Ford has decided to enter the compact SUV market next year with the presentation of its new Kuga model at the Frankfurt motor show. Tthe Kuga is a five seater and is a similar size to a Focus hatchback. The version reaching showrooms next summer will probably have a very useful full-width split tailgate and intelligent four-wheel drive system, that automatically converts to all-wheel action on loose or off-road surfaces.

Kuga will be launched with Ford’s 136bhp 2.0 TDCi engine with a six-speed manual gearbox. It's competition will be established players such as the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail and also the newcomers such as the Vauxhall Antara and Citroen C-Crosser.