Ford Focus preview and Idol chat

Memorial day weekend is a popular time for people to test-drive and buy new cars.  Before you go out, you might want to read a bit about my experience previewing the latest technology from Ford.  This past week, I was invited up to Los Angeles to test drive the new Ford Focus.

You might have seen other cars that can parallel park themselves, but until you actually try it in a Ford, you have no idea how cool this is!  We drove up to Dodger Stadium, using the Ford Sync Touch system in the car (which is also the simplest voice activated GPS/radio/hands-free phone technology to date).  Once there we got to actually use the built in system that allows the car to park itself.  You do still have to control the gas and brakes, but the steering is all done by the car.

No hands, it steers itself into place

 

Additionally, we also were given demonstrations of the latest version of the Microsoft and Ford Sync program.  It comes in two versions, Sync and Sync Touch.  Sync also easily connects to you cell phone via Bluetooth to access all your contacts and even apps like Pandora which then will stream through the audio system and respond to voice command.  Sync also allows you to plug in an air card/wireless usb modem and turn your vehicle into a mobile hotspot.  I could go on and on with the amazing device.

The newly redesigned Focus is green-conscious and even uses a soy-based foam interior for the seats.  This is not the same old Ford you used to know. Many of these features can also be found in the new Fiesta, Explorer and Escape vehicles too.

 

After the drive we were invited by Ford to the American Idol Finale and After Party. It was an incredible experience! Seeing all those performers in one night was amazing.  We also were able to go to the after party and rub shoulders with Idols of the past.  Yes, even Sanjaya.

Disclaimer: This is not a compensated post. I was invited by Ford  to attend the American Idol finale and after party. However, all of the opinions are my own.