2011 Ford Fusion price

Text With a Spin:
The 2011 Fusion is evaluated among $20,000 and $29,000 hinging on motor decision and selection of headlines. The standard Fusion offers 23 MPG in the burb and up to 34 MPG on the highway.

2011 Ford Fusion


2011 Ford Fusion


2011 Ford Fusion

This may be helped by preferring the hybrid rendition, which racks up 41 MPG out on the interstate. Motor decisions for this vehicle combine a juiced up four barrel and several special V6 outlines. The essential four barrel sits at around 175 horsepower, and the broad selection of special powertrains makes this a highly flexible decision for mid range shoppers.
2011 Ford Fusion





2011 Ford Fusion






2011 Ford Fusion




2011 Ford Fusion

Ford planning to revive Lincoln brand

Unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January, the Lincoln MKT crossover seems to be the main argument of Ford renewing the Lincoln brand. After many years of being considerated only rebadged Fords, Lincoln decided to begin reviving the vehicles with new brands like MKZ and MKX.

The new MKT will use the same architecture as the new Ford Flex but the resemblence stops here. Sources confirmed the fact that the design work is well under way but officially Ford did not reveal any clue.

Fixing Lincoln remains a big strategy of Ford’s CEO Alan Mullay. As he said, the MKT represents a very important vehicle that could get Ford back into the luxury segment and compete with brand like Bmw, Mercedes and Infiniti.

Being motivated by the by the growth of sales with more than 9% last year, Allan Murray decided to sell off Jaguar and Land Rover and to focus the company’s resources to revive the Lincoln Brand and make it a serious contender on the luxury segment. Apparently the MKT crossover will be available in May 2009 but sources confirm the fact that this could happen earlier.

The Lincoln MKT concept featured a 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine with turbocharging and direct injection that produced the power and torque of a V8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V6.. The company will begin introducing EcoBoost engines delivering up to 20 % better fuel economy on half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America within the next five years.

Avro 720 Mirage Ford GT

ust as the Ford GT becomes a legend in its own time, Avro Motor Cars, the Brooklands-based supercar specialist, has joined forces with Roush Technologies in the UK to create a further strictly limited edition of the car. The Avro 720 Mirage special edition will be limited to just 10 cars – the first of which has just been rolled out of Roush’s Technical Centre in Brentwood, Essex.

Avro engineers have applied a custom calibration package to the car, to extract a delivered, mean 720bhp at 6950rpm and a massive 627lb.ft. of torque at 4800rpm. The car is also derestricted, which gives a top speed capability in excess of 220mph.

Finished in vibrant Arancia Metallica (Italian Metallic Orange) with semi-matt black details and wheels – and exclusive sill plates and side decals, the 720 Mirage incorporates a significant range of engine and mechanical upgrades. Changes in appearance include the deletion of the rear bumper – partly to save weight – and each car will carry an exclusive numbered Avro plaque on the centre tunnel.


Central to the increased power is a larger – and polished – Whipple supercharger. The induction side of the engine also includes an Accufab throttle body and inlet sleeve. An Accufab X pipe exhaust system with ceramic-coated tips is also fitted. Other engine equipment includes a Mafia MAF sensor adaptor and a transmission breather catch tank.

The running gear on the Avro 720 Mirage has been appropriately upgraded to match the boost in power. The front and rear track is 5mm wider than the standard car. The front brakes use

AP Racing 6-pot front callipers with Stillen drilled and slotted rotors – and similar rotors are used also at the rear. The suspension has been lowered by 25mm – and uprated to include KW’s Variant 3 fully adjustable coil-over system.

Avro Managing Director, Andy McGrath says, “When we created the highly successful Roush 600RE edition, we recognised the potential in the car to go a step further. The Ford GT is already a rare and sought after motorcar and simply identifying and locating more available untitled vehicles has been a significant challenge for us. The 720 Mirage is available exclusively from Avro – and once these cars are completed, we believe there will be no more. Examples of our 600RE edition are now located in several parts of the world – and we expect the market response to the 720 Mirage to be similarly international.”

2009 Ford Focus RS - first official images

Here are the first official images of the 2009 Ford Focus RS, an all-new, high performance model based on the redesigned 2008 Focus ST. Ford will present a prototype version this year at the London Motor Show.

The 2009 Focus RS will be developed by Ford Team RS, a specialist team led by Jost Capito who, as previously announced, is being appointed to the new role as Vehicle Line Director for Ford of Europe Performance Vehicles from January 1, 2008.

