Ford – Page 41 – Automobiles Review

What’s in Store at Ford for 2013?

The 2013 model season is an exciting one for the Ford Motor Company. Financially and creatively, Ford is in the midst of a renaissance, and the consumer is already reaping the benefits of that resurgence. This is especially true in the car markets, where the exciting options range from sedans to hatches to coupes. In that spirit, let’s examine the top five car models that will cause a stir at Ford Canada dealers this year.

Ford Fusion

The Fusion has been a best-seller among mid-size sedans in America for several years, so it surprised many when Ford announced a total redesign. The new model will get a dramatic style overhaul, and consumers will have their choice of three conventional engines or a gas-electric or plug-in hybrid. The base engine will be a 2.5L four-cylinder that makes 170 horsepower. A turbocharged 2.0L makes 237 hp. The Fusion Hybrid uses the 2.0L along with a li-ion battery pack, which lets it outperform the Toyota Camry at 47 mph in the city.

Ford Focus

The biggest change with the 2013 edition of the Ford Focus is the ST, a performance model that many are affectionately referring to as the “hot hatch.” The ST is the successor to the Focus SVT, which was available in the early 2000s and gave the best German and Japanese front-wheel-drive compacts a run for their money. The biggest upgrade that the ST brings is a 2.0L direct-injected turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 252 hp, which is 92 hp more than the standard Focus model makes. The ST includes a 6-speed manual transmission, and Ford does not plan to offer an automatic version.

Ford Taurus

The Ford Taurus boasts a large trunk and a big, comfortable interior, and it is one of the most appealing interpretations of the classic full-size sedan on the market. For 2013, Ford is simply refreshing the exterior and adding an array of conveniences to all trim levels. The biggest change is under the hood, where the base engine will now be a 3.5L V6 that makes 290 hp. The EPA estimates the fuel performance at 19/29/23 city/highway/combined mpg. The standard equipment package is quite nice and includes 17-inch wheels, cruise control, air-conditioning, and a six-speaker audio system.

Ford Fiesta

In North America, there’s been a great deal of focus — pun intended — on the 250-hp ST, but in Europe, the focus has been on the Fiesta, an even smaller hot hatch. The 2013 Fiesta ST, which will also be available in Canada, is a 3-door version of the ST concept car that turned heads at last year’s L.A. auto show. Like the concept, the Fiesta ST has a 1.6L EcoBoost inline-four engine that makes 177 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, and Ford has promised 60 mph in less than seven seconds.

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang needs no introduction. It is classic American musclecar, and while there is a new Mustang generation on the horizon, the current one is still a top muscle car and one of the best values on the sports car market. The Mustang is available as coupe and convertible and in six trim levels: V6, V6 Premium, GT, GT Premium, Boss 302, and the Shelby GT500. The basic 3.7L V6 makes 305 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, and the Shelby 350GT makes a whopping 662 hp and 613 lb-ft of torque.

May 28, 2012

Superchips Power Upgrade for Ford EcoBoost Range

Superchips – the guys from Buckingham that deal exclusively with ECU remapping – have come up with “Bluefin Plug-in and go” product for the Ford EcoBoost range – think in terms of Ford C-Max, Grand C-Max, Focus, Galaxy, Mondeo and S-Max.

At a glance, “Bluefin” might sound like it’s something you install on your browser but the fact is, this is one potent piece of technology. Well, it is as easy as installing an add-on on your browser, it’s just that your are doing it on your Ford or more specifically the On Board Diagnostic port in it. Just plug in the the Bluefin handset there and follow the instructions on screen. If you do however experience difficulties with the installation process, you can always turn to one of the approximately 80 UK Superchip centers.

Applicable to the 148bhp, 158bhp and 178bhp variants of the turbocharged petrol EcoBoost, this gadget will increase the power output as following:

150PS 1.6-litre Ford Ecoboost C-Max, Grand C-Max and Focus models Superchips’ Bluefin gains 30bhp @ 5341rpm and 51Nm @ 1923rpm
160PS 1.6-litre Ford Ecoboost Galaxy, S-Max and Mondeo models Superchips’ Bluefin gains 34bhp @ 5341rpm and 59Nm @ 1923rpm
182PS 1.6-litre Ford Ecoboost used in Ford Focus Superchips’s Bluefin gains 20bhp @ 3760rpm and 44Nm @ 1923rpm

Put simply: more power, more torque and more fun. More is always better, right? Supposedly one would also spend more time at gas stations but to assure us, Superchips have given their word that the overridden engines retain “high levels of fuel economy and driveability”. If for some reason, you need the old figures back, the process is completely reversible. The “stock” data is stored in the module and is within your grasp.

To get one, you just have to cough up £445 ($702). For that you also get a Customer Service Guarantee and a 12 month/30,000 miles full vehicle warranty.

Source: Superchips

May 18, 2012

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid with a base price – $25 995

2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid features innovative and fun-to-drive character shared with well-handling can be now ordered in the United States. The C-Max is in fact the first Ford hybrid vehicle and will be available with a starting price of $25 995.

What is unique about this car is that it combines fuel economy with performance, and of course delivers no less than best-in-class horsepower and torque.

In addition to that in this Ford vehicle are featured innovative technologies from which the customers could only benefit. One of them is the famou SYNC® with MyFord Touch®. Thank to it the drivers get features like hands-free liftgate, SmartGauge® with EcoGuide, regenerative braking and an advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery pack.

Another benefit of the C-MAX Hybrid is the roominess and spaciousness it offers. In particular, the vehicle has a high roofline (63.9 inches) delivering interior space and flexibility. Moreover, there are 99.7 cubic feet of passenger space and greater headroom in both front and rear seats (41/39.4 inches).

Of course, C-Max is perfect for loading as well thank to its 60/40 split-fold rear seats that can easily fold flat with 54.3 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 24.5 cubic feet behind the second row.

Important highlight here are the innovations featured. The newest one is the Ford’s hands-free liftgate. What it does basically is to allow quick and easy access to the cargo area without messing with keys.

How it works? A gentle kicking motion under the rear bumper opens the liftgate when used in combination with a key fob the user keeps in their pocket or purse that tells the car it’s correct to operate. The same motion can close the liftgate.

2013 Ford C-Max also includes the latest version of MyFord Touch. This one helps the driver stay informed. In addition it also shows multiple ways for customers to operate with their phone, navigation, entertainment and climate functions through voice commands.

Furthermore, C-MAX Hybrid also comes equipped with the next generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. This one is specifically designed in order to help drivers get the most from the C-MAX Hybrid. This EcoGuide for instans shows important information about fuel economy.

What is more important here is the technology that makes this car move. C-MAX Hybrid is powered through the combination of a gasoline engine and a battery-driven electric motor.

When the power comes from the gasoline engine, the hybrid car uses the all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine. On the other hand the electric motor of the C-MAX Hybrid is powered by an advanced li-ion battery system which optimizes the use of common, high-quality components.

Furthermore, C-MAX Hybrid also has powersplit architecture. This means that it allows the electric motor and gasoline-powered engine to work in collaboration or separately. The aim is to maximize efficiency.

Of course, the powerful engine unit also can work alone and charge the batteries or deliver power to the wheels as needed. At the same time the motor alone can offer enough power to the wheels in low-speed, low-load conditions and work with the engine at higher speeds.

2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid has a li-ion battery pack which is recharged when the gasoline engine is in operation. Additionally, the regenerative braking system can recapture more than 95 percent of the braking energy that would be used to help charge the battery. This means that C-MAX Hybrid requires no plug-in charging.

Source: Ford

May 17, 2012

2013 Ford Taurus SHO at the race track [HD video]

Ford has released a nice video highlighting the 2013 Taurus SHO, which hits the race track. The clip was filmed at the Grattan Raceway aiming to show the customers the unique performance ability of the vehicle.

The Taurus SHO comes with optional performance package giving more driving pleasure and including includes a sport-tuned suspension, a high-performance braking system and a revised stability control system with a dedicated track mode.

“The beauty of the Taurus SHO Performance Pack is that it really is a track-capable vehicle, but still a daily driver. You can take your kids to school, drop them off … and head to the track and have a little fun and come back at the end of the day and pick them up and no one would ever know.”, said Ford Vehicle Integration Engineer Robert Kay.

