THE Ford Expedition and Flex ranked on top of their segments in the recent J.D. Power and Associates' 2012 APEAL Study, further emphasizing their leadership in their respective categories. The Ford Expedition earned the top spot in the Large Crossover/SUV Segment, beating out competitors in its segment. The Ford Expedition offers flexible seating for eight, featuring the second-row CenterSlide seat and PowerFold third-row seat, as well as delivering the capability that customers demand with towing capacity of up to 9,200 lbs. The Ford Expedition also was an award winner in its segment earlier this year, in the JD Power Initial Quality Study. The Ford Flex ranked first among Medium Crossovers/SUVs. Refreshed for 2013 model year, the Flex's advanced design, sophisticated interior and gratifying driving dynamics continue to win customers' hearts and minds. In the Middle East, the overall appeal of both utility vehicles is further evidenced by the growing demand on both models across the GCC markets where Expedition sales for the first seven months were up by 140 percent over the same period last year, while Flex sales have almost doubled. “The Expedition and Flex are going from strength to strength with the continued patronage of our loyal customers across the GCC. For both nameplates to achieve top ranks in the APEAL study is a clear vote of confidence that Ford is delivering products that our customers want – high on quality inside and out, capability, smart technologies, uncompromising safety and fuel economy," said Larry Prein, Ford Middle East's managing director. The APEAL Study (which stands for Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout) examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. The 2012 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February and May 2012 from more than 74,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2012 model-year cars and light trucks who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership. Ford had a total of six vehicles in the top three in their respective segments overall including the Ford Fiesta (sedan and hatchback), Mustang, F-150, F-250 and F-350 trucks. – SG
