Ford Taurus (China-Spec)
Highlighting its commitment to serving consumers in China and expanding its presence in the world’s largest auto market, Ford Motor Company today unveiled the latest additions to its line-up of global vehicles, including the global debut of a new Ford Taurus sedan.
“Less than a month after we opened a brand new Changan Ford plant in Hangzhou, we’re taking another step to expand our vehicle line-up in China,” said John Lawler, chairman and CEO, Ford China. “These fantastic new vehicles are the latest example of how we continue to innovate and grow in China and around the world.”
In addition to the global unveiling of the new Ford Taurus, a large sedan designed specifically for the Chinese market, Ford debuted the new Ford Focus sedan and hatchback as well as the class-defining new Ford Explorer SUV. The company also announced pricing for the new seven-seat Ford Edge SUV.
The historic Taurus nameplate comes to China as a new flagship model for Changan Ford, and will be produced at the new US$760 million Hangzhou facility. Setting a new benchmark for large sedans in China, the Taurus features a clean, contemporary and harmonious design created by combining Ford’s global design expertise with an understanding of and respect for the specific needs of Chinese customers.
“The new Ford Taurus is another example of the best Ford has to offer globally, designed and developed with the Chinese market in mind,” said Marin Burela, president, Changan Ford Automobile Co. “More than just a premium business sedan, it’s an elegant statement of what is possible under the One Ford plan.”
With its shield-like trapezoidal grille, slender LED headlights, muscular sides and multi-piece LED tail lights, the Taurus has an elegant presence on the road. Inside, sophisticated consumers will appreciate a spacious interior with premium features including power reclining rear seats with a massage function, a panoramic sunroof and exceptional second-row legroom.
Under the hood, a new high-output, twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine offers effortless power and exceptional efficiency.
Ford’s commitment to bringing advanced technologies to a wide range of consumers was evident in Shanghai with the debut of the new Ford Focus.
The Focus has been redesigned with a sleeker exterior, a cleaner, more modern interior, smart driver assist technologies and even greater fuel efficiency. Advanced technology, including improved Active City Stop, which helps to mitigate low-speed collisions; enhanced Active Park Assist with perpendicular park assist, which helps to take the hassle out of parking; and SYNC 2 connectivity make the new Focus one of the smartest cars in its class.
With enhanced handling and a choice of Ford’s award-winning 1.0-liter three-cylinder, a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine or a 1.6L Ti-VCT engine, the Focus remains true to its fun-to-drive DNA. More efficient engines and new Auto Start-Stop technology, which turns off the engine while the vehicle is idling, also help the new Focus to save fuel.
Twenty-five years after the unveiling of the original Ford Explorer, Ford introduced the new Explorer to China. A rugged new look and new technologies make it smarter, more efficient and ready for any adventure.
The updates to the Explorer’s exterior include a redesigned, higher grille and robust LED headlights with visible heat-sink structures that cool the LEDs and impart an innovative look. Inside, the Explorer has simplified infotainment controls and refined detailing throughout the cabin.
The new Explorer offers an upgraded technology package, including enhanced Active Park Assist and a hands-free tailgate. Improved suspension delivers improved handling and a comfortable ride. For efficient power, the Explorer can be equipped with one of two advanced EcoBoost engines – a 3.5-liter V6 or a new 2.3-liter four-cylinder.
Ford also announced pricing for the new Ford Edge, which offers a third row of seating and new features to meet the needs of the Chinese market. Boasting a more rewarding driving experience and new technologies like Auto Start-Stop to save fuel and make driving more convenient, the new Edge starts at RMB249,800.
“Bringing one new vehicle to our customers is exciting. To be able to showcase four new vehicles at once is a special thrill,” said Lawler. “With the new Edge, Explorer, Focus and Taurus, we will be able to serve customers in China like never before – and there’s plenty more to come.”
