Ford optimistic about future, rolls out new Fiesta line

While many of its competitors struggle with high-profile recalls and continued speculation about their ability to repay billions in government financial support, the Ford Motor Company has seen its sales and earnings rise through 2009 and into this year.

“Since (Alan) Mulally (Ford’s president and CEO) came on board, it has changed the whole tone of the company,” said Stave Pintar, a Brookfield native who is serving as chief program manager for the new 2011 Ford Fiesta. “We’re about strategic development and delivery of good quality products, and we’re totally focused on that.”

Ford is now introducing several new and improved lines of vehicles, which it believes will help capture additional market share.

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“We believe that we have better and better products from a value proposition and a fun-to-drive proposition,” Pintar said.

Part of Ford’s go-forward strategy is the introduction of new and improved vehicle lines. Pintar was in Milwaukee late last week to introduce the Ford Fiesta to the U.S. market. The Fiesta has been a popular vehicle line in the European markets for more than 20 years, but is just being introduced to the American market now.

The Fiesta delivers 40 miles per gallon fuel efficiency on the highway and about 30 miles per gallon in the city. The car’s 1.6-liter four cylinder engine has about 120 horsepower, making the relatively small, light car responsive even with its slight fuel economy, Pintar said.

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“We worked hard with our European team to get this car into the Ford DNA in terms of precision and handling,” he said. “There was a lot of energy that went into making this a spirited driving experience.”

The Fiesta, which has a base price around $13,000 and tops out in the mid $18,000s, is available with many options not typically offered in a smaller fuel-efficient model. Those include keyless start, available leather seats, larger profile wheels, Ford’s SYNC voice-activated communications system, and more.

“We looked at the trends – the miniaturization of electronics and the reduction of conspicuous consumption,” Pintar said. “People are downsizing, but they still want to feel good about their car. That’s what this package is all about.” After downsizing, your vehicle must be serviced regularly for maintenance. If you notice any chips or small cracks on your windshield, an immediate windshield repair service is recommended to avoid a more expensive repair or replacement.

To see a video interview with Pintar, click below.

 

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