Ford is expected to announce a new nationwide incentive program that will offer no-interest loans and $1,000 gas cards to buyers of most 2006 Ford-brand vehicles, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Last year GM started a sales boom with its Employee Discount for Everyone deal. Current incentive programs expire today and a GM spokeswoman said the automaker did not anticipate announcing any new offers today.

Already Chrysler is offering no-interest loans on most 2006 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles and no major changes are expected.

Ford's "Drive on Us" deal makes no-interest loans ranging from 36 to 72 months available for every Ford except the GT and Mustang GT. A national ad campaign featuring music from Kelly Clarkson of "American Idol" fame will promote the deal. The program runs through July 31.

The new incentive program seems to reflect a bold shift in Ford's marketing strategy -- and perhaps the influence of Mark Fields, the new chief executive of the Americas division. He's charged with stabilizing and improving Ford's market share.

A Ford spokesman said that Ford is dedicated to bringing prices closer to actual transaction prices and limiting the use of incentives. He said the new program is consistent with that objective because it allows for the targeted use of incentives in regions or for clearance purposes.

Its on ford.com right now. Hmmm... Maybe time to move the Navigator and get something with a bit better mileage.

I wanted to wait and see what '07 had to offer for the SD but this may be something to jump on.

FYI the 2007 SD is butt fugly.

could this be it?

gee I don't know, if you asked me I'd say they should honor their warrantees for starters if they want to sell more trucks - then consider making an exhaust manifold that doesn't start leaking at less than 50K.

that would be the 2008, the 07 is exactly the same as the 06. I also agree with ya on the BUTT FUGLY. Jeff