- Filed under: Sports/GTs, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Ford, Australia, FPV
Click above for photo gallery. Follow the jump for the video.
Ford Performance Vehicles' new range of Ford FG Falcon-derived super sedans and utes is mind-bendingly appealing. Big turbocharged or NA power, bright colors, and that menacing Alice Cooper eye makeup in front make for an entire farmer's market of forbidden fruit. Sure, on this side of the world, Ford's SVT performance division gives us the Shelby GT500 and the even more monstrous Shelby GT500KR -- but seriously, as hot as the factory super-Stangs are, the lineup of FPV rides you see above is hot enough to turn that desert sand into glass. Only, they can't -- because everything you see there is virtual. Both the backdrop and the cars are CGI. The photo-realistic vehicle models were created using the real cars' CAD data. It's all for a brand new FPV TV spot that premieres in Australia this Sunday. If you don't live in Australia, no worries -- FPV sent us a copy of the spot, which is now embedded after the jump for your enjoyment. And you will enjoy it. Right now, there's a void in our lives shaped like an all-black FPV F6, and this commercial's as close as we're going to come to filling it.
[Source: FPV]Continue reading I want my FPV: Super sedans hit the desert in new TV spot
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- Filed under: Euro, Hatchbacks, Ford, Misc. Auto Shows
Click either image for a high-res gallery of the Ford Focus RS.
We've been teased twice and now we finally get our first unmasked glimpse of the Ford Focus RS concept, due to debut at the London Motor Show next month. Images of the gaudy green hatch have begun to surface on a few sites across the pond, and the aggressive body work and racy interior mean that Ford's hottest hatch has to be packing some serious kit underhood. It is.
The Focus RS will be equipped with a tweaked version of the turbocharged Duratec 2.5-liter inline-five found in the ST, and will send between 280 and 300 hp, along with 300+ lb.-ft. of torque, through the front wheels via a six-speed gearbox equipped with a Quaife limited-slip differential. With that kind of power, the RS should be able to make the run to 60 in less than six seconds - assuming you don't torque-steer yourself into a tree in the process.
The dynamic body kit, complete with gaping maw, flared fenders, side sills, rear diffuser and wing, and unfortunate fender vents, compliments the lowered ride height, 19-inch, 15-spoke wheels and upgraded brakes. Inside, color-matched, two-tone Recaro thrones join an RS-specific instrument cluster and smaller diameter steering wheel.
More information should be released in the run-up to the show. As always, watch this space.
[Source: Autoblog Spanish - Translated]
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- Filed under: Coupes, Green, Ford, Rumormill
The original Fox body Mustang SVO was an odd-looking chap with an impressive 205 hp turbo four cylinder and more amenities than the standard pony car. While the light little 'Stang had a decent following, it was expensive and somewhat unreliable in comparison to the cheaper V8 model. The demise of the SVO was cheap gas, which is likely two words we'll never use again when discussing the price of petrol.
The crew over at Garage419 have gotten a tip that the stratospheric climb in fuel prices may spawn another SVO Mustang, but this one could pack 300 ponies. The engine of choice could be the tried and true 2.3-liter four banger with the Ecoboost treatment, and weight could drop by 500 pounds by dropping the massive 4.6L V8 and using higher strength steel. The resulting turbo Mustang would blow away its naturally aspirated V8 brother on the track, while giving back at the pump to the tune of a 20-30 percent fuel economy improvement.
Lets see, a 30 mpg Mustang that weighs less and goes faster than its throaty V8 sibling. This sounds like an absolute no-brainer for the Blue Oval, and something that we wouldn't mind having in the Autoblog Garage for a very long time.
[Source: Garage 419]
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- Filed under: Tuners, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Ford, ROUSH
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Roush 437R Trak Pak Mustang.
We've driven our fair share of Mustangs, but it's a rare occasion that we get to drive one at the track. That's part of the reason why we made the seven hour trek from Southern California to Thunderhill Raceway in Willows, CA, to get behind the wheel of Roush's new 427R Trak Pak Mustang. What's so special about the Trak Pak? For starters, it's got a supercharged V8 packing 435 horsepower and an abundance of race-ready items like an adjustable suspension, carbon fiber wing, and 14-inch brakes that all make it ideal for the weekend warrior who wants his vehicle to handle the daily grind and track-day floggings. With only 100 being built, this may be one of the few opportunities to see one in the sheetmetal, let alone to drive it on the track. While inclement weather the night before threatened to ruin the trip, we were blessed with a rain-free day, allowing us to explore the limits of the Trak Pak'd 427R. Follow the jump to read our impressions.
