Ford – Page 40 – Automobiles Review

2013 Ford Focus ST shows impressive efficiency

2013 Ford Focus ST turns out to be highly efficient, because of its new 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine. Thanks to it the Ford achieves incredible fuel economy numbers: 32 mpg highway, 23 mpg city and 26 mpg combined.

This means that the Focus ST, which is six-speed manual only, has better fuel efficiency performance compared to its rivals in the same class, for example such as Volkswagen GTI and MazdaSpeed3.

If we have to make a comparison between this and the current version of the 2013 Ford Focus ST with the previous-generation Ford Focus, well the latter produced only 140 horsepower (103 kW) and 136 lb.-ft. (184 Nm) of torque. Now, the Focus ST gives up only 3 mpg on the highway but gains 112 horsepower (82 kW) and 134 lb.-ft. (182 Nm) of torque, this means a total of 252 horsepower (185 kW) and 270 lb.-ft. (366 Nm).

The main reason for the great economy results is the special engine that the car has. In fact, the Focus ST is the first that has the four-cylinder performance EcoBoost engine. Now, the fuel-efficient EcoBoost powertrains are a mainstay in Ford’s lineup.

Source: Ford

July 13, 2012

Ken Block’s Gymkhana 5: Ultimate Urban Playground – San Francisco [HD video]

He is back at the “track”. This is the latest video of Ken Block driving his 2012 Ford Fiesta HFGV. The specially prepared stunt car is delivering 650HP and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 1.8 seconds. Good enough… for drifting around.

The video is called Gymkhana FIVE: Ultimate Urban Playground; San Francisco and as you will see in the clip, the environment is quite familiar. The video was filmed over four days and directed by Ben Conrad, who is back with his team to work on their second Gymkhana production. DC Shoes also provided fellow DC athlete and longtime Ken Block friend, Travis Pastrana, to make an appearance on his dirtbike.

However, we can’t really describe what’s happening in the video clip, so just watch and enjoy the extreme driving in the beautiful city of San Francisco.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuDN2bCIyus&feature=share

Source: DCshoesFILM via Youtube

July 9, 2012

Most Powerful Ford Mustang Going to Goodwood

Ford will, for the first time ever, ship one of their most powerful Mustangs ever outside of the US. The occasion is the Goodwood festival which will be held this weekend. More importantly however, the latest Shelby GT500 will serve as a fitting tribute to the now deceased Carroll Shelby.

The “pony” is to participate in the famous Goodwood hillclimb with guest drivers behind the wheel. They’ll have to keep in mind that the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 has an aluminum 5.8-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces 662 hp and 631 lb-ft of torque. In other words – the most powerful North American production car yet. It sounds rudimentary, but the features that put control on that power are abundant as well – updated gearing for superior traction management, suspension tuning and a clever launch control that can be adjusted manually as well. Then there’s the brute counter force: Brembo six-piston (front) calipers. This particular one will also be stuck with the otherwise optional Performance Package which adds electronically adjustable dampers and a Torsen limited-slip differential and then a Track Package that integrates three additional coolers to the system. A worthy commemoration of Carroll Shelby.

Distinctive outside features include, downforce-friendly front grilles, a pointy splitter, a new quad-exhaust system and new forged-aluminium wheels.

Carroll Shelby passed on May the 10th 2012, leaving behind an engineering legacy, 16 US and international world speed records and a number of charity deeds. One of his most famous works – the Cobra – still sends shivers through the spines of motoring enthusiasts. In 2003 he began his joint venture with Ford which resulted in the making of the Mustang Shelby GT series.

Source: Ford

June 29, 2012

2013 Ford Tourneo Custom

Ford has announced the new dynamic Tourneo Custom, which will hit the market later this year. It was presented as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show and the production version will be unveiled at the 2012 Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Show in April.

“The bold new Tourneo Custom signals the start of a revolution in Ford’s commercial vehicle range,” commented Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

“It’s a fantastic-looking people mover – inside and out – and offers outstanding day-to-day, real world practicality as well as being great to drive.”, he added.

The Tourneo Custom has an advanced, streamlined profile based on the same “Kinetic” design approach popular on Ford passenger cars. This includes a sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line, flush glazing, distinctive trapezoidal grille and prominent wheel lips.

The van is available in 8 or 9-seat configurations and a choice of short wheelbase (4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (5.34 metres).

The interior also features car-like style and sophistication. The stylish, sculpted driver-focussed instrument panel features technologies closely-related to those found in the Ford car range. The cockpit is further enhanced by a highly adjustable driving position with the steering column adjustable for reach and rake.

