Ford has announced the new sporty Zetec S, which will join to the Focus’ line-up. The hot hatch is developed specifically for UK customers and combines a new 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine with sports styling.
The special edition Focus is based on the Zetec model and adds adds a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17” alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.
“Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit.”, commented Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director.
2012 Ford Focus Zetec S is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 180PS (132 kW), which grants superb performance – 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 222 km/h (138 mph). Furthermore, the emissions are just 139 g/km.
The 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi are also available and can be specified with either manual or PowerShift automatic transmission.
2012 Zetec S is priced at £18 745, which is just £1 250 above the equivalent Zetec. The Zetec S and Titanium are identically priced so customers can choose either sport or luxury at the same price point.
Options list includes cruise control with Active Speed Limiter and a Zetec S interior pack featuring Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power driver seat, power rear windows and global closing for £800.
The new 2013 Lincoln MKS solves this dilemma between smooth ride and satisfying, confident handling. It and stands out, because it is the only car in its segment to have Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) as standard equipment. The CCD ensures that the driver will have exciting and comfortable driving, while at the same time it will be dynamic and involving.
CCD is always tuning and refining the ride quality, and more importantly this is regardless of road conditions. Additionally CCD delivers also its on-road benefit by significantly extending the chassis’ capabilities compared to a chassis with non-adjustable struts and shock absorbers, known as “dampers” by chassis engineers.
Real-time damping
The new CCD dampers for the 2013 MKS offer expanded and improved control range in comparison with the fixed-rate dampers fitted to the 2012 MKS.
The system’s powerful processing speed and fast-acting mechanicals enable CCD to constantly read the road surface and continuously adjust damping rates in real time across the three selectable ranges – Sport, Normal and Comfort.
Lincoln drive control
The Lincoln Drive Control brand new interface makes MKS different and it is orientated towards drivers’ choice, who can select through various programmed modes like Normal mode, Sport mode, and Comfort Mode. Moreover the electric power-assisted steering recalibrates are providing more road feel and greater steering effort. In this way the engine responds more directly to the driver’s inputs. For example, the Comfort mode instructs the CCD suspension to run in its softest range. The dampers exert 10 to 15 percent less control compared to the Normal mode. Additionally the electric power assisted steering system also reduces the effort needed to turn the wheel at low speeds, for example, when parking. Definitely CCD is the core new technology, which will change everything in the automobile world, and it is totally orientated towards the drivers’ choice! So appealing, isn’t it!
Engines and transmissions
The standard engine for 2013 model is a more powerful and efficient 3.7-liter V6. It now includes twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), which offers the ability to vary camshaft timing to optimize the opening and closing of both the intake and exhaust valves. In this way the engine’s responsiveness and efficiency is being increased.
Specific accessory technologies were added to the 3.7-liter V6 to improve fuel economy performance and efficiency. The 3.7-liter delivers an estimated 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway for the front-wheel drive model and 18/26 mpg with the all-wheel-drive model. And tuned dual-exhaust system enhances low-end torque. Furthermore is to be mentioned the Smart Battery Management which also contributes to this improved economy by prioritizing the recharging of the vehicle’s battery at optimum times.
3.5-liter Ecoboost V6
No news here: the premium engine for 2013 still remains the twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6, an engine that provides V8 performance with the fuel economy of a V6. And don’t forget that The EcoBoost V6 winned a place on Ward’s 2010 “10 Best Engines” list. The fuel economy of the EcoBoost/all-wheel-drive powertrain is projected to be 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway – isn’t that impressive?! Indeed, the engine combinations for the 2013 Lincoln MKS offer an outstanding combination of more refined power and enhanced fuel economy.
Efficient six-speed transmissions
The 2013 Lincoln MKS is equipped with two versions of the six-speed SelectShift AutomaticTM transmission, both with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. At one hand the 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 uses the 6F-50. On the other we have the more powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost, which uses the heavy-duty 6F-55 which benefits from high-energy friction materials, a larger ring gear and a specific torque converter to handle the high torque output of the twin-turbo V6.
All-wheel drive
The system intelligently routes power only to the front wheels for improved fuel efficiency. For instance when driver input or road conditions indicate that slip might occur, the system sends power to the rear wheels to help prevent tire slip.
