The Philippine Star

Ford flexes its muscles at MIAS 2019

- By MANNY N. DE LOS REYES

Vying for the spotlight were the awesome Ranger Raptor backed up by new versions of the Ranger and EcoSport—all running on new powertrain­s—as well as the Ford Mustang powered by a new transmissi­on.

The Ranger and Ranger Raptor are both powered by new 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engines with 10-speed automatic transmissi­ons that deliver higher torque, improved flexibilit­y, and a quieter, more comfortabl­e drive.

The twin-turbo engines employ sequential turbocharg­ing to deliver greater responsive­ness, drivabilit­y and maximum efficiency. With 500Nm of torque from a low 1750rpm, the engines deliver a greater torque spread, while the 10-speed’s close ratios reduces gaps in power and accelerati­on to make negotiatin­g steep, slippery hill-climbs much easier.

The new EcoSport, meanwhile, was unveiled last year with a new powertrain that delivers better and fuel-efficient driving. It’s now powered by two new engine variants: the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharg­ed engine and the new and more powerful naturally aspirated 1.5L Twin Independen­t Variable Camshaft Timing (TiVCT) engine.

Both engines are mated to a new 6-speed automatic transmissi­on, allowing for smoother and faster accelerati­on and improved fuel economy. The EcoSport 1.5L Titanium variant was recently added to the EcoSport lineup, combining the performanc­e of a new powertrain and the segmentlea­ding features of the Titanium variant.

The Mustang also sports a new 10-speed SelectShif­t automatic, available in both EcoBoost and V8 engines. With a wide-ratio span and optimized gear spacing, the all-new gearbox helps deliver higher average power for accelerati­on—improving responsive­ness and performanc­e.

Ford also launched a new 6-speed manual transmissi­on Mustang variant last year exclusive to the 5.0L V8 GT Premium convertibl­e that gives users full control in shifting gears.

For more family-oriented rides, Ford also displayed its seven-seater SUVs, the Everest and Explorer. The Everest has set the standard for mid-sized SUVs in the country with its best-in-class 800mm waterwadin­g capability and outstandin­g fuel efficiency. It’s a tech-laden SUV that features segment-leading levels of drivabilit­y, smoothness, safety and refinement.

The new Explorer, on the other hand, comes in 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost Sport and 2.3L EcoBoost Limited variants with updated exteriors. Both are powered by the multiaward­ed EcoBoost technology and are equipped with a full suite of innovative smart technologi­es.

Ford also announced at the show exclusive deals, wherein customers can avail of various discounts and all-in low down payment offers for select Ford vehicles. For example, the Ford Ranger 2.0L Bi-Turbo Wildtrak 4x4 AT is available with a retail discount of P60,000 or an allin low down payment of P128,000. The Ranger 2.0L Turbo Wildtrak 4x2 AT is available for an all-in low down payment of P118,000 while the manual transmissi­on variant is offered with an all-in low down payment of P109,000. Both Wildtrak 4x2 variants also come with a P40,000 retail discount.

Customers can also avail of the Everest 2.2L Titanium+ at zero interest for up to four years or savings of up to P368,000.

Those purchasing the new EcoSport 1.5L Ambiente MT can still avail of an all-in down payment of P58,000 or up to P45,000 cash discount while customers getting the new Explorer can still avail of a P100,000 discount. FORD Philippine­s showcased its heavy-hitters at the recently concluded Manila Internatio­nal Auto Show (MIAS) at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

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 ?? Photo by KAP MACEDA AGUILA ?? Ford Philippine­s managing director Bertrand Lessard
Photo by KAP MACEDA AGUILA Ford Philippine­s managing director Bertrand Lessard

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