KIG unveils Explorer and Edge

Last weekend, the auto show hosted by Kingston Industrial Garage Limited (KIG), in association with the National Commercial Bank (NCB) Auto Loan programme, was a breath of fresh air for attendees.

In fact, it filled the gap created by the absence of the Auto Dealers' Association (ADA) annual car show which was cancelled for the third consecutive year.

The 29 Trafalgar Road venue (across from NCB Atrium) was flocked by car lovers from all walks of life and age groups. The management of KIG was pleased with response from the viewers.

"It went very well, it really met our expectations and, in some instances, exceeded it," Major Hugh Blake, general manager of KIG, told Automotives.

"We were very encouraged by the enthusiastic response to the new vehicles we introduced at the show. And that has translated into business as we speak," Major Blake said.

Last Saturday, the public was introduced to the 2011 Ford Explorer and Edge.

According to KIG's Richard Reid, the Edge is dramatically 'refreshed' and includes extensive interior redesign with improved material and craftsmanship, class-exclusive technology and new powertrains. Ford's advanced engine-valvetrain technology - Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) aids this SUV to achieve its best-in-class power and torque with fuel economy. Its 3.5-litre V6 engine produces 285 horsepower and 253 ft of torque. A more absorptive sound pack is also found throughout the interior, which reduces high frequency noise more effectively than material that acts merely as a barrier. This allow passengers to hear others in the vehicle.

New brake-related features

Going for J$7.2 million, the Edge also offers several new brake-related features, including hill-start assist, which reduces rollback on hills, as well as hydraulic brake assist, which provides greater braking force in emergency stops; and a host of other improvements.

The Edge's sister, the Ford Explorer, has been completely re-invented, raising the expectations of SUV lovers. The Ford Explorer offers MyFord Touch driver-connect technology, including a 4.2-inch LCD screen, as well as a SYNC-integrated communications and entertainment system that will help to keep the driver's eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

Under its hood is a 3.5-litre Ti-VCT engine that delivers an estimated 290 horsepower and 255lb-ft of torque. This, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, combines lowered initial gears for improved off-the-line acceleration and higher gearing for improved efficiency at lower engine rpm when cruising.

Safety ratings

The Ford Explorer combines top safety ratings with new innovation to create the world's first second-row inflatable rear belts. Some of the standard safety features of this "beauty on the road" includes BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert; Advanced Trac with RSC Curve Control functionality to provide optimum braking by each wheel and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for child safety. The Ford Explorer goes for J$7.8 million.

Also on show was the 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX sTi, valued at J$7.528 million, which also drew a lot of attention. That "speed demon", along with the Impreza XV (valued at J$3.724 million) were recently introduced to the local market at the KIG showroom.

More than 16 Ford and Subaru models, together with 10 different Yamaha motorcycles, were on display at the KIG motor show which lasted over two days.

Partners NCB also introduced prospective car owners to their attractive auto loan.