Ford models have dominated the UK new car sales charts for the past two decades and more, with hatchbacks such as the Fiesta and Focus as common on our roads as a badly-repaired pothole. But times are changing and Ford is pivoting hard towards the cars we’re all rushing to buy: SUVs and crossovers. The roaring success of the Puma and Kuga are proof that the company knows what it’s doing, while its electric future is taking shape with the Capri, Explorer, Mustang Mach-E and Puma Gen-E.
And although we’ve had to say a fond farewell to some old favourites in the new car showrooms, the used market is brimming with Fords that still set the benchmark for driver enjoyment and value. Here, we’ve rounded up the best new and used Ford cars you can buy, with something to suit just about everyone.
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
Best Ford Cars and SUVs 2026
- 2026 Ford Puma
- 2026 Ford Ranger
- 2026 Ford Kuga
- 2018-2023 Ford Fiesta
- 2012-2017 Ford B-Max
- 2028-2025 Ford Focus
- 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E
- 2026 Ford Mustang
- 2026 Ford Tourneo Connect
- 2026 Ford Explorer
1. 2026 Ford Puma
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 3.9 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very practical, especially the big boot | Rear headroom could be more generous |
| Generous standard equipment | Short new-car warranty |
| Petrol and electric options | Some rival EVs have longer ranges |
The Ford Puma has been a runaway success since its launch, and was the UK's best-selling new car in 2023 and 2024. As of late 2025 it’s on target to achieve that feat for the third year running. It's not hard to see why. In a crowded class of small crossovers, the Puma stands out by being genuinely fun to drive, having more boot space than most rivals and by looking pleasantly sporty. The range has expanded to include the all-electric Puma Gen-E, which is one of the best small electric cars around. It offers a battery range of up to 234 miles in its current form, with an updated model featuring a 259-mile range available in 2026.
Practicality is a key reason for the Puma’s place on this list. Rear-seat space is merely average, but the boot has a massive 456-litre capacity that's a match for some cars from the class above. The real party trick, however, is the additional 80-litre capacity provided by the waterproof 'MegaBox' under the boot floor. It comes complete with a drain plug, so you can throw muddy wellies or wet gear in there and simply hose it clean when you need to. The electric Gen-E model is even more practical, with a larger 'GigaBox' version and a 43-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet. The mild-hybrid petrol models give a great blend of performance and economy and there’s a Puma ST hot hatch model that continues the tradition of great-driving small sporty Fords.
The CarGurus Verdict: "In a class that’s full of unimaginative crossovers, the Puma really is a breath of fresh air, being fun to drive yet still practical thanks to the enormous boot space." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Ford Puma review
2. 2026 Ford Ranger
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| SUV-like levels of equipment and build quality | Feels very large to drive on UK roads |
| More enjoyable to drive than a pickup should be | Equivalents from Isuzu and SsangYong are cheaper |
| Huge portrait-style touchscreen on Wildtrak models and up is impressive | UK-spec Raptor models limited to 288bhp, while US cars get 400bhp |
The Ford Ranger has cemented its reputation as one of the UK's most popular pickups, but this latest version is about more than just being a tough workhorse. With bold, American-inspired styling reminiscent of the F-150 truck, it’s increasingly seen as a genuine alternative to a large family SUV. High-spec models like the popular Wildtrak come loaded with luxury features, including leather seats and advanced tech, offering a blend of rugged capability and surprising refinement. Engine choices are plentiful, ranging from a 168bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel to a powerful 237bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel, and even a new plug-in hybrid model for 2025.
Practicality is a strong point, as it should be for a pickup. The double-cab model features a load bed just over 1.5 metres long, and its impressive 3,500kg towing capacity makes it a formidable hauler. There's ample space for the family inside, but although most models offer a flat load area it's worth noting the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version has a slightly raised load floor to accommodate its battery. While it looks suitably rough ‘n’ ready, the Ranger is civilised on the road; quiet and comfortable by pickup standards, and far from unwieldy through corners.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Provided you can find somewhere big enough to park it, the Ford Ranger is a magnificent pickup truck. It is of course less sophisticated to drive than a regular family SUV, but it’s not as far off as you might think." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Ford Ranger review
3. 2026 Ford Kuga
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good to drive, as you'd expect of a Ford | The interior is a bit low-rent in places |
| Lots of passenger space and useful sliding rear seat | Some rivals have bigger boots |
| The plug-in hybrid is a great choice for company car drivers | It's hard to apply the plug-in hybrid's brakes smoothly |
The Ford Kuga, now well into its third generation, has evolved into a popular and appealing mid-size SUV. Inside, there's lots of passenger space, with a generous cabin width and flat floor that means three adults can sit comfortably in the back. Sliding rear seats let you prioritise either passenger legroom or boot space. Pushed back for maximum legroom, boot capacity is a rather meagre 412 litres, but that rises to 553 litres when the seats are fully forward. The interior may not have the premium feel of some competitors, either, but it’s well-laid-out and durable enough for family life.
