The spirited drive of the Ford Puma ST-Vignale

By Byron Lukas

Hello again. It’s your friendly Inbound driver here with another exhilarating journey, this time through the concrete jungle. Over the past week, I’ve been chasing more than sunsets and soaking in sunrises with my latest travel companion, the 2023 Ford Puma ST-Vignale, affectionately nicknamed Pam.

The body of a goddess

Pam’s Grey Matter colour immediately draws attention. The Puma ST-Vignale blends sporty design with refined sophistication, pairing sleek lines with an eye-catching grille. It is stylish, practical and designed to turn heads. Once you’re in the driver’s seat, comfort and technology unfold in full.

Let’s take a look inside

The interior features partial leather trim with grey stitching, adding to its modern sophistication. An auto-dimming rearview mirror and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster enhance the driving environment.

A highlight worth noting: Pam comes with massage seats for the driver and front passenger, making even the busiest days feel calmer.

Second base?

The 8-inch touchscreen runs Ford’s Sync 3 technology, offering smooth connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10-speaker B&O audio system elevates the driving soundtrack, whether weaving through tight city streets or cruising the coastline.

Cabin noise stays low even in windy conditions. Rear legroom is slightly limited, making the back seat less ideal for long family trips. Safety features include six airbags, hill launch assist, lane keeping aid, pre-collision assist and auto high beam assist.

Get your hands dirty

Under the bonnet, Pam’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine delivers responsive power. The handling is sharp and confident, allowing you to glide through traffic with finesse. Every turn feels engaging, and the overall performance brings real excitement to daily driving.

Final word

After a week behind the wheel, the Ford Puma ST-Vignale offers a balanced mix of comfort, technology and driving enjoyment. While the price tag is on the higher side, it is easy to appreciate what Pam delivers. For drivers willing to invest, the Puma ST-Vignale transforms every outing into an adventure. Buckle up and enjoy each sunrise.

Key specifications

Engine: 1.0 litre EcoBoost 3 cylinder turbo petrol
Power: 92kW (125 PS)
Torque: 170Nm @ 1 400–4 500rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel economy: 5.3l/100km (NEDC)
Suspension: Sports tuned
Wheels: 18-inch alloy
Interior: Leather-trimmed steering wheel, partial leather seats, B&O Premium Audio System
Exterior: Black 18-inch machined alloy wheels, larger rear spoiler
Safety: 6 airbags, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights