Wednesday, August 31, 2011

U.S. News & World Report Names Ford Fusion “Best Affordable Family Car”

U.S. News and World Report Names Ford Fusion “Best affordable family car.”

Although the Fusion is largely unchanged for the 2011 model year, it does feature attractive new features such as Integrated Blind Spot Mirrors and HD Radio. The interior is otherwise well-engineered and well-appointed.

Families will especially appreciate two exciting technologies on the Fusion — MyKey and SYNC. MyKey comes standard on the Fusion, and it keeps young people safe by limiting their top speed to 80 mph, limiting radio volume to 45 percent, chiming continuously when seat belts aren’t buckled and providing low-fuel warnings. SYNC is Ford’s award-winning infotainment system that allows drivers to control smart phone apps and mp3 players through voice commands.

Interestingly, U.S. News & World Report is just one of many publications to recently sing the Fusion’s praises:

  • ” The Fusion is much improved from bumper to bumper, and it’s better prepared than ever to meet the high expectations of mid-sized sedan buyers.” — Car and Driver
  • “Before you write off the 2010 Fusion as a warmed-over version of the previous model, we suggest you take one for a test-drive. The old Fusion was already a pretty good midsize sedan, and thanks to Ford’s determination to rectify its flaws, the new one’s even better.” — Edmunds
  • “For a reasonable price you can pick up a decently equipped, nicely sized, attractive sedan that can accommodate a family of four in comfort, yet still be fun to drive.” — Autoblog
  • “Regardless of which model suits your fancy, Ford’s midsize sedan offers a depth and breadth of trim levels, powertrains, and features that few rivals can match.” — Consumer Guide
  • “Although much of the basic platform engineering on this front-drive/all-wheel drive four-door remains shared with its former Mazda stable mate, the MAZDA6, both its exterior and interior have be transformed to reflect a more youthful and contemporary flavor.” — Kelley Blue Book

Many car reviewers and journalists agree that the Ford Fusion is a great vehicle for small families. If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s got good looks, offers safety and strong fuel economy, and won’t break the bank, the Fusion is worth a look.

Read more: http://www.fordinthenews.com/ford-fusion-named-best-affordable-family-car/#more-2707

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Five Ford’s Named 2011’s “Most Wanted American Cars,” by Motor Trend

Five Ford’s named 2011’s “Most Wanted American Cars” by Motor Trend.

After all, fully half of the entries on the list (which only considered American-branded vehicles) were built by the Blue Oval, including:

Fiesta—The top choice in the Subcompact category, the Fiesta, was a huge hit, with MT editors writing that: “You know that solid CRACK a baseball makes when it meets an oak bat, sweet spot to sweet spot? The Fiesta does that in two significant areas: styling and build quality. Everywhere we took the Fiesta, eyebrows rose and admiring glances caressed the car. This is clearly a good-looking automobile, a shot glass brimming with European taste.”

Focus—In the Compact segment, the winning vehicle was the Focus, which “has vaulted from forgettable to formidable in one fell swoop. The improvements to the new car are night and day compared to what we had, and we’d expect no less from an all-new car. With both sedan and hatchback models available and an impressive-looking electric model on the way (and possibly a wagon as well, if the rumors are true), Ford has planted a very large flag on the compact sedan hill.”

Mustang—Ford’s modern-day muscle car actually took home honors in two different classes, with the V6 model earning top ratings as “Coupe under $25,000” and the Boss 302 besting all rivals in the “Coupe over $25,000” group. The former was lauded as “nearly as quick as last year’s V8-powered GT,” while of the latter, MT said it was “hands-down the best Mustang [Ford] has ever produced.

Edge—One of the best-selling crossovers in the country was the No. 1 choice in the segment for MT editors, who praised its extensive upgrades for the 2011 model year: “Pick nearly any aspect of the popular mid-sized SUV and the Blue Oval’s engineers probably tweaked, restyled, or replaced it. It looks and sounds like an all-new edition.”

Which means that for customers who want the best American automakers have to offer, it looks and sounds like their local Ford dealership is the right place to start.