All photos Copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
Continue reading Track Test: 2008 Roush 427R Trak Pak Mustang
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- Filed under: Spy Photos, Trucks/Pickups, Ford, Special/Limited Editions
If you're a Harley-Davidson fan you might be interested in driving...well, riding an actual Harley. But for those who can't (or won't), Ford has been working on a new Harley-Davidson edition of its F-Series Super Duty pickup. While previous versions were based on the smaller, lighter-duty F-150 pickup, these spy shots and accompanying reports indicate that the new version we're looking at is the full-fat, heavy-duty F-450, complete with dually rear axle and quad-cab four-door set-up.
Like the previous set of spy shots that surfaced back in May, these photos of the undisguised test mule show a variety of exterior add-ons, including blue flames extending down the flank of the truck, although the flames are only visible on one side of the spied vehicle, with the Harley badge evident on the other, suggesting these could have been applied to throw us off. (We won't be surprised to see the final version unveiled in either way.) Unique wheels and special lettering along the side of the bed walls also form part of the visual package, while special badging and leather are anticipated to round out the interior. No changes are expected of the 6.4-liter twin-turbo diesel, already capable as it is of towing a couple of hogs on a trailer behind it, but we're expecting a price tag of over $60k for the special-edition truck.
[Source: World Car Fans]
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- Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Green, Ford
var ith_400_HP'; Doug Pelmar's 1987 Ford Mustang LX Coupe might have just become our favorite X-Prize competitor. How come? Well, first off, LX Coupes are awesome to begin with, but Mr. Pelmar's is even more special. Rather than neuter his 'Stang in the name of high efficiency, he's gone and created something that should contend in the X-Prize's "Mainstream" category, but would also be right at home on the pages of Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords. The car's engine runs on E85 for emissions purposes and has several modifications that Mr. Pelmar designed (mostly electronics, it seems) allowing it to run much more efficiently -- to the tune of a claimed 80 miles per gallon -- while producing 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. He admits that he could squeeze more MPGs out if he dialed back the power some, but where's the fun in that? 80 MPG and 400 horses in a Fox body seems like a completely reasonable compromise to us. Oh, and MM&FF? You need to call this guy.
[Source: Mustang Evolution]
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- Filed under: Government/Legal, Green, Chrysler, LLC., Ford, GM, Toyota
Automakers had until July 1st to plead their case to the NHTSA overlords before the government agency set off to finalize the 2011-2015 CAFE standards. After hearing comments from Detroit automakers, Toyota, Daimler, and others, it seems that the new standards are going to have a sweeping effect on both consumers and auto industry employees. The Auto Alliance states that the cuts would hasten the exit of 82,000 jobs, cost $29 billion for consumers, and raise the cost of your favorite truck by $4,000 or more. The added cost of vehicles will also cut annual production by up to 850k units industry-wide.
Complaints from automakers are in stark contrast to claims from NHTSA, which says the added fuel economy will result in 9,000 more jobs. The two sides do agree that the new standards will cost a lot of money, as NHTSA estimates that the new rules could cost $47 billion by 2015, though automakers estimate it will cost even more. While the Alliance wants some slack in the new rules, Congress wants to see even tougher regulations. The wise guys and gals on the hill say the proposal doesn't reflect $4-per-gallon gasoline, and automakers feel the regulation doesn't reflect common sense. Since the new rules begin to take effect in late 2010, automakers contend that the product cycle is already baked in, and changing at this stage in the game would be like moving an Egyptian pyramid with Two Guys and a Truck.
Whether automakers can meet these stringent deadlines on time or not, the industry is being turned on end. With gas approaching $5 a gallon, automakers don't need the government to tell them that they need more efficient vehicles. Cash-carrying customers are doing that just fine, thank you.
[Source: Detroit News]
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- Filed under: Ford, Volvo, Renault
As Ford reportedly prepares to offload Volvo and dismantle the last remaining vestiges of its once proud Premier Automotive Group, reports indicate that discussions were, once again, held with Renault.
