NEWS Ford launches the Fusion to South and Sub-Saharan Africa media in the Western Cape SILVERTON, South Africa, – Ford’s latest passenger car, the Fusion, was launched to media from South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa in the Western Cape from January 20 to 22. The launch took the form of a three day event, comprising 74 representatives from automotive, lifestyle and consumer media; with Mark Kaufman, Vice President Marketing, Sales & Service hosting the business session. The detailed programme included an extensive ride and drive activity as well as a demonstration of the vehicle’s cutting-edge technologies. On offer at the launch event were three engine derivatives, in the form of the 1.5 EcoBoost, 2.0 EcoBoost, and 2.0 TDCi; all mated to six-speed automatic transmissions (Powershift in the case of the diesel). The route itself snaked through both the Cape Town city and surrounds, as well as via the stunning Cape wine lands. The 30km long Bain’s Kloof Pass gave participants the opportunity to explore the dynamic ability of the Fusion, while the approximately 300km route allowed for all derivatives to be driven. The event also played on the Fusion theme, with a glassblowing demonstration on offer at the lunch venue, fusion cocktails available at the pre-dinner reception, and an exclusive chocolate and brandy pairing tasting taking place after dinner. The Fusion was extremely well received by journalists from all regions, with favourable comments made both on the launch and through positive media exposure received to date. Ashley Oldfield - cars.co.za I can’t believe the space on offer in the Fusion, definitely beats the German rivals. I found the car comfy to drive and enjoyed the range of engines on offer at the launch – the 1.5 EcoBoost I reckon is the pick of the bunch. The latest version of Sync is interesting and we look forward to Sync3. Mark Jones – Citizen Motoring The Fusion delivers on what it promises - the 1.5-litre is already a better choice than the biggerengined, naturally-aspirated Suzuki Kizashi. I dig the modern styling of the Fusion, definitely the best-looking of the larger sedans out there. The modern range of force-fed engines will appeal to a wide audience too. Bobby Cheetham - The Herald I love the styling, which is as impressive as the Fusion’s handling. The Fusion is a dynamic package with an impressive level of build quality. The range-topper may be a bit pricey, but the For news releases, related materials and high-resolution photos and video, visit www.media.ford.com. Follow at www.facebook.com/fordapa, www.twitter.com/fordapa or www.youtube.com/fordapa 1.5 and 2-litre are well worth the money, great value to be had here. Expect a few newbie ford enthusiasts with this car. Julian Loerie – Lotus FM I’m not sure what surprised me more – the pricing, or the how well suited the Fusion is to take the fight to its German counterparts. The gearbox is especially creamy, and there’s no hint of turbolag in the diesel. Noise and vibration levels are exceptional here; I had to look at the rev counter to remind myself that I was piloting the diesel. My pick of the bunch? The 2-litre Ecoboost, I like the punch it offers. The colour palette is quite vibey too! Melinda Ferguson – Kaya FM Finally - a real competitor to the BMW 3 Series, Merc C Class and Audi A4. So glad all the engines are turbocharged and modern, I reckon the German manufacturers should sit up and take note of this new rival. Lindsey Schutters – Popular Mechanics The Fusion reminded me of my dad’s tourer when I was a kid. The Fusion is a comfy and lively car, with the 1.5 the gem in the range. I feel the Fusion would be a great caravan tower as well as a day-to-day sedan; if I were buying in the segment it would be my first choice. I also like that the pricing is the next natural step in size from the Focus, it gives Focus buyers somewhere to graduate to. Lawrence Smith - YFM This is without a doubt worthy of its halo title in terms of the Ford product line-up in SA. The 1.5 is an eye opener in terms of latest-gen engine technology, offering more than adequate power for a family sedan. The Fusion is also both spacious and comfy; features lots of safety, and is easy to navigate through the various tech offerings. I was also surprised at the complete lack of wind noise, and can firmly say that this car is a huge leap forward for the Ford brand. Yemi Shobowale – Autofocus, Nigeria It’s simple, I want the car! Great build quality, smooth ride and leading in-gear acceleration all make for a winning package. I especially like the safety tech – with all the warning systems keeping me safe – which was especially useful for someone like me driving on the “wriong” side of the road. Well done, Ford. Julio Sousa e Silva – O Pais, Angola Here we have a silent cruiser with impressive levels of comfort. In terms of power the 2-litre rocks, while on the safety front the technology literally saved my life today by warning me that a car was in my blindspot. Driving on a side of the road I’m not used to made the lanne change assist a very-valuable tool too. This car is not only a great sedan, but it will save lives and make one feel safer on the roads. Links to a few samples of coverage received: http://www.carmag.co.za/driving-impressions/driven-ford-fusion-20-ecoboost-titanium/ http://www.topgear.co.za/news/the-mondeo-returns-as-fusion-after-a-softer-four-door-ford-st/ 2 For news releases, related materials and high-resolution photos and video, visit www.media.ford.com. Follow at www.facebook.com/ford, www.twitter.com/ford or www.youtube.com/fordvideo1 http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/2015-SA-Ford-Fusion-launch-full-story-20150122 http://www.womenonwheels.co.za/car-reviews/ford-fusion/ http://www.ignitionlive.co.za/2015-ford-fusion-details-pricing/ http://www.carsinaction.net/2015/01/22/first-drive-ford-fusion-2015/ ### 3 For news releases, related materials and high-resolution photos and video, visit www.media.ford.com. Follow at www.facebook.com/ford, www.twitter.com/ford or www.youtube.com/fordvideo1