FTE adds extra passion to the Ford brand with a range of cars intended for the serious enthusiast. The flagship model, the Australian-designed T-Series, provides power and sophistication as a family sedan, while the sexy Cougar coupé has got hearts racing with its sleek design and stunning performance.

The very first T-Series, no. 001, was handed over to Mark Taylor, cricketing hero and 1999 Australian of the Year. He was also a very special guest of his close friend and Ford President Geoff Polites at the Sydney FTE launch.

Also taking ownership of a T-Series is AFL football legend Jason Dunstall, a man who has always placed a high emphasis on performance with his 269 career matches with the Hawthorn club. Talking about his new burgundy TS50 at the Melbourne launch, Dunstall told assembled guests, "it’s not a car, it’s a rocket!"

At the same event, a very special Cougar was unveiled. Pyjama king Peter Alexander has designed a one-off signature interior with an array of orange and red suede fabric, with "grrrr’ emblazoned on an exterior panel.

"What people expect from me is the unexpected, so this is what I’ve done," said Peter. The Peter Alexander Cougar will be given away in a national competition, and is sure to become a real collector’s item.

In addition, a limited range of Peter Alexander Cougar pyjamas have been produced, which match the Cougar’s reputation for cool looks and new edge design.

Cuddling up with Peter’s Cougar pyjamas before the Melbourne launch was none other than Australia’s favourite environmentalist, Mimi Macpherson. She has taken possession of a gorgeous black Cougar, so watch out for that V6 engine Hervey Bay!

Fellow Queenslander, action man Ky Hurst, is also showing off his new Cougar – dark green and manual for the man who likes to stay in control. At just 18 years of age, Ky is already our Ironman champion, Open Water Swimmer of the Year and even has his eyes on hitting the Olympic pool in 2004.

He sets high standards for himself, and for his car, and made special appearances at the Brisbane and Gold Coast launch events.

The Cougar has also attracted the attention of Australia’s own action girl, Tania Zaetta. Tania is thrilled about the performance and style of her gleaming new Cougar as she dashes between television studios and fashion shoots.

Also getting about Sydney in style is hairdresser and stylist to the stars, the inimitable Joh Bailey. With a new day spa and an expanding franchise of salons opening across the country, Joh is busier than ever and picking up the pace in his new ‘silver bullet’ Cougar.

The traffic in Knox Street, Double Bay was temporarily halted when he took delivery of his car last month. Onlookers and motorists alike swarmed around the new toy to get a closer look at this surprising new Ford.