Ford – Page 42 – Automobiles Review

Ford Focus ST Debut at Beijing 2012

Ford Focus ST (2012) We all know the Focus ST, right? It’s not that every market offers it but with the pace Ford has taken up, that problem would soon be a thing of the past. The latest debut for the ST would be the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. Soon, this stunning hothatch will be a reality on the Chinese streets.

“The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers the opportunity to see it Beijing,” said Nigel Harris, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford Motor China. “The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance.”

So, no compromises. Simply pure and exhilarating performance, top of the line handling, growling sounds and an aggressive design – true ST experience. Ford are hoping that by the end of 2012, their latest Focus model range will be available to all global markets. A 250 hp rated, 2.0 EcoBoost engine is to delight anyone in the world, who would fancy some blistering performance and eardrum bursting sounds.

“The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and our design and engineering teams have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort,” said Harris.

April 10, 2012

2013 ROUSH Staged Ford Mustang

Update on ROUSH‘s Staged Ford Mustangs. And by “Staged” I don’t mean fake. No, it’s 2012 so the time is right to roll out the 2013 MY product – more style, more aggression and, it goes without saying, more muscle.

Three Stages are available with number three being sort of the full program. Stage 1 works on the visuals and Stage 2 deals with the handling bits. With a Stage 3, the Mustang’s 5.0L-4v Coyote powertrain comes along with a supercharger. That means a power output of 565 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque. People move planets with that sort of power. It’s not just any supercharger but ROUSH’s own R2300 unit that features Eaton’s TVS (Twin Vortices Series) patented technology. It’s thermally more efficient produces higher volumetric capacity and helps up the RPMs of the turbine.

Evidently, the overhaul does not consist solely of protein shakes. The handling has been improved as well thanks to a larger, stiffer front stabilizer bar (counters body roll) a unique ROUSH designed anti-wheel hop kit, twin-tube shocks, increased rate springs as well as upgraded bushings and jounce bumpers. The company engineers have spent countless nights working on the perfect calibration of all of that so that the final product can start, stop and corner the way a gearhead would want it to. The aluminum, five spoke, chrome ROUSH wheels are also considered as a handling improvement as they measure up to 18×10. (20-inch ones are an option)

Even at the very first stage, Stage 1, the Mustangs get a 6th generation ROUSH Aerobody called the R6. It consists of an upper and lower grille, corner fascia aero-pockets with driving lamps and front a chin splitter. The ROUSH hood scoop, rocker panel and rear fascia side splitters, the three-piece rear decklid spoiler and the new ROUSH rear aero-valance featuring race-inspired diffusers are also parts of it. As a finishing touch, someone at ROUSH had the nice idea of planting a set of newly designed, integrated dual chambered, chrome exhaust tips.

Inside, the Stage 3 comes with a custom dial cluster, ROUSH embroidered floor mats, a ROUSH center console button and a Stage 3 dash medallion. Other than that, one can further the customization process with some optional packages. Fancy a suede jungle inside your personal ROUSH Mustang? Well, great! They have just that in stock – suede inserts in the leather seats, suede door panels and a suede shift boot and steering wheel.

The ROUSH program for the Mustang is available for both convertibles and coupes. It doesn’t matter of its a stick or an automatic and all is, most definitely, street legal. Whichever choice you make, you will get a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. This April, be on the lookout for these ROUSH Mustangs in the local dealrs.

Source: ROUSH

April 5, 2012

2012 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium

2012 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium is to deliver great fuel efficiency and emit low number of CO2 emissions thanks to its groundbreaking 100 PS 1.0-litre EcoBoos engine.

The new Ford Focus is equipped with the innovative 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which produces 100 hp (74 kW) and thus is able to deliver lower fuel costs than any other Ford before.

What it does in particular is that the Focus new 100PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine achieves 58.8mpg. However, despite that number, it is still able to deliver great performance, combined with power and even more torque (than previous models of Focus for instance).

Furthermore, what must be highlighted here is that Ford’s new EcoBoost petrol engine utilizes the latest technology. It includes enhanced and advanced turbocharging and direct injection. The consequence is that it is able to deliver the performance of a traditional 1.6-litre engine with the fuel economy of a 1.0-litre one!

Another important fact is that thank to all these innovations and modifications, the new engine takes not only fuel economy, but also CO2 emissions to new levels for a petrol family car. As mentioned, it achieves up to 58.8mpg, and the CO2 emissions are 109g/km CO2. Not forgetting that all this comes together with excellent performance and refinement, which makes it the perfect choice especially for city driving.

