Ford Edge has been named as the industry’s top performing vehicle by JD Power and Associates, a report said.

According to the latest JD Power and Associates 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (Apeal) study, Ford’s newest five-passenger crossover vehicle outperformed its segment average by 68 index points, becoming the highest performing all-new or redesigned vehicle in the industry, a statement said.

Edge also ranked highest in the Midsize MAV segment of JD Power’s Apeal study, in which customers assess delight with the design, content, layout and performance after three months of driving.

“This is certainly good news and further affirmation that we’re delivering the products people really want – especially when you consider the newest vehicles in our lineup,” said sales and marketing director at Ford Middle East Hussein Murad.

“Fresh on the heels of Ford receiving top honours in five vehicle segments in the JD Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS), Ford receives more strong quality feedback from customers who made Edge the industry standout and a top performer in the fastest-growing and most competitive segment in the industry,” Murad said.

Customers participating in the Apeal study also praised Ford Mustang, making it the highest ranked vehicle in the Midsize Sporty Car segment – for the second straight year. This is the third year in a row that Mustang has received an Apeal award, having garnered the Sporty Car segment award in 2005, he said.

Three other Ford Motor Company vehicles ranked second or third in their segments: Ford Explorer Sport Trac is 2nd; Lincoln Navigator is 3rd; and Mazda CX7 is 2nd. Additionally, most Ford Motor Company brands improved or maintained their performance from last year’s Apeal study.

“It’s gratifying to have two strong Ford nameplates – Edge and Mustang – leading the pack on consumer appeal,” Murad said. “While we celebrate this achievement, we know that the quality race never ends. We’re going to continue working harder to provide people even more reasons to continue driving Ford vehicles.”  - TradeArabia News Service