Ford has introduced the all new Ford Puma ST to Europe, bringing Ford Performance driving dynamics to the compact SUV segment.

The Puma ST is powered by a 197bhp 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine, accelerating the Puma ST to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds. An optimised chassis features bespoke twist-beam, anti-roll bar and damper configurations. Steering responses are now 25% faster and the brakes 17% larger than the standard Ford Puma. Specially developed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres also help deliver the most agile Ford SUV driving experience yet.

The Puma ST has also been enhanced with sophisticated Sports Technologies including a unique-in-segment limited-slip differential (LSD) option as part of the Performance Pack.

The car also features patented force vectoring springs and selectable Drive Modes including a Sport mode and - for the first time on a Ford Performance vehicle - an Eco mode; providing drivers with options for a wide range of road driving scenarios.

Combined, these innovations deliver the energised driving experience Ford Performance models are famous for across Europe, while retaining the comfort and flexibility offered by Ford's new compact SUV.

Performance enhancements and aggressive styling sit side-by-side with innovative features including Local Hazard Information connected-car technology and the Ford MegaBox that provides 80 litres of storage beneath the boot floor for everyday practicality.

On the exterior, the Puma ST sports a large rear roof spoiler for optimised aerodynamics with a distinctive diffuser incorporated into the rear bumper, while signature ST upper and lower grilles are designed to deliver increased engine cooling capability.

The Puma ST offers Magnetite or machined metal finishes for the standard 19-inch alloy wheels, and six available exterior body colours include Agate Black, Desert Island Blue, Fantastic Red, Frozen White, Magnetic, and the bold, ST-exclusive Mean Green.

A gloss black finish for the roof, grille surrounds, side spears, door mirror caps and rear roof spoiler are all standard, making the model even easier to identify.

The interior is equally charismatic; but even before entering, standard power-foldable door mirrors project the ST logo onto the ground when unlocking. Heated and bolstered Recaro sports seats - embossed with the ST logo and finished in grippy Miko Dinamica material - hold the driver and front passenger firmly in place. Ford Performance skid plates, a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and ST gear knob also feature in the cabin.