2018 Ford Kuga 2.0L Diesel · M88 CAM

The 2.0-litre diesel Kuga typically returns around 45-55 mpg in real-world mixed driving, with fuel costs varying significantly depending on whether the car is used mainly on motorways or shorter urban trips. Road tax for a 2018 diesel of this engine size sits in a mid-to-high VED band, so check the exact figure against current DVLA rates before purchase. Insurance for the Kuga generally falls in group 18-22 depending on trim, which is reasonable for a family SUV of this size. Routine servicing intervals are typically every 12 months or 12,000 miles, with annual costs for a diesel of this size in the £200-£350 range for a standard interim service and £350-£500 for a major service including brake fluid and filters. Allowing for fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance, an annual running cost in the region of £1,800-£2,400 is realistic for a diesel Kuga covering average mileage.

On inspection, start with the brake system: the 2025 MOT flagged both front and rear pads as wearing thin, and the 2026 test repeated the front pad advisory, so check pad thickness directly and inspect the discs for scoring or lipping. Examine each tyre for tread depth and, crucially, for the inner-edge wear pattern noted in 2022 and 2023, which can point to worn suspension bushes, droplinks, or alignment issues rather than simply old rubber. Test all registration plate lamps and the rear light cluster — the 2022 MOT recorded an inoperative registration plate lamp, which is a quick fix but worth confirming has been resolved. For the diesel engine specifically, check for any warning lights on the dashboard (particularly the DPF, glow plug, or AdBlue indicators), listen for any knocking on cold start, and verify the oil level and condition on the dipstick. Finally, inspect the underbody and wheel arches for corrosion, as Kugas of this era can be prone to surface rust in harsher climates, and confirm the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed.