Ford Kuga Titanium

The Ford Kuga Titanium represents the sweet spot in the mid-size SUV's range. It's not too expensive, but features all the equipment you really need. Despite this, many buyers still find themselves drawn to the higher-spec Titanium X and Titanium X Sport, but in truth you don't need to spend the extra on those.

That's because the Ford Kuga Titanium features equipment like attractive alloy wheels and automatic headlights and wipers in addition to the heated windscreen, front fog lamps and Ford EasyFuel system (which makes it impossible to fill up with the wrong fuel) that's fitted to the entry-level Zetec model.

Inside you'll find kit like sporty front seats - partially trimmed in leather - a Sony audio system and dual zone climate control.

If features the same, simple engine line-up as the rest of the range, meaning you can choose from a 1.5-litre petrol engine or a 2.0-litre diesel - each available with either two or four-wheel drive.

Good points

The Kuga Titanium is very well priced given its wide range of standard equipment – and because Ford makes all engines available with all trims, you can choose from petrol, diesel, two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.Although it's only one model up from the basic Kuga Zetec, there's nothing about the Titanium that looks or feels cut-price.

Bad points

The Kuga doesn't offer the sparkling drive it once did – the original model felt like an SUV GTI on the road – although it's still a nicer drive than models such as the Honda CR-V.There's no seven-seat version available and there's not quite as much space inside as you'll find in the CR-V, either in the back seats or the boot.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Front fog lights
• Manual air conditioning
• Auto climate control
• DAB Radio
• Cruise control
• Part leather seats
• Sports seats
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• Tow bar
• Hands-free bootlid
• Rear parking sensors

Our choice

Our pick of the range has to be the Ford Kuga Titanium with the 2.0-litre diesel engine and two-wheel drive. That means you get an SUV that offers plenty of performance along with impressively low running costs.