Ford has taken the wraps off an updated version of its Kuga SUV. One of the highlights: a new 118 BHP 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine. Among the other changes are Ford’s new SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, and  improved  driver assistance technologies.

The revised Kuga and the Edge are among five all-new or redesigned Ford vehicles that will compete in the SUV and crossover market in the next three years. The EcoSport was updated last year.

“New Kuga offers cutting-edge new features and technologies that will help drivers stay connected, comfortable, safe and stylish on the road,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “The sophisticated redesign has given Kuga a fresh and modern feel, while SYNC 3 enables drivers to communicate with their vehicle and connected devices in seamless ways that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago.”

“Ford is delivering a European SUV line-up that offers the stylish design, car‑like dynamics, and sophisticated technologies that consumers desire,” Bakaj said. “Demand for SUVs is stronger than ever, and Ford is expanding its range to offer everything from rugged models with true go‑anywhere ability to sporty models designed to suit urban lifestyles.”

Ford’s SYNC 3 is designed to offer faster performance, has simplified commands, and supports five additional languages. Kuga drivers can operate the SYNC 3 eight-inch touchscreen in the same way that they use their smartphones. A new interface features larger, easier to operate buttons and enables pinch and swipe gestures for the first time. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available.

“Whether you are craving your morning cappuccino on your daily commute or covering the cost of a journey by transporting a package, SYNC 3 brings to life innovative new ways of staying connected on the move,” said Christof Kellerwessel, chief engineer, Electronic and Electrical Systems Engineering, Ford of Europe. “Designed to complement modern smartphones, with an intuitive 8-inch touch screen, SYNC 3 understands more natural speech, is faster, and offers an easier-to-read graphical interface.”

Driver assistance technologies include a new  Perpendicular Parking functionality for the existing semi-autonomous Active Park Assist system, a Cross Traffic Alert system that warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may soon be crossing behind them, and an enhanced version of Ford’s Active City Stop collision avoidance system, which now operates at speeds of up to 31mph, increased from 19mph. There are also improvements to Ford’s MyKey technology allows owners to set the car’s parameters for younger drivers in the interests of safety.

Externally there are new head and tail lights, a new range of alloy wheel designs and a new paint colour, Copper Pulse.

A new 118 BHP 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine is introduced, offered with front-wheel drive, Ford is targeting a fuel efficiency improvement for the new engine of about 5 per cent to 64.2mpg and 115g/km CO2 while producing the same power.

Also available will be a 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with 148 BHP in front-wheel drive and Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive versions that achieve from 60.1mpg and 122g/km CO2; and a 178 BHP Intelligent All Wheel Drive version that delivers from 54.3mpg and 135g/km CO2.