Ford will not reveal any of the technical details of the new Focus RS until closer to launch in 2009.

First Mustang FR500S delivered

Ford announced that the first 19 Mustang FR500S unveiled last year at the SEMA Show will be delivered at the inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series. The FR500S will be priced at $75,000.

The FR500S will be powered by a 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 found in the Mustang GT, producing about 325 hp. Changes to the car include a new cold air intake, a modified exhaust system, performance tuning by Roush, a stripped down interior to remove excess weight, the addition of a rear wing and a roll cage.

The FR500S was co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park and is the newest addition to the Mustang FR500 racing family. A total of 77 cars were manufactured at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, MI, with additional race-prep fabrication at Watson Engineering (Taylor, MI) and final race prep at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT, the FR500S is the first race car built by Ford Motor Company at a production facility intended for sale to the public.

Press release

The inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series held its first official event this past weekend with 19 entrants taking delivery of their new Mustang FR500S race cars in a special program at Miller Motorsports Park.

Participants also had the opportunity to attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School, meet series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and shake down their new race cars for the first time during the open track sessions on both Saturday and Sunday.

“The Mustang was a dominant showroom-based race car during the glory days of American road racing in the mid-1960’s and ‘70’s and this car certainly continues that proud tradition,” said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Performance Group. “Our intent was to develop a fun-to-drive reliable race car that delivers on what people have come to expect from a Mustang – V8 power and rear-wheel drive performance at an affordable price, and I think we’ve accomplished that with the FR500S.

“In the short time since the creation of the Mustang Challenge was announced at SEMA, the interest in the both the FR500S and the series has exceeded our expectations,” Allison continued. “We have a terrific mix of participants that bring experience from various forms of racing, including the Grand Am KONI Challenge Series, which should produce exciting, fender-to-fender racing.”

The FR500S was co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park and is the newest addition to the Mustang FR500 racing family. A total of 77 cars were manufactured at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, MI, with additional race-prep fabrication at Watson Engineering (Taylor, MI) and final race prep at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT, the FR500S is the first race car built by Ford Motor Company at a production facility intended for sale to the public.

Ford Recall News

2005 through 2008 Mustangs are the latest Fords to be recalled, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is also admonishing owners of other Fords to return their cars to dealers for a redo of an earlier recall.

The Mustangs are being recalled to reprogram the airbag control module. According to the NHTSA, small stature women who have the seat fully forward and are, additionally, so foolish that they’re not wearing a seatbelt have “increased potential for a neck injury.” A total of 434,593 Mustangs are being recalled.

Meantime, NHTSA is after 4.6 million Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln owners who have, so far, ignored an earlier recall to fix a fire hazard resulting from a potentially faulty cruise control switch. 5 million Ford owners have responded to the campaign, barely above 50%. The vehicles involved are certain 1992 through 2004 models.

Although the size of the recall means that some dealers may not presently have the required parts in stock, dealers will disconnect the potentially faulty switch – usually on the spot, if the owner simply drives the car into the service department – until the part can be replaced.

The complete list

Trucks: 1997-2002 Expedition 1998-2002 Navigator 2002-2003 Blackwood 1993-1996 Bronco 2000-2003 Excursion (built prior to 11/4/02) 1992-2003 Econoline E-150/250/350 1996-2003 Econoline E450 2002-2003 Econoline E550 1998-2002 Ranger 1998-2001 Explorer/Mountaineer 2001-2002 Explorer Sport (2 door) & Sport Trac 2003-2004 F-150 Lightning 1993-2003 F-Series (Under 8500 lb. GVW) 1993-2003 F-Series (over 8500 lb. GVW) – all plants except Cuautitlan 1994-2003 F-Series (over 8500 lb. GVW) – Cuautitlan built only prior to 1/7/03 1995-2002 F-53 Motorhome

Cars: 1992-1998 Town Car 1992-1998 Crown Victoria 1992-1998 Grand Marquis 1993-1998 Mark VIII 1993-1995 Taurus SHO (automatic transmission) 1994 Capri *equipped with speed control. Diesel engine equipped vehicles are excluded from recall

2009 Ford Flex

Ford announced today that the 2009 Flex will go on sale this summer at a price starting at $28,995, including shipping charges. The three-row Flex is being offered in three trim series and in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.

