Ford has introduced new diesel and petrol engines on its Kuga SUV in Europe, with the most significant addition being the 2.0-liter TDCi unit producing 180PS (178hp).

The most powerful diesel powertrain ever fitted on the Kuga is the same that equips the all-new Mondeo, a 2.0-liter TDCi unit which develops 17PS and 40Nm more than its predecessor for an output of 180PS (178hp) and peak torque of 400Nm (295 lb-ft).

The engine is really important for the Kuga, as the previous version powered 83 percent of the Kugas sold in the main 20 European markets during the first nine months of 2014. Ford will also offer a 120PS (118hp) 2.0-liter TDCi version that delivers 122 g/km CO2, an improvement of 12 percent.

Another significant addition is the 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine which replaces the 1.6-liter EcoBoost in most markets. Available in two states of tune (182PS/180hp and 150PS/148hp) the engine reduces CO2 emissions from 154 g/km to 143 g/km, an improvement of more than 7 percent.

Besides the new engines, the Kuga gets standard Auto-Start-Stop and Active Grille Shutter, as well as standard safety features including Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

Available technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control including Forward Alert, Hands-Free Tailgate, Blind Spot Information System, Active City Stop, Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert, Auto High Beam, Driver Alert, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

Kuga buyers will now be able to choose three new colors: Ruby Red Metallic, Magnetic Metallic and Tiger Eye Metallic, as well as a new interior color, Medium Light Stone. An optional body-styling kit is also on offer.

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