New Generation of 2019 Ford Kuga Comes with Hybrid Engine and RS Package

The all-new 2019 Ford Kuga will start a new generation. Don’t worry US fans, you have the same vehicle that is called Escape. Kuga is a version for the European market with slight changes compared to its sibling. Now it is time for the new generation. The 2019 year models will start it both for Ford Kuga and Escape.

The 2019 Ford Kuga is entering the third generation. The second one lasted for seven years. First prototypes were caught by spy photographers. These images are confirming the work on the new crossover. However, some rumors say that delay is possible and the 2019 Ford Kuga could be just the debut, while the real deal is coming in 2020. Whatsoever, the highlights of the new model will be more aggressive styling and possible refresh of the engine lineup.

2019 Ford Kuga exterior

2019 Ford Kuga USA Release Date

Well, this is simply not happening. Fans and customers in the USA will get the Ford Escape, which also enters the new generation. Additionally, the carmaker is building RS version for both vehicles, one for Escape and United States, and another one for the rest of the world. All in all, this is just a name game, so there is no need for two same vehicles in the same class.

Debut

In Europe and Australia, the 2019 Ford Kuga will arrive late in 2018 or early next year. After the release date of the regular model, fans of performance-oriented vehicles will wait for Kuga RS. Even there are rumors that the compact crossover is getting a hybrid drivetrain. Well, it sibling Ford Escape is confirmed to carry such drivetrain in future. Nevertheless, there is no certain info about Kuga doing the same.

2019 Ford Kuga Engine Range

There are few differences in drivetrain lineup for the existing Ford Kuga and Escape. The US vehicle is going to use again a 1.5-liter petrol as the alternative to a 2.5-liter four-pot unit. On the other hand, smaller displacement is the main source of power for Kuga. It pairs a six-speed transmission. Buyers will choose manual or automatic gearbox. The output of this unit is 120 hp. Turbo version is more potent with 180 hp of output, which is even more than Escape is going to deliver.

Diesel Engine and 2019 Ford Kuga 4×4

Under the hood of the most European Ford Kuga crossovers is a diesel drivetrain. The carmaker offers either 1.5 or 2.0-liter displacement. Of course, the bigger one is showing more potential with 150 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A 1.5-liter unit is good for 120 hp and 200 lb-ft. EcoBoost petrol engine and a 2.0-liter diesel are coming with 4×4 drive setup. Small diesel mill is not offering such feature, but only front-wheel drive.

2019 Ford Kuga Hybrid

Since the 2019 Ford Escape is getting a hybrid engine, it is very likely that 2019 Ford Kuga is coming with the same unit. However, lack of official data is bugging fans. First of all, the company never mentioned Kuga. Only Escape is certain. However, this is the same vehicle, so we can take this granted. Also, the carmaker didn’t unveil any further details about drivetrain and output. But again, this is not a reason to worry about, since Ford is about to do it closer to the release date.

2019 Ford Kuga RS and Escape RS

The situation with performance-oriented model is similar to a hybrid. We have no info about drivetrains. But, both Kuga RS and Escape RS are confirmed. Fans can now only wait for further info about vehicles.

We can read rumors telling that turbo engine will be paired with an 88 kW electric motor. This combo will be good for 285 horses and 380 Nm of torque (280 lb-ft). This is another thing that causes the dilemma. Ford Focus ST can produce more power, and the Focus RS version delivers almost 100 hp more than this. So, it seems like we can talk about 2019 Ford Kuga ST and not RS model.

2019 Ford Kuga Dimensions and Redesign

Actually, no big changes will happen here. Of course, the new generation will bring new styling, new details. But, the 2019 Ford Kuga is using the same platform and it is going to keep the dimensions from the current generation.

Changes on the front fascia will make the SUV looks different, Bumper and headlights are new, and the company could replace the blue oval with a “Ford” on the front fascia. However, this is not happening so often.

2019 Ford Kuga front

What is 2019 Ford Kuga Appearance Pack?

For the new 2019 Ford Kuga, the company will offer the same Appearance pack as before. It is a set of parts which will boost the look of the SUV. Silver roof rails and a rear privacy glass are features we can get for around $500.

2019 Ford Kuga Trim Levels

When the base trim is not enough, fans can find other packages included in other trim levels. The 2019 Ford Kuga is going to offer something for all kinds of buyers. Titanium and ST Line are mid-range models that will bring enough extra features. On the other hand, price remains reasonable. Also, we can find X versions of these trim levels, which are adding even more items. Again, the top model is 2019 Ford Kuga Vignale. It is equivalent to Ford Escape Titanium, and the price for this model is over $40,000.

2019 Ford Kuga vignale

2019 Ford Kuga Price

It all depends on which country you are going to purchase your 2019 Ford Kuga. Currencies are floating, so until the release date, Ford is not going to announce the pricing. However, we are pretty sure that the base models will start from about $26,000.

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