Where the Kuga has the edge over most rivals is in driving appeal. It successfully combines the engaging handling Fords are famous for with a comfortable and refined ride, making it a superb all-rounder. The star of the engine lineup is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, which combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor for a total of 240bhp in the latest versions. It offers an impressive official electric-only range of up to 42 miles, making it an excellent choice for company car drivers and those with short commutes.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Kuga is one of the best five-seat family SUVs. It's good to drive, roomy, and fuel-efficient." - David Motton, contributor
Read our full Ford Kuga review
4. 2018-2023 Ford Fiesta
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | Very patchy reliability record |
| Affordable running costs | Not as roomy inside as some rivals |
| Impressive Ecoboost engines | ST-Line models have a stiffer ride than the rest of the range |
The Ford Fiesta is a British institution, for years topping the sales charts thanks to its winning formula of smart looks, generous equipment, and an engaging drive. Ford stopped making the Fiesta in 2023 to focus on SUVs, but the model’s immense popularity means there’s a huge selection on the used market. It remains one of the best used superminis you can buy, offering a rare combination of value and fun.
The Fiesta’s USP is how it drives. Even in basic form, its sharp steering and nimble handling make it the most enjoyable car in its class. It’s comfortable and assured at higher speeds, too. The turbocharged 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engines are a highlight, offering nippy acceleration, while later models are available with a more fuel-efficient mild-hybrid version. Even in its prime the Fiesta was never a leader for interior quality or practicality, but it has enough space for four adults and is available with features such as a heated windscreen and a heated steering wheel.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Fiesta fully deserves its reputation as one of the best superminis you can buy. It’s a really well engineered machine that comes in a variety of flavours to suit different tastes. It’s affordable to run, too, and it’s hands-down the best car of its type to drive." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Ford Fiesta review
5. 2012-2017 Ford B-Max
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lots of space inside for such a small car | Iffy Powershift automatic gearbox |
| Sliding rear doors make getting in and out easy | Some electrical issues |
| Fun to drive | Not as fashionable as a small SUV |
The Ford B-Max might be a forgotten hero in a world now dominated by SUVs, but for those seeking maximum practicality in a compact package, it remains a brilliantly clever choice. Its party piece is the innovative pillar-less design, which combines with sliding rear doors to create a huge 1.5-metre-wide opening. This makes getting children in and out of the back seats an absolute breeze, and it’s a feature that’s equally beneficial for passengers with limited mobility. While its mini-MPV shape fell out of fashion, the sheer ease of use it offers is timeless, making it a standout used buy for practical-minded families.
Based on the same underpinnings as the ever-popular Fiesta, the B-Max is far more enjoyable to drive than its sensible shape suggests. The steering is sharp and the handling is agile, meaning it feels nimble around town and surprisingly composed on a twisty road. While early petrol engines felt a little underpowered, the later 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged units, with either 99bhp or 118bhp, are the ones to go for, offering a great blend of punch and efficiency. The boot isn't the biggest in its class at 318 litres, but the wide opening and the ability to fold the front passenger seat flat for carrying long items add to its versatile nature.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The B-Max is a clever car that addresses the needs of many family car buyers. Its size means that supermini owners can upsize if they need a bit more space for growing children, while hatchback owners can also downsize: both groups will find that they have all the space and practicality they need in a car." - Craig Thomas, contributor
Read our full Ford B-Max review
6. 2018-2025 Ford Focus
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enjoyable to drive | Some rivals have bigger boots |
| Ample room for tall passengers | Interior lacks sparkle |
| Excellent Ecoboost petrol engines | Entry-level cars with torsion beam suspension aren't as good to drive |
Like the Fiesta, the Ford Focus is a big-seller that’s recently been discontinued. Production ended in November 2025, after a 27-year model run that saw the Focus become one of the best-selling cars ever globally and the UK’s best-selling new car from 1999-2008. The key to its success? Well, every Focus model has been distinguished by being the most enjoyable car in its class to drive. Even the oldest, most basic model offers the kind of poise and responsiveness that makes many pricier, sportier cars seem clumsy through corners.