The French automaker was tipped as a potential buyer when Jaguar was on the table, expressing interest in acquiring a luxury brand (and evidently forgetting it had Infiniti up its sleeve). Along with Chinese automakers, Renault has reportedly been in on-again, off-again discussions with Ford over the sale of Volvo as well, though Ford insists that its Swedish subsidiary is not for sale.
[Source: Automotive News - subs. req'd]
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- Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, SUVs, Ford, Lincoln
Do you often wonder why putting your foot down while driving your Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator doesn't deliver the response for which you'd hoped? Well, that could be because you're driving an enormous beast of a vehicle saddled with an overburdened 5.4L V8 producing 300 horsepower. Well, Saleen now has the solution for more power that Ford has not been willing to offer.
The SpeeLab division of the American tuning house has announced the availability of its Series VI twin-screw supercharger for the current-model Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. The forced inductor, already on duty in the Saleen S331 Sport Truck, provides an extra 100 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque in the SUV. The result? Substantial extra pulling power, for one, while acceleration is said to be vastly improved, dropping the 0-60 run into the sixes while improving 35 - 65 mph passing times by 30 percent, all the while making a negligible impact on fuel consumption.
[Source: Inside Line]
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- Filed under: Economy, Government/Legal, Green, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler, LLC., Ford, GM, Earnings/Financials
Back in the late seventies and into early eighties, Chrysler had gotten itself into such horrid financial shape that the U.S. government decided to step in and fix the situation itself. Considering the sorry state of affairs that all three of the Detroit automakers find themselves in today, some may wonder if a government-funded bailout is in the cards. Not so much... at least according to John McCain. "Frankly I just don't see a scenario where the federal government would come in and bail out any industry in America today," says the Republican.
So, what plan does McCain have in store for the Detroit 3? More Chevrolet Cobalts and Pontiac G5s for one, as the Arizona Senator said the above words after touring the plant in Lordstown, Ohio where the GM compact cars are made and a where third shift has just been added. "I am convinced that what is being done at the Lordstown assembly plant is the future of the American auto industry," added McCain.
In more related good news for the U.S. automakers, McCain says he supports nationwide CO2 standards and would oppose any state's individual plans -- California, we're looking at you. The Presidential hopeful also wants to see more fair-trade standards implemented with the other various auto-building nations and quicker violations for unfair practices. We await a response from the Democratic side.
[Sources: The Detroit News, Automotive News - sub. req'd]
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- Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Marketing/Advertising, Ford, Lincoln
Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Lincoln MKS.
The all-new MKS is a very big deal for Lincoln, and with 10,000 pre-orders already in the books, the Blue Oval's domestic luxury arm just may have a hit on its hands. To keep a steady flow of information to potential customers, Lincoln is planning a multimedia onslaught for print, web, and TV, and it has even put together a three-minute mini movie to help generate interest. The spot, "Mad, Crazy Love," has been created to draw interest from African American customers between the ages of 30-45. Lincoln has also created 15 and 30 second teasers for the spot, and it plans to run the ads during the Black Entertainment Television Awards pre-show. Once the ads begin to air on the networks, Lincoln will also have the spot on Lincoln.com so interested parties can see more.
While we're very interested to see the spot for ourselves, the ultra-long infomersials tend to be painful to watch more than once, and the acting usually isn't all that great, either. Lets hope Ford doesn't jam this one down our collective throats, even if it actually is pretty good.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]
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- Filed under: Hatchbacks, Ford, UK, Special/Limited Editions
Click for hi-res gallery of the Ford Fiesta Zetec S Red edition
The Ford Fiesta is one of the best-selling vehicles in the UK. But before it's replaced by the new model, the Blue Oval's British subsidiary isn't about to let it go out without a... well, we'd hardly call it a bang, but at least a last desperate plea for attention before it's retired.
The imaginatively named "Red" edition comes in any color, as long as it's - you guessed it - red. Colorado Red, to be specific, with a black-and-white checker-board roof and black accents on the mirror caps, door handles, moldings and roof spoiler. The special edition is based on the Fiesta Zetec S, powered by a "zesty yet thrifty" 1.6-liter four pushing out 100hp. Leather seats, 16" alloys, air-con and heated electric side-view mirrors round out the package, of which only 400 will be offered at a price of £13,000 to British customers who really should be waiting for the new Fiesta.