Read more: http://www.fordinthenews.com/five-fords-named-among-mts-most-wanted-american-cars/#more-2696

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

The Red-light Camera Quiz

Red-light cameras may seem technologically cut-and dry, but that's far from reality. They've saved lives, but they've also stirred up more controversy that most other traffic control devices on the roads to date. See how knowledgeable you are about some of the more picayune and esoteric aspects of this growing debate.

Follow the link to get started: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/red-light-camera-quiz.htm

Monday, August 22, 2011

Ford, Toyota to Collaborate on Developing New Hybrid System for Light Trucks and SUVs.

                                                    

 

Ford Motor Company and Toyota Motor Corporation – the world’s two leading manufacturers of hybrid vehicles – today announced they will equally collaborate on the development of an advanced new hybrid system for light truck and SUV customers. Ford and Toyota have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the product development collaboration, with the formal agreement expected by next year.

“This agreement brings together the capability of two global leaders in hybrid vehicles and hybrid technology to develop a better solution more quickly and affordably for our customers,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “Ford achieved a breakthrough with the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and we intend to do this again for a new group of truck and SUV buyers – customers we know very well.”
Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota executive vice president, Research & Development, said: “In 1997, we launched the first-generation Prius, the world’s first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid. Since then, we have sold about 3.3 million hybrid vehicles. We expect to create exciting technologies that benefit society with Ford – and we can do so through the experience the two companies have in hybrid technology.”

Under the MOU agreement, the two companies will bring the best of their independently developed hybrid powertrain technology and knowledge to a new co-developed hybrid system, which will be used in rear-wheel-drive light trucks arriving later this decade. Specifically, Ford and Toyota will:
•Jointly develop as equal partners a new rear-wheel drive hybrid system and component technology for light trucks and SUVs
•Independently integrate the new hybrid system in their future vehicles separately

“By working together, we will be able to serve our customers with the very best affordable, advanced powertrains, delivering even better fuel economy,” said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. “This is the kind of collaborative effort that is required to address the big global challenges of energy independence and environmental sustainability.”
Toyota President Akio Toyoda added: “Toyota is extremely proud to join Ford in developing a hybrid system for pickup trucks and SUVs. Not only is this tie-up clearly one aimed at making automobiles ever better, it should also become an important building block for future mobility in the U.S. By building a global, long-term relationship with Ford, our desire is to be able to continue to provide people in America automobiles that exceed their expectations.”

Read more: http://corporate.ford.com/news-center/news/press-releases/press-releases-detail/pr-ford-toyota-to-collaborate-on-35100

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Ford SYNC Hits A Home Run With Consumers

Ford SYNC hits a home run with consumers.

With pennant races beginning to heat up—in the major leagues as well as their fantasy equivalents—Ford has introduced an all-new SYNC feature designed just for fans of America’s national pastime. Now, leveraging the comprehensive SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information Services system, SYNC users can get hands-free access to a Fantasy Update featuring the weekly hitting and pitching leaders in both the American and National Leagues.

After giving a quick and simple series of voice commands— “Sports,” “Baseball,” then “Fantasy Update”—a wide range of information will be provided verbally by SYNC, including hitting statistics like batting average, home runs, RBIs, stolen bases and runs scored, along with pitching stats such as won-loss records, saves and strikeouts.

“It’s been estimated that nearly 7 million people play fantasy baseball, and all of them scramble to get any kind of information about the very best players they should be putting in their lineups,” said David Gersabeck, SYNC Services product manager. “This is all about giving our customers what they want. The Fantasy Update feature on SYNC gives our customers fantasy baseball updates quickly and concisely using easy voice commands.”

And that’s in addition to the steadily growing number of other cloud-based, on-demand voice-activated features and information available through SYNC Services, such as:

  • Turn-by-turn navigation
  • Business search
  • Traffic updates
  • News coverage
  • Sports reports
  • Weather forecasts
  • Stock prices
  • Horoscopes
  • Movie listings
  • Connections for travelers to some 150 airlines, 50 hotel chains and 11 of the biggest U.S. rental car companies

Another bonus: Because SYNC Services works by being mated to a user’s Bluetooth-enabled phone, instead of being tied to a vehicle, all of this information can be accessed anywhere there’s a cell-phone signal—and without additional charges.

