Redesigned Ford Fusion and Escape Snatch Sales Records in April

WILBRAHAM, Mass., May 13, 2013 — Ford's recently redesigned models are proving popular with car buyers, as the Ford Escape and Ford Fusion both set April sales records last month. Moving 25,826 and 26,722 units, respectively, the Escape and Fusion helped Ford increase its April sales by 18 percent compared to the same month last year. Both vehicles were redesigned for the 2013 model year with updated in-car technology, more comfortable interiors and new EcoBoost engines designed to provide better fuel economy without sacrificing performance.

Three engines are available in the new Ford Escape, including a 1.6-liter EcoBoost that returns up to 33 mpg on the highway and a 2.0-liter EcoBoost option that generates 240 horsepower while still netting up to 30 mpg on the highway. An all-new exterior design conveys an athletic look with Z-shaped body lines and a large trapezoidal grille, while an available hand-free liftgate gives owners a practical option for loading cargo. Advanced technology also carries over to the inside of the Escape with the available SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system, which enables voice-activated calls, integrated Wi-Fi and turn-by-turn directions.

"The new Escape was designed to be a segment leader, and it offers a combination of interior comfort, performance and fuel efficiency that its competitors can't match," said Jason Perez, General Manager of Balise Ford of Wilbraham, a western Massachusetts Ford dealership. "A lot of customers are coming in to compare the Escape to other crossovers and are blown away by the amenities they can get."

Featuring the same EcoBoost engines as the Escape, the Ford Fusion has attracted more buyers since the latest-generation model went on sale last fall, with its year-to-date sales now up 25 percent over the same time period in 2012. The car's redesign features a new sophisticated exterior, including an aggressive hexagonal grille, swept-back headlights and a sleek beltline leading back to the LED taillights. Inside, high-quality materials and available ambient lighting provide an upscale feel, while technologies like the optional rearview camera and active park assist create modern practicality.

In addition to the traditional gas-powered Fusion, two hybrid options were introduced for the 2013 model year with many of the same features and amenities. The Ford Fusion Hybrid pairs a gas engine with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack to provide a net output of 188 horsepower and a 47-mpg rating in city, highway and combined driving. Meanwhile, the Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid achieves up to 100 MPGe combined when operating on electricity and gasoline and 43 mpg combined when running on gas alone.

"The thing that was missing from the hybrid market was fun, and the Fusion Energi and Fusion Hybrid bring that element to the game," added Perez. "Buyers are drawn to the fact that they can get all the style and real-car amenities they desire in a hybrid, and the extra bonus is that they don't have to sacrifice responsiveness for a drivetrain that goes farther on every gallon."

About Balise Ford of Wilbraham:
Balise Ford of Wilbraham is dedicated to providing drivers in Western Massachusetts with a customer-first environment throughout the dealership. Offering the full lineup of Ford vehicles at their Ford dealership near Springfield, including the Ford Fusion, Ford F-150, Ford Escape, Ford Focus and Ford C-MAX Hybrid, Balise Ford strives to help each customer find the model that suits their needs and lifestyle. Visit their temporary showroom at 2045 Boston Road in Wilbraham, Mass., while their permanent location is being turned into a brand-new state-of-the-art facility. You can also visit them online at www.balisefordofwilbraham.com, call them at 413-306-3049 or find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/BaliseFordWilbraham.