Preview the 2010 Ford lineup. Peek into the very near future at a lineup for a fast-changing world. Ever notice those small Ford vehicles in Europe and wondered why they're not available here in the states? Well, that's about to change. As part of a bold push to deliver smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, Ford is bringing six of its revered European models to North America in 2010. Just don't call them cute: Europe's narrow, twisting roads demand nimble handling and snappy performance, while its dense urban centers-not to mention fuel prices-require that such qualities come in smart packages. As you'll soon see, you'll feel just as confident dropping the kids off at practice and pulling up to the pump as you would winding through the Alps or parallel parking in Paris. Here's a preview of the first three to arrive.
The 2010 Ford Fiesta: Designed and developed in Europe and built in North America, the al-new 2010 Fiesta is the first major product of Ford's new global product development process. Its rakish lines reflect the Verve Concept that inspired it, the body shell's high-strength steel is safe and light, thus improving its power-to-weight ratio and efficiency; and its dynamic European handling characteristics will set new standards in refinement-and fun-for small cars.
The 2010 Ford Focus: The American Ford is selling so fast that Ford had to add a third shift to it Wayne, Mich. plant to keep up with demand. That trend will only continue with the global 2010 model, and ideal blend of the U.S. and European editions that will be built at the same plant. The Focus is a sleek 5-door commuter whose dramatic aerodynamics make it ultra-efficient. (The U.K.'s ECOnetic version boasts 65.6 mpg and was named the Green Car of the Year by the environmental website whatgreencar.com.) But this car's smart features go beyond efficiency. The keyless entry and ignition technology, for example, means you can open the door without fishing through your pockets-and it's impossible to lock yourself out.
The 2010 Ford Transit Connect: From delivering goods to hauling gear, small business owners need the right tool for the right job. Enter the much celebrated Transit Connect from Ford Europe. Designed as a greener, more fuel-efficient alternative to full-size service vans, this unique vehicle has dual sliding doors, seating for up to five and a cavernous 143 cubic feet of cargo space. Thanks to its 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission, it gets a thrifty fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city, and 24 mpg on the highway. It drives like a car, works like a van-and is engineered to be as tough as a truck.
Stay tuned later in the week for more previews from the 2010 lineup, such as the Fusion, Mustang, and Taurus.
Photos from jdpower.com, caranddriver.com, autoblog.com.
Story from My Ford Magazine
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