FORD UNVEILS MUSTANG BULLITT FOR EUROPE; DELIVERS EUROPEAN DEBUTS FOR NEW EDGE SUV AND NEW KA+ ACTIVE
- New Ford Mustang BULLITT celebrating 50th anniversary of iconic film starring Steve McQueen makes European debut in Geneva supported by third-generation McQueen family members
- Special edition Mustang BULLITT begins production for Europe in June featuring 5.0-litre V8 engine delivering an anticipated 464PS and new rev-matching gearshift technology
- New Ford Edge sports utility vehicle makes European debut in sporty ST-Line form, offering innovative driver assistance technology, new 238PS EcoBlue diesel and premium comfort
- New KA+ Active crossover model on show in Europe for the first time featuring increased ride height, rugged exterior styling, advanced technologies and first KA+ diesel engine
- Ford showcases new Tourneo people-mover range in Geneva, offering enhanced exterior and interior style, seating flexibility and advanced powertrains
GENEVA, March 5, 2018 – Ford today at the Geneva Motor Show delivered European public debuts for the new Ford Mustang BULLITT – set to go into production for customers in Europe from June; the new Edge sports utility vehicle (SUV) – Ford’s most advanced SUV ever; and the new KA+ Active – the first SUV-inspired crossover version of Ford’s KA+ value-for-money car.
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the legendary Warner Bros. film starring Steve McQueen, the new Mustang BULLITT special edition was unveiled with the support of third-generation members of the McQueen family, Chase and Madison McQueen.
Mustang BULLITT features Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine enhanced to deliver an anticipated 464PS and 529Nm of torque,* introduces new rev-matching technology for seamless gear changes, and is offered with a choice of Shadow Black or classic Dark Highland Green exterior colours.
“Our special edition new Ford Mustang BULLITT evokes a unique heritage we’re proud to share with the McQueen family, and are excited to offer for customers in Europe for the first time,” said Steven Armstrong, group vice president and president, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Ford Motor Company.
The new Edge SUV is the company’s most technically advanced SUV ever, offering a comprehensive range of camera- and sensor-based driver assistance technologies to make journeys more comfortable and less stressful, and to help drivers avoid or mitigate the effects of collisions. The new Edge also debuts in Europe a new powerful and fuel-efficient 238PS bi-turbo variant of Ford’s 2.0‑litre EcoBlue diesel engine,* combined with a new eight-speed automatic transmission for effortless cruising.
The new KA+ Active further enhances the new KA+ compact five-door model with rugged bodystyling, raised ride-height and unique chassis tuning, unique front grille design, exclusive interior finishes and a high-level standard equipment specification.
Also on show in Geneva is Ford’s completely renewed, dynamic and stylish Tourneo people-mover line-up. The spacious new Tourneo Custom and Tourneo Connect models offer enhanced style, sophisticated interior technologies and advanced powertrains.
In addition, visitors to the Ford stand will discover new additions to the LEGO® Speed Champions range -– the M-Sport Ford Fiesta WRC rally car LEGO® kit celebrating the car’s 2017 WRC victories, and the 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback model.
Mustang BULLITT coming to Europe
It’s one of the most epic car chases in movie history. Almost 10 minutes long, the iconic sequence in the Warner Bros. film “BULLITT” follows Steve McQueen at the wheel of a 1968 Mustang GT fastback as he chases two hitmen through the streets of San Francisco.
The new Ford Mustang BULLITT pays homage to that famous car. The special edition model’s 5.0-litre V8 engine is enhanced with an Open Air Induction System, and intake manifold, 87mm throttle bodies and powertrain control module calibration from the Shelby Mustang GT350. Ford’s new rev-matching technology delivers smoother downshifts accompanied by a “blip” of the engine, and an active valve performance exhaust system enhances the V8’s signature burble.