The additional information is that the all-wheel drive is standard with the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 and optional on the 3.7-liter V6.
More capable braking system
Improvement in the braking system is much needed here because it has to match the engine’s extra power and the suspension’s additional handling capabilities. For that reason Lincoln has significantly upgraded the MKS braking system for 2013 – it will unquestionably give the driver confidence and control. The modification is the following: new vented front discs measure 13.86 inches (352 mm), more than an inch larger than in the 2012 model. And to enhance brake cooling, the “hat” portion of the front brake disc is also vented.
Steering
This is where the focus id put on: the MKS steering system received a thorough makeover for 2013. The gear ratio is quicker (15:1 for 2013 vs. 17.1:1 for today’s MKS), making the steering more immediately responsive at all speeds. In addition, the steering boost is now electric rather than hydraulic. Last but not least the new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) complements CCD in contributing to the driver-tunable Lincoln Drive Control experience.
The improved performance is due to the steering gear which is now solid mounted to the chassis’s front subframe. Moreover, a brace has been added under the vehicle (across the transmission tunnel) to strengthen the subframe’s mounting points to the chassis.
EPAS replaces the traditional hydraulic-assist power-steering pump with an electric motor. For that reason this is helpful to save fuel because the motor operates only when assistance is required, (unlike the hydraulic systems that run continuously).
Active park assist
Again EPAS is also the primary technology behind the available active park assist (APA) system. How it works: An ultrasonic sensor precisely measure open spaces to find a suitable parallel parking spot. For the sake of the comfort of the driver, he or she retains full control of throttle, brakes and shifting the entire time the APA is engaged.
Torque vectoring control
The new Torque Vectoring Control (TVC) system is set to Sport Mode. This TVC helps the MKS drive through corners with greater balance and poise. Moreover it individually influences the speed of the front wheels to enhance cornering agility by mitigating against a dynamic condition engineers refer to as understeer.
Sync
The next generation of the award-winning SYNC system is now easier to use: new, simpler screen designs, improved user interface, the larger and bolder fonts which make screens easier to read, SYNC’s voice recognition experience and etc. This is how SYNC has developed from a stand-alone module for communication and entertainment to a fully integrated operating system for Lincoln vehicles. It is to be highlighted that SYNC also enables the interior of the MKS to become a Wi-Fi hot spot when linked to a data-enabled cellular device. This means that with an active Wi-Fi, passengers can link to the Web on their tables or laptops.
Lane keeping system
Brand new for the 2013 MKS is a Lane Keeping System that complements the complete collection of driver assist technologies, in addition to the comprehensive safety package including six airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and AdvanceTrac® ESC (electronic stability control). It also includes Lane Keeping Alert and Lane Keeping Aid, which add significantly to the advanced driver assistance features already available on MKS. A good instance is that this Lane Keeping Alert helps the driver to avoid leaving their lane unintentionally because of distraction or tiredness. Furthermore, Lane Keeping Alert utilizes a forward-facing mono-vision camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror to begin looking for lane markers. A control unit monitors the data and determines when the vehicle is wandering out of its lane and as the vehicle approaches the outer boundary of its lane, the system vibrates the steering wheel, reminding the driver to pay attention. Brilliant, isn’t it!
Auto high-beam headlamps
Auto high-beam headlamps are also included. They use the windshield-mounted camera to monitor traffic conditions and control high-beam activation.
Collision warning
Collision Warning as expected, helps prevent common traffic accidents such as forward-looking, with the help of the long-distance radar which identifies potential obstacles. These warnings allow the driver to brake before a potential accident.
Adaptive cruise control
Collision warning is paired with adaptive cruise control (ACC). The reason for that is that both features use the forward-looking radar system. They have the range of up to 600 feet, and this adjusts vehicle speed to keep it at a safe distance behind another vehicle in the same lane, no matter of the weather conditions like fog or rain.
Blind spot information system
This brand new and thoughtfully considered Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert detects the vehicles in blind spots during normal driving as well as traffic approaching from the sides when the driver is reversing out of parking spots. This happens because of the BLIS radar sensors which continuously monitor each side of the vehicle to detect when another vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone (within 45 feet).
