The second-generation Ford Kuga (codename C394) is a global compact SUV, marketed as the Ford Escape in North America. Based on Ford's global C platform (shared with the Focus III), it offers dynamic road handling, generous interior space, and a rich technological endowment for its time. The facelift (Phase 2) that occurred in late 2016 modernized the front end (trapezoidal grille), introduced the SYNC 3 multimedia system (replacing the aging SYNC 1/2), and added the 1.5 TDCi engine. Although this report focuses on the diesel (TDCi) engines, which are very popular in Europe and known for their robustness (PSA/Ford origin blocks), the Kuga also offered a wide range of EcoBoost petrol engines, whose reliability has been more mixed.
The Ford Kuga II is an excellent used SUV, provided you choose the right engine. The top choice is undoubtedly the 2.0 TDCi, a proven, torquey, and very reliable engine, ideal for moving the vehicle's considerable weight. However, extreme vigilance is required regarding the Powershift dual-clutch automatic gearbox: without a perfect service history (oil change every 60,000 km), it represents a major financial risk. Opt for a manual gearbox for complete peace of mind. On the petrol side, the 1.6 EcoBoost should be avoided due to overheating problems, and 1.5 EcoBoost models before 2018 require caution. A Kuga 2.0 TDCi 150 hp with a manual gearbox, preferably a Phase 2 model (post-2016 for the SYNC 3 system), is a highly recommendable purchase.