Special edition styling includes 19-inch Torq Thrust-style wheels, red Brembo™ brake callipers and a faux BULLITT fuel-filler cap. The interior features Recaro sports seats, and each Mustang BULLITT will have an individually numbered plaque in place of the traditional Mustang emblem on the passenger-side dashboard. As a nod to the original car’s interior, the gear shifter features a white cue ball gearshift knob.
Sophisticated technology includes Ford’s 12-inch all-digital LCD instrument cluster and the premium B&O PLAY audio system delivering 1,000 watts through 12 high-performance speakers, to create a rich audio experience for all occupants.
“Nothing captured the spirit and excitement of Mustang quite like that amazing car chase in ‘BULLITT’,” Armstrong said. “The new Mustang BULLITT will pack a similar punch when it goes on sale this year with more power, exciting new features like rev-matching and B&O PLAY audio, and – just like Steve McQueen – dripping with understated cool.”
Ford enlisted the support of Chase and Madison McQueen, to unveil the new Mustang BULLITT in Europe. Steve McQueen’s grandchildren – supported by their father, Chad McQueen – starred in their own car-chase scene set in the Swiss Alps surrounding Geneva, a homage to the iconic “BULLITT” chase-scene that still resonates with movie fans today.
Appearing on the Ford Geneva Motor Show stand alongside the new Mustang BULLITT is a Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT powered by a 390 cu in (6.4-litre) V8 engine, the same model as the car driven by Steve McQueen in the movie “BULLITT”.
Sophisticated new Edge SUV
Unveiled in sporty ST-Line specification, the new Ford Edge SUV makes a statement with enhanced front and rear styling, a wide mesh grille, colour-coded body including deep side skirts, and standard 20‑inch aluminium wheels.
The new Edge debuts in Europe sophisticated new driver assistance technologies including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centring Assist helps the vehicle maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead and helps reduce stress during long, light-traffic road trips by helping keep the vehicle centred in its lane
- Post-Collision Braking helps to reduce the impact of a potential secondary collision by automatically applying moderate brake pressure when an initial collision event is detected; slowing the vehicle can potentially lessen injury to occupants and further damage to the vehicle
- Evasive Steering Assist helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions. Designed to operate at city and motorway speeds, it uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles ahead and provides steering support to enable drivers to manoeuvre around a vehicle if a collision is imminent
The new 238PS bi-turbo 2.0‑litre EcoBlue diesel engine is combined with a new eight-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Scheduling and Adaptive Shift Quality Control, and Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive, for optimised driving performance and refinement. Standard selective catalytic reduction emissions after-treatment contributes to improved NOX reduction.
Wireless charging enables compatible devices to be charged cable-free, and Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system enables drivers to control connected smartphones, audio, navigation and climate using voice commands and an 8-inch colour touchscreen. Customers can further upgrade their new Edge audio experience with a premium B&O PLAY sound system, and further comfort and convenience features include a new fully configurable 3D digital instrument cluster, full length panoramic glass roof, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel.
“Helping customers effortlessly deal with stop-start traffic using our most advanced driver assistance technologies to-date, and cruise in comfort supported by our refined and fuel-efficient new 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine and eight-speed automatic gearbox, the new Ford Edge is our most compelling offering yet for the ever-growing numbers of European customers migrating towards SUVs,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.
KA+ Active crossover
Delivering greater comfort and convenience, more driver assistance technologies than the current model, and enhanced interior and exterior styling, the new version of Ford’s value-for-money KA+ is now also available as a new KA+ Active crossover version.
The KA+ Active features ride height raised by 23mm, and exterior styling enhanced with additional rocker and wheel-arch cladding, a unique black finish for the upper and lower front grilles and roof rails for carrying bikes and sports equipment. Further exclusive specification includes unique 15-inch alloy wheels and Canyon Ridge bronze metallic exterior paint colour.
New KA+ comfort and convenience features include Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps.
