THE Ford Puma is the UK's best selling car and has proved to be a huge favourite with British motorists.

Last year it sold almost 50,000 units and now Ford has made it available as an all-electric model.

Thankfully Ford has kept the refreshed smart design and practicality that has made the Puma such a hit and added their own smooth and punchy electric motor to give fans of the compact SUV even more choice.

The new electric model is just what you would expect from a Puma, it is responsive and agile and is perfect in town and country. The handling is sharp and the suspension deals well with bumps and rough roads despite its extra weight.

The Gen-E produces 168bhp with instant torque and can reach 62mph in just eight seconds thanks to its 43kWh battery that is good for a combined range of 233 miles.

The battery supports rapid charging and as a result can go from 10-80% in just 23 minutes. Home charging on a normal wall box will take about seven hours - ideal for overnight use.

Inside Ford has continued the good work and there is a smart 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a 12.0-inch touchscreen which offers crisp graphics and good controls.

Thankfully Ford has kept physical buttons for the climate controls so drivers will not have to fiddle with the touchscreen on the move. There is full smartphone

connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging point and a tull list of driver aids.

The more expensive versions add keyless entry, a B&O sound system and a powered hands-free tailgate.

On the practical front, there is a large 43-litre "frunk" ideal for storing your cables and the main boot provides 574 litres of total luggage space - including 145 litres in its clever Gigabox.

Two trim levels are available, the Select costing from £29,995 and the Premium version which starts at £31,995.

I sampled the Select and it has everything you need and a slightly longer range at 233 miles compared to 226 miles. In real terms you can expect to get about 170 miles before charging, which stacks up well against its many rivals.

The electric Puma is a welcome addition to Ford's range and it is certain to be as popular as its petrol powered siblings.

£29,995 before government grant

: 43kWh battery, 168ps, driving front wheels via single speed automatic gearbox

99mph

8 sec

233 miles

18

0

3yrs/60,000 miles

4.6