Mykey
What is MyKey® – it is the system that allows parents to restrict certain Lincoln MKS features when in the hands of a MyKey driver. It is made generally to ensure that the driver won’t exceed a maximum speed of 90 km/h for example, or it deactivates the Traction Control System that limits tire spin.
Exterior
Yes, the design is stunning and breathtaking. The new 2013 MKS has A-pillar forward, including the grille, HID headlamps, front fascia, hood and front fenders, fresh 19- and 20-inch aluminum wheels, new fascia, LED tail lamps, exhaust tips and a new decklid design that improves access to the trunk. And in one word: it is significant!
Interior
These styling updates are made for the sake of the transformation of the cabin. The interior is dominated by lines that sweep up from the center stack and flow out to the sides. Subtle ambient lighting adds to the interior’s luxurious, high-tech environment. All this new styling is promised to be seen in the upcoming future models of Lincoln.
Infotainment systems
The new MKS offers two audio systems: a standard one and an optional one. The standard system includes AM/FM/CD/MP3/satellite sources playing through a 210-watt system that drives 10 speakers. On the other hand the optional audio system is THX® II Certified Car Audio System with AM/FM/CD/DVD/ MP3/HD Radio capability and 16 speakers, including a 10-inch subwoofer. SiriusXM satellite radio with six-month prepaid subscription, an auxiliary input jack and a USB port are also included. What is appealing in this system is that the volume is being automatically adjusted according to vehicle speed. Conclusion: this is definitely an exceptional acoustic performance that brings home-theater sound to the road.
Luxurious, organic, comfortable
Luxury and comfort go hand by hand. This Lincoln style is supported by equipment that enhances occupant comfort. Lincoln’s available multi-contour seats incorporate seven computer-controlled air bladders to provide occupants with maximum adjustment. In addition both driver and passenger seats feature individual static settings as well as dynamic massage settings.
The seat surfaces are provided by the Bridge of Weir leather company, which uses a unique organic tanning method that results in a production of material free of chromium. This definitely makes the car more eco- and environmentally friendly, and more importantly – fully recyclable, leathers available.
Crafted details
For drivers who live in colder climates, a new heated steering wheel is considered. It raises the wheel rim’s surface temperature from minus20 degrees Celsius (minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit ) to 23C (74F) in only five minutes.
In addition new woods (Prussian Burl and Brown Swirl Walnut) and leather colors (Hazelnut and Light Dune) complete the extensive list of interior changes for 2013. And with it the person driving that beautiful luxury and comfortable car will be really unique. Why? Because two Lincoln interiors featuring natural woods display the exact same grain pattern.
After-sale care
Lincoln offers a comprehensive warranty and complimentary maintenance package on all of its vehicles, including: Four-year (50,000-mile complimentary maintenance), which includes coverage for oil and filter changes, tire rotations and multipoint, four-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty,five-year, 60,000-mile safety restraint limited warranty and unlimited mileage corrosion limited warranty, six-year, 70,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
On sale
The 2013 Lincoln MKS will be crafted in Chicago and is expected to arrive at Lincoln dealers this spring.
Ford exhibits 2013 Escape at the Los Angeles Auto Show, this month. The vehicle is based on Vertrek Concept and it is practically the same.
“We call our all-new Ford Escape the ‘Smarter Utility Vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value – fuel economy, versatility and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun – all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” commented Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.
“Ford understands that more people every year are looking at vehicles like Escape, and we want to give them even more reasons to buy.”, he added.
The exterior of the new Escape boasts a sloping roofline and a tailgate-mounted spoiler, which bring better aerodynamics. There are also a new hood and a prominent grille, power liftgate and 17” alloy wheels. The interior now features better materials and restyled switchgear.
2013 Escape is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 175PS (129 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft, a 2.5 liter with 170PS (125 kW) and 226 Nm (167 lb-ft) and a powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240PS (177 kW) and 338 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque. All engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox with a choice of FWD and AWD, which is available as an option for EcoBoost variants.
2013 Ford Escape can be ordered with MyFord Touch SAT NAV system, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot Information System.
“This all-new Ford model opens a new chapter in the world of SUVs,” Mr. Kuzak said.
