2022 Ford Kuga ST-Line X ED Ecoblue A 1.5L Diesel · RV22 UER

The 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel in this Kuga typically returns 45–55 mpg on a mixed cycle, with motorway runs closer to 58 mpg and urban driving nearer 42 mpg. Fuel costs will therefore be modest for a family SUV of this size, especially for higher-mileage buyers. Road tax sits in a low band thanks to the Euro 6 AP rating, costing the standard £190 annually (or £0 if still within the first six years of the £10 first-year rate having already been paid — verify current VED status). Insurance for the ST-Line X falls into group 18–20, so expect premiums of £450–£700 per year for a typical driver.

Routine servicing for the 1.5 EcoBlue is required every 12 months or 12,500 miles, with cambelts on related components needing attention around 100,000 miles. A major service including brake fluid and diesel filter changes typically costs £250–£400 at a Ford dealer or independent specialist. Tyres, given the Kuga's weight and the ST-Line suspension, are around £130–£180 each fitted, so factor in £500+ for a full set. Adding tyres, brake pads, and ad-hoc repairs from the model's top failure points, annual running costs including fuel should land in the £1,100–£1,400 range.

The two MOT failures both relate to roadworthiness items rather than structural concerns, but they hint at areas to scrutinise. The nearside front tyre ply exposure from June 2025 indicates a kerbing incident or neglect — inspect the nearside front wheel for alloy scuffs and check all four tyres for matching brand, age, and tread depth (anything below 3mm is approaching replacement). The headlamp aim failure from February 2026 is more telling: on the Kuga, manual or auto-levelling headlamps can drift out of alignment after a front-end knock or following suspension work, so check for evidence of accident repair and verify both headlamps are free of condensation, which is a known ST-Line X weak point.

Beyond the MOT specifics, inspect the 1.5 EcoBlue engine for diesel injector whine on cold start, and check the oil filler cap for mayonnaise residue which could indicate short journeys. The Kuga's AdBlue system needs topping up roughly every 6,000–10,000 miles; ask when it was last filled. Test the dual-clutch transmission (if auto) for hesitation or jerky low-speed changes, as this has been the subject of complaints on earlier Kugas — though the 2022 model is generally improved. Finally, look underneath for any signs of coolant weeping from the EGR cooler, a known issue on higher-mileage EcoBlue units.