While the base model, a fwd Flex SE, comes in under $30,000, the rest of the series carry prices well over that threshold. The most expensive model, an awd Flex Limited, is priced at $37,255, including shipping, and before options.

The Flex slots immediately above the Taurus X crossover, which starts at $27,605 including shipping for 2008, according to Ford.


Flex is powered by Ford’s award-winning 3.5-liter V-6 engine and is mated to a fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission. The powertrain is expected to deliver more than 260 horsepower, 245 lb.-ft. of torque and good fuel economy.

The Flex will be Ford’s largest and most luxurious crossover. It replaces the defunct Freestar minivan as the brand’s big people mover. The Flex, built with conventional rear doors instead of sliding doors, will be available in six- or seven-passenger versions.

Ford Kuga production starts

Ford of Europe today begin the production of the 2009 Kuga at the Ford plant in Saarlouis, Germany. The company plans to build around 45,000 examples of the new model in Saarlouis this year – equivalent to nearly 10 per cent of the plant’s annual production volume.

The Kuga is the fourth model to be launched at Saarlouis in the past 12 months. It follows the new Ford C-MAX in March 2007, the new Ford Focus in December 2007 and the new Ford Focus ST earlier this month.

The Kuga will be made available with a 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi 136 PS 100kW engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Applicable to both FWD and intelligent AWD derivatives the torque, performance and pulling power under all engine and vehicle load conditions have been perfectly calibrated to the new Ford Kuga. This engine provides high levels of torque – 320 Nm at 2,000rpm and 340 Nm in transient overboost. FWD and intelligent AWD variants return favourable fuel economy figures of 6.3 and 6.4 litres of fuel per 100 km respectively, using the combined fuel consumption figures. The intelligent AWD figure of 169 g/km of CO 2 is class-leading.

Press release

Production of the all-new Ford Kuga, Ford of Europe’s first entry into the highly competitive crossover market, began today at the Ford plant in Saarlouis, Germany.

The company plans to build around 45,000 examples of the new model in Saarlouis this year – equivalent to nearly 10 per cent of the plant’s annual production volume.

Altogether Ford invested a very significant amount in new manufacturing technology to support Kuga production at Saarlouis. Sales of the Kuga will progressively begin across all European markets a little later this year.

“A distinctive ’kinetic design’ exterior, Ford’s acclaimed on-road vehicle dynamics and premium-like quality are just some of the highlights Kuga will bring to the fast-growing crossover market segment,” remarked John Fleming, President and CEO Ford of Europe.

The Kuga is the fourth model to be launched at Saarlouis in the past 12 months. It follows the new Ford C-MAX in March 2007, the new Ford Focus in December 2007 and the new Ford Focus ST earlier this month.

And with the introduction of the Kuga, Saarlouis now manufactures for the first time three different model series at the same time – Focus, C-MAX and Kuga.

The Ford Kuga is being built exclusively in Saarlouis and around 84 per cent of production will be exported to a total of 32 different countries. The five largest sales markets are Germany, Italy, Great Britain, France and Spain.

With 6,600 employees, the Ford plant in Saarlouis is the largest employer in the Saarland. A further 2,000 people are employed at the neighboring supplier park which supports the plant.

More than eleven million vehicles have been produced by Ford in Saarlouis since the start of manufacturing there on January 16, 1970. The Ford Escort (more than 6.5 million), Ford Capri, Ford Fiesta and Ford Orion have all been built there in the past. And the Ford Focus since 1998.

In 2007 a total of 392,413 vehicles rolled off the production line in Saarland. This is expected to increase to 425,000 vehicles in 2008.

2009 Ford Kuga

Ford Europe will unveil at the Geneva Motor Show the 2009 Kuga, the first ever crossover designed and built by Ford in Europe. Kuga was first presented as the Iosis X Concept in 2006 at the Paris Motor Show and then as a prototype version at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.


The new Ford Kuga is based unashamedly on Ford’s acclaimed C-car architecture – well proven in both the Ford Focus and the Ford C-MAX. Available with a proven powertrain and two series levels the full-time Haldex intelligent AWD system is complemented by a front-wheel-drive (FWD) version that is perfect for those drivers that are attracted by the style and presence of Kuga but do not require AWD capability.

The Ford Kuga is available in a choice of two distinct series levels with further options available that enable the driver to personalise the car exactly to their needs. The standard Electronic Stability Programme ( ESP) with combined Anti Rollover Mitigation (ARM), and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) are just two of the significant driver assistance technologies of the new Kuga.