Ford’s fuel-efficient new 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine will be also offered in the Ford C-MAX and the all-new Ford B-MAX.

2012 Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium — Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost Titanium (2012)

Source: Ford

April 5, 2012

Best Selling Cars in February 2012

There are cars being sold every day, with thousands of people buying a car every day. This means that almost every type of vehicle is on the market at any given time. Different people are seeking cars for various needs. It may be for fuel efficiency, work vehicles, vehicles that can carry a large number of passengers, for safety concerns, or for power. No matter what type of car someone might be looking for, there are particular models that are always selling hotter than others. Usually, these vehicles are highly versatile to suit many different types of people and needs. Below are the ones which were the hottest as far as February 2012 was concerned and topped the charts.

Ford F-Series

Many of the top selling cars are generally the average sized cars or sedans- however, the Ford F-Series is high on the list. These vehicles are a line of full sized pickup trucks, which can be used for many different objectives. All are capable of work related hauling or loading, while many are fairly efficient on fuel. They can also come with full sized cabs, some of which can seat up to six people. These full sized trucks are very spacious, and are also able to go off road. The high versatility of these vehicles makes them incredibly popular. Over 47,000 were sold in the last year.

Toyota Camry

This model has been popular for several years, and really made a mark for the 2012 line up of new models. It is no wonder that this model has sold over 34,000 units. The Camry is a classical family car, and is highly dependable. It is also a great choice for fuel economy. This car has continued to sell in strong numbers for years, and will probably continue to do so for many years to come.

Nissan Altima

Although this model of car does not exactly rival the quality or performance of many other vehicles, it has still managed to make a high number of sales for the 2012 models. Almost 33,000 of these cars were sold, and it is probably associated with its price. The Altima is quite a popular car, and is rather quite cheap compared to the other popular vehicles. It does have many great features, but it may not provide all of the fuel economy features or power that other cars can provide.

Chevrolet Silverado

This is another popular pickup truck, but did not claim the top position in relation to sales for Ford. This model sold just over 32,000 for the 2012 year. Chevrolet plans to take the top spot when it comes to the 2013 line of Chevy Silverados.

Honda Civic

This car is incredibly popular, mostly due to its fuel economy, long lasting engine, and dependability. For years it has continued to provide buyers with contentment in their purchase. Honda only managed to sell just over 27,000 of these cars, but they are still high in popularity.

In conclusion, these models are some of the top selling vehicles in the country. If I wanted to sell my car, I would probably opt for one of these models. The numbers do not lie, and if these particular vehicles are so incredibly popular, the manufacturers must be doing something right!
This is a guest post by Raj. Wondering how to sell your car online?

March 30, 2012

2013 Ford Exploer Sport

Ford are contemplating a hardcore Explorer for the 2013 range – the Sport. Never before have the likes of an Explorer had a performance model but that’s about to change. Supposedly, Ford are planning to dominate the “gasoline-engine-powered, high performance SUV” category by focusing on fuel economy – 16 mpg in an urban environment and 22 mpg on the highway.

Mind you, those figures come from a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 engine that sends “at least” 350 bhp trough a paddle-shifting six-speed SelectShift Automatic box and an all-wheel-drive system. Recognizing it as a “Sport” version can also be done by looking at the exterior or the interior. And you have a fragile spine, you’ll notice that the suspension has been firmed up as well. Also, the brakes are bigger.

Roof rails painted in black, black head- and taillight motives, black wing mirror caps and 20-inch wheels all give away the SUV as a Sport member. The front lower fascia provides an additional opening for the engine to breathe. Various “EcoBoost” and “Sport” badges also suggest that this is not your run of the mill Explorer.

The inside offers some black leather that may or may not be paired with contrasting Sienna inserts. An exclusive design for the instruments, Sport-logo floor mats and illuminated scuff plates complete the overall Sport character.

As for equipment, the standard stuff is as follows:

4WD with Terrain Management System
Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
10-way power driver’s seat with power recline and lumbar
Six-way power passenger seat with recline and lumbar
First-row heated seats
First-row heated seats
Compass and exterior temperature display
Rear view camera
SYNC® with MyFord Touch® driver connect technology
Sony® Premium Audio System with HD Radio™ and 12 speakers

Whereas, as options these are listed:

Active park assist
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert
Inflatable rear seat belts
110-volt outlet
PowerFold mirrors
Intelligent access with Push-Button Start
Remote Start
Adjustable pedals with memory
Dual-panel moonroof
Power liftgate
Class III trailer-towing package

Source: Ford

March 29, 2012

Hennessey Ford GT Sets Texas Mile Speed Record – 257.7 mph [VIDEO]

Here’s a video of a Ford GT setting up a record on the Texas Mile Event at Chase Field Industrial Complex in south Texas: 257.7 mph – full 4.6 mph faster than the previous champion.