The rear seats boast completely new design that can be easily folded into multiple configurations and removed in segments or completely. Rear passengers enjoy a spacious environment and comfortable, fully-trimmed cabin.

The high level of technology offered by Tourneo Custom includes the following features:

ECOnetic Technologies – Ford’s advanced low-CO2 features including standard Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging on all Stage V emission vehicles
SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and operated by voice control
Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, this award-winning new feature is designed to assist occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information
Advanced restraint system – includes driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags
Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror
Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Alert – latest driver assistance features alert the driver if the system detects the vehicle is inadvertently drifting out of the lane, or the driver is becoming tired behind the wheel

There is only one engine, but with three power ratings: 100 PS, 125 PS and 155 PS. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and has a standard Auto-Start-Stop. Tourneo Custom has superb fuel consumption of 6.9 l/100 km and 182 g/km CO2 emissions.

The Tourneo Custom and other all-new Ford Commercial Vehicles will be revealed in 2012, starting at the Birmingham CV Show in April.

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Source: Ford

June 20, 2012

Ford F-150 Special Service Vehicle Package

Ford have now released a package suitable for those who are planning to use the Ford F-150 as a fleet/utility vehicle. Think in terms of the fire or police department. Besides making the F-150 look pretty bad…posterior, the Special Service Vehicle (SSV) package includes a high-capacity 220-amp alternator and an interior fit for various needs.

“Our fleet customers have been asking us to create this option for F-Series trucks,” said Ford Government Sales Manager Tony Gratson. “We’re confident the current and updated 2013 F-150 equipped with the SSV Package will be of particular interest to our government customers with rugged jobs such as law enforcement, firefighting, and national and state park patrols.”

The Ford F-150 underneath the package can be either a SuperCab or a SuperCrew, a 4×2 or 4×4 and a 5.0liter V8 or a 3.5-liter EcoBoost – the combinations are pretty much endless.

The SSV seating package omits the 20 percent or the original 40/20/40 cabin setup and makes use of the mid-space for task-specific accessories. To provide even more space, the center console is missing as well.

Individual driver and first-row passenger seating surfaces are upholstered in easily cleaned cloth for

comfort over the long haul. There are virtually no boundaries however in terms of customization so that government or commercial needs are met. The SSV buyers can specifically order heavy-duty tires, 4×4 skid plates and a range of interior equipment.

Regardless of the choice you make – the 360 hp, 5.0-liter V8 or the 365 hp, 3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost V6 – you’ll always get the clever, fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission.

Source: Ford

June 12, 2012

High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept to be build by women

High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept is a product of the work of collaboration between Ford Motor Company and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). More importantly, standing under the name of “High Gear”, the car is the first ever SEMA Mustang which is going to be powered by women.

What does that mean? Basically, this satin-black luxury Ford Mustang concept is going to be build by group of women volunteers. In fact, in the design phase of the project were created three cars, among which the presented one stood out and was more appealing to the fans of the company.

“High Gear” is a design by Jennifer Seely of Ford, who was inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture. She developed the idea of the concept around the goal to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power.

Hence, some of the special features in this Mustang include rose-gold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior; satin-black body; plush, quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Further modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

The selected concept is now going to be built in eight weeks and this is going to be done entirely by group of women. This means that the actual work on the project is expected to be done from July to August this year. In the end, when the vehicle is ready it will make its debut at the 2012 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Source: Ford

June 7, 2012

2013 Ford F-150 Revealed

One of America’s favorite trucks is now entering the year 2013. It’s the latest Ford F-150 range now with an EcoBoost engine as well. Aside from that, the design has been moderately revised and a few pickup-friendly features have been added. For the high rollers, there are also F-150 special editions that peak in luxury and equipment.

The engine variety within the Ford F-150 is now bigger than ever. Right next to the baseline 3.7-liter V6, the 5.0-liter V8 and top of the line 411 hp, 6.2liter V8 Ti-VCT engines, now sits a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine which has approximately the economy of the of the baseline model (16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway) but the power (and more) of the 5.0-liter one and the towing capacity of the 6.2-liter one. In other words – 365 hp, 420 lb-ft. of torque as soon as 2,500 rpm and 11,300 pounds of maximum trailer tow. You also get electroincally locking diff on it and Hill Descent Control. Whichever you choose though, you’ll always end up with the same efficient six-speed automatic transmission.

The base model is called the XLT. On its outside, the grill is new and so are the headlights which now use HID technology – superior and better looking we’ve been told. Depending on your trim choice, you may get newly designed 18- or 20-inch wheels. Three new body colors are now also available. That is Blue Jeans Metallic, Kodiak Brown Metallic and Ruby Red Clearcoat Metallic.