The Kuga will be made available with a 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi 136 PS 100kW engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Applicable to both FWD and intelligent AWD derivatives the torque, performance and pulling power under all engine and vehicle load conditions have been perfectly calibrated to the new Ford Kuga. This engine provides high levels of torque – 320 Nm at 2,000rpm and 340 Nm in transient overboost. FWD and intelligent AWD variants return favourable fuel economy figures of 6.3 and 6.4 litres of fuel per 100 km respectively, using the combined fuel consumption figures. The intelligent AWD figure of 169 g/km of CO 2 is class-leading.


Press release



The all-new Ford Kuga is Ford of Europe’s first entry into the highly competitive crossover market and promises a blend of rewarding on-road driving quality and surprising off-road capability.

The genesis for Kuga was first seen in the dramatic iosis X Concept vehicle which made its debut at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. John Fleming, the company’s President and CEO confirmed that Ford of Europe would be developing a production vehicle inspired by the iosis X Concept for launch within two years.

At the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, Ford demonstrated that this commitment was soon to become reality with a preview of the production model. Signalling its significance as a new direction for Ford of Europe, the new model was given its own name; the Ford Kuga was born and destined to join the Ford of Europe model portfolio during the first half of 2008.

"With the new Ford Kuga we are keeping the promise we made at Paris in 2006, and delivering a highly capable, expressive and charismatic vehicle which will extend the Ford model range further," said John Fleming. "I firmly believe Kuga will appeal to many loyal Ford customers looking for something a bit different, but will also be capable of repeating the success of S- MAX in bringing new customers to the Ford brand. A distinctive ’kinetic design’ exterior, Ford’s acclaimed on-road vehicle dynamics and premium-like product quality are just some of the highlights Kuga will bring to this fast-growing market segment."


Sound Foundation
The new Ford Kuga is based unashamedly on Ford’s acclaimed C-car architecture – well proven in both the Ford Focus and the Ford C-MAX.

"We have an established portfolio to use as a basis and our shared technologies initiative within Ford Motor Company allows us even more possibilities to develop niche vehicles like Kuga," said Gunnar Herrmann, C-Car Vehicle Line Director, Ford of Europe.

Available with a proven powertrain and two series levels the full-time Haldex intelligent AWD system is complemented by a front-wheel-drive (FWD) version that is perfect for those drivers that are attracted by the style and presence of Kuga but do not require AWD capability. The Ford Kuga is available in a choice of two distinct series levels with further options available that enable the driver to personalise the car exactly to their needs. The standard Electronic Stability Programme ( ESP) with combined Anti Rollover Mitigation (ARM), and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) are just two of the significant driver assistance technologies of the new Kuga.


Taking a New Direction
The stylish and charismatic Kuga is a further demonstration of the exciting new direction Ford of Europe’s products are taking. The fresh and modern styling is the starting point with the substance of the car matching this styling promise. This is delivered by leading driving dynamics, a strong and competent safety pedigree, high quality and craftsmanship and a competitive crossover package. A high seating position, the intelligent AWD option and large stowage volumes make the Kuga a very attractive proposition.

"Kuga’s arrival will raise the bar in the crossover segment," said Stephen Odell, Ford of Europe’s vice president for Marketing, Sales and Service. "Our ’kinetic design’ styling has given the car great personality and this gives it tremendous showroom appeal to potential customers."

A carefully selected palette of ten body colours is available for Kuga. A specially developed and brand new metallic colour – Chill – is available for both Kuga series options and drive choices. As a reflection of its iosis X Concept roots the production Kuga is available in two shades of white; solid Frozen White and a brand new metallic Electric White. This colour was first seen on the iosis X Concept car and the pre-production Kuga shown at Frankfurt. The Kuga is the first Ford of Europe production model to use Electric White which uses a specialised application method.

The exterior design features of Kuga naturally incorporate a wealth of practicality that provides much more than first meets the eye. The ’liftgate in liftgate’ tailgate offers maximum flexibility and convenience with separate access via micro switches to either the upper tailgate section only or both sections simultaneously.

The materials chosen for Kuga’s interior also demonstrate the close links to the iosis X Concept. The eye-catching and lavish Kuga interior incorporates fine leathers and gloss finishes on key areas that were first seen on the iosis X Concept car in piano white but now have a choice of shades depending on the series chosen. Colour-matched details of the interior design and integrated trim colours highlight the instrument panel and door trims, creating a complete, unified look of design-led quality and premium sportiness.