[Source: Ford]
Continue reading Ford UK offers Red edition Fiesta Zetec S
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- Filed under: Etc., Tech, Crossovers/CUVs, Ford
They're not very glamorous, but tires make or break our driving enjoyment. Ford wants to soothe drivers of its new Family Truckster Flex, so Goodyear's Assurance ComforTred tires have been specified as the original fitment for the big crossover. The Assurance ComforTred uses a special cushion layer to smooth out road imperfections, the last thing anyone wants with a Flex loaded for bear with the kids, the dog, and a fully stocked refrigerator. The Flex is obviously designed to devour large stretches of interstate without a whimper, and Goodyear seems to think their ComforTred tires share the same appetite for asphalt, backing them with an 80,000 mile warranty and calling the Assurance Goodyear's very best tires. To make the Flex a success, the entire program needs to encompass multiple "very bests;" here's hoping. Press release after the jump
[Source: Goodyear]Continue reading Look at those shoes: Goodyear picked for standard Flex fitment
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- Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Crossovers/CUVs, Ford, Mercury, First Drive
Click the image above for more high res pics of the 2009 Mariner Hybrid
Ford took pride in being the first automaker on the planet to offer a hybrid utility vehicle when it introduced the first battery-assisted Ford Escape in mid-2004. The Escape hybrid has had mixed success over the past few years, but with gas prices hitting $4 per gallon, the Blue Oval is selling every unit it can produce. For the 2008 model year, one in eight Escape sales are hybrids, which is impressive when you consider that it averages $30,000 per vehicle. In 2006, the Escape was joined by the lower volume Mariner Hybrid, giving Ford two entries in the hybrid soft-roader market, and a green model to sell at Lincoln-Mercury dealerships.
The Escape got a thorough makeover on the outside for 2008, but most of the mechanicals remain a carryover from the previous generation. For 2009, Ford finished the job on the Escape and its sheet metal sibling from Mercury and the hybrid models followed suit. The changes include a new engine that provides more power and improved efficiency, some cosmetic tweaks, and several technological upgrades. Ford is betting that the changes will improve their footing in the green scene, so we took a loaded Mercury Mariner hybrid into the Autoblog Garage to see if the fuel-sipping CUV could win us over.
All photos Copyright (C)2008 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.
Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid [w/VIDEO]
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- Filed under: Trucks/Pickups, Marketing/Advertising, Ford
The reality of $4 per gallon gasoline coupled with a major slowdown in construction work has conspired to put the US truck market in a world of hurt. Ford has already postponed the launch of the all-new F-150 by two months, and when the truck goes on sale, the Blue Oval will be focusing its marketing efforts on the people that use their trucks for what they were designed for: work. Ford is betting that customers that buy trucks for looks are all but gone, but like Ford Marketing Manager Mike Crowley says, you can't build America with a fleet of Priuses. Past F-150 launches arrived with mostly high-end crew cab models were geared towards recreational truck owners, but the 2009 model will arrive mainly in two door and extended cab configurations. Those less expensive models are a big hit with fleets and construction companies.
The truck market may be down 21% in 2008, but by focusing on core buyers Ford is hoping to gain ground on the competition. Since roughly one-quarter of Ford's sales come courtesy of its F-Series lineup, lets hope the 105 year old company is right.
[Source: Detroit Free Press]
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Archive for the 'FORD' Category
Wednesday, April 9th, 2008
2010 ford taurus, 2010 taurus, 2011 ford taurus, 2011 taurus, ford, ford taurus, ford taurus 2010, new ford taurus, next ford taurus, spy photos, taurus, top
Well, it looks like Ford just got rolled by the 600 lb. gorilla of Edmunds on the spy photo of the 2010 Ford Taurus. They’ve decided to toss the Dearborn, MI-based automaker around like a toy doll, pasting the spy photo of the new Taurus we first showed you yesterday back up on top of the Inside Line, with not a care in the world for Ford’s threats of lawsuit or a “changed relationship with Ford” PR. We’re guessing…
…a site with a big consumer side like Edmunds’ Inside Line’s able to just beat back those big bullies and take those “big” threats and file them in the “idle” category. Sadly, all we’ve got is Gizmodo. Not that they’re anything to sneeze at, we’re just sayin.’ Anyway, we’re just happy to have blazed the trail for the consumer car sales-lead giant because if there’s one thing we can be sure of — that’s definitely the 2010 Ford Taurus.