As you might have guessed, this is no ordinary Ford GT. It’s a Hennessey job this. Owned by Mark Heidaker, driven by Sean Kennedy this overhauled beast wrote some history. But before that, some professional help was needed. That’s when Hennessey Performance glued 34 psi Precision Turbochargers to the 5.4 liter Ford engine. The engine and power management as well as the data acquisition system were all installed and tuned by MoTeC people. Add some high-octane racing gasoline and you’ve got yourself a record breaking formula.

“I think I can do better in the lower gears next time and we can run an even better speed.” said Kennedy – ambitious. So, next stop: the Texas Mile Event on October the 26th 2012. Goal: 260 mph.

httpv://youtu.be/7tZPj7Ebh0o

Source: Hennessey via YouTube

March 28, 2012

2012 Ford Mustang Shelby 1000

The New York International Auto Show will be the venue where Shelby American Inc. will debut their most powerful project yet – the GT Ford Shelby 1000 which started life as a more “standard” 2012 GT 500. And no, the 1000 does not consist of two GT 500s. It’s only one of them, with handling, power and breaking performance all beefed up.

Although it’s called the Shelby 1000, both of the versions in which it will be offered do not develop 1000 bhp. A street legal one has the “mere” 950 ponies while a track spec. called the Shelby 1000 S/C delivers 1100 bhp. In a strange world we live in.

For that kind of power one would expect a nuclear bomb under the hood. Well, it’s actually an overhauled Ford 5.4-liter V8 unit that has new rods, crank and pistons. Also, the heads have been flown, the cooling and exhaust upgraded and the supercharger replaced.

The stopping power on the other hand, is provided by four massive disc brakes – six-piston callipers at the front and four-piston ones at the back. The suspension includes new struts, sway bars and bushings. There are some aerodynamic tweaks as well for the sake of downforce.

A limited production of Shelby 1000s will be built, each numbered and documented. The upgrade packages alone are expected to cost up to $154,995. That’s almost as expensive as three “normal” GT 500s.

More updates will be coming soon.

Source: Shelby

March 28, 2012

Jeep SRT-8 vs Mustang, 911 Turbo, Cayenne and X6M

Here are several starts of a brutal Jeep Cherokee SRT-8 Supercharged with 700HP against some powerful, tuned vehicles – BMW X6M Hamann Stage 2 670HP, Porsche Cayenne Turbo Gemballa GT600 with 600HP, Ford Mustang GT500 612hp and Porsche 911 Turbo Stage 2 580HP.

As you can see, all these SAVs and cars are underpowered, but as we know – power is nothing without control. Although the BMW starts first with reaction time of only 0.310 seconds, it is quickly overtaken by the Jeep. The X6 M crosses the finish line with 248.31 km/h terminal speed against 246.74 km/h for the Cherokee.

In the second start versus the Cayenne Turbo the scenario is the same. Better reaction from the Porsche driver, but worse 60ft and overall performance – 236.43 km/h at 1 mile for the Cayenne and 262.49 km/h for the Cherokee.

The third start is versus the mighty Mustang having 612 HP, a lot less weight and way better cD (drag coefficient). At the start the Mustang is dominated, because it is RWD against the AWD in Cherokee. The Mustang’s 60ft time is bad – 2.198 seconds against just 1.699 seconds for the Cherokee. However, the car crosses the finish line with 284.27 km/h, which is more than enough for a win.

In the last start, the Cherokee is against Porsche 911 Turbo with 580HP. The SUV didn’t have any difficulties, because it started first, with better 60 ft time and overall performance – 260.05 km/h and 29.820 seconds at 1 mile.

Check out the video below for all starts.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Weh5dXat3Ec

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

March 27, 2012

Ford Explorer – performance model [teaser video]

Ford has revealed a teaser video of the new performance model, which will join the Explorer line-up. Actually, the video shows very little details from the SUV – speedometer, wheels, sports exhaust system, headlights.

The performance model Ford Explorer will be powered by a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with 365PS (268 kW) at 5000RPM and 569Nm (420 lb-ft) at 2500RPM. The model will be announced on facebook, of course tomorrow (March 28^th).