“By being smarter, this utility vehicle will help customers around the globe find better, easier ways to connect with technology, maximize fuel efficiency and find the versatility and capability they need and want.”, he finished.
Ford has unveiled the 2013 Flex, which will have its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month. The SUV has a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.
2013 Ford Flex has seven-seats, new generation of MyFord Touch, rear inflatable belts, collision-avoidance technologies, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, first-row heated and cooled seats, power-fold mirrors, an optional new Appearance Package and updated engine range.
The engine range includes a 3.5 liter Ti-VCT V6 petrol with 289PS (213 kW) and 345Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque, which has 20PS more than the previous version and is more fuel efficient. There is also a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 360PS (265 kW) and 474Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque. Both power units are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission, a sequential gearbox with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
MyFord Touch includes two 4.2” screens in the instrument cluster and an 8″ screen in the center stack. The feature pairs with the latest version of SYNC.
The base SYNC package includes:
• Hands-free, voice-activated calling via a Bluetooth®-connected mobile phone or USB-connected digital music player
• 911 AssistTM, the automated emergency calling service that is free for the life of the vehicle
• Vehicle Health Report, the on-demand diagnostic and maintenance information service
• Enhanced safety and driver-aid technology
• The new Flex is equipped with the automotive world’s first production rear inflatable belts to offer improved comfort and protection for rear seat passengers. Last month, this safety innovation was named a Breakthrough Product Award winner by Popular Mechanics, part of the magazine’s seventh annual Breakthrough Awards.
2013 Ford Flex – My Ford Touch(R)
Also new is an Appearance Package on Limited and SEL models that includes an available two-tone roof and mirrors, 20” machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets, leather seats, unique door trim panels and other interior upgrades for a truly distinctive, premium look and feel.
There are also nine exterior colors: Ruby Red, Deep Impact Blue and Kodiak Brown. Customers also can choose from body-color roofs, or two-tone with white, gray or black available on the Appearance Package.
2013 Ford Flex is built at Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada.
Ford will add all-new 1.0 litre EcoBoost three-cylinder petrol engine to the model line-up. The engine is developed in Europe and it is the smallest one Ford has ever built. Furthermore, the manufacturer confirms that its next generation of hybrid vehicles, including the C-MAX in 2013, will have a Ford-designed, engineered and built transmission.
The 1.0 litre EcoBoost has the same performance as a four-cylinder, but with much higher fuel economy and lower emissions.
“No one has ever built a three-cylinder engine quite like this.It’s one of the most technically advanced and efficient engines we’ve ever designed,” commented Joe Bakaj, vice president of Global Powertrain Engineering.
“The new engine introduces many new technologies that could be part of the DNA of future Ford engines.”, he added.
The all new 1.0 litre EcoBoost will be offered with the 2012 Ford B-Max, but full details of the new power unit will be released in September at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Innovative efficiency solutions:
An offset crankshaft that reduces friction
An advanced, Ford-designed split cooling system that allows the cylinder block to warm up before the cylinder head. Faster cylinder block warm-ups save fuel, especially in cold weather
An exhaust manifold cast into the cylinder head. The one-piece assembly lowers the temperature of the exhaust gases. This enables the engine to run in a wider rpm band with the optimum fuel-to-air ratio. The new design also saves weight and allows the engine to operate more smoothly
EcoBoost technologies, such as turbocharging, direct-injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
Superchips Ltd has developed another performance package for the latest Ford S-Max with 2.0 liter direct injected turbocharged Ecoboost engine.
The ECU re-map boosts the 2.0 litre petrol engine with 40BHP at 5648RPM and 67Nm at just 2065RPM. With all that new power, the family vehicle is even more friendly to drive than before. Furthermore, the exceptional mileage is unchanged – 35 mpg on combined cycle. So despite the performance increase produced by the upgrade, if a Superchips remapped S-MAX is driven in a “like for like” manner, fuel consumption will not be adversely affected.
Customers will get a full Service Guarantee and an industry-leading 12 month / 30 000 supplementary full vehicle warranty.
The performance upgrade is suitable for all Ford S-MAX 2.0-litre, 203 PS Ecoboost models produced from March 2010 onwards. The result is 243PS and 367Nm of torque. The price is £455.00, so don’t compromise, optimise.