The radical change could be the result of an overwhelmingly positive response to Ford’s Mondeo sedan, a midsize four-door sedan already on sale in Europe but too expensive to import to the U.S. It was penned by Ford’s European design group led by Martin Smith. Up to this point, a U.S. design group, currently led by Peter Horbury, has worked on U.S-specific models like the Taurus.
Expect to see this Taurus sporting a version of Ford’s new EcoBoost V6. The new turbocharged engine promises V8-like power with the efficiency of a four-cylinder. Big promises for sure, but even if it doesn’t quite meet those goals, the 2010 Taurus should be one of the more powerful sedans in its class without sacrificing too much in the way of fuel mileage.
Expect to see the official unveil of the 2010 Ford Taurus at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next January. Sales should begin in the fall of 2009.
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Automotive News, FORD, Sedans,Saloons | No Comments »
Thursday, July 19th, 2007
Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Euro, Crossovers/CUVs, Ford
Sometimes, you have to wonder if Ford really favors Europeans over Americans. After all, look at the product portfolios. Sure, we have the Mustang and the trucks, which are great, but Europe wins pretty much everywhere else. The Mondeo tops the Fusion, their Focus is worlds better than the bizarre-looking thing we’re about to get, and now they’ve announced that Europe’s receiving a small crossover that’s likely to make Escape look ponderous by comparison. Obviously derived from the Iosis X concept, that car is the Ford Kuga, and while the name’s not the greatest (sounds like a Bostonian saying “Cougar”), the sketch above shows a very sporty-looking ride that applies the Ford of Europe “kinetic design” philosophy to a 4×4 crossover. Assuming it’s similarly-sized, Kuga is to Escape what Mondeo is to Fusion. That means the Europeans win and we lose. Again.
The car will debut in September at the Frankfurt show and go on sale throughout Europe in 2008. Follow the jump for Ford’s press release. We’ve also included a gallery of the 2006 Iosis X concept below.
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Tuning Cars, Automotive News, FORD | No Comments »
Thursday, April 19th, 2007
Ford and DJ Funkmaster Flex, the hip hop guru of car customization, are turning the Funkmaster’s red hot Ford Expedition concept into a limited-edition production SUV. The stylized version of the full-sized SUV, dubbed the 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition, will hit Ford dealer showrooms later this fall.
- Limited-edition 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition set to arrive in dealerships in the fall of 2007.
- Funkmaster Flex breaks barriers to become one of the first African American and hip hop artists in history to have a mass-produced production vehicle.
- Funkmaster Flex Edition features custom two-tone paint, a complete 3d Carbon body kit and custom interior.
In launching the Funkmaster Flex Edition, Ford is positioning itself for continued growth in the vehicle personalization marketplace with an expressive SUV that doesn’t lose any of its Expedition authenticity, but highlights its style and presence.
“Once Ford and I finished the concept Expedition, we knew we had something serious! It was poppin’!” said Funkmaster Flex. “We then started showing it at auto shows, to dealers and to my fans and realized we hit on some themes that we could turn into a limited-edition production ride.”
“Funkmaster Flex is finding ways to connect with new customers,” said Barry Engle, general manager, Ford Division Marketing. “He is a perfect fit for the Ford brand because he brings so much energy and enthusiasm to the table. He knows what customers want and he can really deliver.” Ford research shows that nearly half of all new-vehicle buyers are adding unique touches to their vehicles and Expedition is no exception. Modifications to the Expedition are as diverse as the needs of buyers – from adding additional off-road capability, to custom cargo storage, to adding touches for increased urban street appeal. Funkmaster Flex, a major influence in hip hop culture, has developed a young fan base of urban automotive enthusiasts who take pride in their personal style. Their vehicle often defines their lifestyle. Ford wants to reach these buyers with this new customized Expedition. Last year, Ford opened its Dearborn design studio doors to Funkmaster Flex to look at how to customize the new Expedition. Flex went to work with Ford designers to create an expressive concept that delivered the Expedition’s SUV authenticity with a unique urban style and presence.
The limited-edition run of Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition, based of the existing short wheelbase, Limited model, will arrive at dealerships in the fall of 2007.
