2021 Ford Puma ST spied undisguised

A Ford Puma ST development vehicle with practically no camouflage has been photographed in Europe.

The design of the ST doesn’t differ too dramatically from the ST-Line variants.

Key changes include a different grille insert and lower bumper treatment, both of which are free of chrome.

There also looks to be subtle wheel arch extensions, new alloy wheels, and a revised lower rear fascia with a pair of round exhaust tips on right.

As with all ST models, the Puma ST sits closer to the ground than its less energetic siblings.

Other changes we expect to see include an uprated braking package, a limited-slip differential and Recaro front seats.

As the Puma and Fiesta share a platform, we expect the Puma ST to employ the Fiesta ST’s 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine.

In the hatch this engine is tuned to deliver 147kW and 290Nm, and is paired solely with a six-speed manual.

That’s a 55kW/120Nm advantage over the turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with 92kW and 170Nm fitted to the rest of the Puma range in Australia.

Ford Australia has yet to commit to offering the Puma ST locally.

If it did arrive Down Under, it’s probably fair to say it will be priced above other Puma models, which current tops out at $35,540 for the ST-Line V.