New Ford Fusion Rakes In Car of the Year Awards

A year ago, the redesigned 2013 Ford Fusion was named Best in Show by Autoweek magazine following its debut at the Detroit Auto Show, raising expectations for the dealership arrival of the midsize sedan. Fast-forward to the present day, and the new Fusion is now on sale and continuing to attract critical acclaim. Both Autobytel and AOL Autos recently named the aggressively styled model their Car of the Year.

The Autobytel 2013 Car of the Year award was decided by the votes of the vehicle-research site's editorial team, and the Fusion ended up the near-unanimous choice. Editors called the new Ford model "the right amount of car for the right price at the right time," adding that it may be "the best of a really good bunch" of midsize sedans. AOL Autos used a different voting system for its 2012 Car of the Year Award, as each editor ranked their top three cars. Three points were awarded for a first-place vote, two points for a second-place vote and one point for a third-place vote, with the Fusion receiving the highest overall score.

"Both Autobytel and AOL Autos agree that the Fusion's redesign has elevated the car right to the top of the midsize segment with its excellent mix of performance, value and quality," said Alan Melkonian, owner and general manager of Stoneham Ford, a Greater Boston Ford dealer. "The new Fusion is thoroughly modern, whether you're looking at its crisp design lines, its innovative in-car technology or its fuel efficiency that comes without diluting responsiveness."

This month, the 2013 Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid will go on sale as the most fuel-efficient sedan on the U.S. market, returning up to 108 MPGe in the city. That impressive gas mileage, along with the car's intuitive infotainment and driver-assist technologies, recently earned the Fusion Energi the title of 2013 Connected Car of the Year by Connected World magazine in its Green category.

The Ford Fusion Energi comes standard with SYNC with MyFord Touch, which connects with drivers' smartphones to initiate hands-free phone calls and media playback using voice commands. Meanwhile, compatibility with the MyFord Mobile app allows Fusion Energi owners to remotely check the state of the car's charge and retrieve range estimates. Buyers can also opt for a variety of active safety technologies, including a Driver Alert System, a Lane-Keeping System and a Blind Spot Information System.

"The Fusion Energi appeals equally to the head and the heart because it is packed with cost-saving and life-saving technologies, yet it looks and feels like a sportier midsize sedan," added Melkonian. "While other plug-in hybrids are marked by their subdued styles, the Fusion Energi is just as striking as it is sustainable."

Ford Introduces Its Versatile, Fuel-Efficient 2014 Transit Van Family

As businesses continue to look for more fuel-efficient and practical means of transportation, global sales of commercial vehicles are expected to grow by 4.8 million units in the next five years. Ford is hoping to take advantage of that lucrative market following the recent introduction of its redesigned 2014 Ford Transit Connect and its all-new full-size 2014 Transit, both of which are slated to go on sale in the United States later in 2013.

Receiving the sleek front end of the Ford Escape crossover and a new optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, the 2014 Transit Connect compact cargo van ramps up both style and cost savings compared to the previous generation. While the EcoBoost is expected to help the vehicle return more than 30 mpg on the highway, the standard 2.5-liter powerplant can also be outfitted with a compressed natural gas and liquid propane gas (CNG/LPG) prep package, catering to those business owners who want to bypass volatile gas prices entirely.

“The next-generation Transit Connect will use the latest drivetrain technology to improve upon the already impressive fuel economy of the current model, and it will do so while looking and feeling more like a stylish crossover than a van,” said Alan Melkonian, owner and general manager of Stoneham Ford, a Greater Boston Ford dealer. “At the same time, Ford is offering several different configurations to meet the unique needs of small businesses and fleet owners, which means greater cost savings through increased productivity.”

Available in two wheelbase lengths, as well as with or without the second row of seats, the 2014 Transit Connect features surprising capability despite its nimble ride, including a 1,600-pound maximum payload, more than 130 cubic feet of cargo space and a newly available 2,000-pound towing capacity. Meanwhile, useful technology options like a rearview camera, a 6.5-inch touchscreen with navigation and the SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system help drivers’ daily tasks go more smoothly.

Even in its current form, the Ford Transit Connect remains a popular choice for businesses, with sales of the small van rising 12 percent through November year-over-year in the United States. Another in-demand Ford commercial vehicle, the E-Series, has seen its sales increase 6 percent during that same time period. After 33 years as America’s best-selling commercial van, the E-Series will be replaced by the Ford Transit next fall.

