Upshift.

The nostalgic muscle car comes complete with working steering, dark-blue bodywork, white racing stripes, bonnet scoop, printed Mustang grille badge, GT emblems, and five-spoke rims with road-gripping tyres.

It measures over 10 centimetres high, 34 centimetres long and 14 centimetres wide, the set gives budding builders the chance to customise their all-American icon to their own specification thanks to a collection of optional add-ons – while retaining its instantly recognisable symbol of the Mustang pony logo.

Additional customisation options include a supercharger, rear ducktail spoiler, beefy exhaust pipes, front chin spoiler and a nitrous oxide tank for an authentic muscle car build experience. The authentic replica model also allows owners to store items in the boot or lift the bonnet to reveal a detailed big block 6.4-litre V8 engine with battery, hoses and air filter detailing.

The LEGO Creator Expert Mustang is recommended for ages 18 and older and comes with 1470 individual official LEGO pieces and is available for a price of approximately R2 500.