Something particularly neat is the electronic telescoping function on the side-mirrors which can come in handy when towing a big caravan for example and from the inside you also get the SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system with 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report as standard on the XLT. As options you can also add-on to this other software such as Traffic Information, Turn-by-Turn Directions, Business Search, Send to SYNC from Google Maps and MapQuest, News, Sports, Weather and Horoscopes. That’s a lot of information for the 4.2-inch LCD display to take but hey, if you go for one of the special versions, the Ford F-150 Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum or Limited, that screen becomes a MyFord Touch 8-inch display with a few USB and SD slots added for personal multimedia.

2013 Ford F-150 XLT (left) and Lariat (right)

Source: Ford

June 5, 2012

Ford Evos Concept To Make Debut in Asia

Ford Evos Concept is an exceptional vehicle which is going to make its first Asian appearance at Computex 2012, which is one of the biggest and most important computer exhibitions in the world.

The Evos Concept, which was first unveiled at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, not only embodies Ford’s new global design language but also offers a glimpse of the company’s vision on integrating more technology into its vehicles.

The Evos Concept started from a vision of an outstanding design. In addition, the designers intended for the concept to include the momentum of innovations like the SYNC in-car connectivity system.

The latter system offers a new generation of driver interaction and awareness and is currently under development by Ford. The aim is to offer uncompromised connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s ‘personal cloud’ of information.

For example, the vehicle can utilize information from the driver’s cloud to provide the same connected lifestyle they experience at home or office. In other words this means that the car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an exceptionally dynamic driving experience.

In addition, this amazing connectivity system can also provide an integration of on-board data about driver preferences with cloud-based information such as work schedules, music and weather conditions, and local data delivered through vehicle-to-vehicle communications.

Evos Concept will also enchant its drivers with the same music or news they were listening to on live streaming at home. Or for instance, can also cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in by simply predicting departure time based on his calendar.

Almost unbelievably, Ford’s researchers have also included technologies which can improve driver’s health and wellness while driving. How is that possible? There are features included such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors connect to the cloud to monitor the physical state and workload of the driver, and adjust the driving experience.

And for all people who suffer from allergies, the Evos Concept comes equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems. They are ‘aware” of the location and thus can access air quality data from the cloud and suggest a healthier route to the destination.

Another highlight here is that the Concept uses the power of the cloud in order to get more information on the driver’s behavior and travel patterns. Thus it will be able to predict the destinations and adjust the control strategies for the state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in-hybrid powertrain. Therefore, Evos can switch between running on battery or engine power in order to use the least amount of energy for any situation.

Ford Evos Concept explores adaptive vehicle technologies to redefine the driving experience. For instance, the chassis settings can be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. Again, here the concept car predicts the tuning handling and performance to the road ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel.

At last but not least, what is very specific for this concept is that it utilizes Ford’s “powersplit” hybrid architecture. The latter allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work in collaboration or separately in order to optimize efficiency.

The advanced powertrain typically runs in all-electric mode before switching to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency. The cloud-maximized powertrain automatically “knows” when to save energy and switch modes It does this by using information about the vehicle’s predicted travel route, the emission zone restrictions during the journey and current weather conditions.

Source: Ford

June 4, 2012

Prior Design Ford Mustang C5

Prior Design Ford Mustang C5 is not the latest transformation by Prior Design. Although we are already familiar with this incredible car and its more astounding tuning, there were released some additional new and absolutely exclusive pictures of the muscle car.

The body kit for the Mustang features new front bumper with large air intakes. In addition to that it also comprises of pair of modified side skirts and newly styled rear bumper.

All these features can’t go without the Mustang which can offer any driver impressive numbers in terms of power and speed. The C5 is powered by a huge 5.4 liter supercharged V8 delivering 500 horsepower (373 kW) at 6000RPM and 650Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque at 4500RPM.

This outstanding engine works together with a six-speed manual gearbox delivering all that torque needed for more than enjoyable and exciting ride. You can take a look at some of the updated images in the gallery below:

Source: Prior Design

June 1, 2012

Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca among 2012 Best of the Best Coupes and GTs

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca has jut been included among the best Coupes in the luxury world for this year. According to Robb Report magazine the exceptional muscle car deserves undoubtedly to be featured as a 2012 Best of the Best Coupe and GT.

Robb Report is one of the main sources of information where the best purchases of the affluent lifestyle happen, and for almost quarter of decade it has been making list, which include several categories among which are cars, real estate and watches.

According to the report, the outstanding Ford vehicle is praised because it retains some of the best qualities and characteristics of its first form – the original 1969 Mustang Boss 302, and in addition have improved them in time. The ’69 model was racing one and was developed by the brand in order to compete in the Trans-Am series.

