Ford Flex and Ford Explorer Make KBB’s 10 Best 3-Row Vehicles Under $30,000 List

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Kelley Blue Book recently announced their list of the “10 Best 3-Row Vehicles Under $30,000” naming both the 2012 Ford Flex and 2012 Ford Explorer.  A staple of suburban households, the 3-row vehicle is perfect for families who need extra room for carpools and road trips as well as those looking for a comfortable vehicle capable of carrying lots of cargo. 

The 7-passenger Ford Explorer is highlighted by a long list of available features providing both maximum comfort and high-tech technology.  Features include leather-trimmed heated bucket seats, push button start, SYNC with MyFord Touch, dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control and a rear view camera.  Powered by a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 255 lbs/ft of torque, the Explorer is capable of handling everything from the carpool lane to rugged off-road terrain. 

Drivers looking for something a little more unique, including the surprising combination of car-like dynamics and 3-row capability, will love the Ford Flex.  While providing many of the same features as the Explorer, the Flex also offers a distinctive style and versatility all its own. Its 3.5-liter Duratec® V6 engine produces 262 horsepower and 248 lbs/ft of torque.

Both the Ford Explorer and Ford Flex also offer an available Ecoboost engine for added fuel efficiency.  The Explorer’s 2.0-liter I-4 EcoBoost engine provides an EPA estimated 20/28 mpg city/highway while the Flex’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine comes in at 16/23 mpg city/highway. 

To learn more about the amazing features and versatile, 3-row capabilities of the 2012 Ford Explorer and Ford Flex, contact Robbie Roberson Ford or stop by their Waycross, GA dealership to take a test drive.

Ford Earns Several 2012 Best Retained Value Awards

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Ford has claimed top ranking in five of Edmunds’ 2012 Retained Value® Awards categories.  Based on projected residual value, the 2012 Ford models chosen averaged the highest 5-year retained value in their respected markets.     

Resale value is one of the most important considerations when purchasing a new vehicle.  “Smart car shoppers will choose a car with high retained value so they can maximize its worth at trade-in or sale,” advises Edmunds.  Additionally, resale value is a key factor in determining monthly lease payments, therefore consumers in the market for a new lease will want to find those vehicles with strong resale values to minimize their payments.

The following Ford vehicles won model-level Best Retained Value® Awards:

Ford Mustang – Coupe $25K-$35K

Ford Shelby GT500 – Coupe Over $45K and Convertible Over $45K

Ford F-150 – Large Light Duty Truck

Ford F-350 Super Duty – Large Heavy Duty Truck

Stop in to Robbie Roberson Ford to learn more about Ford’s 2012 Best Retained Value Award winning models!

2013 Ford Fusion Showcased at New York Auto Show

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First introduced earlier this year, the 2013 Ford Fusion was on display at the 2012 New York International Auto Show to give consumers more details on the redesigned sedan.  Ford Fusion Marketing Manager, Samantha Hoyt, provided a tour of the new Fusion which will be released this fall.

The 2013 Ford Fusion will be available in several fuel-efficient powertrains, including EcoBoost®, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid engines with both manual and automatic transmissions available. 

The new 1.6-liter EcoBoost® will also be the first non-hybrid midsize sedan available with an Auto Start-Stop System. Auto start-stop technology works by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, and then seamlessly re-starting the engine when the brake pedal is released.   “We expect the average Fusion driver with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine and Auto Start-Stop will save about $1,100 more than other midsize sedan owners during five years of driving,” said Hoyt. 

The new Fusion will also feature several high-tech technologies and safety features including a Lane Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist, and MyFord Touch®. 

To learn more about the all-new 2013 Ford Fusion, contact Robbie Roberson Ford!

2012 Ford Escape Hybrid Named #1 Most Fuel-Efficient SUV by KBB

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Kelley Blue Book has released their 10 Most Fuel-Efficient SUVs and Crossovers with the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid coming in 1st place.  Taking into consideration the most fuel-efficient utility vehicles in overall combined fuel economy, according to the EPA, the Escape produces an impressive combined 32 mpg or 34/31 mpg city/highway. 

With the highest fuel economy ratings in its class, the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid provides a smooth driving experience combined with the power of a SUV without sacrificing efficiency.  The 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 engine and permanent-magnet AC-synchronous electric motor produce 155 horsepower and comes with an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT). 

The Escape Hybrid’s appeal is also highlighted by a comfortable and spacious interior that is full of upscale features including a rear view camera, power moonroof, premium leather-trimmed heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and Ford’s voice-activated SYNC® system that includes Bluetooth, 911 assist, and turn-by-turn directions. 