2013 Ford Taurus is powered by a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 370HP (272 kW) and 474Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox sending that power to an AWD system.

Enjoy the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKU84tBRvdA

Source: Ford via Youtube

May 16, 2012

2013 Ford Shelby GT500 debuts with 662 horsepower

2013 Ford Shelby GT500 is the most powerful Mustang ever created with its 662 horsepower top track speeds of more than 200 mph. It will undoubtedly bring the muscle car philosophy into new heights.

This performance is possible due to its 5.8-liter V8 aluminum-block engine produces. And we must say it again – it achieves the outstanding 662 horsepower (487 kW) at 631 lb.-ft. (855 nM) of torque. In fact, this is the highest-horsepower engine ever produced in the U.S.

The additional horsepower was achieved through thorough optimization of the powertrain. In details this Ford includes a new supercharger, new cross-drilled block and heads, an all-forged engine rotating assembly, updated camshaft profiles, upgraded head gaskets, a new carbon fiber driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle.

However, the key to the 662 hp is the larger and more efficient supercharger. What it basically does is to help flow more air through the engine.

In addition to that the cooling system has been upgraded as well. It now features a high-capacity cooling fan, fan shroud with high-speed pressure-relief doors, a more efficient charge air cooler, a higher-flow intercooler pump and an intercooler heat exchanger.

Cooling fan capacity was also modified – now it has an increased and a higher-efficiency intercooler added to keep the air entering the engine as cool as possible. Combined with the efficient, high-capacity flow pump, these two measures control temperatures under extreme conditions.

Furthermore, the clutch has been transformed as well. With its increased torque and rpm capacity, it utilizes a dual-disc design. The diameter and clamp load have been increased and the clutch-facing material has been revised for additional resistance to burst and enhanced transfer of power.

Design improvements for this Ford vehicle feature all-new signature lighting with two LED bars in the front and rear, rocker panels in body-color, high-gloss black panel between the taillamps at the rear and a diffuser that surrounds a new quad-tip exhaust.

2013 Shelby GT500 rides on two new sets of forged-aluminum wheels: the 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels coupled with Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires on all configurations. These wheels are freshened with the dark finish and updated spoke designs and in addition to that are extremely lightweight.

Significant work has been also done in aerodynamics of the Shelby GT500. They include a new front splitter and black-painted upper and lower grille inserts. They expose the radiator drive which helps funnel air and cools the internals of the vehicle systems. The larger splitter helps create downforce when the car hits top speeds.

No driver will be less than satisfied when being behind the steering wheel of the new Shelby GT500. Its driving dynamics have been overhauled, it has new Brembo™ brakes with six-piston calipers in front and its wheels were also tuned.

Ford has thought about customers who want even more exceptional drive. The new Shelby is now being offered with the optional Performance Package. This feature is accessed on the dash with a simple push of a button and has several modes for selection. The Normal mode gives the driver a comfortable ride over road irregularities, while the Sport mode delivers improved response time on the track, and less body roll while cornering and pitch under braking.

Additionally, the Torsen® limited-slip differential also comes with the Performance Package. What it basically does is that it helps the rear suspension deliver torque and traction under the most demanding conditions on the track.

Of course, all who are willing can upgrade their Performance Package with an additional Track Package for all-out racetrack performance. The latter includes an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability.

A lot of innovations have been also included in this GT500 model. One of the key ones is the productivity screen. It offers menu options, giving the customer important information related to muscle car’s performance. The LCD can be found between the tachometer and speedometer.

The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 also can be found now in dealerships.

Source: Ford

May 16, 2012

2013 Ford Focus ST goes on sale

2013 Ford Focus ST is the latest high-performance hatchback by the brand which is now available to order. It will deliver outstanding performance and handling combined with distinctive interior and muscular exterior design.

Focus ST combines advanced and sport-oriented technologies, such as the Tangerine Scream metallic color and a race-inspired Recaro® seats with matching color accents.

In fact, this Ford model will deliver the perfect balance between pure driving excitement and everyday livability.

