Ford recently updated the Puma with fresh styling, a smarter interior and much stronger technology. It now feels closer to the larger Kuga in quality and digital features. The latest model also introduces major upgrades to driver assistance, plus confirmation that hands-free BlueCruise tech is on the way.
If you are researching Ford Puma car leasing or looking to understand whether this crossover is right for you, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why not check out the Ford Puma Gen-E?
You can also explore our review of the upcoming electric Puma Gen-E in our Content Hub:
Why the Ford Puma continues to stand out
Ford says the new Puma has been designed around simplicity, practicality and digital convenience. This becomes clear the moment you sit inside.
The latest interior uses a wraparound, sports-style layout with a clean dashboard, minimal physical buttons and two crisp digital displays. The high-mounted screens make it easier to glance at navigation, music or car settings. It also feels more modern and more premium than before because everything is clearer, faster and more intuitive.
Ford’s announcement describes this new look as a “sports car-style cockpit” centred on the driver, supported by 5G connectivity and the latest SYNC 4 infotainment system.
Practicality remains a strong selling point. The Puma continues to offer Ford’s MegaBox, an 80-litre storage area hidden beneath the boot floor. It is ideal for tall items, muddy sports gear or weekly shopping because it is waterproof and can be wiped clean.
The tailgate can also be opened hands-free using the powered liftgate on higher trims, which adds everyday convenience when carrying bags.
Spotlight on the Ford Puma ST-Line X 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid 125PS Automatic
The ST-Line X model is one of the most popular choices because it balances sporty styling with comfort and strong everyday usability. It sits near the top of the range and brings a noticeable step up in features.
The engine is Ford’s 1.0 litre EcoBoost Hybrid with 125PS and a 7-speed automatic gearbox. It uses mild hybrid technology to improve efficiency and responsiveness. The official combined fuel figure is up to 49.6mpg, making it an efficient option for both town and motorway driving. CO₂ emissions are listed at 130g/km, which helps keep running costs sensible.
Below is a simplified look at why the ST-Line X is the model many drivers gravitate towards:
Everyday highlights
- 18 inch alloy wheels
- LED projector headlights and LED rear lamps
- ST-Line body styling with sport suspension
- Keyless entry and a power start button
- Quickclear heated windscreen for frosty mornings
- Rear camera and rear parking sensors
- Wireless phone charging
- Heated, power-folding door mirrors with projection lamps
- Ford MegaBox boot floor storage
- Selectable drive modes including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Trail
Digital features
- 12.8 inch digital instrument cluster
- 12 inch central touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Premium B&O sound system with 10 speakers
- SYNC 4 with connected navigation
- FordPass Connect for remote functions and live traffic information
- Emergency assistance and intelligent driver alerts
Cabin comfort
- ST-Line X synthetic leather with suede inserts and red stitching
- Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
- Sporty flat-bottom steering wheel
- Adjustable lumbar support for both front seats
- Spacious seating for five
Although we are not listing pricing in the article, this model has a recommended OTR price from £30,830. If you want the latest personal or business leasing options, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Driving experience
The Puma’s mild hybrid engine blends low running costs with a smooth and responsive drive. It is not a full hybrid, so the electric assistance is designed to support the petrol engine rather than power the car alone. This helps acceleration at lower revs and improves efficiency without adding complexity.
The 7-speed automatic gearbox suits town driving because it shifts cleanly and keeps the engine quiet. The steering is light at low speeds and accurate on country roads. The ST-Line suspension adds a touch more firmness but keeps everything composed without feeling uncomfortable.
The Puma is also easy to park thanks to its compact size and excellent visibility. Many drivers appreciate how it feels small when navigating traffic but big enough inside to fit family life. It handles a mix of tasks without feeling out of place.
Tech upgrade: SYNC 4 and a cleaner cabin
One of the biggest changes to the updated Puma is its much smarter digital cabin. The new SYNC 4 system has twice the computing power of the previous version. It responds faster, loads navigation routes quickly and improves voice control.
The new touchscreen is brighter and larger than the one in the outgoing model. Wireless smartphone integration means you can leave cables at home. The digital instrument cluster is clear and easy to configure.
Even small touches help. The armrest slides for added comfort and the new flat-bottom steering wheel gives a sportier feel.
Safety and driver assistance
Ford has always invested heavily in driver assistance and the updated Puma brings more advanced systems than before. Features available on the model range include:
- Pre-Collision Assist with emergency braking
- Lane keeping aid
- Driver impairment alerts
- Intelligent speed assist
- Rear view camera
- Parking sensors
- High beam assist
- Predictive cruise control features depending on specification
Ford’s press material notes that new lighting technology helps the car shine into corners more clearly at night, making dark roads easier to navigate.
The Puma also offers optional 360 degree cameras to aid tight manoeuvres, which could be helpful for city drivers or those with narrow parking spaces.
BlueCruise is coming to the Ford Puma
A major new addition to https://www.rivervale.co.uk/car/leasing/ford line-up is the arrival of BlueCruise, the company’s hands-free, eyes-on driving system. It has been approved across 16 European markets and will be available on selected new Puma and Puma Gen-E models from spring 2026.
This system uses radars, cameras and advanced cruise control to allow hands-free motorway driving in designated Blue Zones. The driver must keep their eyes on the road, but the system can handle steering, speed and lane positioning.
Ford says more than one million BlueCruise-equipped vehicles have already been driven globally, with more than 888 million kilometres recorded in hands-free mode.
For drivers who do long motorway journeys, this could transform comfort and reduce fatigue. It is one of the clearest signs that the Puma is becoming a more advanced and future-ready crossover.
Practicality and running costs
The Puma has always been praised for its clever use of space. Even with all five seats in place, the boot offers over 450 litres of usable room. With the MegaBox included, the total flexibility is better than many rivals in this class.
The mild hybrid engine aims to keep fuel use low. The 49.6mpg combined figure is achievable with gentle driving. Long motorway journeys will see slightly lower figures, as with any petrol. The 42-litre fuel tank helps keep fill-ups affordable.
Maintenance is also straightforward. Ford parts are widely available, servicing is affordable, and insurance groups are competitive for a car with this level of equipment.
Who is the Ford Puma for?
The Ford Puma suits a wide range of drivers:
- New families needing a compact but practical crossover
- Commuters wanting a comfortable, efficient drive
- Downsizers coming from larger SUVs but still wanting space
- First-time leasers looking for strong value
- Drivers wanting modern tech without going full electric
It blends style, practicality and technology in a package that feels easy to live with. That is why it continues to be a top seller.
Should you lease a Ford Puma?
Leasing has become a popular way to enjoy modern cars because it gives predictable monthly costs and avoids long-term ownership risk.
If you want the latest tech, the latest safety features and a flexible agreement, leasing a Ford Puma is an attractive choice. You can choose mileage, contract length and initial payment to suit your budget.
To see the latest personal and business Ford Puma lease deals, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Final thoughts
The Ford Puma remains one of the best compact crossovers in the UK. The recent updates make it feel more refined, more connected and better suited to modern life. The ST-Line X model in particular adds a premium feel without losing the Puma’s fun-to-drive nature.
Add in Ford’s clever MegaBox storage, the upcoming BlueCruise technology and the arrival of the all-electric Puma Gen-E, and you have a car that is ready for the future but perfect for today.
If you are researching Ford Puma car leasing, you are in the right place. Scroll down to explore the latest offers.