2022 Ford Kuga ST-Line Phev CVT 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · DS22 KDV

A 2022 Ford Kuga PHEV with only one MOT entry on file and a clean pass on 16 June 2025 presents a roadworthiness profile that is, on the documentary evidence at least, unblemished. With no advisories recorded and no prior test against which to measure deterioration, there is no pattern of component wear, corrosion, or recurring defects to suggest systemic mechanical weakness. The single pass certificate confirms that brakes, tyres, suspension, lights, exhaust emissions, and structural elements were all found to meet MOT standards at the time of inspection. While a clean record is reassuring, it is worth noting that a near-new PHEV of this age and mileage has typically covered very little ground between new and first test, so the MOT history is necessarily thin; the absence of advisories should therefore be read as expected rather than exceptional. Annual mileage of roughly 2,880 miles per year is exceptionally low for a family SUV, even accounting for the fact that many PHEV owners do short electric-only commutes. Such low accumulation raises familiar mechanical considerations: brake discs and pads may show corrosion pitting or even seizure from underuse, particularly at the rear where motor regen handles much of the deceleration. The 12V auxiliary battery and the high-voltage traction pack both tolerate prolonged standing far better than conventional powertrains, but coolant hoses, seals, and door/boot rubber gaiters can deteriorate through lack of use rather than wear. Tyres fitted in 2022 or early 2023 may also have aged out in terms of compound hardness even if the tread depth remains legal, and a spare or repaired sidewall from the original fitment should be scrutinised. On a physical inspection and test drive, the prospective buyer should focus on areas where low-mileage Kugas typically present issues rather than those flagged in any MOT record. Listen for any binding, grinding, or scraping from the rear brakes on initial rolling movement, which would indicate corroded caliper slides or pitted discs that need refurbishment. On the road, the CVT transmission should feel seamless under electric drive and during the transition to petrol operation; any shunt, judder, or hesitation when the combustion engine fires is worth flagging. The steering should remain light and accurate without pulling, and the suspension should feel taut over speed humps and uneven surfaces rather than thunking or clonking, which would suggest worn anti-roll bar links, strut top mounts, or lower control arm bushes that have hardened with age despite low mileage. Because no MOT advisories have ever been recorded, there is no specific defect history to chase down, but a plug-in hybrid of this vintage does warrant certain specialist checks beyond the standard road test. Confirm that the high-voltage charging cable and port show no damage or scorch marks, that the vehicle starts and drives on electric power alone with a reasonable indicated battery range, and that the infotainment and mode selection screens function correctly, as Kuga PHEVs have had software-related recalls affecting these areas. Examine the underbody and wheel arches for any signs of surface corrosion starting to form, particularly around suspension arms and subframe mounting points, as even low-mileage cars stored outside can begin to show oxidation. Finally, a service history stamped at the recommended two-year or eighteen-month intervals confirms that the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid have all been refreshed on schedule, which is arguably more meaningful for this particular Kuga than the MOT record itself.