Ford's product-led revitalisation in full-throttle at the Middle East International Motor Show

"We have great news for our GCC customers and show visitors this year," said Jim Benintende, Ford Middle East's managing director. "Our stand is all about the great products we will soon introduce to the GCC, and it reflects the dynamic changes that are coming to our lineup as part of our product-led revitalization. These world-class products speak for themselves.

He added: "The Middle East International Motor Show is the most acclaimed regional event for the automotive industry, and we are excited about this opportunity to showcase our core models. We look forward to unveiling these new products and share our excitement with our customers and show visitors."

The Ford GT
The star of the Ford show this year is the Ford GT car, which bows for the first time in front of Middle Eastern consumers.

Ford's auto show concept, dubbed the GT40 in recognition of the nickname of some of the earlier 40-inch high racecars, was created to celebrate that great era in history and look forward to the great years to come. Unveiled at the 2002 North American International Auto Show, the GT40 concept became an instant sensation.

The legend of the Ford GT began in the mid-1960s. The great American supercar was a low-slung, muscular machine built by Ford to win on the legendary Le Mans race circuit. And it did. The Ford GT dominated the world of endurance racing from 1966 to 1969.

A Larger European Lineup
Ford's European lineup in the GCC, currently represented by the hugely-popular Ford Focus and Mondeo, receives a further boost this year with the introduction of the all-new Ford Fiesta, Europe's most acclaimed B-segment car. The new Fiesta is a key facet of Ford's product-led transformation in Europe.

The German-made Fiesta comes in its 5-door version, and brings an excellent package and class leading features at competitive prices. It demonstrates its commitment to safety with the Intelligent Protection System, provides more space and comfort and offers great driving fun.

An Authentic SUV Heritage
The Ford brand enjoys a rich SUV heritage with its wide array of sport utility vehicles in its lineup. In the Middle East, currently no other brand equals the diversity and versatility of the Ford brand's SUV range that features the world's best-selling Ford Explorer (mid-size), Escape (compact), Expedition (full-size) and Excursion (super-premium).

And this year, the Ford family of SUVs gets even better, with the introduction of the Ford Everest, the latest seven-seater family SUV that offers safe, comfortable, flexible and affordable family transportation in an impressive package.

America's Best-Selling Truck Gets Better
The Ford F-Series is the best-selling vehicle line in automotive history - the No. 1-selling truck in America for 26 consecutive years, and the favourite vehicle of any kind for 21 years in a row.

Now, as it celebrates more than 85 years of truck experience and 55 years of legendary F-Series accomplishments, Ford is again redefining America's truck. The all-new 2004 Ford F-150 creates a bold first impression as it extends Ford's tradition as America's Tough Truck leader. It creates an even bigger lasting impression when its doors are opened to reveal a revolutionary interior design with refinement, comfort and spaciousness unparalleled in a truck.

The all-new 2004 F-150 makes its way to the Middle East marking the start of an all-new era of Ford tough trucks, with over 150 patented components.

Ford Freestar
Another Ford product debuting in the Middle East is the all-new Freestar mini-van, which comes as replacement to the Windstar. The 2004 Ford Freestar is designed to be the most flexible, most powerful and highest-quality minivan Ford has ever built, and boasts upgraded safety features, interior design, driving dynamics and ergonomic features - such as the class exclusive rear seat that folds flat into the floor.

The Freestar also promises to add to Ford's already sterling reputation for minivan safety.

A Comeback For Lincoln Navigator
The Lincoln Navigator returns to the region for 2004, featuring an all-new exterior design and a host of luxury amenities, and ride quality unique to the Lincoln luxury heritage.

Engineered to deliver remarkable steering, ride quality and purposeful luxury amenities, the Lincoln Navigator continues to be a favourite premium full-size SUV for those looking for a spacious, comfortable interior with refined driving dynamics.

Upbeat Performance in 2003
In the run up to this year's show, Ford Middle East had recently announced a 23 per cent increase in its January-October sales for the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands. The company has a lot to look forward to with the all-new and refreshed product lineup for 2004.

"The success that our nameplates enjoyed this year is astonishing; sales of such best-sellers as the Ford Explorer, Focus, Mondeo and Expedition speak volumes about our product lead revitalization at Ford," said Benintende. "News of the performance of our focus vehicles comes at the perfect time, as we prepare for the motor show with even more exciting news and products coming our way. I'd say watch this space!"

Full Stand Lineup
Located in Hall 3, Ford Middle East's 1,200-square-metre stand (3D) will feature: Ford GT, Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, Mustang, Crown Victoria, Freestar, Escape, Explorer, Everest, Expedition, F-150; Mercury Grand Marquis, Mountaineer; Lincoln LS, Town Car, Navigator.