Kuga offers comfortable and spacious seating for up to five adults. The second row seating has a 60/40 split and has been designed to fold completely flat to maximise the usefulness of the available load compartment in two-seat mode. Underseat storage is a practical feature beneath the second row with further storage under the floor of the luggage compartment area which is divided into compartments to offer maximum practicality.

A luggage compartment sill height of 758mm aids the loading of heavy items into the car. The Kuga has a generous luggage capacity of 1355 litres when in two-seat mode, while the enclosed luggage compartment achieves a volume of 360 litres.

The Kuga offers customers two distinct series; Trend and Titanium. These have been developed to provide a clear customer choice of a well-equipped cool and colourful series – the Trend – and the modern, techno premium-feel Titanium.

Trend and Titanium series offer customers a wide range of equipment, technology and styling options. They also provide a strong platform for further personalisation and items to tailor the car exactly to each customer’s needs. These needs are further-enhanced and satisfied by the provision of dedicated Packs which provide additional protection, transport, stowage, styling and aftersales products.

The Ford Kuga features some technologies first showcased on Ford’s large and luxury segment – and more recently seen on the new generation Ford Focus – while also bringing new features to the segment and the Ford of Europe portfolio for the first time, such as a ’liftgate in liftgate’ tailgate.


Capability and Performance
The Kuga will be made available with a 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi 136 PS 100kW engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Applicable to both FWD and intelligent AWD derivatives the torque, performance and pulling power under all engine and vehicle load conditions have been perfectly calibrated to the new Ford Kuga. This engine provides high levels of torque – 320 Nm at 2,000rpm and 340 Nm in transient overboost. FWD and intelligent AWD variants return favourable fuel economy figures of 6.3 and 6.4 litres of fuel per 100 km respectively, using the combined fuel consumption figures. The intelligent AWD figure of 169 g/km of CO 2 is class-leading.

"Kuga has a ’can-do’ attitude and ’go-anywhere’ ability and the powertrain perfectly plays its part." Said Herrmann.

The Ford Kuga has been engineered for class-leading on-road driving dynamics and exceptional off-road capabilities for expanded leisure time use.

Using proven and established Ford C-car chassis components and technology as a solid basis, Ford’s engineers tailored, tuned and calibrated each component and aspect of the ride and handling to ensure Kuga carries the blue oval family pedigree for strong driving dynamics.

The key overall target was to ensure that Kuga achieved the highest levels of ride, handling, braking and steering performance within the segment. The all-new Kuga uses many new systems and components in order to achieve the programme’s targets.

The Ford Kuga joins a highly acclaimed and successful portfolio that is recognised for its safety standards as being a key attribute. The first element contributing to Kuga’s safety is the stiff and rigid passenger cell designed and built to resist deformation. A host of active, passive and dedicated pedestrian safety features further contribute to Kuga’s safety story. Integrated electronic systems including Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) add to the Kuga’s safety and instil driver confidence.

"We put a lot of resources into making our cars as safe as possible for our customers and all other road users," adds Herrmann. "We employ a whole-vehicle holistic and no-compromise approach."
Manufactured at Ford’s Saarlouis plant in Germany the new Kuga will be built alongside the new Focus three-door, five-door and wagon variants and C- MAX.

2009 Ford Escape Hybrid

Ford has announced at the the Washington Auto Show and Automotive News World Congress in Detroit that its hot-selling compact SUV, the Ford Escape will become more fuel efficient, more powerful and more connected for the 2009 model year.

Ford also announced that it is expanding its commitment to biofuels by adding three additional vehicles to its E85-capable flexible fuel line-up for 2009 – the E-Series van, as well as the standard and extended-length models of the Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs. These additional product actions are part of Ford’s sustainability strategy, which also includes high-volume introductions of EcoBoost gas turbocharged direct injection engines.


Speaking today at Automotive News World Congress in Detroit, Ford Motor Company President and CEO Alan Mulally met with industry leaders and media to share today’s announcement and discuss how Ford is accelerating the development of new products and technologies customers want and value. Mulally also reaffirmed that Ford will reach benchmark levels of new or significantly freshened products, delivering a showroom with 70 percent new or freshened vehicles by the end of 2008 and 100 percent by 2010.