The Ford Escape Hybrid also receives high marks for safety with numerous standard safety features that include AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™, a Personal Safety System™, a Safety Canopy® System, and dual-stage airbags.  MyKey is also standard which helps keep young drivers safe by allowing parents to limit their top speed and encourage seat belt usage. 

For more information on the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid contact Robbie Roberson Ford or stop by their Waycross dealership to take a test drive!

Ford Wins Four KBB 2012 Brand Image Awards

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Kelley Blue Book has announced the winners of its 2012 Brand Image Awards with Ford receiving the most honors, winning four categories.  Ford received awards for Most Family-Friendly Brand, Most Rugged Truck Brand, Best Exterior Design Brand — Non-Luxury, and Best Interior Design Brand — Non-Luxury.

This is the fourth straight year that Ford has taken the award for Most Rugged Truck Brand thanks to its F-series lineup, including the Ford F-150, America’s best-selling vehicle for the past three decades. 

Using consumer perception data from KBB’s Intelligence’s Brand Watch study, the awards recognize those automakers that have left the best impression on consumers.  “Image isn’t everything but it is more than enough to get shoppers into the store, and that’s half the battle for automakers and their dealers,” stated Jack  Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s Kbb.com. “With standout vehicles, memorable marketing and positive word of mouth, the winners of Kelley Blue Book’s 2012 Brand Image Awards have secured enviable positions in the minds of in-market shoppers.”

According to KBB editors: 

2012 Most Family-Friendly Brand: Ford
“Ford’s revamped people-shuttling vehicles have struck a chord with those looking to haul growing families and their gear in safety and comfort.  The re-invented Explorer has helped lead this effort thanks to its more car-like ride and seating for up to seven, while good looks and roomy interiors have attracted others to the Taurus sedan and Flex crossover.”

2012 Best Interior Design Brand — Non-Luxury: Ford
“Ford’s upscale interior styling seemingly blurs the line between luxury and non-luxury interior design. Overflowing with high-quality materials and the latest high-tech gadgets, Ford interiors break the perceptions of what can be achieved in a mainstream vehicle.”

2012 Most Rugged Truck Brand: Ford
“In 1925, Ford produced its first ever pickup truck. Now 87 years later, Ford’s F-150 has become the quintessential American truck and the country’s best-selling vehicle for three decades. From ranchers to boaters to the everyday Joe, the Ford F-Series offers something for anyone seeking a durable pickup with everyday versatility.”

2012 Best Exterior Design Brand — Non-Luxury: Ford
“A bold, dynamic exterior design is one of the key ingredients in Ford’s recent recipe for success. While Ford’s current ‘Kinetic’ design language is well received by the American public, the Blue Oval refuses to rest on its laurels.  Ford is aiming to shake-up the industry once again with its next-generation global design platform set to debut on the 2013 Fusion.”

For more information on Ford and their award winning lineup, contact Robbie Roberson Ford or stop into their Waycross, GA dealership!

Ford F-150 Receives 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year Award

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In addition to performance, fuel efficiency, and power, the 2012 Ford F-150 can now add prestige to its description as it received the 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year award. The Ford F-150 boasts best-in-class towing capacity, best-in-class standard V6 power, and class leading fuel economy with an EPA estimated 17 MPG city/23 MPG highway.

The interior of the 2012 Ford F-150 also impresses. While delivering a quiet and comfortable ride, the inside offers a configurable LCD productivity screen that allows the driver to check fuel economy and view towing information. Ford SYNC, which provides drivers with a voice-activated in-vehicle communications and entertainment system, is also available on the 2012 F-150.

The award winning 2012 Ford F-150 is equipped with an EcoBoost engine designed with twin turbocharged power. Ford’s EcoBoost technology provides unmatched efficiency and capability.


Contact Robbie Roberson Ford for more information on the award winning Ford F-150!

Check Out Ford’s New Reality TV Show “Escape Routes” on NBC

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Ford has always been a big sponsor of primetime TV shows, but this time instead of sponsoring the new show, they are hosting it. Ford’s all-new prime-time reality TV show, “Escape Routes” will air on Saturday nights on NBC beginning March 31.

“Escape Routes” is a new interactive reality series that will feature a cast of six teams of two participating in a unique road-trip competition with real-world challenges featuring the all-new Ford Escape.  The show will air for 6 episodes, each week the two-person teams will arrive in a new city where they will compete in a series of spontaneous activities and interactive challenges using their Escapes.

The journey begins in Los Angeles, before heading to New York, Atlanta, Miami, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. Each stop will engage with online followers and tap into the fabric of the local culture.  Viewers will be able to interact with and compete alongside the six teams throughout their adventures at esacperoutes.com.

