Bangkok--Apr 11--Ogilvy Public Relations
Ford Escape Duratec 2.3L secures its leadership in the compact SUV market once again when it was announced by the Organizing Committee of the 26th Bangkok International Motor Show the winner of “Car of the Year 2005, benzene-engine SUV category” award.
Mr. John Fink, Executive Vice President, Ford Thailand, said, “Winning the prestigious award is another moment of pride for Ford Thailand. This proves our success and strong commitment to building quality cars that offer a fun driving experience, quick response, and have a stylish modern look. Since its debut at the 25th Bangkok International Motor Show last year, the Escape Duratec 2.3L sparked a new trend and since then has taken the lead in the segment, where it still stands.”
The “Car of the Year” award is held every year and the winners are announced during the annual Bangkok International Motor Show. Jury comprises specialists and representatives from involved organizations including academics, Automotive and Motorcycles Reporters Association, the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage, and Grand Prix International Co., Ltd. Key criteria are performance, appearance, safety standard, technology, value for money and environmental friendliness.
Escape 2.3L’s key attributes
The Escape Duratec 2.3L has improved performance, fuel economy and promotes smooth, pleasant-sounding ride with low noise and vibration. Its Duratec, 2.3L, I-4 engine, together with the VICS (Variable Inertia-charging System), deliver superior torque and fuel efficiency at all engine speeds. It offers the right power at the right moments, but with significantly improved fuel economy.
In addition to key attributes, “No Boundaries”, “Fun”, “Versatility” and “Ride Comfort”, the “Balance of Power” is at the top of the list of the specific attributes that suit customers’ needs. The new features particularly contribute to environmental compatibility, helping to minimize emissions.
Providing the best driving experience and versatility for city and highway driving, the Escape 2.3L features a new four-speed automatic transmission that provides even smoother shifting performance. The Control Track II, all-wheel-drive system is introduced to automatically distribute additional torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels being to slip. Very user-friendly, customers only need to flip a switch on the instrument panel to engage the front and rear wheels while the vehicle is in motion. This offers excellent performance on wet and slippery surfaces. Besides, all around it offers ultimate driving stability and riding comfort.
Because safety standards are an important concern among customers, Ford adds a mechanical brake assist to improve emergency braking performance, thus improve the safety condition on hills. Inside the cabin, front-seat passengers are protected not only by SRS front airbags, but also SRS side airbags (in XLT model) with head protection.
“These outstanding attributes earn Ford Escape 2.3L the “Car of the Year Award”, the same reasons that other Ford vehicles also won the awards earlier — Ranger in 1999, 2001, and 2002; Explorer in 2002; Tierra in 2003 and Everest in 2004. Quality is always Job No. 1 at Ford,” said Mr. Fink.
Current Promotion Extended until End of April
Special for customers buying Escape from now until April 30, 2005, Ford offers a special deal to help them own an Escape easier as follows:
Low down payment starting from 20%
2.0L model: 0% interest (12-60 months)
2.3L XLS, 2.3L XLT and 3.0L: 0% interest for 12-48 months; or 1.69% interest for 60 months plus free one-year insurance premium for the latter offer.
“After sales service also tops our priority to ensure customer satisfaction. With our commitment to customer satisfaction, Ford was announced the No. 1 nameplate in the J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Customer Satisfaction Index. Our commitment to quality service continues and the Brand@Retail showroom decoration and service concept will be extended across all Ford showrooms nationwide to further improve customer satisfaction,” said Mr. Fink.
www.ford.co.th
Contact:
Natee Sastyoungkul
Tel. 02 686-4000 ext 4635Fax. 02 264 1006
[email protected]
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