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January 17, 2007
REFRESHED 2008 FORD FIVE HUNDRED GETS A DOSE OF EMOTION : GlobalGiants.com
DEARBORN, MI -- What at first glance may look like a simple design tweak is really a whole lot more. The 2008 Ford Five Hundred has gone through a major facelift, and the company says there's plenty that's new under its skin, as well.
With more than 500 updates, Ford's flagship full-size sedan boasts more power, a smoother transmission, a quieter and more refined interior, more standard safety features, and a new Fusion-like look.
"We knew we had a great package to begin with," said chief designer Richard Woolley. "What we wanted was to appeal more to a customer's emotional side. When you see it coming you know what it is, even from a distance."
Introduced at this week's North American International Auto Show, the Five Hundred's most notable change is the front end. Replacing the original grill is Ford's new three-bar grill which was first introduced on the Fusion and Edge. Ford's designers have also taken visual weight off the front end by lowering the hood.
The Five Hundred's new, more horizontal look continues in the rear with new tail lamps and dual chrome-tipped exhaust.
"With a Fusion-inspired appearance, the Five Hundred is really going to stand out on the road," Ford's president and CEO Alan Mullaly told auto show reporters. "The overall impression inside and out is upscale." [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:54 PM | Link to this Post
