2023 Ford Puma

Ford Puma

Ford’s Puma finds itself wedged between the usual suspects—Volkswagen T-Cross, Renault Captur, Mazda CX-3—offering a slightly elevated drive for city dwellers who want more than a hatch but aren’t ready to go full SUV. Every model comes with the same 1.0-litre EcoBoost triple, turbocharged and ready to hustle, but don’t expect much variety: there’s either a conventional automatic or a seven-speed dual-clutch to pick from. The catch? No new stock anywhere, just nine used examples floating around, so you’re playing in a second-hand league. Prices stretch from R299,900 up to R459,990, and that mid-R369,900 mark means you’re cross-shopping clean used Pumas against brand-new entry-level choices from rivals. That matters, because buying used only makes sense if you’re actually getting more for your money. Titanium 7AT models absolutely dominate the listings—five out of nine, all between R299,900 and R369,900. If you want the flashier ST-Line Vignale, you’ll pay between R389,900 and R459,990, but you do get sportier looks and a cabin that feels more upmarket, thanks to ambient lighting and better seat support. Most of these cars are 2023 to 2025, barely past run-in, with average mileage sitting at just 19,440 km. The kicker for South Africans cross-shopping T-Cross or Captur? The Puma’s MegaBox under the boot floor. It’s a clever touch, and if you pack smart, you’ll appreciate the extra space. On paper at least, the combo of low mileage and recent model years makes the price tags look reasonable, but it’s only worth it if the used premium buys you something you can’t get new.