Ford Readies Puma Crossover

Ford Motor Co. is expected to announce an all-new small crossover vehicle this month that will resurrect the company’s Puma nameplate, according to media reports.

The vehicle, which was first revealed publicly in January, is expected to be built at Ford’s plant in Craiova, Romania, and sold in Europe and other international markets. According to reports, the Puma will share a platform and various components with Ford’s subcompact Fiesta car.

Positioned between the entry-level Ecosport and Kuga in Ford’s lineup, the 165-inch-long Puma would compete against the Hyundai Kona, SEAT Arona and Volkswagen T-Roc in Europe. Engine options are expected to include a turbocharged, 3-cylinder 1.0-liter mill and a 4-cylinder 1.5-liter diesel.

Ford last used the Puma name on a Fiesta-based coupe in Europe. That vehicle—including a limited-edition sporty Ford Racing Puma variant—was produced from 1997 until 2002.