Ford Puma review - Reliability & safety

Ford came a disappointing 30th out of 32 brands in our 2024 Driver Power survey, following a downward trajectory in recent years in terms of customer satisfaction. Customers mostly appreciated their Fords’ running costs and mpg, although a 21st-place finish in this category is hardly anything to write home about. It looks as though the brand needs to do a thorough rethink of its approach as it finished low in many other categories including, surprisingly, in ride and handling – an area we’d have expected it to do well.

Ford Puma reliability

The Ford Puma itself has featured in the Driver Power customer satisfaction survey on many occasions, coming in a respectable 10th place out of 50 models in the most recent 2024 edition. Customers rated its engines, practicality and infotainment highly, while its interior and general quality and reliability scored lower. 

In 2024’s manufacturer results, 21% of Ford owners reported an issue with their car in the first year, which is actually better than average and consistent with the year before.

Safety

Before arriving in showrooms, the Ford Puma had already received five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests, with an impressive 94% score for adult occupant protection. It also scored the maximum points in lateral impact tests and for its child restraint system. However, in December 2022, the latest version of Puma was re-tested by Euro NCAP and its overall score dropped to four stars. Its score for Adult Occupant protection dropped to 75%, largely because strict new Euro NCAP tests found the lack of a central airbag could lead to injuries in a side impact.

Top versions of the Puma are fitted with 12 ultrasonic sensors, three radars and two cameras to help assist with driving, improve safety and aid parking. It features safety technology including autonomous emergency braking, Ford's Intelligent Speed Limiter and lane keeping assist.