The heart of the Focus ST is the highly efficient EcoBoost® 2.0-liter engine. Thank to it the vehicle has responsiveness, strong off-idle power and a broad torque curve. In particular, this engine produces 252 horsepower (185 kW) and 270 lb.-ft. (200 Nm) of torque.

Furthermore, this model comes equipped with a lot of other features which enhance the pleasure of the driving experience. One of them is for instance the sound symposer box which improves the natural sounds of the motor by capturing internal engine oscillations and piping them through the interior under throttle. Under full throttle, the engine music is amplified through the symposer box.

Given the fact that the engine carries the name EcoBoost, this can only mean one thing – fuel efficiency. Although the official EPA figures are not yet available, I can assure you that the fuel economy will be exceptional and n fact – best in class.

2013 Ford Focus ST has another distinctive feature which makes it a very sporty car. It is namely its unique sport suspension, which combines innovative technologies. For example the agility is enhanced thanks to the variable-ratio steering rack, which makes steering less sensitive on the straightaways but increases sensitivity at the corners.

Another example is the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) which is enhanced with torque steer compensation. The more aggressive tuning of the torque steer compensation helps the driver feel in complete control.

Some additional highlights of this model are the following features: Recaro sport seats, unique 18-inch Y-spoke ST wheels, dual-zone climate control, Xenon headlights and leather appointments throughout the cabin, SYNC® with MyFord Touch®, Sony® Audio System, HD Radio™ and 10-speaker surround sound.

Source: Ford

2013 Ford Focus ST is the latest high-performance hatchback by the brand which is now available to order. It will deliver outstanding performance and handling combined with distinctive interior and muscular exterior design.

Focus ST combines advanced and sport-oriented technologies, such as the Tangerine Scream metallic color and a race-inspired Recaro® seats with matching color accents.

In fact, this Ford model will deliver the perfect balance between pure driving excitement and everyday livability.

The heart of the Focus ST is the highly efficient EcoBoost® 2.0-liter engine. Thank to it the vehicle has responsiveness, strong off-idle power and a broad torque curve. In particular, this engine produces 252 horsepower (185 kW) and 270 lb.-ft. (200 Nm) of torque.

Furthermore, this model comes equipped with a lot of other features which enhance the pleasure of the driving experience. One of them is for instance the sound symposer box which improves the natural sounds of the motor by capturing internal engine oscillations and piping them through the interior under throttle. Under full throttle, the engine music is amplified through the symposer box.

Given the fact that the engine carries the name EcoBoost, this can only mean one thing – fuel efficiency. Although the official EPA figures are not yet available, I can assure you that the fuel economy will be exceptional and n fact – best in class.

2013 Ford Focus ST has another distinctive feature which makes it a very sporty car. It is namely its unique sport suspension, which combines innovative technologies. For example the agility is enhanced thanks to the variable-ratio steering rack, which makes steering less sensitive on the straightaways but increases sensitivity at the corners.

Another example is the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) which is enhanced with torque steer compensation. The more aggressive tuning of the torque steer compensation helps the driver feel in complete control.

Some additional highlights of this model are the following features: Recaro sport seats, unique 18-inch Y-spoke ST wheels, dual-zone climate control, Xenon headlights and leather appointments throughout the cabin, SYNC® with MyFord Touch®, Sony® Audio System, HD Radio™ and 10-speaker surround sound.

Source: Ford

May 2, 2012

Ford Shelby GT500 with “the World’s Most Powerful V8”

The topic at Ford today apparently is fuel economy. The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 they say, is 1 mpg more efficient than the 2012 model despite the fact that it has 112 more horsepower. Not only that, but there’s also a claim that the 5.8-liter engine under its hood is now the “world’s most powerful production V8” rated at 662 horsepower. Maybe they haven’t heard of the Gumpert Apollo or the Koenigsegg Agera R. But I guess they are in a class of their own.

The 5.8-liter in the GT500 is a typical, lazy rumbling muscle. 395 lb-ft of torque are already at disposal when the rev needle reaches 1000 rpm. More than 90 percent of the peak torque comes in between 2,200 and 5,800 rpm. That thrust availability might be mainly due to the fact that the supercharger alone is 2.3-liters

“Our goal is to create outstanding all-around performance cars, not just stoplight-to-stoplight sprinters,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief engineer. “We’ve backed up this amazing powerplant with a more refined chassis tuning that helps keep the rubber on the pavement without punishing the driver’s spine and six-pot Brembo brakes that dissipate speed with ease stop after stop.”

