Ford to Debut 'Vignale' Sub-Brand in Frankfurt
Targeting European buyers that want even more than what’s offered by today’s range-topping Fords, the Blue Oval will reveal a new sub-brand at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
Apparently some 10 to 15 percent of customers in the old world are not satisfied with driving regular Fords; they want more, which is why the company is introducing the a little something called Vignale. Functioning as sort of an ultra-high trim-level on the new Mondeo, customers are treated to numerous upscale styling elements and a greatly improved dealership experience.
The car receives a new chrome-mesh grill along with shiny mirror caps and exterior door handles. Additionally all Mondeo badging is deleted; instead Vignale is the only nameplate that appears.
Of course the interior has not been forgotten. Passengers are treated to quilted leather seating surfaces as well as animal hides on the door panels and dashboard. A special storage drawer is also be integrated into the trunk, and yes, it too bears the Vignale name.
In addition to these cosmetic upgrades customers receive special treatment at dealerships. They get free car washes for the life of the car as well as other unique services.
The 2015 Mondeo family car is the first Ford to receive the Vignale treatment, but the company’s S-Max and Edge will soon follow in its tire tracks. For now this is a Europe-only scheme but who knows if or when it could cross the Atlantic.
GALLERY: 2015 Ford Mondeo Vignale
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Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
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