Furthermore, this Ford Mustang now is highly appreciated by people who not only adore the American muscle cars, but also count a lot on performance.

This great reputation of the vehicle is because its heart is in fact a 302 cu in V-8 engine. It is able to develop the astonishing 444 hp (325 kW) at up to 7,500 rpm. In addition to this, the powerful engine is mated not to an automatic transmission, but to 6-speed manual one, which helps retain the joy of driving! And with the price of about $48 000 it reasonably gets among the luxurious segment.

Souce: Ford

May 30, 2012

2013 Ford Fusion Being Sustainable

Ford seem to be aware that the latest fad is to go organic. The shops are brimming with lettuce which has been (so they tell us) grown out in the open, natural fertilizers, no pesticides no GMO no nothing. Indeed, very healthy and sustainable. But consider a 2013 Ford Fusion now and try to draw a parallel. Some of the materials used in it, Ford people say, are completely organic, recyclable and downright green.

“Building vehicles with great fuel economy is our highest priority in reducing impact on the environment,” says Carrie Majeske, Ford product sustainability manager. “With every new product design, we also are charged with increasing the use of renewable and recyclable materials in our cars, utilities and trucks to reduce impact on the environment.”

Issues like noise and vibrations have been tackled with something very common in real life and yet it sounds out of place – denim. That’s right, more than two pairs of jeans have given it’s life for the sake of comfort and convenience. Inside, the upholstery is made with pure Repreve yarn which is woven from both post-industrial and post-consumer waste products. The models that will carry such kind of cloth on theirs seats would contain an equivalent of 38.9 recycled, clear 16-ounce plastic bottles. Supposedly, the material is strong as well.

The soft bits within the seats have been garnished with soybeans. Soy foam to be exact. A single Fusion requires approximately 31,250 which sounds a lot but remember; it’s sustainable. It’s not that uncommon actually. The technology was first introduced in 2007 and Ford have been making cars with soy ever since.

Various, not-that-important bits are protected from plastics. Plastics of former car batteries so it’s cheap to replace as well.

“We are holistic in reducing our environmental footprint by utilizing post-industrial (blue jeans), post-consumer (battery cases) and sustainable materials technologies (soy foam),” Majeske says. “We do whatever makes the most sense for each application and environmentally from a lifecycle perspective.“

Source: Ford

May 30, 2012

2013 Ford Focus ST with announced price

2013 Ford Focus ST has the exciting new 250 horsepower (184 kW). This is on of the most appreciated performance hatchbacks and it will go on sale from 1st of June 2012. The base price is £21 995.

The Focus ST is propelled by a direct-injection 2.0-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. With it the Ford vehicle is develops 250 horsepower. In addition to that the car is also very fuel efficient maintaining 39.2mpg and emits just 169 g/kg CO2.

In addition, it comes equipped with unique suspension, non-linear variable-ratio steering and performance brakes. They have all been specifically tuned. Furthermore there can be seen the central exhaust system, trapezoidal front grille, an even the Tangerine Scream paint option.

The Focus ST will be offered in two body-styles – hatchback and estate. They not only provide practicality, but also great performance, high level of comfort, safety and convenience features.

The standard specification include the following: Ford Power keyless start, Recaro seats, DAB radio, Bluetooth and 18in alloy wheels, with the range-topping ST3 model adding heated, leather seats, Bi-Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and keyless entry.

As an option are available rado-grey alloys wheels, red brake callipers and illuminated scuff plates. Namely, the optional packs are:

Driver Assistance Pack: Active City Stop, Blind Spot Monitoring, forward camera features (e.g. Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Departure Warning etc.)

City Pack (Standard on ST-3): Rear Parking Distance Sensors, Power Fold Mirrors;

ST Style Pack: 18in alloys in rado-grey, red brake callipers, illuminated scuff plates; Sony DAB Navigation with rear view camera

2013 Ford Focus ST Pricing:

New Focus ST £21,995	New Focus ST-2 £23,495	New Focus ST-3 £25,495
18in alloy wheels	As ST, plus:	As ST-2, plus:
Recaro Cloth seats	Partial Leather trim	Leather trim
Manual A/C	DEATC	Heated front seats
Keyless start	Sony Radio	Bi-Xenon headlamps
Thatcham alarm	Rain sensitive wipers	LED DRLs
DAB radio	Auto Headlights	Keyless entry
Bluetooth	Self-dimming mirror	Power fold mirrors
USB	Quickclear
	ST Floor mats

Source: Ford

May 28, 2012

Tag: Ford