Indeed, the chassis has been tuned to absorb the road imperfection that can cause instability at high speeds (200+ mph). As a 2013 model, the Ford Shelby GT500 gets a revised front fascia and splitter which improve aerodynamics at 160 mph with around 33 percent over the ones in the 2011 model.

As a result of all that refinement, the Shelby has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in combined. The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is underpowered and 5 mpg less efficient. Checkmate.

The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich

Source: Ford

April 27, 2012

Ford Escape Doing 33 MPG EPA Estimated

Ford announced today that the all-new Ford Escape EcoBoost has been EPA-Certified and returns 33 mpg (at best). If that turns out to be true, the competition will have a hard time shining through it. Mind you, we are talking about the smallest engine mated to an automatic in a small SUV. The other two engines that come with the Escape boast 30 or above mpg.

“The fuel economy of the all-new Escape showcases the continued success of Ford’s development of smaller, yet more powerful engines, “ said Raj Nair, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development. “Ford understands people want fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing power and space requirements.”

The base EcoBoost then: its displacement stands at 1.6-liters, power output amounts to 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. That’s 20 more hp and 30 more torque than the Mazda CX-5. A mid-range choice offers a 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240 horsepwer and 270 lb-ft. of torque. Estimated highway economy: 30 mpg. Urban: 22 mpg. The third one is a 2.5-liter iVCT unit. It develops 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft. of torque. Fuel economy remains around the same (31 on the highway) when compared to the 2.0 EcoBoost.

EcoBoost engines are standard in the SE, SEL and Titanium editions. The SE and SEL models come with the 1.6L standard and the Titanium comes with the 2.0-liter. The 2.5-liter is available in the S edition.

Partly responsible for these reasonable figures, is the engine tech. Within the two EcoBoosts, direct fuel injection, turbocharging and variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) all contribute to adding power and frugality. They are then mated to a specially calibrated, six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission which come as standard.

Further improving on the economy are the aerodynamics. The new Escape is helped by a new Active Grille Shutter System. Right between the radiator and the grille, this mechanism acts as a valve which monitors the engine’s running temperature and decides whether it should close or open. Thus, an ideal operating temperature is maintained at all times.

Source: Ford

April 27, 2012

2012 Ford Kuga: the stylish and spacious compact SUV

2012-Ford-Kuga-THUMB 2012 Ford Kuga compact SUV will bring more style and comfort to all its customers. In the development of the new model, a lot of research has been done in order to satisfy any taste.

In fact, this is Ford’s first global compact SUV and this is the reason why maybe so many efforts were put in its development. The effect is a blend of a compact car with spacious and comforting accommodation for every individual that’s in it.

The new Kuga includes specifically selected colour trim levels and in addition to this the vehicle design is centred all on customization. All this will undoubtedly result in the production of SUVs which will not only be need but also loved.

What is unique about this ford vehicle is that it is created having in mind the demands of the market in Europe, North America and Asia. Which makes it in fact one of a kind in terms of size and still able to incorporate Ford’s kinetic design in the exterior dimensions.

Furthermore, 2012 Ford Kuga will be launched in a global colour named Ginger Ale. Under this title “stays” a subtle green hue, which reflects active outdoor capabilities combined with rich, sophisticated tones. This will undoubtedly harmonise with the slick urban environment.

In addition to the new kinetic design of the Ford SUV is another highlight, which is its new spacious, high quality interior. In particular, in it are featured creative and practical technologies.

One of which for example is the hands-free automatic tailgate, which can be opened and closed simply by kicking a foot under the rear bumper.

Another interesting technology featured in the Kuga is Ford’s voice-activated in-car connectivity system SYNC. The latter includes Emergency Assistance, which enables SYNC to help occupants place a call to the emergency services directly in the event of an accident.

Next, to be highlighted is that Kuga’s boot-space has an enhanced capacity of 82-litres, while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button.

