Ford Puma ST 1.5 front view

Ford Puma ST Buying Guide: 1.5 Manual vs Powershift and UK Costs

Buying Guides / Ford Puma ST · UK edition

The Puma ST comes in two powertrain combinations that suit different buyers. Start with the 1.5 manual if you want the original higher-output car and a clutch pedal. Consider the 1.0 mild-hybrid Powershift if you prefer an automatic. Drive both on familiar roads and compare the exact equipment, history and price.

Ford Puma ST 1.5 front view
Original 1.5 ST. Verify that the car is an ST and confirm its build and options. Photo by Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0.

1.5 manual vs 1.0 Powershift

The original 1.5 EcoBoost ST uses a six-speed manual and is rated at 200 PS. Ford’s Powershift announcement describes the 1.0 EcoBoost mild hybrid, 170 PS at launch and seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Confirm the actual year and output, especially on facelift cars. ST-Line is a different trim, so check model and engine as well as badges. On the manual, ask for the original equipment list if the seller claims the Performance Pack or a limited-slip differential. Options and replacement wheels can be hard to infer from photographs.

UK asking prices

On 6 November 2026, the Auto Trader Puma ST results included 1.5 examples advertised at £16,000 and £18,250, and 1.0 DCT examples at £16,980 and £18,295. These are individual asking prices. Compare the same powertrain, age, mileage and options, and check whether dealer fees or accessories are included.

Ford Puma ST 1.5 rear view
Inspect the boot floor, bumper, exhaust and inner rear tyre shoulders. Photo by Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Common problems and inspection points

Cooling and cold start

Ask for a cold engine. Check coolant level and look for dried residue, leaks around joints and evidence of work under the bonnet. Warm the engine on the road and check for warnings, uneven response or persistent noise. A tune should come with the calibration invoice, hardware list and fuel requirements. Price insurance on the declared specification and ask for original parts where relevant.

Manual clutch, Powershift and hybrid system

On a manual, check take-up, warm gear selection and slip under moderate load. On the automatic, try Drive and Reverse from cold, then test low-speed manoeuvres and gentle shifts when warm. Repeatable judder or hesitation deserves a scan. If the hybrid system shows warnings, have a qualified workshop diagnose the car. Verify the specific gearbox and fluids rather than assuming a service kit for another Ford Powershift fits.

Ford Puma ST exterior
Confirm brake and wheel fitment on the individual car. Photo by Calreyn88, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Tyres, suspension and equipment

Inspect inner tyre shoulders, wheels, disc faces and the underside. Look for evidence of hard kerb contact or poor jacking and investigate any steering pull. Test the lights, climate control, parking sensors and infotainment. Inspect boot storage and seals for damp. Try both keys and check whether a recurring driver-assistance warning followed bumper or windscreen work.

Maintenance and parts

Identify the engine code and gearbox before ordering. The two engines have distinct requirements. Check the Ford schedule by VIN for timing and oil-pump drive service requirements, and use the specified oil approval. Ask for actual invoices rather than relying on a generic service stamp.

Affiliate disclosure. We may earn a commission on purchases through the eBay links below. These are indicative UK parts-only allowances. Confirm the OE number and get fitted quotes separately.

PartAllowanceFitment check
1.5 oil service kit£50–£115Match oil approval and filter.
1.0 oil service kit£50–£115Check build and oil approval.
1.5 spark plugs£40–£95Match engine code.
1.0 spark plugs£35–£90Confirm fitment by VIN.
Alternator£145–£380Check output. The hybrid drive is different.
Accessory drive£35–£115Verify routing and tensioner.
Coolant pump£65–£210Specify engine code and diagnose leak first.
Front pads£45–£125Verify caliper and pad shape.
Front discs£110–£290Check exact disc dimensions.
Manual clutch kit£170–£440Price flywheel and labour separately.
Cabin filter£12–£38Match housing and build.

Hidden ownership costs

Price tyres, brakes and geometry as separate fitted jobs. A manual clutch problem may also involve flywheel work. A DCT or hybrid warning needs diagnosis before a budget can be trusted. Verify the engine schedule and insurance, and price any missing original equipment or known repairs before making an offer.

Ford Puma ST parked
Read service and repair invoices against the exact engine and gearbox. Photo by Aethonatic, CC0.

Viewing checklist

  1. Verify VIN, engine, gearbox and original options.
  2. Ask for a cold start and test the car through a full warm-up.
  3. Check clutch or DCT operation, cooling and warning history.
  4. Inspect brakes, tyre wear, boot and underside.
  5. Compare mileage with MOT history and obtain written repair estimates.

Ford Puma ST FAQ

Is the Puma ST Powershift the same engine as the manual?

The original manual uses a 1.5 EcoBoost. Ford launched Powershift with a 1.0 EcoBoost mild-hybrid powertrain.

How do I check for the Performance Pack?

Use the VIN and original equipment record. Ask for supporting invoices and inspect the hardware.

Is an ST-Line a Puma ST?

ST-Line and ST are distinct. Confirm the specification from the VIN and engine.

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