The winning team will receive a grand prize of $100,000 plus two new Ford Escapes.  Online participants can win trips, high-tech gadgets, and a brand-new Escape as well.

“This is the first time an automaker has used prime-time television to launch a new vehicle and it is a great showcase for the all-new Escape,” said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president for Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “’Escape Routes’ builds on the success of Ford’s previous social engagement programs and takes it to the next level with TV.”

Ford Motor Company Fund Donates $100,000 in Tornado Relief Efforts

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The recent tornados that have swept through northern and eastern Kentucky as well as southern Indiana have left many homes and lives in shambles. Ford Motor Company is directly donating $75,000 to the American Red Cross as well as other organizations to help assist the many efforts in the disaster relief mission.

Ford is encouraging employees to donate themselves with matching donations predicted to reach at least $100,000. Not only are the Ford employees stepping up with lending their own money, but many employees from the Sharonville Plant are donating their own time and efforts in the rebuilding ventures in southern Ohio.

Ford has also supported many other organizations, including the Dare to Care Food Bank. Ford’s most recent donation was a refrigerated F-550 trucks. The Dare to Care Food Bank is also assisting in the effort to help those affected by the detrimental tornados.

Ford Motor Company didn’t begin helping those in need with this recent tornado, and will not stop there. Through the two manufacturing operations in Louisville, KY along with the Operation Goodwill partnership, Ford is expected to donate more than $1.5 million during 2011 and 2012.

For information on how you can help, contact Robbie Roberson Ford!

 

Ford Fusion and Ford Explorer Top J.D. Power and Associates’ 2012 Vehicle Dependability Study

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J.D. Power and Associates released their annual Vehicle Dependability Study results, ranking both the Ford Fusion and Ford Explorer at the top of their respective segments for long-term durability. 

The Dependability Study is based on customer feedback regarding problems they experienced over the past 12 months with their three year old vehicles (2009 model-year vehicles were surveyed for the 2012 study).  Original owners were given a list of over 200 issues in eight categories to choose from.   Overall dependability was then determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score reflecting higher quality. 

According to the study, four Ford models ranked in the top three for long-term durability with both the Ford Fusion and Ford Explorer ranking highest.  The Fusion was ranked highest Midsize Car for the second consecutive year while the Explorer tied for first with the Nissan Murano in the Midsize Crossover/SUV class.  In addition, the Ford Ranger came in second for Midsize Pickups and the Ford Taurus ranked third among Large Cars.  Other Ford models also performed well according to the study, including the Mustang, however this segment is not ranked. 

“The vehicles we are building today are more reliable than ever. Ford has made significant strides over the past few years to achieve world-class levels of long-term quality and desirability,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford Group Vice President, Global Quality and New Model Launches. 

The study also found that overall vehicle dependability across all makes was up 13% to an average of 132 PP100 from 2011, the lowest problem rate since the inception of the study in 1990.  Twenty five out of thirty two brands showed improved dependability.  “Despite facing immense challenges in 2009, automakers placed a keen focus on delivering outstanding levels of quality, which they understood would be essential to their long-term success,” said David Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. “Three years later, owners of these models are enjoying unprecedented levels of vehicle dependability and manufacturers are experiencing market recovery. This is good news both for owners—who are holding onto their vehicles for longer than ever—and manufacturers, since perception of quality and dependability is a critical factor in vehicle purchase decisions.” 

To find out more about the Ford models ranked highest in dependability, contact Robbie Roberson Ford. 

New Ford Escape All-Wheel-Drive System Gives Drivers More Control

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Whether driving in rain, ice, snow or off-road conditions, the all-new Ford Escape intelligent all-wheel-drive system provides extra traction and improved handling, giving drivers more control in the worst of driving conditions. 

The advanced software, developed by Ford, behind the new all-wheel-drive system constantly reassesses conditions by gathering data from 25 external signals, including wheel speed, accelerator pedal position and steering wheel angle.  “This is a very robust system, tested and tuned around the world in many conditions,” said Joe Torres, senior engineer, all-wheel-drive system development.  

The system faced rigorous testing from the mountains of New Zealand to the California desert. Testing included snowy conditions, long mountain passes, extended hill climbs and high-temperature, off-road environments.

Available together for the first time in an SUV, the systems Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control also assist the driver during turns by preemptively splitting the torque produced by the powertrain between the front and rear axles.  The system helps the vehicle follow the intended steering path and also calculates where the driver wants to go versus where the vehicle is heading based on steering angle.  The Ford system then adds or subtracts torque as needed through an electromagnetic clutch.

All of these adjustments, corrections, and calculations are made every 16 milliseconds, 20 times faster than the blink of an eye.

For more information on the Escape and its all-wheel-drive system, contact Robbie Roberson Ford!