The spacious and practical KA+ and KA+ Active with room for five adults and ample luggage for the first time deliver a choice of petrol and diesel powertrains. Ford’s new refined and fuel-efficient 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Ti-VCT (Twin independent Variable Camshaft Timing) petrol engine offers 70PS or 85PS and delivers from an anticipated 114 g/km CO2.** Ford’s 95PS 1.5‑litre TDCi diesel engine is designed to meet the needs of higher-mileage drivers and anticipated to deliver from 99 g/km CO2.**
The new KA+ and KA+ Active arrive in dealerships this summer, priced from £10,795 in the UK.
Completely renewed Tourneo people-mover line-up
The range-topping eight/nine-seat Tourneo Custom is distinguished by its bold new front-end design, and offers an all-new premium cabin interior that features unique-in-segment rear seating with six individual seats that can be arranged in conference format. The largest Tourneo people mover is available to order from Ford dealers now.
Offering five-seat and seven-seat versions, the Tourneo Connect introduces fuel-efficient new powertrains including the all-new 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine* with an eight-speed automatic transmission option, and Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine* featuring cylinder deactivation; manual vehicles feature six-speed transmissions as standard. The stylish new front-end appearance is complemented by upgraded interior trim materials.
New LEGO® Speed Champions kits
Show cars on a much smaller scale; the designers at LEGO have recreated the striking looks of the M-Sport Ford Fiesta WRC car and the 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback model for the LEGO® Speed Champions range.
The new 203-piece M-Sport Ford Fiesta WRC set includes a choice of wheel trims, two interchangeable bonnets – one featuring spotlights for night driving, authentic miniature race-graphics and a driver minifigure with helmet and racing overalls.
Visitors to the Ford stand will also be able to pose with a life-size LEGO® Ford GT race-car driver against a podium backdrop. The 1.84 cm (6 ft) driver is made up of 67,252 bricks and took a team of seven skilled LEGO® builders 304 work hours to create.
NEW FORD MUSTANG BULLITT FOR EUROPE SALUTES SILVER SCREEN LEGEND WITH MORE POWER AND UNIQUE MOVIE-INSPIRED STYLING
- New Ford Mustang Bullitt makes European debut at Geneva Motor Show. Special edition model celebrating famous film’s 50th anniversary begins production for Europe in June
- Available in Shadow Black or classic Dark Highland Green, Mustang Bullitt is powered by an uprated 5.0-litre V8 engine that will deliver an anticipated 464 PS and 529 Nm of torque
- New rev-matching technology to deliver smoother gear-changes and sporty V8 “blip” during Mustang Bullitt downshifts. Premium 1000 watt B&O PLAY sound system also features
COLOGNE, Germany, March 5, 2018 – It’s one of the most epic car chases in movie history.
Almost 10 minutes long, the iconic sequence in the Warner Bros. film “Bullitt” follows Steve McQueen at the wheel of a 1968 Mustang GT fastback as he chases two hitmen through the streets of San Francisco.
The new special edition Ford Mustang Bullitt – celebrating the 50th anniversary the legendary film – today made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show.
Following a global public debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit earlier this year, the new Mustang Bullitt will go into production for European customers in June.
Mustang Bullitt is powered by Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine enhanced with an Open Air Induction System, and intake manifold, 87mm throttle bodies and powertrain control module calibration from the Shelby Mustang GT350, to deliver an anticipated 464 PS and 529 Nm of torque.
Offered with a choice of Shadow Black or classic Dark Highland Green exterior colours, the Mustang Bullitt will feature 19-inch Torq Thrust-style wheels, red Brembo™ brake callipers and a faux Bullitt fuel-filler cap.
The interior will deliver Ford’s 12-inch all-digital LCD instrument cluster and will offer Recaro sports seats. Interior seat-, centre console- and instrument panel-stitching will reflect the exterior colour choice, and each Mustang Bullitt will feature an individually numbered plaque in place of the traditional Mustang emblem on the passenger-side dashboard.
