- Ford announces it has installed Sync in its 2 millionth vehicle.
- The automaker says its data shows that Sync is helping sell vehicles.
- Sync costs $395.
DEARBORN, Michigan — Ford said on Wednesday it has installed its $395 Sync voice-controlled communications and infotainment system on its 2 millionth vehicle, a further indication of just how much consumers want to remain connected in their cars and trucks.
Ford said its data shows that Sync is helping it sell vehicles, along with improving its image. "After receiving Sync demonstrations, 80 percent of potential customers report it improves their opinion of Ford and 70 percent are more likely to consider purchase," the automaker said in a statement.
It also cited Ford data that says Sync-equipped models of the 2008 Ford Focus are "worth more" than those without Sync. "After one year in service, the Sync-equipped models sell for a $240 premium on average," Ford noted. "With another year in service added, the Sync premium is still a significant $200."
Ford also polled its customers and found that "87 percent are satisfied with how the system operates and 88 percent would recommend the purchase of a vehicle with Sync to others."
Inside Line says: Sync hits a significant milestone, putting more pressure on Ford's competitors to keep auto buyers connected. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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phill1 says:
09:26 AM, 03/26/2010
As an aging Baby-Boomer, my personal decision to order a 2011 Ford Fiesta (without) the free radio/Sync upgrade and instead took the $595.cash credit and put it towards the Power Moon Roof which was only $695. leaving an out of pocket additional cost of only $100. was a no-brainers. Some of us Don`t want to (stay connected 24/7)! We just want an enjoyable ride, listen to relaxing music or NPR or slip in a CD of our choice! I personally don`t need or want to upload,download,bluetooth, mp3, etc be it in my vehicle or else where. I have all the (sinks or Syncs) I need, already in my kitchen and bathrooms. Ford will do fine building safe ,dependable, and attractive automobiles and leave the gadgets as available options for those that want or need these items. For me, its not a deal breaker or something that I simply can`t live without.
tmanz says:
12:43 PM, 03/25/2010
I love polls. If 87% were satisfied and 88% would recommend it that means that 1% of the people would recommend that other people buy a system they don't like.
rmrper says:
06:41 AM, 03/25/2010
I will agree, it influenced our purchase decision as well. The system works well and the only issues we have had is that sometimes the automatic pairing of the phone quits working and we manually have to tell the phone to connect. However, from my research it appears to be more of a problem caused by the phone than sync. Anyway, the voice commands work great and thousands of songs on a USB thumb drive is real convenient. It's my wife's car, and I find myself wishing my G35 had a similar system (that didn't require the full up Navigation package).
thedream21479 says:
11:48 PM, 03/24/2010
The strategy by Ford to make Sync so affordable (not some $2000) option was a brilliant move. I'm so damn proud of the way Ford has turned around so quickly.
felonious says:
04:27 PM, 03/24/2010
My Flex has that same coin holder and I use it. Much better than how all my quarters used to rattle around in the ash tray of my Audi. It's removable, if you prefer not to use it.
mirde98 says:
03:53 PM, 03/24/2010
Bravo Ford! Im proud of how they have come around, shape up and produce great vehicles. That pic above is a new Focus.....the pic of the center console and storage.....is that a coin holder???? Who da hell use that? Thats so Ford Tempo/Chevy Corsica era. Other than the coin holder, yes i belive now in Ford products.
felonious says:
02:36 PM, 03/24/2010
I can attest to all of the above. It influenced my purchase decision, my opinion of Ford, and my satisfaction with my vehicle post-purchase. Another great move by Ford!