Among the standard equipment of the new Explorer you’ll find MyForddriver connect technology including 4.2” LCD screen, MyKey^™ owner control feature, Air filtration system, Media hub, Easy Fuel^®capless fuel filler system, Cruise control, Power windows, with one-touch down for driver, Power door locks with child safety rear door locks, Tilt/telescoping steering column, Four 12-volt power points, Cargo hooks.

The XLT trim level adds: Automatic headlamps, 6-speed SelectShift Automatic^™,Heated sideview mirrors with LED signal indicators and security approach lamps, SecuriCode^™keyless entry keypad, Reverse sensing system, Perimeter alarm.

The limited trim level also features: PowerFold^®sideview mirrors with driver’s side memory, Ambient lighting, Adjustable pedals with memory functionality, Cargo net, Dual-zone electronic temperature control, 10-way power driver’s seat, with power recline and lumbar, Electrochromic interior mirror, Rear view camera, Remote start system, 110-volt outlet, MyFord Touchdriver connect technology, Intelligent Access with push-button start, Universal garage door opener.

Stay tuned for more details.

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

Source: fordvideo1 via Youtube

March 27, 2012

2012 Ford Fiesta ECOnetic

New Fiestas have started rolling out from Ford Europe’s production line just in time to save the world from the petrol-price situation. Well, it’s not that the Fiestas are new but rather what’s inside them. Ford call it the ECOnetic Technology.

And how eco exactly is the new batch? 3.3l/100km (86.5mpg) on the EU cycle if you ask Ford. We are talking serious penny saving here – CO2 emissions stand at just 87g/km.

With figures like this, one might suspect the involvement of some ghastly plug in hybrid gizmos but that’s not the case here:

“Fiesta is already hugely successful across Europe and the ECOnetic Technology model takes its fuel efficiency and low-CO2 offering to another level,” said Stephen Odell, CEO and chairman, Ford of Europe. “Customers can be assured these significant gains have been achieved without compromising the great driving quality for which Ford is famous.”

Evidently, you get a 95PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel that provides 205Nm of torque. The frugality comes form some pretty clever, yet rather standard features – Auto-Start-Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Eco Mode and a light that tells you when’s the best time to shift gears. The engine and gearbox have also been fine-tuned for fuel-friendly driving. Throw in some low-rolling resistance tires, wheel deflectors, a general lower stance and you’re done – the most economical Fiesta ever made.

The ECOnetic Technology is at the core of the company’s plan to make Europe greener. By the end of 2012, half of Ford’s fleet is expected to carry that very same tech.

Source: Ford

March 27, 2012

Ford Focus Debuts at 2012 Bangkok International Motor Show

The all-new 2012 Ford Focus will make its first ASEAN appearance at Bangkok International Motor Show. The launch of the vehicle on this market is of utmost importance because it is set to make a new standard there. It is going to deliver unmatched combination of smart technologies, outstanding fuel economy, expressive design, responsive performance and high levels of craftsmanship and occupant safety. The 2012 Ford Focus will go on sale later in the year and will be produced at Ford’s new manufacturing facility in Rayong. Its production there will supply the entire ASEAN region as well as other export markets.

The all-new Focus will include the new high-series Titanium+ and Sport+ variants, which offer luxury levels of convenience and comfort. The Candy Red five-door hatchback and the Ingot Silver four-door sedan on the Ford stand will give customers a close-up look at this top-notch series. The vehicle is characterized by sleek and sporty design, new smart technologies and features. These exceptional technologies will offer customers an exciting spread of advanced features generally found only in larger, more expensive vehicles. First to be mentioned is the Ford SYNC® technology which provides hands-free, voice-activated in-car connectivity. The system allows customers to connect almost any mobile phone or digital media player to their all-new Focus via Bluetooth^® and USB connection respectively. Moreover, the all-new 2012 Ford Focus also offers a wide range of smart features, such as Active Park Assist (the system uses sensors around the Focus to help identify a feasible spot then steer the car into the space; the driver controls the accelerator, brake and gears); Active City Stop (collision-mitigation system, which monitors the road ahead for stationary traffic and then brakes automatically if its sensors detect the car in front has stopped unexpectedly); Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) (when a vehicle enters the all-new Focus’ blind spot, an orange light appears in the corresponding side mirror as a caution; when backing out of a parking spot with limited visibility, BLIS warns the driver of impending traffic); Smart Keyless Entry (enables customer to lock or unlock the driver’s door without taking the key out of a bag or a pocket); Ford Power Start (the engine can be turned on simply by pushing the Ford Power Start button while holding the clutch down). In addition to all this, the Focus comes with dual-zone electronic air-conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, cruise control, powered sunroof and an innovative auto-dimming rear view mirror that automatically detects headlight glare and switches to a dimmed setting.