Recognizing that it would be no easy task to follow up a class leader, Ford has made its 2014 Transit as much as 25 percent more fuel efficient than its predecessor. Buyers will have a variety of choices for saving on gas costs, including an optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and an all-new 3.2-liter Power Stroke Diesel unit, as well as a gas-powered standard 3.7-liter V6 that can also be made compatible with a CNG/LPG package. Like the Transit Connect, the Transit is designed for versatility, featuring a choice of two wheelbases, three roof heights, three body lengths, and cutaway, van, chassis cab and wagon configurations.

“It takes a lot to replace a popular, instantly recognizable vehicle like the E-Series, but when you look at the specs of the Transit, it becomes clear that the van segment is about to take a huge leap forward,” added Melkonian. “The powerful-yet-efficient EcoBoost and diesel options will provide all of the E-Series’ capability, but with an improved ride that is lighter in the turns, as well as lighter on the wallet.”

Final 'Random Acts of Fusion' Adventure Comes to Stoneham Ford

Stoneham Ford and Ford dealerships across the nation are banding together to present a spectacular, one-night-only fundraising event on Thursday, Nov. 15 that will benefit local communities, engage consumers in a unique American Idol® experience and offer visitors a personal introduction to the all-new Ford Fusion.

"Go Further with Ford Night" is the fun finale to "Random Acts of Fusion," the unique transmedia program hosted by Ryan Seacrest that has generated more than 12 million consumer engagements with the Ford Fusion by playing out a story arc through multimedia platforms.

"Random Acts of Fusion has captured America’s imagination," said Lew Echlin, Fusion Marketing manager. "Go Further with Ford Night is our way of pairing that imagination with reality by offering consumers the chance to give back to their local communities, have a lot of fun, enjoy the final random act – which will test their judging skills to win a unique VIP American Idol experience – and meet the all-new Ford Fusion in person."

For each preregistered guest that visits Stoneham Ford on Nov. 15, the dealership will donate $20 -- up to a total of $2,000 -- to the Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham.

"We all want to be part of something bigger," said Echlin. "This is a great way for our customers to go further with Ford and our dealers, and to give something back to their local communities."

What: Stoneham Ford "Go Further With Ford Night" benefitting Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham

Where: 211 Main St., Stoneham, MA

When: Thursday, Nov. 15, 4 p.m. -- 8 p.m. EST

How: Preregister online at http://www.gofurtherwithfordnight2.com/Registration.php?ID=ebbce2d9-0061-4b14-ba7a-24eef8b8dd92&dn=U3RvbmVoYW0gTW90b3IgQ28gSW5j.

While at Stoneham Ford, consumers will have a unique opportunity to compete to win a special VIP experience with American Idol. A computer with a webcam will be set up in the dealership to allow consumers to view a special message from Seacrest and test their judging skills on camera, in true American Idol style. American Idol premieres in January 2013 on FOX.

Entries will be sent back to Ford’s program headquarters where a team of experts will evaluate and select one winner to receive an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Hollywood and a unique VIP experience with American Idol.

Consumers 18 years and older who are interested in participating in Go Further with Ford Night may preregister for the event at www.RandomActsofFusion.com and be entered for a chance to win tickets to a live taping of American Idol. Additionally, registrants at dealerships on Thursday, Nov. 15 will be entered into a prize drawing to win an all-new 2013 Ford Fusion. No purchase is necessary and other restrictions apply. See full official rules online for details.

All-new Ford Fusion
With its sleek new design, the all-new Ford Fusion brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford.

In addition to its fresh face, Fusion offers the broadest selection of fuel-efficient powertrains in the midsize segment. It offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid alternatives, a pair of EcoBoost® four-cylinder engines, a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine, front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive applications, and a choice between automatic and manually shifted six-speed transmissions.

On sale now, the new Fusion offers consumers seven must-have technologies, including a Lane-Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, active park assist and MyFord Touch®.

Stoneham Ford to Celebrate Arrival of All-New 2013 Fusion on Oct. 24

Since being named Best in Show by Autoweek during its debut at the Detroit Auto Show last January, the 2013 Ford Fusion has been a highly anticipated new addition to the Blue Oval's lineup. To celebrate the end of the wait for car buyers, Massachusetts Ford dealer Stoneham Ford will be hosting a 2013 Fusion launch party this Wednesday, Oct. 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The dealership’s 2013 Ford Fusion launch event will have FordDirect reps on hand to answer questions, and snacks and refreshments will be served as attendees take in the car’s sleek silhouette, aggressive new hexagonal grille and laser-cut, low-profile headlights. Customers are also invited to get behind the wheel of the redesigned midsize sedan to test out the new drivetrains, including two available EcoBoost engines. Returning up to 37 mpg on the highway, the available 1.6-liter EcoBoost is efficient yet responsive, while the range-topping 2.0-liter EcoBoost offers an impressive mix of performance and fuel economy, churning out 240 horsepower and netting up to 33 mpg on the highway.

