Ford Kuga Vignale review (2016-2020)

All Kuga interiors improved after 2016, thanks to the redesign – banishing the old switches and adding an eight-inch touchscreen. This is also when the top-spec Vignale trim first appeared.

It was given a distinctive interior trim, with hexagonal quilted patterned leather on the dashboard and seats. Plus, chrome inserts highlight areas of the cabin and add an air of luxury.

Vignale models are more expensive than standard when new, but used examples take much of the sting of the more premium price tag away.

Tech and features

The biggest difference owners will appreciate is the extra equipment fitted. It’s not just different trim – the actual seats underneath are more plush than in the lower-spec versions. 

Of course, cabin head and legroom do remain similarly generous in the front and back. 

The Ford Kuga’s upright touchscreen controls onboard systems, including a slick phone connectivity link, DAB sounds, voice commands and a clear sat-nav. 

Sophisticated cruise control and dual-zone climate control are also among the Vignale's added gadgets.

Vignales also have a noise-cancelling system to drown out unwanted rackets. This high-tech feature keeps the journey quiet inside the cabin. 

The Kuga range has been a great success as it handles much like Ford’s other cars – and that’s generally well above average.

Handling and ride comfort

It’s a tall SUV, but it doesn’t feel like that on the road. The steering is light and responsive, and the ride is smooth.

It’s as easy to drive as a hatchback, and for passengers, it’s as refined and comfortable as a saloon. The crossover is particularly quiet, and it’s relaxed when cruising on the motorway. 

Engines and power

Different engine and gearbox combinations allow you to pick the Vignale that best suits your driving style. 

Automatic gearboxes are more relaxed, and manual gearboxes are more involved. 

The two-wheel drive version is more economical, while the four-wheel-drive car offers more grip in slippery conditions.

Safety

The Vignale is crammed with all the technology Ford can muster – including sophisticated systems like hands-free parking and weather-dependent lights. 

It also got a full five-star rating from Euro NCAP in 2019.

Boot space

The boot has the same usefully spacious area as all Kuga models. Some rivals have bigger boots, but the Kuga’s is a nice, square shape.

There’s also no load lip, making it much easier to get heavy luggage in. There’s certainly space for the family’s bags. 

Rear seats fold down, but as they are more plush than normal, they’re not as flat. 

Fuel economy

As usual, factors like fuel type, automatic gearboxes and all-wheel drive can influence a Kuga’s economy.

The auto petrol all-wheel drive Vignale model, for example, may return around 38mpg.

At the other end of the scale, a diesel two-wheel drive can give you around 64mpg. 

The new hybrid can offer huge fuel savings, officially rated up to 202mpg on shorter journeys. 

Insurance groups

Because of its mainstream origins, other Kuga Vignale running costs, such as insurance, parts, and servicing, will be less than those of many premium SUVs.  

Reliability

Reliability is easier to judge, and the Kuga has scored very well on owners’ reports.

Some surveys even make it the least likely SUV to experience problems.