Ford is continuing to roll out its luxury Vignale specification models across the range, with the Edge and Kuga SUVs being the latest vehicles to receive the upmarket treatment.
The two crossover vehicles join the Mondeo Vignale and S-Max Vignale models which are already on sale. The models are available to order from any Ford dealer, but only the latest FordStore dealers feature dedicated Vignale Lounges for the benefit of Vignale customers.
Ford describes Vignale as an “upscale product and ownership experience” – which basically means your car gets more leather and you get treated better than a regular Ford customer when visiting the dealership. There is also a smartphone app and an online magazine, as well as a “lifestyle service” which “helps Vignale customers across Europe efficiently arrange travel, event and lifestyle activities”.
The Kuga Vignale and Edge Vignale models come loaded up with standard equipment which is generally available at extra cost on lower-spec versions. However, they also offer specific styling differentation, unique colour options and a higher standard of interior trim which is not available on lower-class Kuga and Edge models.
All Ford Vignale models feature a hexagonal-pattern grille insert and unique alloy wheel designs to set them apart, and corresponding hexagonal-quilted Windsor leather upholstery with tuxedo stitching inside. The cashmere or ebony (Edge only) leather also extends across more surfaces than on regular models, covering the central armrest (Edge only) and instrument panel.
The Kuga Vignale is available in an exclusive pearl grey colour called Milano Grigio, while the Edge Vignale can be ordered in a unique metallic brown called Ametista Scura.
The company sees the Vignale sub-brand as a means to up-sell to its customers. “Our customers have high aspirations, and they want more from Ford,” said Jim Farley, Chairman and CEO of Ford of Europe.
“On some vehicles, our top-of-the-line Titanium specifications make up 70 per cent of all sales. With Ford Vignale, we can offer them the absolute best of Ford in terms of luxury and personal service.”
It’s not the first time that Ford has tried to apply a bit of Italian pizzazz to its top-of-the-range models, with the Ghia nameplate being used to designate the highest specification level on many models for nearly 40 years after Ford purchased the famous Italian design house back in 1970.