Read more: http://www.fordinthenews.com/ford-sync-knocks-one-out-of-the-park-for-fantasy-baseball-fans/#more-2660

Monday, August 15, 2011

Hot Weather Tips For Your Car

Check out these hot weather tips for your car.

The prolonged hot weather we've been having is hard on vehicles, but a little preventive maintenance can go a long way toward ensuring that you don't wind up stranded on the side of the road withering in the heat while waiting for a tow truck.

Cars are complicated beasts and, of course, anything can go wrong at any time. But experts say there are four main problem areas that crop up as the mercury rises: batteries, tires, radiators and air conditioners.

"The extreme heat makes the acid and the fluid inside of them (car batteries) expand, which can cause them to start leaking," says Jim Kilgo, a supervisor at Austin's Groovy Automotive and Groovy Lube. "That causes battery failure in the long run."

Sarah Schimmer, AAA Texas public affairs representative, recommends that drivers keep in mind the age of their vehicles' batteries, especially in hot weather. "If it's older than 2 to 3 years, have it tested and consider having it changed out," she suggests.

Heat raises tire pressure, which is why manufacturers recommend checking their inflation before driving. And worn treads compound the effect. "As you drive during any month of the year, your tires' PSI (pounds per square inch) will raise from 5 to 8 pounds," Kilgo explains. "When it gets hot like this, it's going to raise even more. If you've got weak tires — worn tires — you've got a better chance of having a blowout."

Here's a bonus: Properly inflated tires in good condition (don't forget your spare) will improve your gas mileage.

If you see a car stranded on the shoulder and it's not up on a jack, chances are it has overheated. Your car is already working harder than normal in extreme heat, and low coolant levels can spell disaster for its engine. Belts stretch and hoses deteriorate with age; long periods of extreme heat can accelerate the process.

"A hose failure can cause an engine to blow almost before you can shut it down in this heat," Kilgo says.

"If you've got worn hoses that haven't been replaced in a while, you've got a better chance of a hose rupturing now than you do at any other time."

Read more: http://www.statesman.com/life/hot-weather-car-care-tips-1579503.html

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Two New V6 Engines Dominate Ford F-150 Sales

With its powerful and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, the 365-horsepower Ford F-150 EcoBoost® is outselling all other competitive six-cylinder trucks combined.

"Both of our new V6 powerplants are changing the way customers think about truck engines," said Doug Scott, Ford's truck group marketing manager. "The 3.7-liter has more horsepower than two of the three V8 engines we offered in last year's F-150. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, at 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. torque, is in a class of its own – no one has anything even remotely close to this engine, which can tow as much as 11,300 pounds and deliver 22 mpg."

Fuel efficiency, along with best-in-class performance, is another reason the two new Ford F-150 engines are rewriting the book on V6 truck sales. The 3.7-liter F-150 carries an EPA rating of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the F-150 EcoBoost is EPA certified at 16 mpg city and 22 mg highway, making it the most fuel-efficient truck with more than 350 horsepower on the market.

The hot-selling F-150 EcoBoost is now the highest volume vehicle in Ford's growing global family of cars, trucks and SUVs available with the company's patented fuel-saving technology.

EcoBoost combines engine downsizing with turbocharging, direct injection and other technologies to deliver both performance and fuel efficiency gains as high as 20 percent over the larger engines they replace. Ford holds more than 125 patents on its EcoBoost technology and has launched a family of EcoBoost engines globally in sizes ranging from 1.6 liters to 3.5 liters.

Read more: http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=35026

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Ford Earns High Marks In APEL Study

The J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive. The study reveals that the industry average APEAL score in 2011 increases by 3 index points from last year—to 781 (on a 1,000-point scale) from 778 in 2010. The 2011 APEAL Study is based on owner evaluations of more than 90 vehicle attributes, and complements the recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2011 US Initial Quality Study (IQS), which focuses on problems experienced by owners during the first 90 days of ownership.

