12 Cars Similar to the Ford Puma: The Best Alternatives

Not everyone wants a bulky SUV. That’s where small SUVs like the Ford Puma come in—they’re easy to drive, efficient, and packed with personality. However, if the Puma doesn’t quite tick every box for you, there are plenty of other models worth a look.

Here are 12 Ford Puma alternatives to consider in your search.

1. Peugeot 2008

If style is high on your list of priorities, the Peugeot 2008 is hard to beat. It’s one of the best-looking small SUVs around, inside and out, with a modern, premium cabin. You can choose from economical petrol, hybrid, and full electric versions.

It’s not as fun to drive as the Ford Puma, but it makes up for it with better rear-seat space and a taller, more upright design. Just note that the driving position is slightly unusual, so it’s worth taking one for a test drive before you decide.

2. Dacia Duster

The Dacia Duster is a budget-friendly alternative to the Puma that offers impressive space and tech for the price (if you don’t mind a simpler finish). It’s larger than the Puma, and there’s even a four-wheel drive version for those who want some off-road ability.

It doesn’t feel as sharp to drive as the Ford, but the Duster compensates for it with unbeatable value. Overall, it’s affordable, decent to drive, and packed with features.

3. Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is a good choice if you’re after a small SUV that prioritises comfort, quietness, and practicality over sporty handling. It’s more spacious inside than you might expect, and it comes in petrol, hybrid, and fully electric versions, which is why there’s something for every type of driver.

The Kona has a smoother ride than the Puma and a generous five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. So, it’s perfect for long-distance drivers who want peace of mind.

4. Jeep Avenger

The Jeep Avenger is a fun, characterful alternative to the Puma, especially in the electric version. It’s not a full-blown off-roader, but it feels closer to a proper SUV than the Puma, even without four-wheel drive. Both cars share a playful spirit—the Puma with its lively handling and the Avenger with its quirky design touches.

Interior space is limited, and the cabin materials don’t quite match the price tag. However, the Avenger EV impresses with up to 248 miles of range and low running costs if you can charge it at home.

5. Renault Captur

The Renault Captur is a smart alternative to the Puma if you want more space, strong hybrid efficiency, and great in-car tech. It’s roomy inside with a big boot, so it’s a practical pick for everyday use. The hybrid engines are impressively fuel-efficient and help keep running costs and tax low.

It won’t be as smooth over bumps as the Puma, but the Captur makes up for it with a brilliant Google-based infotainment system that’s one of the best in its class.

6. Skoda Kamiq

The Skoda Kamiq is a well-rounded, practical small SUV, making it a great option for families. It may not have the sporty edge or bold styling of the Ford Puma, but it’s more comfortable over bumps and packed with clever touches, like a built-in umbrella, an ice scraper in the fuel door, and a windscreen ticket holder.

Inside, it’s spacious and thoughtfully designed, with enough room for passengers and luggage. Even the small 1.0-litre engine delivers solid performance, and the car remains efficient and easy to live with.

7. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross is one of the top small SUVs available. Its full hybrid system is far more advanced than the mild-hybrid setup in the Puma, which allows for quiet, low-speed driving without using the petrol engine. It returns close to 70mpg without needing to plug in.

It’s well-equipped, stress-free to drive, and impressively efficient. The only drawback is the rather plain interior, which doesn’t feel as lively as some of its rivals.

9. Suzuki S‑Cross

The Suzuki S‑Cross is a practical, no-nonsense car that focuses on value and usability. Its appeal lies in generous space, high efficiency, and the availability of all-wheel drive, which is something the Puma doesn’t offer.

It packs a fair amount of kit for the price, with a decent infotainment system and plenty of safety features. The ride is more about comfort than excitement, and even though the interior won’t wow you, it’s functional and straightforward.

10. Volkswagen T‑Roc

The Volkswagen T‑Roc is a more grown-up alternative to the Puma—it has a slightly larger footprint and a classier interior. It’s not as playful, but the reassurance of the VW badge is something that still carries a bit more prestige than Ford.

Despite being a touch bigger, it’s still easy to park and well-suited to urban use, especially in trims with parking sensors or a reversing camera.

11. Kia Ceed

If you’re open to a smaller, traditional family hatchback, the Kia Ceed is a sensible choice. It’s practical, decent in terms of equipment, and offers a plush ride for longer journeys. One of its biggest strengths is the excellent seven-year warranty.

It may not be the most exciting car to look at, and the interior is fairly plain, but if you prioritise reliability and value, the Ceed is a smart choice.

12. Nissan Juke

The Nissan Juke is one of the Puma’s closest rivals in terms of size, style, and target audience. Its eye-catching design and compact size make it a great fit for city life. The interior is modern and packed with tech, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a good safety kit as standard.

In Europe, the Juke is the brand’s second best-selling car after the Qashqai, and it’s one of the most popular models in its class overall. Rear-seat space is a bit tight, but it’s efficient, affordable to run, and easy to park. There’s also a full hybrid version.

Verdict

Even great cars aren’t perfect, and the Ford Puma is no exception. Sometimes, you just don’t want to compromise.

If the Puma’s firm ride isn’t for you, the Kamiq or Captur might offer a more comfortable everyday drive. If you’re not a fan of the compact boot, the Duster or Karoq are cheaper and deliver more space without being too big. Or you could buy the Avenger or Kona for a fully electric option.

As for the rest, hopefully, you’ve learned their strengths, too—and what matters most in your next car.