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When it comes to luxury mid-sizers, the Lexus RX has long reigned popular for its high-end and high-tech interior and smooth performance. While the 450h Hybrid engine is impressive, it adds another $5,000. Even with rising gas prices, it would still take a while to recoup that extra investment in gas savings. Also considered a mid-size SUV, the Ford Flex really is in a class of its own and a nice alternative to the mini-van. The Chevy Traverse is another strong contender among the mid-sizers. With 24 MPG highway, The Chevy Traverse FWD offers better fuel economy than any eight-passenger crossover. When it comes to room, Traverse delivers there too, offering more cargo space than any vehicle in its class.
Manufacturer Spotlight
Small Cars and the Redesigned Explorer Deliver a Promising Year for Ford
Ford Motor Company reports consistent growth in consumer demand for Ford's new fuel-efficient vehicles and powertrains, bringing significant year-over-year sales gains for small cars and Explorer.
“Customers increasingly are demanding new products that deliver compelling fuel economy,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Ford's new fuel-efficient products and powertrains arrived at the right time - just as fuel efficiency became even more of a consideration among consumers.”
The 2011 Lexus RX Hybrid blends a luxurious interior and a refined powertrain with excellent fuel economy. Though it's expensive compared to the gas-only RX, it's been ranked “excellent” as a hybrid SUV.
Ford's two all-new small cars combined had sales of 29,423 as of May, up 74 percent versus a year ago. It was Ford's largest small car month since May 2008. Fiesta sales were 7,120, and Focus sales were 22,303, up 32 percent versus a year ago.
The seven-passenger Ford Flex is a good-looking, high-tech alternative for families who want minivan features without minivan style.
The Ford Fusion midsize car also has started 2011 strong - with five straight monthly sales records. In May, Fusion sales totaled 24,666, its second highest month ever, and up 10 percent versus a year ago. Eighty percent of customers equipped their new Fusion with a 4-cylinder engine, up from 50 percent when the car debuted five years ago. Sales of the Lincoln MKZ were up 24 percent in May and the MKZ Hybrid accounted for 22 percent of sales.
With its stylish good looks, spacious cabin, carlike ride and handling, plus decent fuel economy, the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is a popular downsizing option for those used to driving large SUVs.
22 GREATER DFW METROPLEX BUILDING SAVVY MAGAZINE Vol 3 2011
Explorer sales totaled 13,318, up 135 percent versus a year ago. This is the highest sales for Explorer in 47 months. In the first five months of 2011, the new Explorer is setting a torrid pace, with year-to-date sales totaling 55,401, up 120 percent. In June, Explorer will surpass last year's full-year sales total of 60,687. Explorer has class-leading highway fuel economy of 25 mpg. Escape sales totaled 23,140, up 21 percent. Fifty percent of customers now equip their Escape with a 4-cylinder engine, up from 40 percent a few years ago.
SAVVY TRUCKS & TOYS
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