Ford Cougar

Introduction

The Ford Cougar, launched in 1998, was a sporty liftback coupe designed to bring Ford’s “New Edge” styling philosophy to the mid-size segment. Positioned as a successor to the Ford Probe, it shared a platform with the Ford Mondeo, combining practicality with coupe styling. Marketed in Europe and North America, the Cougar was produced until 2002 and gained recognition for its bold design and balanced driving dynamics.

Exterior

The Cougar’s exterior was defined by sharp, angular lines and Ford’s New Edge design cues. Its long, sloping roofline and liftback rear gave it a sporty yet practical profile. Distinctive triangular headlights, a wide grille, and flared wheel arches added to its aggressive stance. Alloy wheels, body-colored trim, and optional spoilers on higher trims emphasized its coupe credentials. Despite its coupe identity, the liftback design enhanced versatility.

Interior

Inside, the Cougar provided a modern cabin with a driver-focused layout. The dashboard featured flowing lines and integrated controls consistent with Ford’s late-1990s design language. The front seats were sporty and supportive, while the rear offered limited but usable space for two passengers. Higher trims added leather upholstery, premium sound systems, and air conditioning. Though not luxurious, the interior struck a balance between comfort and sportiness.

Safety Features

The Cougar offered competitive safety features for its era. Standard equipment included dual airbags, ABS brakes, and reinforced crumple zones. Later models added side airbags and traction control. Its chassis, shared with the Mondeo, delivered stable handling that contributed to active safety. While lacking modern driver-assist technologies, it met safety expectations for a sporty coupe of the late 1990s.

Engine Trims

The Ford Cougar was offered with a selection of petrol engines. Base models featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with around 130 hp, while higher trims included a 2.5-liter V6 producing about 170 hp. Transmission options included a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The V6 variant provided strong performance, with 0–100 km/h in under 9 seconds, making it the preferred choice for enthusiasts.

Maintenance

The Cougar was relatively straightforward to maintain, thanks to its Mondeo underpinnings and widespread parts availability. Routine servicing of the timing belt, brakes, and suspension was essential for reliability. Electrical issues and wear on interior trim were common concerns. The V6 engine required more attentive maintenance but delivered satisfying performance. Overall, ownership costs were moderate compared to rival coupes.

Competitors

The Ford Cougar competed with models such as the Opel Calibra, Peugeot 406 Coupe, and Toyota Celica. The Calibra emphasized sleek styling, the 406 Coupe delivered Pininfarina design flair, and the Celica offered Japanese reliability and sportiness. The Cougar stood out with its distinctive design, practical liftback body, and accessible pricing, appealing to buyers seeking a mix of style and usability.