At last but not least, the engines that are going to be available are the 140 hp (103 kW) and 163 hp (120 kW) versions of Ford’s 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine. Kuga will also offer the 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine which is popular for its strong torque delivery and high fuel efficiency.

Source: Ford

April 26, 2012

2013 Ford EcoSport SUV shows confidant stance in China

2013 Ford EcoSport SUV achieved great furore at 2012 Auto China in Beijing. The car offers confidence and stance and great agility and fuel efficiency. In other words, this For SUV is the perfect vehicle for the city. The new EcoSport joins Ford’s family of small global vehicles.

In addition to this EcoSport is full of smart technologies and features.

The brand has included its newest and most advanced engine the 1.0-litre EcoBoost™, thank to which the fuel efficiency is exceptional. It also includes Ford SYNC driver connect system with voice control. Additional innovative features are also included in a spacious and comfortable interior with new levels of craftsmanship.

The top-of-the-line model is EcoSport Titanium, which carries the distinctive paint of Mars Red. This version comes with 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels and a chrome grille.

The interior of the EcoSport delivers style and innovation, craftsmanship and quality. More importantly, the cabin is spacious enough for five people and their gear. This is possible because of the initial aim of the design, which is to deliver great of comfort and quiet operation for customers.

Some of the innovative technologies featured in the model are: Ford SYNC with voice control, Smart Keyless Entry, Ford Power Start, and a cooled bin in the glovebox.

2013 EcoSport will also offer advanced safety items. For instance: dual front airbags and side curtain airbags, Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program.

Of course, being a true ford, the SUV comes with an array of driver-assist features among which are the Hill Launch Assist, rear parking sensors, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) for outstanding steering response and improved fuel efficiency.

For has put highlight on fuel economy, drivability and performance. The aim set by Ford in the EcoSport’s development was to become the segment leader in fuel-efficiency. This was made possible thank to the all-new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost™ engine as well as the new 1.5L Ti-VCT petrol engine.

Additionally, EcoSport’s fuel economy is further enhanced by the availability of the innovative six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission. It combines the efficiency and driving dynamics of a manual gearbox with the convenience of a conventional automatic transmission.

Efficiency is achieved also through every aspect of the vehicle’s design. In fact, the SUV’s body was specially created in such way that it includes the use of high-strength steel and new designs to optimize weight and fuel efficiency.

Source: Ford

April 23, 2012

2012 Ford Kuga Compact SUV shows style in Milan

2012 Ford Kuga is being exhibited today on show at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan.

In this event the vehicle will showcase the evolution of Ford’s Kinetic design on the popular Ford SUV platform. The aim here is to highlight the new spaciousness of the Kuga and the high quality interior that it has.

The people who are going to attend the show will have the chance to see the latest technical advances included in the SUV. For instance, such innovation is the hands-free automatic tailgate, which can be opened and closed simply by kicking a foot under the rear bumper.

In addition, what distinguishes the all-new 2012 Ford Kuga is that it brings more spaciousness to the everyday driving. Additionally, it offers dynamic driving and capability.

This Ford crossover vehicle will also get the voice-activated in-car connectivity system, known as SYNC. It includes Emergency Assistance, which enables SYNC to help occupants place a call to the emergency services in the event of an accident.

But this is not all; a range of driver assistance technologies will also included in the Kuga. Some of which are the parallel parking aid Active Park Assist and the sensor-based Blind Spot Information System. The latter informs the driver with a warning light in the door mirror that a potential hazard is in the driver’s blind spot.

2012 Kuga is all about spaciousness. It features boot-space with an enhanced capacity of 82-litres, while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button.

Furthermore, the new Kuga was designed to be as visually appealing up close as it is from a distance with spaces between panels no wider than 0.5mm.

There is nothing else but craftsmanship that you can find in the Kuga. The interior emphasizes feel and touch through use of a soft instrument panel and soft door upper roll. A lot of attention was put on deleting exposed fasteners on moving parts like tailgate, sun visors and glove box.

Moreover, some great technologies are also included in the crossover vehicle, such as the Sony branded audio system with premium speakers and surround sound.

