Continuing to define the pickup market in Malaysia, Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (SDAC-Ford), the sole distributor for Ford vehicles here, entered the new year on the heels of a series of achievements that underscore the brand's robust performance in 2023 and solidify its position in the nation’s automotive industry.
SDAC-Ford saw record-high sales with 8,858 units of the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest sold in 2023, reflecting Malaysian consumers’ growing trust and preference for Ford vehicles’ exceptional performance, advanced technology, and superior quality. Since its launch, the Next-Gen Ford Ranger has gained great acceptance and popularity within the Malaysian market due to its outstanding performance and quality. The Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L Petrol engine model features a powerful V6 Twin Turbo engine with 397 PS and 583 Nm of torque, delivering exhilarating driving experiences. Meanwhile, the Next-Gen Ranger Platinum model that was just launched in November last year, is equipped with sophisticated features that offer luxurious comfort and smart technology.
A key contributing factor to the company’s success is SDAC-Ford’s steady expansion of its dealership network to raise the bar in the Ford service experience. Last year, it broke ground on the latest RM12 million Ford Signature dealership in Penang strategically located on Jalan Baru in Seberang Prai. The state-of-the-art facility spans 46,000 square feet, showcasing a cutting-edge Ford 3S centre that follows the latest Ford Signature Corporate Identity and features sixteen service bays and four vehicle display areas. The center will be fully operational by the end of Quarter 2 2024.
In a strategic move to tap into the vibrant pickup market of East Malaysia, SDAC-Ford has significantly expanded its presence across the region. Recognising Sabah as the third largest pickup market in the country, the company launched two key dealerships in the state. The opening of the largest Ford dealership in Sabah, Ford Kota Kinabalu (Inanam), Boston Auto Dealership and Ford Kota Kinabalu (Penampang), Rightpower Corporation.
Continuing its strategic expansion, SDAC-Ford has also officially opened Ford Kota Samarahan, Jimisar Aruna dealership in October 2023, located in the UniVista Commercial Centre, Jalan UniVista Off Jalan Express Way in Kuching, Sarawak. Its proximity to a major expressway ensures that customers from various parts of the city and surrounding areas can easily access the dealership, while its placement within a bustling commercial center promises substantial foot traffic. These openings have solidified the brand's footprint in East Malaysia, bringing a total of nine Ford dealerships across the area and thirty-eight dealerships nationwide.
Turse Zuhair, Managing Director, SDAC-Ford, said, “We are immensely proud of the strides we made last year, resulting in 2023 being a year of unparalleled success for SDAC-Ford. It is truly a testament to the appeal of our award-winning Ford vehicles, coupled with the hard work and dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our customers. As we gear up for another exemplary year, we are confident that Ford will continue to shape the market, as we deliver on our commitment to excellence and high customer satisfaction.”
Notably, the Next-Gen Ranger WildTrak clinched the prestigious Malaysia Car of the Year 2023 award for Best Truck and the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo received an Honorable Mention, further highlighting Ford's unmatched capabilities and innovation.
The accolades continued with the Ford Ranger chosen for Carlist.my’s People’s Choice Award for the Best Pickup Truck 2023, while the Next-Gen Ranger WildTrak was named 'Pick-up Truck of the Year' by the Allianz DSF.my Vehicle of the Year (VOTY) Award 2023, reinforcing its position as a leader in its category. Completing the list of honours, Ford Ranger received the CarPlus Editor's Choice Award for Pickup Truck of the Year for 2022-2023, with the Ford Ranger Raptor also securing a Car of the Year award.
Turse added, “These awards are reflective of Ford's commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. We have every intention to continue pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations.”
With a stellar performance under its belt, SDAC-Ford expects to remain at the forefront in the sector with cutting-edge vehicles and unparalleled ownership experience.
Join the Ford family and discover the exceptional Next-Gen Ford Ranger and Raptor and find the perfect model that aligns with your lifestyle or needs by visiting your nearest Ford showroom about the upcoming Hari Raya specials or online at www.sdacford.com.my or follow Ford Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube.