Ford has expanded the line-up for its Puma ST with a mild hybrid petrol powertrain and seven-speed automatic gearbox, marking two new firsts.

The Puma ST Powershift’s mild hybrid powertrain and auto gearbox are both firsts for the line-up

The new entry-level ST Powershift model uses the most powerful version of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost Hybrid engine, which has been offered to Puma customers since the SUV’s launch in 2019. It’s been enhanced for greater performance in the Puma ST Powershift, throwing out up to 170hp peak power and 248Nm of peak torque.

It’s married up with a paddle-shift-operable, seven-speed, dual-clutch Ford Powershift transmission – offered alongside the six-speed manual in the regular ST and introducing an auto option to the ST line-up for the first time. The chassis is shared with the Puma ST.

The ST Powershift also gets a large rear roof spoiler and rear diffuser, along with signature ST detailing and a new ST-exclusive Azura Blue signature colour among six exterior paint options.

The cabin features Ford Performance-developed sports seats in synthetic leather-effect material, wireless charging pad, Quickclear heated windscreen, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, FordPass Connect modem, and Ford’s Sync 3 communications and entertainment system,  compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Driver assistance technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Active Braking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert with Active Braking and Intelligent Speed Limiter.

Ford said it was using mild hybrid technology not just to improve efficiency, but also to enhance peak power and torque.

The arrival of the new mild hybrid model provides a midpoint in Ford’s plans for its entire passenger vehicle range in Europe to be zero emissions capable, all-electric or plug-in hybrid during 2026 and completely all-electric by 2030.

Prices and full specification details for the Puma ST Powershift will be announced closer to launch.