Ford has been in the business of making fun and memorable hatchbacks and although the Puma is a crossover , it's still fit to fill the shoes left by the outgoing Fiesta. You can check out our many Puma articles and our grand review of our long-term unit.
Related: Is the Ford Puma good for new drivers?
Ford Puma Infotainment
The Puma's infotainment features an 8-inch touchscreen that's Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The infotainment runs on Ford's SYNC 3 system. The SYNC 3 features a predominantly hands-free experience. A comprehensive turn-by-turn navigation system is available. You have voice commands to request music and directions, and the system is regularly updated. Sync Applink also allows for compatible apps and they are available on your vehicle's touchscreen. Complimentary features for the Puma include wireless charging; however, the, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is exclusively wired via the vehicle's USB port. A lovely feature of the of the Puma's infotainment is that it still retains rotary dials for the volume and radio tuner as well as analogue buttons for the track controls so the system isn't exclusively touch. The HVAC controls are operated independently from the touchscreen, but the screen will show adjustments you're making, such as the blower fan speed and temperature changes. FordPass is compatible with the Puma to manage vehicle location, unlock doors and even start the engine to pre-condition the cabin.
Jaecoo J7 Infotainment
Out of all the cars here, the Jaecoo J7 probably has the biggest infotainment system screen here, with the largest unit being at 14.8 inches and setup in a portrait orientation. This system houses a majority of the vehicle's functionality, namely the HVAC controls and vehicle systems, and it compliments the digital instrument cluster, too. The system incorporates Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality without the need for third-party apps. Below the screen is a 50W wireless charger, and there are a plethora of USB ports in the front and rear of the vehicle. The menus are decently laid out; if you're savvy with a smartphone, you'll pick this system up easily.
Subaru Crosstrek Infotainment
Hot on the heels on screen size is the Subaru Crosstrek with the vertically orientated 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment system. Starlink connects you to your music, news, navigation, podcasts and other vehicle apps. The system in the Crosstrek is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enabled with a wireless connection. There is a mixture of USB-A, USB-C and a 3.5mm Aux input below the screen. Starlink is also linked to the safety and security systems. Unfortunately, the MySubaru app isn't available in our region; despite that, the app's functionality is similar to that of FordPass. You'll find a Qi wireless charger too.
Verdict
It's hard to pick between the three, but we'd say the Puma clinches the victory here thanks to its setup, SYNC 3 and FordPass connectivity. The Subaru has a stellar system, but the lack of the MySubaru app in South Africa ultimately landed it in second place. The J7's infotainment is a marvel, but the systems in the other two cars have that added refinement. You can search for the latest Ford Puma deals here on AutoTrader and sell your car too.
