We take an in-depth look at the Ford Puma Gen-E, the brand's cheapest electric car, available for 125 euros per month.

Francesc Pla

Engine: Electric Battery: 43 kWhMaximum power: 168 hp Transmission: Aut. Traction: FrontAcceleration 0-100 km/h: 8 secondsMaximum speed: 160 km/hCombined consumption: 13.7 kWh/100 km (WLTP)Range: 364 kmDGT sticker: 0Length/width/height: 421/180/155 cmBoot: 574 + 43 litersWeight: 1,563 kgWarranty: 3 years without mileage limitPrice: 37,183 euros (without discounts) ford.es

Ford has chosen an attractive formula for entering the electric mobility market: a small SUV with a pleasing design, an affordable price, and sufficient range for navigating both urban and interurban environments. The Puma Gen-E is the brand's cheapest 100% electric vehicle and, as its image suggests, has a casual and youthful character. It's a car with a truly rational approach, as it dispenses with powerful and heavy batteries and is primarily geared toward urban use.

Its design highlights include a closed grille with black surrounds, similar to the Mustang Mach-E , aerodynamic wheels, and an elongated front spoiler for a sporty look and improved air resistance. At the rear, we find a specific diffuser and white Puma lettering on the tailgate. The test model, in Premium trim, sports the striking Digital Aqua Blue color that really suits it.

The Puma Gen-E Premium, the most equipped version, is distinguished by the addition of matrix headlights, a B&O Play sound system, and 18-inch alloy wheels. It also comes with an eight-year or 160,000 km battery warranty. The official price set by the brand is €37,183. However, with discounts and promotions, and the implementation of the renewed Moves Plan, it can cost €23,600. It is interesting to note that Ford offers financing with 35 installments of €125 per month and a €4,500 installment in the 24th month. The down payment is €8,300.

The Puma Electric measures 4.21 meters long, 1.81 meters wide, and 1.56 meters high—very convenient dimensions for getting around the city. Despite its compact size, the trunk's capacity is surprising, reaching 574 liters with a wide loading bay and an electric tailgate thanks to the use of its platform. The trunk also has a waterproof double bottom of 145 liters (included in the total capacity) that Ford calls the GigaBox. And in the front, there's another storage space (43 liters), ideal for storing the charging cable and other accessories.

The space in the two front seats is very good, but the rear occupants' accommodations are somewhat cramped. Passengers in the rear seats are somewhat more uncomfortable. The reason for this is the car's floor, which is close to the seats to make room for the battery. This leaves little room to fit their feet under the front seats, and it also forces rear passengers to travel with their knees bent.

Ford announces 364 km of certified electric range (WTLP) for this Premium version. It's not a great range, admittedly, closer to 300 km in city and highway driving. But it's a sufficient distance for weekly city use or short intercity trips. However, in the city and using brake hold, the range improves and can approach the official figure.

On the other hand, being compact and fairly light, it's a very efficient SUV on the road, even combining a route with highway sections, achieving a consumption of between 10 and 14 kWh. And, regarding charging, it accepts a power of 100 kW, allowing it to go from 10% to 80% in just 23 minutes. However, finding charging stations with this power in our country is another matter entirely.

The interior is well presented for a car of this design. The least convincing feature is the presence of hard plastics on the dashboard and doors. The gear lever is now on the steering column, on the right, creating more space. The driver has a digital instrument cluster with all the necessary car information, right behind the steering wheel. It can be operated via physical buttons without having to take their eyes off the road. And in the center of the dashboard, we find a 12-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technology that allows advanced connectivity and the possibility of running numerous smartphone applications. With Alexa built in, the driver can use voice commands to check the opening hours of their favorite restaurant or add items to their shopping list.

The least satisfactory aspect of the driving position is the steering wheel's design, which is somewhat large and cut off at the top and bottom, with a square shape that isn't very ergonomic. Although it must be said that getting used to it is quick.

The central dashboard screen, which provides access to the SYNC4 multimedia system menus, is very intuitive to use. From this screen, we can manage the electronic driving aids or customize the ambient lighting.

And a curious fact is that, on the steering wheel, the satellite on the left not only activates the turn signals, but also the windshield and rear wipers.

With a very pleasant road feel, the Puma Gen-E corners very flat and remains stable and poised. It accelerates very well thanks to the 168 hp going to the front wheels. Obviously, it's not a sports car, but it handles any type of road well.

It has fairly precise steering, making it very comfortable to drive on the highway. And, if we want more energy regeneration, we can choose the L mode. In this mode, when we release the accelerator, the car comes to a quick stop while recharging the battery. It's a kind of "one-pedal" driving experience.

And if we want to experience its full dynamic capabilities, we must select the Sport driving mode, which not only provides the best acceleration response but also offers a more pronounced and sporty sound. It's obviously an artificial sound, but it's very well achieved.

Alternatively, we can choose between Normal and Eco modes, with a softer thrust, especially in Eco. And there's a fourth mode (Slippery) for driving on snow or dirt or mud tracks.