Ford confirms 2014 models

Ford Australia has confirmed its rollout of five new or upgraded models in 2014.

Opening the batting in January will be the all-new Transit Custom in short-wheelbase form.

The new compact front-wheel drive Transit Connect will be followed in the second quarter of 2014 by the long-wheelbase version and its larger brother, the all-new Transit.

The Transit Custom will be powered by Ford’s proven 92kW/350Nm 2.2-litre TDCi turbo-diesel engine and comes with twin batteries and a new integrated and stowable roof rack, which folds away when not in use.

Ford’s new compact van will also come with the SYNC in-car connectivity system including DAB radio and Bluetooth and an extensive suite of safety features including front, side and curtain airbags.

Other features will include a robust protection package that includes a sealed load floor, rear compartment trim board, front partial headliner and eight load compartment tie-down loops.

Transit Custom options will include Trailer Hitch Assist, front/rear parking sensors and an electro chromatic rear-view mirror with rear camera display.

Also new for 2014 will be a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel version of the mid-grade Ranger XLS Double Cab ute, priced at $45,590 plus on-road costs.

Like the Ranger XLS 3.2, the 2.2 – positioned between the base XL and premium XLT -- will be available with both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

In addition, the Ranger 4x2 XL Single Cab Chassis 2.2-litre low-rider ute gains side airbags as standard, while satellite-navigation has been added across the entire XLT line-up.

“We have responded to customers who have been asking for satellite-navigation, as well as a more private buyer-focused Ranger in the XLS which offers improved exterior appearance and interior comfort while delivering outstanding off-road abilities,” said Ford Australia Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service, Graeme Whickman.

Whickman said the addition of satellite-navigation on the XLT 4x2 and 4x4 models was in response to customer demand.

“This is a feature our customers value so we’ve added it into the XLT models,” he said.

“The Ranger has been one of our strongest selling vehicles in 2013. We’ve sold more than 20,000 and the Ranger continues to impress our customers with its ‘can do’ functionality and performance.

“We expect the popularity of the Ranger to continue in 2014 by offering customers more features and models.”

While Ford’s new EcoSport compact SUV range will be bolstered by new Ambiente and Trend model variants in February, the larger Kuga SUV line-up gains two new paint colours and the option of a hands-free tailgate on Trend models.

The option pack includes Ford’s Smart key-free system and is available for $1200 on Kuga Trend EcoBoost and Diesel models.

Race Red and Deep Impact Blue also join the Kuga paint colour palette for 2014, joining colours like Ginger Ale and Burnished Glow.

“Customers have been asking for a wider range of colours and we feel these two new arrivals really fill out the range on offer,” said Wickman.

While the solid Race red hue is a no-cost option, Deep Impact Blue metallic costs $385 extra.

Rounding out the list of new Ford model next year will be upgraded Falcon – including the born-again Falcon sedan – and Territory models.

Ford has announced no new timing or model details, saying only: “Ford enthusiasts will also be able to buy the XR8 through Ford’s full network of dealers throughout Australia, making the renowned ‘Miami’ performance engine more accessible for V8 lovers.”

As we’ve previously reported, however, the 2014 Falcon range -- including the sedan-only XR8 -- will go on sale later than expected in the fourth quarter of next year, just two years before Ford kills off the venerable sedan and ute nameplate and ceases Australian manufacturing.

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