Ford Motor Co. (NYSE: F) is kicking off this week’s Detroit auto show with a special offer for customers wanting to buy a 2015 Focus, a 2016 Fusion or a 2016 Escape. Not only can these buyers qualify for a 60-month 0% loan, but if they trade in a Ford vehicle they already own or lease, the company will give them a $2,000 trade-assist bonus in cash.
There are other qualifications, of course, like no electric, hybrid or Fusion Energi models are included. and customers must take delivery from dealer stock by February 1, so we recommend that your read all the small print.
At the North American International Auto Show (the official name of the Detroit show) itself, Ford is showing off a refreshed version of its midsize Fusion for 2017. The new car gets a facelift, a new high-end trim level (Platinum) and a Sport version that includes all-wheel drive and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that develops 325 horsepower, a big step up from the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder power plant that generates 240 horsepower.
Other product introductions due during the year are a redesigned Super Duty pickup; a refreshed Escape to go along with the Fusion; a re-engineered Focus electric vehicle; a new Focus RS; an F-150 Raptor; and a Ford supercar, the GT.
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Last year Ford launched its aluminum-bodied F-150 into the market, and sales have been brisk and margins have remained high. A rumor last year suggested that the company may bring back its midsize Ranger pickup, but that hasn’t happened yet and may never happen. The other missing piece in Ford’s lineup is a subcompact crossover SUV to compete with the Buick Encore from GM, the Honda HR-V and the Jeep Renegade. These cars are among the best-selling vehicles on the market, and a new Fusion sedan is not likely to steal sales from the sport utility vehicles.
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