The APEAL Study measures owner satisfaction in 10 categories:

    • Fuel Economy
    • Audio/Entertainment/Navigation
    • Vehicle Interior
    • Seats
    • Engine
    • HVAC
    • Storage
    • Visibility
    • Driving Experience
    • Vehicle Exterior

The 2011 Ford Fiesta was named the highest ranked sub-compact car. While the 2011 Ford F-150 was the highest ranked large pickup.  On a side note, all of of Ford's newest retail vehicles earned fuel efficiency ratings above the segment average.

 

Read more: http://www.jdpower.com/autos/articles/2011-APEAL-Study-Results/

Monday, August 8, 2011

Ford Edge With EcoBoost Gets EPA-Rated 30 MPG

Ford Edge with EcoBoost gets EPA-rated 30 MPG highway.

The Ford Edge has long been one of the most fuel-efficient offerings in its class. However, with the all-new 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, the Edge now boasts an EPA-rated 30 mpg highway and 21 mpg city. The new EcoBoost engine will complement the best-in-class Edge V6 fuel economy, giving customers expanded fuel efficient choices.

With 30 mpg on the highway, the Edge EcoBoost bests all SUVs its size or larger. Even cars that are far smaller, like the Honda Civic Si and the Saab 9-3 automatic, don’t get 30 mpg highway. Other features that enhance the crossover’s efficiency include variable-displacement air conditioning compressor, a unique six-speed automatic transmission, and category-exclusive active grille shutters to improve aerodynamics.

EcoBoost has been successful at attracting new, more upscale customers to Ford showrooms. Taurus SHO and Flex models have long benefitted from the EcoBoost, and now it’s even available on the popular F-150 pickup. With its balance of power and fuel-efficiency, Ford plans to add the EcoBoost to 90 percent of its lineup by 2013.

“Fuel efficiency is important to our customers,” said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager, Large Cars and Crossovers. “Adding the EcoBoost engine to the new Ford Edge crossover makes for 13 vehicles delivering 30 mpg or more in the Ford showroom.”

Read more: http://www.fordinthenews.com/ford-edge-with-new-ecoboost-delivers-30-mpg/#more-2637

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Tips On How To Properly Wash and Wax Your Car

Check out the tips below on how to properly wash and wax your car.

More than one-third of car owners use damaging non-automotive products when washing their cars-products that could contain harmful detergents, abrasives and additives. And almost half of motorists don't ever wax their vehicles.

"Waxing at least twice a year is recommended for maximum protection, yet surveys show that 48 percent of motorists don't wax their vehicles at all," said Jeffrey Webb, director of retail marketing at Turtle Wax, Inc.

Motorists should avoid dish detergent, which contains harsh chemicals that, intended to cut through grease, will strip away the wax finish on your car. Some are hard to rinse off and leave streaks. For best results, a formulated automotive wash is recommended, one that gently lifts the dirt and grime while protecting the finish.

Washing an automobile on a regular basis protects it from the natural elements that harm the finish. The Car Care Council recommends the following dos and don'ts when it comes to a do-it-yourself car wash:

  • Don't wash cars in direct sunlight. Do wash cars in shade or in cooler temperatures in the early morning or late afternoon.
  • Don't use dish detergent. Do use a formulated car wash.
  • Do fill your bucket with warm water.
  • Do use a soft terrycloth towel or washing mitt.
  • Do spray the car often with water.
  • Don't scrub the car all at once. Do complete one section at a time, rinsing repeatedly to prevent the soap from drying on the paint.
  • Do use soft terrycloth towels or scratch-free fabric to dry the vehicle.
  • Don't neglect waxing the vehicle. Do prep the car for waxing using cleaner/polish to remove contaminants.

"The myth of not having to wax your car because you have a clear-coat finish is just that, a myth," Webb said. "Clear-coat finish is only as thick as a piece of paper and can become damaged from the effects of sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution."

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