2011 Ford C-MAX will hit the market in UK in October and it is price at £16 745 for the base version.
The two versions are five-seater and Grand – seven-seater are available in two level trims – Zetec and Titanium. Prices start from £16 745 for the C-MAX Zetec and £18 745 for the C-MAX Grand Zetec.
“When C-MAX was launched in 2003 it preserved all the brand’s most important qualities including style, comfort and driving quality, but added more flexibility and space to the Focus package.”, (more…)
The new Ford Explorer is entirely new vehicle. It is something different than all its predecessor. It features fuel efficiency, safety, technology, capability and quality.
“The all-new Explorer will deliver today’s SUV buyers the attributes they really want and value, and a few they might not even have dreamed of,” commented Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. (more…)
In 2005 Ford unveiled one of the hottest hatchbacks on the market – Focus ST, which was available in either three or five door variant. The vehicle is powered by Ford Duratec ST turbocharged engine – 2.5 liter 5 cylinder developing 225hp.
In 2008 the company introduced power kit, which raises the power to 260bhp. The performance package consists: K&N sport air intake, larger intercooler and ECU remap. (more…)
2010 Ford Mondeo will make its official debut at the 2010 Moscow International Automobile Salon on August 25. The new model will be available in the UK in October. The vehicle features a restyled exterior and uprated interior, new high-efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol and TDCi diesel powertrains, plus a host of new driver comfort and convenience features and safety technologies. (more…)
2010 Ford Mondeo comes with better fuel economy, lower emissions and improved performance mostly thanks to high efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol-injection turbo and upgraded Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines now available for sale.
The newly developed 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol engine delivers 203PS and the significantly improved 2.0-litre TDCi diesels with 115, 140 and an impressive 163PS version.
Furthermore, the car features Ford PowerShift – six-speed dual-clutch transmission system, which delivers smooth and fast gear change. Currently, Ford Mondeo has a leading position within its segment and now it is secured with the enhancements. (more…)
Ford of Europe will unveil new versions of its top-selling S-MAX and Galaxy at the 2010 Brussels Show on January 13. With fresh designs, they feature new interior materials and features, a range of more efficient powertrains and a host of driver focused technologies aimed at improving safety and comfort.
The 2010 S-MAX and Galaxy models kick off an exciting year for new product introductions from Ford of Europe. (more…)
Ford has announced the new sporty Zetec S, which will join to the Focus’ line-up. The hot hatch is developed specifically for UK customers and combines a new 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine with sports styling.
Ford exhibits 2013 Escape at the Los Angeles Auto Show, this month. The vehicle is based on Vertrek Concept and it is practically the same.
Ford has unveiled the 2013 Flex, which will have its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month. The SUV has a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.
Ford will add all-new 1.0 litre EcoBoost three-cylinder petrol engine to the model line-up. The engine is developed in Europe and it is the smallest one Ford has ever built. Furthermore, the manufacturer confirms that its next generation of hybrid vehicles, including the C-MAX in 2013, will have a Ford-designed, engineered and built transmission.
Superchips Ltd has developed another performance package for the latest Ford S-Max with 2.0 liter direct injected turbocharged Ecoboost engine.
2011 Ford C-MAX will hit the market in UK in October and it is price at £16 745 for the base version.
In 2005 Ford unveiled one of the hottest hatchbacks on the market – Focus ST, which was available in either three or five door variant. The vehicle is powered by Ford Duratec ST turbocharged engine – 2.5 liter 5 cylinder developing 225hp. 
2010 Ford Mondeo will make its official debut at the 2010 Moscow International Automobile Salon on August 25. The new model will be available in the UK in October. The vehicle features a restyled exterior and uprated interior, new high-efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol and TDCi diesel powertrains, plus a host of new driver comfort and convenience features and safety technologies. 
2010 Ford Mondeo comes with better fuel economy, lower emissions and improved performance mostly thanks to high efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol-injection turbo and upgraded Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines now available for sale.
Ford of Europe will unveil new versions of its top-selling S-MAX and Galaxy at the 2010 Brussels Show on January 13. With fresh designs, they feature new interior materials and features, a range of more efficient powertrains and a host of driver focused technologies aimed at improving safety and comfort.