2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition
Funkmaster Flex has strong opinions on customizing vehicles. Here, he shares some these thoughts and describes the new Expedition Funkmaster Felx Edition.
- Step one is a custom paint job. “The scheme developed shouldn’t be too busy or overloaded with color. You want to make a statement at a stop light with no overkill! Two-tone paint works best,” says Flex. For his Expedition, he chose a two-tone Colorado Red and Black paint scheme with Orange pinstriping. The two-tone goes up and over the A-pillar into the power dome hood so that they don’t distract from the most expressive part of the new Expedition, its front grille.
- “Quality body kits are essential to any customization,” says Flex. “They need to be expressive and distinctive without compromising drivability.” Funkmaster Flex and Ford Design called upon Ford’s longtime partner 3d Carbon in Newport Beach, Calif. to develop a complete body kit for the Expedition. 3d Carbon currently provides official Ford licensed body kit for the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ. The kit on the Expedition features an expressive custom front fascia with integrated fog lamps, side skirts, rear fascia and trailer hitch cover. The traditional roof rack has been removed.
- Exterior personal touches are a must. “Make sure to add anything that you like as long as it’s not gaudy. Get guidance from experts with these additions. Trust their advice. Chrome accents and custom badges can really define a vehicle,” says Flex. The Expedition features custom Funkmaster Flex FMF chrome badges that accent the 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels.
- “The interior needs to continue the theme of the exterior,” says Flex. A matching Colorado Red center console bezel, shifter and switch bezels highlight the cabin. The seats feature appointed quad captain black leather skins with red-stitching and FMF red logo headrests. A red-stitch steering wheel and armrest center console accent the seats. FMF floormats rounds out the package. As an added touch, each Expedition will feature an exclusive numbered dash plaque signed by Funkmaster Flex.
- Make sure the vehicle has all the options and a strong sound system. Based on the Expedition Limited, the Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition is available with the same interior standard and optional features. They include a standard 340-Watt Audiophile® Sound System, MP3 player audio input jack, Powerfold™ third-row seat, heat and cooled front seats and optional navigation system, power liftgate, air suspension and rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition Highlights
Exterior
- 3d Carbon body kit with custom front/rear fascia and side skirts
- Two-tone Black and Colorado Red paint with Orange pinstriping
- Funkmaster Flex badges on fenders
- Trailer hitch cover
- SIRIUS™ Satellite Radio
- 2nd row captain’s chairs Interior
- Black leather interior with contrasting Colorado red stitching
- Colorado red shifter, center stack and door appliques/bezels
- Funkmaster Flex stitched logo headrests
- Limited-edition Funkmaster Flex numbered dash plaque
- 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Automotive News, FORD | No Comments »
Thursday, March 1st, 2007
Ford Motor Co.
The ‘01 Escape doesn’t look as bold as its updated model.
Type: A front-wheel drive compact SUV. All-wheel drive is available.
Retail price (including shipping): $19,245 - $30,000
Trim levels: XLS, XLT and Limited
Engines:
2.3-liter I-4, 153-hp, 152-lb-ft
3-liter V-6, 200-hp, 200-hp, 193-lb-ft
Gas-electric hybrid version is available.
Transmission: Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
Dimensions: Length: 174.7-inches; Width: 71.1-inches; Wheelbase: 103.1-inches
EPA mileage:
2.3-L: FWD, 20 mpg city /26 mpg highway; AWD, 19/24
3-L: FWD, 18/24; AWD, 17/22
Estimated 12-month insurance costs, according to AAA Michigan: $704.
Overall: ***
Exterior: Excellent. The new front end gives the compact SUV a much more truck-like appearance.
Interior: Good. Comfortable and utilitarian. For those green at heart, one option includes seats made from recycled materials.
Safety: Excellent. Standard front and side curtain airbags, as well as standard anti lock brakes, electronic stability control with rollover stability control.
Performance: Good. Ride and handling have improved. Significant sound proofing and aerodynamic changes have cut internal noise by more than 12 percent.
Notes: An excellent all around vehicle that can handle life’s daily grind well.
Grading scale
Excellent: **** Very Good:*** Good:** Poor:*
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Automotive News, FORD | No Comments »
Sunday, February 11th, 2007
2007 Ford Interceptor Concept , Ford Motor Co
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Tuning Cars, Automotive News, FORD | No Comments »
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