What has to be highlighted here as well is that the new Focus features a completely new Duratec 2.0-litre Ti-VCT GDi engine. The latter combines high-pressure gasoline direct injection (GDi) and twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. It delivers 170PS (125 hp) of power and 200Nm (147 lb.-ft.) of torque and improved fuel economy. This 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is mated with the latest six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission, which has a high-efficiency dual dry-clutch design. This advanced transmission is also offered with SelectShift Automatic™ functionality. A second powertrain comes in the form of a Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT engine that serves up 125PS (92 kW) of power and 159Nm (177 lb.-ft.) of torque at excellent fuel efficiency. Again the engine can be mated to either the six-speed Ford PowerShift automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission.

Both the all-new Focus four-door sedan and five-door hatchback models has the same sporty character. They have striking front end, sleek profile, dramatic rising beltline and athletic stance. The exterior of the vehicle is influenced by the distinctive design inside, featuring a modern, cockpit-style interior with a stylish centre console. First of all it is bold and contemporary, and in addition the materials used are high-quality ones. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels have been minimized and the driving dynamics improved by the increased stiffness of the body structure. All this results in optimal riding quality. The chassis design is complemented by a new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system which has been carefully tuned to deliver precise response at highway speeds while remaining light and manoeuvrable at lower speeds for ease of parking.

Furthermore, the 2012 Focus, offers outstanding safety standards for occupant and pedestrian protection. The used advanced materials help Focus meet crash regulations across world markets. In addition, they help minimizing the vehicle’s weight and contributing to fuel economy. Moreover, the passive safety features include new advanced airbag restraint systems. It features driver and front passenger airbags, side front airbags and segment-exclusive side curtain airbags for front- and rear-seat occupants. Additionally, there is also included an advanced active safety technologies, which help the driver maintain safe control of the vehicle and avoid collision situations. Next, the Electronic Stability Program system utilizes intelligent logic to monitor the car’s progress and apply effective intervention when required. The system incorporates Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Launch Assist and Anti-Lock Brake System which includes Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

Source: Ford

March 26, 2012

2012 Ford Tourneo Custom soon in dealerships

Ford just announced today that the launch of the new dynamic 2012 Ford Tourneo Custom will be later this year. The concept vehicle of the model already won lot of hearts at this years Geneva Motor Show. In particular, the production vehicle of the model will be unveiled at the 2012 Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Show in April. And what we are to see then. Well, the new Tourneo has new levels of style and function which are visible at first sight because of its new dramatic appearance, car-like interior design and driving dynamics. In addition, the smart technologies and outstanding fuel economy makes the Ford Tourneo Custom even more appealing.

First of all, what we can see is that the model has an improved streamlined profile based on the “Kinetic” design approach, which includes a sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line, flush glazing, distinctive trapezoidal grille and prominent wheel lips. In addition, the vehicle is available in eight or nine seat configurations, and is offered in two variants: a short wheelbase (4.97 metres) and long wheelbase (5.34 metres). The additional length of the long wheelbase is perfect when one has to put some extra luggage. At a height of less than two metres, the Tourneo Custom also comfortably complies with most car park height limits.

The interior of the Tourneo Custom has car-like style and sophistication and is made of course from high quality materials. The stylish, sculpted driver-focussed instrument panel includes technologies closely-related to those found in the Ford car range. The cabin is further enhanced by a highly adjustable driving position with the steering column. In addition, the rear seats are a completely new design that can be easily folded into multiple configurations and removed in segments or completely. What is more important here is that the rear passengers will undoubtedly enjoy a spacious environment and comfortable, fully-trimmed cabin.

Furthermore, the Ford features some important Smart vehicle technologies: 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.

At last but not least is to be mentioned the exceptional fuel economy which the T Tourneo has. Here, the powertrain is an advanced version of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, which is offered with three power ratings: 100 PS (74 kW), 125 PS (92 kW) and 155 PS (114 kW). To the engine is mated a six-speed manual transmission with a standard Auto-Start-Stop. Thus, the Tourneo Custom delivers combined fuel consumption of 6.9 l/100 km and 182 g/km CO2 emissions. Moerover, the vehicle is based on a new Ford global platform, engineered to deliver agile and responsive handling for car-like dynamics, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels. What it basically offers is excellent functionality, durability and low cost of ownership.

Source: Ford

March 19, 2012

Tag: Ford