Ford Kuga interior

Ford’s marketing is keen to push how much 'more' this car can do compared to its predecessor, and this philosophy translates inside to a larger screen and more functionality for the infotainment system. However, you arguably get less in terms of hardware, because the HVAC controls have migrated onto the screen, and in their place sits a small row of shortcut buttons for the surround-view cameras, de-mister, and park assist.

The dials which have remained fall easily to hand, though, especially the gearchange which feels tactile to both use and hold.

Cabin quality elsewhere, however, is a mixed bag. Up front, most materials feel good enough, but closer acquaintance throws the cheaper interior plastics into view. The upper door cards, for example, are trimmed in soft-touch artificial leather up front but scratchy plastic in the back. 

The doors themselves feel cheap, opening and closing with an unpleasant clang. It comes from the door protector that pops out, which is very useful, but could have been integrated more neatly.

The Kuga pulls one back for occupant space. The front seats have a wide base and good under-thigh support, and there is plenty of adjustment in the driving position. In the back, with the seats reclined, you have the space to really stretch out and, even though our car came with the optional space-robbing panoramic sunroof, we did not struggle for headroom. 

Storage space elsewhere is good, with plentiful storage for keys, phones and other clutter.  Larger door bins would be helpful, however.