KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Over 120 dealers and journalists gathered in Kuala Lumpur on June 30 to witness the launch of two exciting new vehicles – the stylish new Ford Mondeo and the Ford S-MAX multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Both are equipped with the powerful Duratec EcoBoost 2.0L petrol engine, making Malaysia the first ASEAN market to offer Ford’s new EcoBoost powertrain.

“The launch of this high-performance, fuel-efficient engine in the Mondeo and S-MAX underscores our commitment to providing Malaysian drivers with the class-leading technologies they want and value,” said David Westerman, regional manager, Asia Pacific, Ford Export and Growth Operations – which oversees the Malaysian market.

A specially designed stage at the launch event enabled Mondeo and S-MAX to seemingly emerge from a 50-foot video wall during the multimedia presentation. The Amazing Race Asia’s popular Chong sisters hosted the event.

Also in attendance was David Filipe, chief engineer, Engine Programs, Ford of Europe, who travelled to Malaysia specifically to introduce these class-leading new powertrains. Filipe’s presence underscored the importance of these powertrains in Ford's future and the importance of the Malaysian market to Ford.

“Malaysian drivers will appreciate the exceptional performance of the 2.0L Duratec EcoBoost petrol engine in both vehicles, which delivers 20 percent more power while helping to achieve up to 20 percent better fuel economy and 15 percent lower CO₂ emissions,” said Filipe.

Mondeo and S-MAX feature Ford’s dual clutch PowerShift automatic transmission that delivers seamless gear changes while delivering up to a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and reduction in CO₂ levels to those normally associated with a manual transmission. 

The new Mondeo has a bolder presence on the road, achieved with new upper and lower chrome grilles fitted at the front of the vehicle, as well as a wind and noise reduction feature that results in a quieter drive. Perfect for Malaysia’s tropical climate, air-conditioning vents on the B-pillar add extra comfort and coolness for rear-seat passengers.

With fresh interior and exterior designs and a host of driver-focused technologies, the new Ford S-MAX presents an unrivalled versatility that makes it an ideal vehicle for Malaysian families or those pursuing a more adventurous lifestyle.

Both vehicles have earned the highest five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating for adult occupant protection.

“We are confident that our new EcoBoost offerings will meet the needs of our Malaysian drivers, providing a safe, fuel-efficient and superb driving experience,” said Westerman.

Ford is the top growing brand in Malaysia this year, with year-to-date sales up an impressive 230 percent compared to the same period a year ago. The company’s market share in Malaysia has nearly tripled since 2010. Contributing to this success are the seven all-new or refreshed vehicles Ford has introduced to the Malaysian market since 2009.

Mondeo and S-MAX will be available at Ford’s 35 dealerships across Malaysia from August 2011.

(From left) David Westerman, Regional Manager, Asia Pacific,Ford Export & Growth Operations; David Filipe, Chief Engineer of Engine Programs, Ford of Europe; Dato' Lawrence Lee, Executive Vice President, Sime Darby Motors; Mohd Hazem Abd Rahman, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion; Lee Eu San, Head of Sales Operations, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.	The Ford S-MAX multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).	The new Ford Mondeo.