“This year, we make good on our commitment to freshen our showrooms,” Mulally said. “We just introduced the new 2009 Ford F-150 last week, and it was a hit. We also have Lincoln MKS and Ford Flex coming, as well as a new Mustang early next year.”

At the Washington Auto Show, Sue Cischke, Ford senior vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, outlined the company’s high-volume customer-focused strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy.



“Ford Motor Company is increasing fuel economy and cutting greenhouse gas emissions with affordable technologies for millions of customers,” said Cischke. “In the near term, we will leverage existing technologies to achieve those goals, including advanced engines and multi-speed transmissions. The 2009 Escape and Mariner are great examples of how we’re delivering today.”

Fuel-efficient new 2.5-liter Engine
The new 2009 Ford Escape makes strides in fuel economy and emissions with a new, 2.5-liter engine and a smooth new fuel-saving 6-speed automatic transmission.

Not only is the new powertrain expected to improve the Escape and Mariner’s EPA estimated fuel economy by 1 mile per gallon, it will also give the customer an 11 percent increase in horsepower to 170 horsepower.

The new 2.5-liter engine with intake variable cam timing (IVCT) boasts a 17-horsepower increase in output over the outgoing 2.3-liter engine.

Responsive with its peak 166 ft. lb. of torque, the engine also is refined, with dual-mode crankshaft damping, electronic throttle control and PowerPC engine electronic control.

The anticipated 1 mpg improvement in fuel economy will make Escape and Mariner more than competitive in the segment. With the improvements, Escape and Mariner also achieve ULEV II emissions certification.

The new engine also is the new basis for Ford’s hybrid models, ushering in a host of improvements that will make the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid even more appealing. Adapted to the Atkinson cycle, the engine is the first for Ford to incorporate variable valve timing on a hybrid engine.

“More than ever, the Escape Hybrid is the ultimate vehicles for commuters in the daily battle with urban traffic congestion,” said Cischke. “For every eight Escape and Mariner vehicles we sell, one of them is a hybrid, and the appeal is growing.”



An optional, 230-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 engine – a 30-hp increase over last year – also is offered. It, too, will offer an estimated 1 mpg fuel economy improvement and better acceleration, thanks to the new 6-speed transmission and engine enhancements, including new pistons, cylinder heads and fuel injection system.


Spotlight on Fuel Efficiency, Even in the Performance Version
The new, more fuel-efficient automatic 6-speed transmission featured in the Escape and Mariner offers a significant improvement in powertrain smoothness and drivability, replacing the four-speed automatic previously offered.

Its flexibility allows Escape to feature a longer final-drive ratio for optimal fuel economy, while its smooth-shifting quality provides an enhanced experience for the driver, especially in combination with the more powerful engines in the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner family.



Fuel savings also come from additional design and engineering features, including:


Aerodynamic improvements, including a new front fascia chin spoiler and rear tire spoilers also play a role in the fuel economy story.
A new 16-inch Michelin tire design offers improved rolling resistance that contributes to fuel efficiency, while also bringing improvements in quiet operation, steering and handling, and stopping distance.
All Escape models now feature Easy Fuel, a capless refueling system. This feature is not only a convenience for customers but also helps to prevent evaporative fuel emissions.

Escape and Mariner also incorporate new features to improve dynamic handling and ride characteristics, including a new 18.5 mm rear stabilizer bar and revised suspension tuning. Powertrain sound quality is enhanced by a new air induction system for V-6 engine models and a new exhaust system on all models.


Ford Hybrids: More Refinement, Safety and Performance
The new 2.5-liter engine also is the new foundation for the Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid models. Adapted for hybrid use, the engine is Ford’s first to use variable valve timing on an Atkinson cycle hybrid engine. Advancements in engine processor technology enable a nearly imperceptible transition from gas to electric mode.

A new brake system also provides a more seamless transition from regenerative braking to traditional braking. It incorporates a new pedal sensor that gives the driver better feedback and pedal feel similar to that of a traditional vacuum-assisted hydraulic system.

Also new this year is a new standard safety feature – AdvanceTrac® with RSC®. Already standard on gas-powered models, this patented Ford Motor Company stability control system includes roll stability control. Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid are the only small hybrids to offer such an advanced safety technology.

At the Washington Auto Show, Ford will display a Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) alongside the production Escape Hybrid. The plug-in research vehicle uses high voltage, lithium-ion batteries and can travel up to 30 miles on battery power alone before switching to full hybrid mode, delivering the equivalent of up to 120 miles per gallon for far fewer trips to the gas station.

