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Ford India introduces the advanced TDCi diesel engine to Ikon

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Announcement Corporate

Enhanced Performance, Class-Leading Fuel Efficiency, European Design Cues are Key Improvements to New Ford Ikon. 

 

  • Class-leading fuel efficiency from advanced 1.4-litre DuraTorq turbocharged, common-rail, direct-injection (TDCi) diesel engine – available for the first time in the Ikon
  • 160Nm of torque from an advanced 1.4-litre DuraTorq TDCi engine
  • New Ikon is now more fun and easier to drive
  • European design cues enhance new Ikon's exterior
  • New class-leading two-year/100,000km warranty – assurance of Ikon's quality and durability
  • Excellent value with the new Ikon range starting at Rs 4.59 lakhs
  • New Ikon benefits Indian buyers with reduced cost of ownership

    Today, Ford India unveils the new Ikon range offering significant improvements ranging from a new advanced DuraTorq TDCi engine offering superior fuel efficiency through to the fresh, bold European design cues.

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    "The new Ford Ikon continues to be a leader in its segment and caters to customers with a combination of superior fuel efficiency, improved engine performance, best-in-class driveability and exceptional value for money," said Michael Boneham, president, Ford India.

    "The introduction of the latest generation 1.4-litre DuraTorq TDCi engine transforms the way the new Ikon drives, and at the same time builds on the current model's core strengths to deliver on customer wants – improved overall performance, better fuel efficiency and lower cost of ownership."

    The new Ikon also boasts a freshened exterior design with distinct European cues. From the sharper new hood design and striking new headlamps to the all-new front bumper with its larger lower grille and European design cues, the new Ikon presents a fresh face but one that is instantly recognisable.

    In keeping with the new Ikon's bold and confident exterior design, Ford India has added a punchy new colour to the exterior palette – Morello – to existing Diamond White, Panther Black, Moondust Silver, Paprika Red, Platinum and Brush Steel.

    As the cost of fuel becomes a growing concern for Indian motorists, Ford India brings to market a new Ikon with superior fuel efficiency from its diesel engine. Ford introduces the advanced 1.4-litre DuraTorq TDCi engine in the new Ikon to complement the current 1.3-litre petrol engine, offering consumers the choice of two of the best powertrains, tailored to suit Indian driving conditions.

    The DuraTorq TDCi powertrain delivers 68PS and a stout 160Nm of peak torque. It is the same advanced and reliable common-rail diesel engine used by Ford of Europe. What's more, this 1.4 DuraTorq TDCi engine recently set national records for real-world fuel efficiency in the new Ford Fiesta.

    Describing the advantages of the DuraTorq TDCi powertrain, John Lonsdale, Vice President, Product Development said, “When you experience the new Ikon first-hand with the DuraTorq TDCi engine, that's when you'll realize the improvements we've made have transformed the way the new Ikon responds to your driving demands."

    "The refined TDCi engine delivers 160Nm of peak torque at a low 2000rpm. The wide torque band minimizes the need for gear changes, making the Ikon fun and easy to drive,” said Lonsdale. "And it's very kind to your wallet, due to its class-leading* fuel economy on both city and highway cycles."

    The existing 1.3 RoCam petrol engine is extremely robust and generates 70PS at 5500rpm and 105Nm at 2500rpm.

    Reduced Cost of Ownership
    The new Ford Ikon comes with a best-in-class two-year/100,000km warranty, which is testament of Ford’s commitment and confidence in new Ikon. It also benefits owners with reduced overall running costs and servicing expenses.

    Nigel Wark, executive director, marketing, sales and service, Ford India explained, “Ford Ikon has always been an exciting drive. The new Ford Ikon is now a more 'complete package'. We talk about its European styling, superior fuel efficiency and proven durability. These qualities generate real desire from consumers for a car that is now a true icon on India's roads."

    The Ford Ikon’s well crafted, stylish and comfortable interiors demonstrate Ford engineers’ thoughtfulness for Indian driving habits. The new dual-tone beige interiors harmonise beautifully with the new seats and door trim. Rear seat comfort continues to be class-leading in the entry B-car segment.

    The new, modern instrument cluster on the diesel variant incorporates new graphics, tachometer, LED needles and LCD odometer display.

    Building on the 'Sensible Bhi, Crazy Bhi' Machine
    The state-of-the art diesel powertrain in the new Ikon provides a solid performance across a wide torque band to complement the excellent driving dynamics for which the Ikon is renowned. Ford engineers have retuned the steering and suspension to suit the new 1.4 DuraTorq TDCi, continuing Ford's passion for developing drivers' cars, yet delivering a plush and refined ride which will be the envy of its competitors.

    The Ikon meets Ford's stringent crash requirements, which exceed India's local regulatory requirements. Ikon's safety strategy incorporates both front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones which dissipate the forces generated during an impact away from the occupants.

    New Ikon's occupant safety features include:

  • Collapsible steering column (reduces intrusion distance)
  • Front seatbelt web-grabbers (prevent uncontrolled movement)
  • Anti-submarine seat base (prevents occupants slipping under the three-point seatbelt during an impact)
  • Front and rear side impact door beams
  • Laminated direct glazed windscreen

    Security is ensured with a multi-faceted anti-theft protection strategy:

  • Central locking (includes fuel filler cap)
  • High security lock sets for doors and boot lid
  • Steering column lock
  • Child locks

    "The new Ford Ikon has real appeal for those looking to complement their lifestyle with an energetic, stylish, affordable mid-size sedan. The true blue driver's machine now encourages the owner to strike the right balance between responsibility and fun echoing our marketing positioning for the car: Sensible Bhi, Crazy Bhi," quipped Wark.

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    First Published: Nov 05 2008 | 12:00 AM IST

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