Friday, May 19, 2006

Ford offering Diesel and Petrol versions for same price in Belfast

From Ka to Mondeo and everywhere in between, Ford of Europe offers a great range of Diesel powerplants from 1.4 to 3.0 liters. And in Europe you had better have a Diesel option if you want to succeed. I found this article from the Belfast Telegraph, on Ford's effort to make these thrifty powerful Diesels all the more accessable.
Like Hybrids in the US, Diesels offer better economy but with a premium price. A premium that many seem willing to pay, given the fact that over 40% of new cars in Europe are so equipped. But Ford in the UK is trying to take that premium out of the price. Now the article's title is a little misleading, but it's an interesting read. I've copied the table below to illustrate. Ford's new Diesels designed with French partner PSA ( Peugeot/Citreon) are built in the UK and in large enough numbers to bring costs in line with petrol engines. This is promissing for Europe, and who knows it could be for the US if we ever get Diesels from Ford.

"Audi vs Ford "
BY DEREK BLACK18 May 2006

The models carrying the unique offer are:
Fiesta Zetec - £7,790 - 1.25 petrol or 1.4 TDCi (68PS)
Fusion Style - £9,295 - 1.4 petrol or 1.4 TDCi(68PS)
Focus Sport 5dr - £11,990 - 1.6 petrol or 1.6 TDCi(90PS)
FocusC-MAX Style - 11,575 - 1.6 petrol or 1.6 TDCi(90PS)
Mondeo Edge - £12,745 - 1.8 Petrol or 2.0TDCi(115PS)

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