In addition, Kuga’s all-wheel drive (AWD) system assesses road conditions twenty times faster. It readjusts the AWD power split to the wheels to give the driver the best combination of handling and traction. Improvement in the driving dynamics also took place through the introduction of the Torque Vectoring Control system.

What is important to be mentioned here is that the engines available on 2012 Kuga are 140PS (103 kW) and 163PS (120 kW) versions of Ford’s popular 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine. Both can come with Ford PowerShift automatic gearbox as an option. Moreover, there also will be offered the powerful yet fuel efficient 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which we have seen in Ford Focus and C-MAX.

Source: Ford

April 19, 2012

2012 Ford Transit Custom Offers Style and Functionality

2012 Ford Transit Custom is going to make its world debut at the Birmingham CV Show. The vehicle is going to show the new design philosophy that it incorporates. It will bring new levels of style, driver appeal and functionality.

Transit Custom represents completely new generation of Ford one-tonne vehicles. First of all it comes with a bold new design. Secondly it “embodies” car-like interior and thirdly offers nothing less than exceptional driving dynamics.

Transit is famous for its toughness and value; however the new model adds to this combining class-leading load-carrying ability, impressive durability and attractive best-in-class fuel economy.

The full range of van, kombi, and double-cab-in-van models of the new the dynamic Transit Custom are expected to go on sale later this year.

The unique design of this commercial vehicle is emphasized by the signature kinetic design features, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line and prominent wheel lips.

2012 Transit Custom will be available in choice of short wheelbase (SWB – overall length 4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (LWB – overall length 5.34 metres) versions, so that customers can select the amount of load space.

Next to the stylish exterior, this Transit model offers class-leading load carrying ability, including a number of innovative new loadspace features.

More importantly, the load area of the van has been carefully optimized to offer more space and more convenience. Key features and innovations include:

• Optimised bulkhead and loadspace design enables SWB model to carry three Euro pallets loaded to at least one metre high

• Load-through hatch in bulkhead enables loads up to three metres in length, such as pipes or ladders, to be safely carried inside the vehicle

• Class-leading width between wheelarches allows wide loads, such as 8 feet x 4 feet (2440mm x 1220mm) boards to be easily accommodated flat on the floor (or stored vertically if required)

• Class-leading height and width of sliding side load doors for ease of loading

• Deployable integrated roof rack system seamlessly integrated into the roof, and can be deployed when required. When not in use, the cross bars can be quickly folded down, reducing drag and fuel consumption, as well as keeping the vehicle height under two metres (with the exception of the 330 series)

• Repositioned tie-down hooks and fixing points located on the body sides, leaving the floor clear for easier loading and cleaning

• Easy clean load floor liner offers enhanced durability and simple cleaning

In addition, the Transit Custom comes to offer car-like interior, advanced technologies and outstanding driving dynamics.

Its new modern, driver-focused cockpit includes a sculpted instrument panel which combines stylish looks with smart stowage solutions for bottles, phones and papers. Driver comfort is significantly enhanced through a highly adjustable driving position which features increased seat travel – including 30mm more rear travel for taller drivers – and the addition of an adjustable steering column.

The technologies included in the vehicle are:

• 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

• Rear-view camera – display 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

The dynamics and the performance of the Transit have also been carefully tuned and now reflect the easy-to-drive character of the van.

The suspension components and steering system have been carefully tuned. As a result, the ride comfort is significantly improved and the handling is mode agile and precise. Transit Custom also features the latest Electronic Stability Program technology with Torque Vectoring Control for enhanced traction and stability.

In terms of safety features, this business van has an optimized body structure which includes ultra-high-strength Boron steel. Almost half of the body of the van is made from high-strength or ultra-high-strength steels. This results in a strong and light body which is designed to offer high levels of crash protection.

More importantly, the 2012 Transit offers class-leading fuel economy, thanks to 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. The latter is available in 100PS (74 kW), 125PS (92 kW) and 155PS (114 kW) power ratings. Thus power unit now features Auto-Start-Stop as standard on Stage V vehicles, delivering combined fuel consumption of 6.6l100km (42.8mpg) and 174g/km CO2 emissions.

Sourcce: Ford

April 18, 2012

Tag: Ford