The final, fourth-generation model (introduced in 2018) added some welcome extra practicality, with particularly good rear legroom. Boot space remains adequate rather than generous, but a capacity of 375 litres is roughly the same as you get in a Vauxhall Astra or VW Golf. And there's the Focus Estate offers a more generous 575 litres for those needing extra load space. Standard equipment for the later models is comprehensive, including wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, a heated windscreen and 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It might look like a fairly ordinary family hatchback, but the Mk4 Focus has a superb blend of ride comfort and control which, along with its accurate and well-weighted steering, makes every model a joy to drive." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Ford Focus review
7. 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very strong performance | Top-spec versions are pricey |
| Practical cabin | Firm ride |
| Impressive infotainment system | The interior could be better finished |
When Ford announced it was putting the iconic Mustang badge on an electric SUV, many were sceptical. In most respects, though, the Mustang Mach-E is a triumph, blending the character of a Mustang with the practicality of a large, five-door electric SUV. Buyers of the latest model can choose between a 72kWh Standard Range battery or a 91kWh Extended Range version, with the latter offering an impressive official range of up to 372 miles.
True to its name, the Mach-E delivers an engaging driving experience. While it may not be a traditional sports car, it’s certainly one of the most fun-to-drive electric SUVs. Performance is a real highlight and the GT version can rocket from 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds. Inside, there’s masses of passenger space and a flat floor, plus a clever 100-litre waterproof storage area under the bonnet. The 402-litre boot is smaller than you’ll find in a Volkswagen ID.4 or BMW iX3, however.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a huge step forward for the brand, but more importantly it delivers a good balance of practicality, performance and sophistication, and all while sticking to Ford’s reputation for decent value." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Ford Mustang Mach-E review
8. 2026 Ford Mustang
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fabulous old-school V8 of GT models | High running costs |
| Charismatic looks and driving experience | Mustangs with the four-cylinder engine have less character |
| Bullitt edition is sharp to drive | Cramped rear seats |
For anyone wanting to stand out from the crowd, the Ford Mustang offers an unbeatable combination of iconic American style and thunderous performance. This sixth-generation model was the first to be officially sold in the UK. The heart and soul of the Mustang experience is the 5.0-litre V8 engine, which delivers more than 400bhp and provides a bellowing soundtrack that never fails to raise a smile. It’s an old-school bruiser, feeling large on UK roads, and prioritising charisma over the pin-sharp handling of a Porsche. A more fuel-efficient 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine is available, but it lacks the V8’s character.
While it’s a big car, practicality is a mixed bag. The rear seats are best reserved for children, but the boot has a useful 408-litre capacity in the coupe, while the Convertible offers a reasonable 332 litres. Ultimately, the Mustang’s appeal isn’t about outright practicality, but about the sheer sense of occasion it delivers for a price that undercuts many less exciting European performance cars.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Mustang is everything a muscle car should be. European sports cars with their more compact dimensions, lighter mass and higher-spec suspension components will run rings around a Mustang, but you wouldn’t necessarily be having more fun." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Ford Mustang review
9. 2026 Ford Tourneo Connect
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hugely spacious | Not as good to drive as most Fords |
| Economical diesels great for high-mileage drivers | Interior feels a bit utilitarian |
| Well equipped | Drab exterior styling |
The Ford Tourneo Connect is a supremely sensible, van-based MPV that’s the result of a collaboration with Volkswagen. It’s based on the VW Caddy van, but that in turn shares its underpinnings with the VW Golf – so it has a more sophisticated feel on the road than you might expect. If you’re buying a new version there’s a choice of a a 113bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine, a 120bhp 2.0-litre diesel or a plug-in hybrid that combines the 1.5 petrol engine with an electric motor for a total of 148bhp. It’s available as a standard five-seater or a longer, seven-seat Grand Tourneo Connect, both of which offer significantly more space and better value than an equivalent seven-seat SUV.
