Ford Puma ST: 147kW performance SUV in the works

Speaking with Autocar, Ford's global development boas, Hau Thai-Tang, said the all-new Puma crossover "would be a good place for [Ford] to look" with regards to expanding the ST line-up in Europe.

Without officially confirming a performance-oriented Puma is headed for production, Ford has already deployed a fleet of development prototypes in Europe, with the British publication reporting several mules have already been spotted testing at the Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

Given the Puma's shared architecture with the new-generation Fiesta hatchback, it's likely an ST version would get the same running gear as the Fiesta ST hot hatch (below).

Headlining the mechanical package would be the Fiesta ST's high-output 1.5-litre three-cylinder 'Ecoboost' turbo petrol engine, which makes 147kW and 290Nm in that application.

Other changes from standard versions of the Puma include a bespoke chassis tune, the option of a limited-slip front differential, selectable drive modes and a launch control function.

Thai-Tang added that the company won't just turn any model in its line-up into an ST, although the badge already adorns both the Edge and Explorer SUVs in North America.

"We look at creating STs by very objective measures to make sure it is credible as an ST," he told Autocar, "do we have the right building blocks [on which to base it]?"

The publication also noted that a new-generation Focus RS is 'understood' to be in development too, though we'll probably have to wait until 2022 to see it for the first time – coinciding with the new Focus' mid-life refresh.

"We have nothing to announce but we recognise the importance of that car," Thai-Tang said.