Ford previews new Vignale sub-brand before Frankfurt motor show reveal

Ford is creating a new sub-brand for the European market, even though the top-of-the-line "Titanium X" trimmed cars are strong sellers already. The name of this sub-brand will be one that most of you have heard, perhaps not associated with the Blue Oval: Vignale. Ford has made it clear that none of the Vignale models will be sold in the U.S.. In Europe, there is no premium brand above Ford, like Lincoln or the dearly departed Mercury.

The first first model to receive the Vignale treatment will be the 2015 Ford Mondeo, a model not sold in North America. The Mondeo markings will be deleted, and replaced with Vignale badging. The Mondeo sedan and station wagon will get 20-inch Vignale alloy wheels, chrome door handles and mirror caps, a mesh grille, and unique front bumper and fog lamp designs.

On the inside, the cars will also receive the exclusive Nocciola dark brown coachwork, in addition to Ford SYNC and MyFord Touch. The interiors will also offer quilted trim, leather armrests, and soft-touch leather throughout, in addition to Vignale lettering. The Vignale version of the Mondeo will be joined by the new S-Max MPV, and the Ford Edge.

"Vignale represents the highest expression of the Ford brand in Europe from both a product and from an ownership experience perspective. The Ford Mondeo Vignale Concept showcases the features that customers tell us they want in terms of styling and quality, advanced technology and exclusivity," said Stephen Odell, Ford president for Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Ford has also cited the increased demand for high-end products in rolling out the Vignale line.

The Vignale lineup will be launched 18 months from now, so we're still in the early stages of development of this sub-brand. The world will get a first look at the Vignale cars at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show, now less than a week away.

About the showThe 2013 Frankfurt motor show will be held Sept. 10-22 in Germany. Premium automakers appear ready to try to outdo each other with eye-catching electric supercars. Green technology and fuel efficiency will take center stage on the stands of most automakers at the show. For news, reveals and photos straight from the floor in Frankfurt, check out our special Frankfurt motor show section here.

By Jay Ramey