The boxy shape creates a cavernous interior, especially in the seven-seat Grand Tourneo Connect. With the third row of seats folded, there’s a huge 1,720 litres of boot space, which expands to a genuinely van-like 3,105 litres with the second row folded as well. Access is a breeze thanks to sliding rear doors on both sides. There’s plenty of headroom for adults in all three rows, although the third row is best for kids on longer trips because the seats are uncomfortably low to the floor.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The practical, boxy Tourneo Connect is family motoring in thoroughly sensible shoes: it does a great job of hauling a family and all its stuff around effectively and without fuss." - Matt Rigby, contributor
Read our full Ford Tourneo Connect review
10. 2026 Ford Explorer
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Really good to drive | Doesn't really stand out in any way |
| Looks good | Touchscreen isn't the easiest to use |
| Very generously equipped | Some other ergonomic issues |
The Ford Explorer is an all-electric five-seat SUV that sits below the Mustang Mach-E in Ford’s EV line-up. It’s the first Ford to be built on Volkswagen’s electric car platform, sharing its batteries and motors with the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq. Despite this, Ford has worked hard to give it a unique character, with its own exterior design and heavily revised suspension. Make what you will of the styling but we think Ford has successfully injected its trademark fun-to-drive DNA into the chassis. The steering is sharp and communicative, and the Explorer feels agile and balanced through corners, making it more engaging than its VW Group relatives. Maximum range is between 233 miles and a very respectable 374 miles, depending on configuration.
All versions are impressively well-equipped, with even the entry-level model having a 14.6-inch touchscreen, heated massage seats, and a host of advanced driver aids. Inside, the Explorer is packed with clever practical touches, including a huge ‘MegaConsole’ storage bin between the front seats and a lockable ‘My Private Locker’ hidden behind the large touchscreen. Passenger space is generous, and a 470-litre boot capacity is good, if not a match for rivals such as the Skoda Enyaq and Tesla Model Y.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Explorer is a really good electric SUV, and is one of the best in its class to drive. Ford’s done a great job of making it feel a bit different to everything else, including the Volkswagen, Skoda and Cupra models that it shares much of its DNA with." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Ford Explorer review
FAQs
Which Ford is the best for a small family?
The Ford Puma is one of the best small family cars you can buy. It's fun to drive, very practical thanks to its huge 'MegaBox' boot, and affordable to run. The Puma Gen-E electric version has even more load space, but if you need more still, the Ford Kuga is a great step up, offering a roomy cabin and the option of plug-in hybrid power.
Ford has stopped making the Fiesta and Focus. Should I still buy one?
The Fiesta and Focus have been discontinued as new cars, but they remain excellent choices on the used market. They are brilliant to drive, and because they were so popular, there are plenty of great examples to choose from. They represent fantastic value for money.
What are Ford's electric car options?
Ford's electric range is expanding rapidly. Its most compact EV is the Puma Gen-E, an all-electric version of the best-selling Puma crossover. Next up in size is the E-Tourneo Courier van-based MPV. Then there are the closely related Ford Explorer and Ford Capri – both are five-door family SUVs but the Capri is the sleeker and sportier option. Finally there’s the Mustang Mach-E, an even sportier SUV that competes with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y.
Is the Ford Mustang a practical car for the UK?
The Mustang is more about style and performance than everyday practicality. While the boot is surprisingly usable, the rear seats are very cramped, even for children. It's a large car for UK roads and the V8 model has high running costs. It's best seen as a fun weekend car or a daily driver for those who rarely need to carry passengers.
What is the most practical car Ford makes?
For ultimate practicality, the Ford Tourneo Connect is hard to beat. This van-based MPV offers a huge amount of space, especially in the seven-seat Grand Tourneo Connect version. Its sliding rear doors also make access incredibly easy for families in tight car park spaces.
Are Ford cars reliable?
Ford's reliability record can be mixed depending on the model and engine. For example, some versions of the Fiesta have known issues with the automatic gearbox. However, many models, like the Kuga and Focus, generally perform well in owner satisfaction surveys. It's always wise to check the specific model's history and consider a used car warranty for peace of mind.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers - real owner experiences and current market value.
To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in January 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
