Hardly drawing breath after a hefty round of new model introductions this year, Ford Australia steams full speed ahead into 2013 with plenty to look forward to.
Ground-breaking technology and fuel-sipping engines are the headline acts for the newcomers which are highlighted by the remarkable 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine – the 2012 International Engine Of The Year – in the updated 2013 model year Ford Fiesta.
The German-designed Ford Fiesta also gains a fresh look outside and a smarter interior.
Hot hatch fans aren’t left-out with Ford also confirming the 132kW/240Nm 1.6-litre Fiesta ST will also join the compact car model lineup (in three-door form) next year, joining its large sibling the Focus ST in the performance car end of the Ford garage – both vehicles the work of Ford’s Team RS. Put simply, the Ford Focus ST was one of the best new cars we drove this year.
Ford says the Fiesta ST will sprint from zero to 100km/h in under seven seconds. That plus Torque Vectoring Control and a sports suspension, developed after Nurburgring testing and lowered by 15mm will ensure anticipation is already building for this sporty Ford.
Inside are Recaro sports seats…like the Focus, Ford’s Fiesta ST isn’t lacking for equipment.
Also on the arrivals list for Ford next year is the all-new Kuga mid-size SUV. Another product of Ford Germany, unlike the current Kuga which is sold in Australia exclusively powered by a five-cylinder petrol engine, the newcomer arrives with a choice of 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol or 2.0-litre turbo-diesel.
Debuting on the all-new Ford Kuga is Ford’s SYNC-based Emergency Assistance System which can connect drivers with emergency services after an accident and automatically pin-point the car’s location as well as providing a communication channel while help is on the way. Also breaking cover for the first time ‘Downunder’ is Ford’s ‘Open-Sesame’ tailgate system – with the vehicle key in your pocket you simply wave your foot under the rear bumper and the tailgate automatically opens.
Among the features of the all-new Ford Kuga are a sensor-based Blind Sport Information System and Active Park Assist parallel parking aid.
The all-new Ford Kuga has already bee4n awarded a maximum five star safety rating by Euro NCAP.
“Next year we’re continuing our technology and smart story with some high quality global vehicles that cater to the differing customer wants in the market,” explained Ford Australia chief Bob Graziano. “From driving enthusiasts to young families and small business owners, we have something for everyone.”
