2023 Ford Puma Titanium Mhev Auto 1.0L Petrol · AP23 BVB

The 1.0-litre mild-hybrid Puma is officially rated in the high-40s to low-50s mpg range, with real-world economy typically settling around 45-50 mpg for mixed driving. Insurance for a Titanium auto in this age bracket usually sits in group 12-15, putting it in the moderate insurance bracket for a small SUV. Annual VED for a petrol vehicle registered after April 2017 costing over £40,000 is avoided here — this Puma sits in the standard £195-ish band for vehicles registered after 2017 with the standard rate, though owners should confirm the current exact rate at point of purchase.

Servicing on the Puma MHEV is generally affordable through Ford main dealers, with intervals every 12 months or 18,000 miles. Routine items such as brake fluid, air filter, and spark plugs add modest cost, while the Powershift dual-clutch automatic is the main mechanical item to keep an eye on — regular fluid changes are essential to avoid expensive clutch wear. Tyres are a common running cost, as Puma drivers report that the OE fitments can wear relatively quickly if driven enthusiastically.

Overall running costs are likely to come in at the lower end of the small SUV class, helped by mild-hybrid efficiency and modest insurance. Estimated annual running cost: £1,000-£1,400.

The most commonly reported MOT failure item on the Puma across the 10,757 vehicles analysed is the steering column universal joint — a wear item that can develop play over time. On inspection, rock the steering wheel gently with the engine running and the wheels on the ground, listening for clicks or feeling for slack. Given this vehicle's clean MOT record, there is no evidence of this issue so far, but it is the model's most frequently flagged component and worth a physical check.

The mild-hybrid system itself does not feature in MOT testing, so a fault here would not appear on the test record. Check that the auto stop-start operates smoothly, that the small hybrid battery shows no warning messages on the dashboard, and that there are no unusual clunks from the Powershift gearbox on a slow-speed test drive. Also inspect the rear brake drums if fitted — the Puma uses drum brakes on the rear axle, and these can seize if the car has been left standing for extended periods, which may be plausible given the below-average mileage.

Lastly, examine the underside for any signs of kerb damage to the lightweight plastic undertray, look for even tyre wear across both axles, and confirm that all driver-assistance systems (lane-keep, auto headlights, wipers) operate as expected.