Ford is collaborating with Southern California Edison in a unique partnership to advance the commercialization of PHEVs, demonstrating the potential for two industries to change the transportation and energy future.

This is part of Ford’s sustainability strategy, which also includes a new engine technology called EcoBoost that will deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy and 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions on half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America starting within the next five years.

The EcoBoost family of 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines features turbocharging and direct injection technology and will be used in a range of global vehicles – from small cars to large trucks. Compared with more expensive hybrids and diesel engines, EcoBoost builds upon today’s affordable gasoline engine and improves it, providing more customers with a way to improve fuel economy and emissions without compromising driving performance.



More Technology, Connectivity
The popularity of the Ford Escape reflects a trend of continuous improvement and product enhancement, including the most “connected” driving experience available today.

New optional equipment includes:




SYNC, the award-winning Ford in-car connectivity system developed with Microsoft, will be offered in Escape and Mariner. New for the 2009 model-year, SYNC features “911 Assist” which will help drivers connect with emergency assistance in the event of air bag deployment. Also available for 2009, SYNC will offer Vehicle Health Reports, which are designed to keep owners up to speed with vehicle maintenance needs through the syncmyride.com web site.
SIRIUS® Travel Link™ , which offers real-time traffic, weather, fuel price, sports schedules and movie information when combined with Ford’s next-generation navigation system with voice recognition.


Growing Popularity
With the continuous improvements to the 2009 Ford Escape, the vehicles are primed to build on their sales success in the 2007 calendar year, which included record hybrid volume. Highlights include:


Ford Escape Hybrid recorded a 10.4 percent increase in sales versus 2006, with 21,386 units sold, while Mercury Mariner Hybrid sales were up 17 percent over 2006 to 3,722 units.
Total Ford Escape sales were up 5.2 percent to 165,596. Mercury Mariner was up 2.6 percent to 34,844 units.
The Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner are produced at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant, and the 2009 models will go on sale this summer.

Ford working on new RWD platform

Ford confirmed on Tuesday that the company is working on a new RWD platform for its Ford and Lincoln brands, company leaders confirmed Tuesday. "It’s important going forward,” CEO Alan Mulally said at a dinner with journalists in suburban Detroit.

"Yes, we’re working on a rear-wheel-drive plan for the enterprise," Derrick Kuzak said. "It’s in the plan." Two key RWD Concepts have been already shown at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show: the Lincoln MKR and the Ford Interceptor.

But until now, company leaders stopped short of saying vehicles are in the product plans. Executives acknowledge they can build the vehicles using a new global RWD platform being developed in Ford’s Australian operations.

But that doesn’t mean production of RWD vehicles for global markets would be consolidated in Australia. "There are good reasons not to: currency, freight," said Joe Hinrichs, Ford group vice president of global manufacturing, on Tuesday.

2008 Ford Explorer America

The Ford Explorer America concept showcases a new kind of utility for the vehicle customers have known and loved for years: even better fuel efficiency.

“Customers are smart. They value vehicles – the more efficient, the better,” said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president of Marketing and Communications. “Ford gets it.



“Innovative technologies can transform people’s favorite vehicles. Look at SYNC, the Ford system that connects people and their favorite portable devices, including media players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, while in their vehicles.”

Technologies and engineering innovations help Explorer America concept deliver an approximately 20 to 30 percent fuel-economy improvement, depending on engine selection, while providing room for six and their gear as well as moderate towing and off-roading capabilities.

This smarter utility concept simplifies Ford Motor Company’s systems approach for delivering sustainable vehicles, specifically demonstrating:




A powertrain lineup that includes a 4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque or, as a premium engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp. Depending on engine selection, fuel-efficiency will improve by 20 to 30 percent versus today’s V-6 Explorer
Migration from current body-on-frame to unibody construction, reducing weight and delivering superior driving dynamics
A fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission with auto shift control, allowing the driver to select and hold a lower gear with just the turn of a dial when conditions warrant it
A weight reduction of 150 pounds for the V-6 version thanks to its downsized – yet superior performing – engine, as well as more lightweight materials, suspension and chassis components
Fuel-saving electric power assisted steering (EPAS) and other engine actions that deliver a fuel savings benefit of about 5 percent. Between 80 to 90 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will have EPAS by 2012


In addition to its fuel-efficient powertrain and technologies, the Explorer America concept addresses how the SUV market has changed in the past 15 years.