"With three different gas engines, a 47-mpg hybrid model and a plug-in hybrid coming early next year, the new Fusion has an unprecedented range of options to find your ideal combination of responsiveness and efficiency," said Alan Melkonian, owner and general manager of Stoneham Ford. "We can’t wait to see our customers’ reactions when they get behind the wheel and realize that the car performs just as smoothly as its sleek exterior implies."

What: Stoneham Ford’s 2013 Ford Fusion Launch Party

When: Wednesday, Oct. 24, 4 p.m. EDT -- 7 p.m. EDT

Where: Stoneham Ford, 211 Main St., Stoneham, MA

How: RSVP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/events/457113224340735/ or by calling 781-438-0490.

The 2013 Ford Fusion also features a variety of available technologies to help drivers stay both connected and safe. Using touch controls and voice commands, owners can access their favorite music, make phone calls and get directions with the SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system, all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Meanwhile, advanced safety features like the Blind Spot Information System, Lane-Keeping System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning can proactively protect against potential collisions.

Next month, Stoneham Ford will be offering a chance to win an all-new 2013 Ford Fusion with its Go Further with Ford Night on Thursday, Nov. 15. As the finale of Ford’s elaborate Random Acts of Fusion marketing campaign, Go Further with Ford Night enters every attendee that is 18 or older into the sweepstakes for the new car. At the same time, $10 will be donated to a local charity for each visitor at Stoneham Ford that day, for a total of up to $500. Fans of “American Idol” will also be able to test their judging skills in a virtual online contest with Ryan Seacrest for a chance to win a VIP experience during the next season of the show.

"The new Ford Fusion is a one-of-a-kind car, and the Go Further with Ford Night will be a one-of-a-kind event," added Melkonian. "It will not only be a really fun way to get customers acquainted with the redesigned Fusion, but it will also help those in need in our community at the same time."

Ford Fusion Posts Sixth-Straight Monthly Sales Record in August

August marked the sixth month in a row that the Ford Fusion has set a monthly sales record in the United States, with its tally up 21 percent year-over-year. The midsize sedan moved 21,690 units last month and reached 181,865 vehicles sold for the year, an increase of 8 percent compared to the same period in 2011. Ford hopes to build upon its successful Fusion formula when a redesigned 2013 model starts arriving at dealerships this fall.

The updates to the 2013 Ford Fusion include a sharp focus on improved fuel economy, bringing two new optional EcoBoost engines. Using direct injection and turbocharging for a better mix of performance and efficiency, a 1.6-liter EcoBoost powerplant will generate 178 horsepower, while a 2.0-liter EcoBoost unit will churn out 240 horsepower. In addition to the optional Auto Stop-Start technology, new hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will also be available for even better fuel economy, though official EPA ratings have yet to be released for the new Fusion lineup.

"It's not surprising that, as gas prices go up, so do sales of fuel-efficient cars like the Ford Fusion," said Alan Melkonian, owner and general manager of Stoneham Ford, a Ford dealer in Massachusetts. "However, while the current generation offers an excellent balance of efficiency, power and useful features, the 2013 Fusion has improved on all fronts."

Technology upgrades are packed into the new Ford Fusion, including the addition of the latest SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment system, which keeps drivers connected to audio, phone calls and navigation through voice controls and a touchscreen. New safety features have also been made available, including the BLIS blind-spot monitoring system with cross-traffic alert and the Lane-Keeping System, which nudges the car back toward the center of the lane if it detects drifting. Meanwhile, drivers can opt for a rear-view camera to become more aware of obstacles when backing up.

Like the 2013 Fusion, technology and fuel efficiency were also high priorities during the redesign of the 2013 Ford Escape, which is now available at dealers. A new optional hands-free liftgate makes it easier to load or unload groceries and gear, while a boost in fuel economy means owners can save more than $1,500 on gas during a five-year period compared to the previous generation. The 2013 Escape earns up to 33 mpg on the highway with the same optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine slated for the 2013 Fusion.

Currently the fastest-turning vehicle in Ford's U.S. lineup, the Escape also posted its best August sales ever last month. Moving 28,188 units, the Escape was up 37 percent in August sales compared to the same month last year. To keep up with demand for its compact SUV, Ford added a third crew last month at its Louisville Assembly Plant.

"Competitors that have similar fuel economy to the new Escape are SUVs in name only, but Ford's offering returns great gas mileage while providing all the versatility that the term 'sport utility vehicle' implies," added Melkonian. "The 2013 Escape can open up to nearly 68 cubic feet of cargo space, and it has the available towing capacity to transport jet skis or a snowmobile for weekend adventures in the White Mountains."