We have to be honest - we've already seen the new Ford Puma ST. In fact, Ford showed us a prototype earlier this year, when we were test driving the regular Puma, but also made us sign lots of bits of legal-looking paper so we'd keep our big mouths shut.
1.5-litre, 200hp engine
So it's a relief today to finally be able to openly discuss the new ST version of the Puma, which, not surprisingly, uses much of the same mechanical package as the Ford Fiesta ST - one of our favourite hot hatches.
So, that means a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine with 200hp, and 320Nm of torque, which Ford says will shove the Puma ST to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds. The chassis, which Ford refers to as 'bespoke' gets a rear torsion beam suspension setup that's some 40 per cent stiffer than that of the standard Puma, plus specific anti-roll bar and damper specifications. That rear suspension twist-beam is uprated to 2,000Nm/degree torsional stiffness, an increase of more than 40 per cent compared with the Fiesta ST and 50 per cent compared to the standard Puma, with a 28mm anti-roll bar integrated into the U-section. A 24mm front anti-roll bar also contributes to cornering stability.
The steering is said to be some 25 per cent faster across the locks than the regular Puma's and the brakes are bigger, to make better use of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, which have been developed specially for the car. Ford says that it has worked with Michelin to "complement the Puma ST's enhanced chassis, without sacrificing the refined ride quality - one of the most compelling SUV attributes."
Limited slip differential
Wait, there's more. Throw Ford some extra cash, and your Puma ST can be fitted with a Performance Pack, which includes a mechanical limited slip differential between the front wheels (which will help the car find traction at the front in tricky conditions or under hard cornering) and 'force vectoring springs.' There's also Torque Vectoring Control, which brakes a spinning front wheel under power, while the Puma ST is also the first Ford Performance model to come with a fuel-saving Eco driving mode - helpful for when you're not driving like your trousers are on fire.
"Real driving enthusiasts aren't going to settle for less excitement just because life demands a more 'sensible' car, so our number one priority was that the Puma ST had to be as exhilarating and capable as every ST model, without sacrificing any of Puma's practicality," said Stefan Muenzinger, Ford Performance manager, Europe. "We believe that we have the best-handling small SUV in its segment. It really does feel connected and has the true ST feel. It is a joy to drive."
Faster steering
The Puma ST's steering delivers an 11.4:1 ratio - almost 25 per cent faster than the standard Puma - provided by a combination of revised front knuckle featuring a shorter steering arm and faster steering rack gearing, for heightened turn-in response. "Steering is a focal point of any ST model as it's key for the interaction between driver and vehicle. The Puma ST turn-in response is exceptional. The direct and precise vehicle reaction provides confidence - a key ingredient for fun-to-drive," Muenzinger said.
Oh, and it also gets launch control.
For fun noises and sounds, there's an adjustable sports exhaust and for fuel-saving, there's cylinder shut-down tech, which contributes to a WLTP rating of 6.9 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions of 155g/km.
On the styling front, there's a body kit featuring a Ford Performance-embossed front splitter, a large rear roof spoiler and a diffuser integrated into the rear bumper. Inside, there are heated Recaro bucket seats, Ford ST logos everywhere and the usual SYNC touchscreen infotainment system and the same big 456-litre boot (with the clever Megabox underfloor storage area) out the back.
"Our new Puma ST is practical and refined with head-turning SUV proportions, but able to deliver hot-hatchback thrills," Muenzinger said.