In the 1990s, customers were drawn by SUVs aligned with people’s adventurous, more rugged lifestyles. Today’s consumers are more discerning, demanding products that are capable and flexible – but more intelligently executed.

The Explorer America concept looks the part, too, with a modern, muscular design language that belies its ability to harness today’s active lifestyles. Its integrated three-bar grille, defined power dome hood, wrap-around rear glass panel window and sliding rear door give the appearance that this concept is ready for modern Lewis-and-Clark types to explore, from their own neighborhoods to the trail head.





Inside, intelligent features abound, including: single-touch stackable, sliding seats that allow for convenient access to the second row; a work table with seats deploy from the tailgate; and a three-dimensional compass and navigation unit with a topographical map built right into the instrument panel.

2009 Ford Mustang to be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show

Like the speed of the car itself, the soon-to-be-released 2009 Ford Mustang was the inspiration for a fast-developed new glass roof option that maximizes automotive consumers’ growing desire for more natural light.

America’s favorite muscle car, the Ford Mustang, will make its 2009, 45th- anniversary public debut at the North American International Auto Show with an unique alternative developed by Webasto Roof Systems, Inc. — a factory-installed fixed glass roof.

The new roof will be an option available on both the Mustang GT and the V-6 Mustang beginning in the summer. It provides consumers a third roof option — one that’s less expensive than a convertible, yet still lets in natural light without compromising the coupe’s head room or versatility.

"We believe this project truly speaks well to Webasto’s ability to deliver complex engineering capabilities in a very short time frame while still meeting our customers’ strong engineering demands for their product’s safety, durability, and styling," said Andreas Weller, Vice President Business Development at Webasto. "It was a remarkable achievement that, along with Ford, we brought this program from concept to ’parts on the road’ in just 70 weeks — about half the time normally taken on an automotive project of this complexity.

"Such success started with our close working relationship with Ford Motor Company but it also reflects Webasto’s competence and level of expertise and know-how in designing, engineering and proving out large, high-quality and innovative roof systems."

The assembly process for the fixed glass roof option vehicles includes a full, invisible interface with the body shop at Automotive Alliance International’s Flat Rock, Mich. plant which assembles the Ford Mustang.

"While we produce and deliver several fixed transparent module roofs (FTM’s) in Europe and Asia, this is the first fixed module in the United States market," Weller added.

Components are produced and shipped to Flat Rock from two different Webasto locations, in Livonia, Mich. and Rochester Hills, Mich.

"What really brought this project together between Ford and Webasto was our ability to fully integrate the glass roof with the Mustang’s structure — to provide a design that did not cause any compromise to any structural rigidity of the vehicle, while still offering a very unique option for the end consumer," Weller said.

2008 Ford Focus production starts

Production of the new generation of Ford Focus models got underway today at the Ford plant in Saarlouis. The first car in the new series was driven off the production line by Joachim Rippel, Saarland Minister for Economic Affairs.

Previewed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September, the new Ford Focus will go on sale across Europe from early 2008.

The new Ford Focus has not only been given a completely new look, but it has also been significantly improved in terms of interior design and craftsmanship.


The new Focus will also be the first model of the new Ford ECOnetic line of ultra-low CO2 emission vehicles, and promises to deliver best-in-class CO2 emissions for conventional powertrain technology at just 115g/km.

With more than five million examples produced in Europe since it was launched in 1998, the Ford Focus is the first and - to date - the only car in the world to be acclaimed "Car of the Year" both in Europe and in North America in the same year.

In total the Ford Focus has won over 80 awards in Europe alone. It has significantly influenced the automotive world and at the same time triggered a successful new direction for Ford in Europe.

Ford Ranger production will end in 2009

Ford announced that the St. Paul, Minnesota plant will be closed at the end of 2009. This means that the life of the Ranger pickup truck will come to an end in 2009.

Ranger is being produced for nearly 15 years and this year sales drop with 24% compared to the 2006 when Ford sold 92,000 units.

The 2007 Ranger is available in XL, STX, XLT, SPORT, FX4 Off-Road and FX4 Level II trims, in regular-cab and in two- and four-door SuperCab configurations. Ranger offers three engine choices: a 2.3-liter, inline four-cylinder (I-4) and two V-6 engines