The new Ford Mustang Bullitt will also feature as standard Ford’s new rev-matching technology that delivers smoother downshifts accompanied by a “blip” of the powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine, and premium B&O PLAY audio system that delivers 1000 watts through 12 high-performance speakers.
“Nothing captured the spirit and excitement of Mustang quite like that amazing car chase in ‘Bullitt’,” said Steven Armstrong, group vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company. “The new Mustang Bullitt will pack a similar punch when it goes on sale this year with more power, exciting new features like rev-matching and B&O PLAY audio, and – just like Steve McQueen – dripping with understated cool.”
Ford enlisted the support of third-generation members of the McQueen family, Chase and Madison, to unveil the new Mustang Bullitt in Europe. Steve McQueen’s grandchildren – supported by their father, Chad McQueen – starred in their own car-chase scene set in the Swiss Alps surrounding Geneva, a homage to the iconic “Bullitt” chase-scene that still resonates with movie fans today.
“At home we’re surrounded by memorabilia and reminders of our grandfather’s role in ‘Bullitt’, and we’ve watched the film more times than I can remember, so to be part of launching the third-generation Mustang Bullitt here in Europe has been a special experience,” said Chase McQueen.
“Our dad, Chad, taught us to drive in Fords along the Californian coastal roads, so it’s been amazing working alongside him and this new car. We were over the moon that Ford and the Steve McQueen estate were recently able to donate the first new Mustang Bullitt VIN 001 for auction, raising $300,000 for charity,” said Madison McQueen.
Special edition Mustang BULLITT
The new Ford Mustang Bullitt pays homage to the legendary Mustang GT fastback that featured in the 1968 Steve McQueen movie of the same name.
The third-generation Mustang Bullitt follows in the footsteps of previous special edition Bullitt models in 2001 and 2008, which also offered more powerful engines, Torq Thrust-style wheels, unique styling cues and limited exterior paint choices including Dark Highland Green.
The new Mustang Bullitt will feature a six-speed manual transmission equipped with Ford’s new rev-matching technology, which uses the engine’s electronic control system to briefly “blip” the throttle as the driver downshifts – matching the engine rotation speed to that of the gear that is being selected for smooth, seamless gear-changes.
Delivering 1000 watts of audio power through 12-high performance speakers, the standard B&O PLAY premium audio system will deliver a rich audio experience for occupants whichever seat they occupy. The system features a dual-voice coil subwoofer for deep, crisp bass and high-performance three-way front door speakers for even sound distribution throughout the cabin.
Further standard interior equipment includes a 12-inch all-digital LCD instrument cluster, identical in function to the cluster introduced on the all-new Mustang, but with a unique Bullitt welcome screen that starts in green with an image of the car rather than the pony. As a nod to the original car’s interior, the gear shifter features a white cue ball gearshift knob.
In addition to the standard seats that feature green stitching and a driver’s seat memory function, Mustang Bullitt customers can opt for black leather-trimmed Recaro® sports seats.
Other features that pay tribute to the car McQueen drove are subtle chrome accents around the grille and front windows, and a unique black front grille. Inside and out, the vehicle uses minimal badging; only the circular faux fuel-filler cap Bullitt logo on the rear centre is visible on the exterior.
“This new Bullitt is my favourite Mustang – devoid of stripes, spoilers and badges,” said Darrell Behmer, Mustang chief designer. “It doesn’t need to scream about anything – it’s just cool.”
Ford’s sophisticated MagneRide adjustable suspension system is also offered, and uses an electronically stimulated fluid inside the damper to respond in real time to changing road conditions, optimising handling without sacrificing ride comfort. An active valve performance exhaust system is standard, enhancing the V8 engine’s signature burble.
Deliveries of the new Ford Mustang for customers in Europe will begin later this year.
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*Officially homologated fuel-efficiency and CO2 emission figures will be published closer to on-sale date.
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