And we enthusiasts don't count as far as keeping our interiors clean. It doesn't matter what color interior we have because we'll keep it clean no matter what. Go rent a car with light interior and see how they REALLY wear over time.

 

Well yeah, you have a point there. But that doesn't really affect Ford because the impact is on the individual's resale value. So that shouldn't make them change the interior design - they want the best looking interior (for the money) in order to sell new cars.

I suspect they changed the stone interior to bring it in line with the saddle design rather than to reduce the amount of light colored panel.

 

In part. Actually, resale value is very important to Ford. See, when a car's resale value stays high Ford can justify a higher initial transaction price. Because the depreciation is less, they can offer a better lease rate on vehicles, which also attracts buyers.

If you haven't noticed, Ford is running commercials to this effect; that the Fusion Hybrid's projected resale value is higher than the Camry Hybrid.

This is the reason for Ford's downscaling of fleet sales, the selling of Hertz and so on. These things hurt resale value and in turn product and company image.

 

Oh no I agree they changed it to be more in line with the Saddle interior combo, but I think it will look better/more upscale this way. However, I DO think the interior could use some more lighter colored accents. If they didn't offer the new Lava Red combo (and if I were in the market) I'd be getting the new Stone with Glass Roof, probably with Lava Red or Black. I think it will be a really nice combo.

 

That was real? Those bastards, it only serves to taunt me then. I would love to have those seats

 

I have a bunch of pics on my old comp. I'll look tonight...

 

You caught me... I knew somebody would point that out. Certainly resale value is important but I think Ford looks more at trim design for what it looks like when it's clean and in good condition. They really have no control over people not taking care of their interior (other than reducing fleet sales) and a well designed interior that can be detailed will still hold value - rips and cigarette burns would happen regardless of color. I guess my point is that the change in the stone interior was probably not related to dirty trade-ins as much as being consistent with the saddle design.

 

Have you checked Ford's dumpsters?

 

If I lived in dearborn I definitely would have!