What Transmission Does the Kuga Use?
3 Answers
The Kuga utilizes a transmission co-developed by Ford and General Motors, known for its high reliability. General Motors was founded on September 16, 1908, and globally manufactures and sells vehicles under brands such as Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Wuling, Baojun, and Holden, among others. The Kuga is equipped with a 6-speed automatic manual transmission. Essentially, an automatic manual transmission is a traditional AT or CVT transmission enhanced with manual shifting capabilities, designed to add driving pleasure to automatic vehicles. When using the Kuga's transmission in daily driving, the following points should be noted: Do not delay transmission fluid changes for extended periods. Prolonged intervals can damage internal components like bearings and the transmission housing. Avoid coasting in neutral for long durations. While manual drivers often coast in neutral to save fuel, doing so in an automatic can cause overheating and jerky shifts when re-engaging Drive (D) mode. Never shift into Drive (D) or Reverse (R) before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Aggressive gear changes while moving can severely damage transmission gears, leading to long-term issues like gear grinding. Refrain from frequently climbing steep hills in Drive (D) mode. Automatic transmissions may overheat under heavy load or upshift prematurely, causing power loss. Use manual mode to lock lower gears or engage Sport mode for protection. Do not tow the vehicle long distances. In case of breakdowns, always use a flatbed tow truck with the transmission in Neutral (N). Towing via ropes or with driven wheels on the ground is prohibited.
The transmission configuration of the Kuga depends on the specific model year. I've driven the older 1.5T Kuga, the 2013 to 2016 models were equipped with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, which had noticeable shift hesitation at low speeds. Starting from the 2017 model, the 1.5T versions all switched to a 6AT transmission. The newer 2.0T models use an 8AT, which shifts very smoothly. If you're driving the hybrid version, it comes with an eCVT electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, similar in principle to Toyota's hybrid system. I recommend checking the 10th letter of the VIN, looking at the gear display on the instrument panel, or most directly, checking the production year on the door nameplate.
Research on the Kuga's transmission technology roadmap: Early 1.6T engines were paired with 6-speed dual-clutch transmissions, later upgraded to more reliable conventional 6AT. The current mainstream 1.5T+6AT combination is considered a golden partnership, while the 240-horsepower 2.0T version is matched with a new 8AT featuring paddle shifters. Special mention goes to the hybrid version, which uses eCVT for continuously variable transmission, providing exceptional quietness when the electric motor directly drives the wheels. Post-facelift models feature significantly optimized transmission logic, with faster downshifts during hard acceleration. When selecting used cars, pay attention to potential oil leakage issues with pre-2015 dual-clutch models, and it's advisable to check maintenance records.
