by Steven J. Ewing (RSS feed) on Feb 23rd 2010 at 3:58PM


Ford Ranger spy shots


Ford has done a lot of work over the past few years to really improve its F-Series line of pickups, in both standard F-150 and Super Duty forms. And while the Blue Oval's "Built Ford Tough" motto stands true to the latest and greatest versions of these pickups, the smaller Ranger has been greatly overlooked over the past decade.

These most recent spy shots show Ford's new Ranger, but don't get too excited. Despite the long-in-the-tooth truck's aging underpinnings and FoMoCo's push to standardize platforms with it's "One Ford" initiative, the all-new Ranger most likely won't make it to the States (despite our best hopes).

Our spies indicate that this new Ranger will be slightly larger than the version currently on sale in other markets, but that it's actually somewhat smaller than the truck currently sitting at U.S. dealerships. We think that may be a visual trick of the camouflage and the four-door configuration, however, as this vehicle is expected to be larger than the current North American model, as it will go on duty in countries where Ford doesn't offer the F-150. Still, should the Blue Oval perform an about-face and bring the truck to America, we don't think this would hinder Ford's overall sales too much, and this much-needed overhaul would make the model better positioned to compete with the likes of the Toyota Tacoma, as well as the Nissan Frontier/Suzuki Equator twins in markets abroad.

by Jeremy Korzeniewski (RSS feed) on Feb 19th 2010 at 3:32PM


2009 Ford Focus RS –

Our friends across the pond in Europe have always good things to say about the Ford Focus RS, leading to a great deal of angst in America since the Blue Oval Boys have never brought the hi-po Focus Stateside. News from Jost Capito, the man in charge of aligning Ford's performance divisions all around the globe, has us anxiously awaiting the time when that gross oversight is finally corrected.

Automobile recently got the chance to sit down and chat with Capito, and the conversation quickly turned to the new global Ford Focus platform that was recently unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show. According to Capito, Ford is still deciding what to call the next-gen high-performance Focus, saying only, "I don't see RS in Europe going away, and I don't see SVT in the U.S. going away."

Regardless of what it's called, we could very well see the speedy Focus take on multiple forms – similar to the path Ford has taken with the car in Europe with both a Focus ST and top-level RS. Previously, we heard rumors that a 240-horsepower Ecoboost-powered Focus ST could hit the scene within 18 months, followed by the latest RS, which could sport a 350-horsepower all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain, within the next three years.

Ford aims to align global performance vehicles

Filed under: Car News, Ford, Hatchbacks




When Derrick Kuzak was leading development of the 2000 Ford Focus, Jost Capito was charged with transforming the compact hatch into Europe’s hot Focus RS. Now that Kuzak is responsible for all Ford products globally, he’s called Capito up to oversee performance vehicles for all markets as the director of global performance vehicles and motorsport business.

Prior to joining Ford, Capito wrote himself an impressive resume in motorsports. He started with successful stints in motorcross and endurance motorocycle racing, but a 1985 win in the truck class of the Paris-Dakar Rally was the defining victory. In 1999, he joined the Sauber Formula One team as chief operating officer after serving with BMW and Porsche motorsports programs. He hired into Ford’s Cologne-based Team RS in 2001.

Now, Capito will align America’s SVT, Europe’s Team RS, and Australia’s FPV while establishing performance vehicles that can be sold on multiple continents. With products like the new Fiesta and Focus set to bow soon, we’re eager to see what tuned variants Ford will come up with.

In Europe you use the ST and RS monikers for performance vehicles, while it’s SVT here in America. What badge will these new performance vehicles wear?
We’re not finished with the nomenclature yet. I think we have two different things. We have regional performance vehicles and we have global performance vehicles. We are fully agreed on global performance vehicles, you need one nomenclature. We see that the RS already has got quite the following in the U.S., so there would be nothing wrong in calling it RS globally. Each car should have only one nomenclature [globally], but I don’t see RS in Europe going away, and I don’t see SVT in the U.S. going away.

Does the new global approach to performance vehicles mean we Americans are more likely to see a next-generation Ford Focus RS?
When you see the global vehicle lines, they offer the opportunity of global performance vehicles. The two generations of Focus we’ve had so far [internationally] were great bases for performance vehicles. The new Focus is the same, so there’s no reason if there’s one in Europe, it wouldn’t be here.

Could you offer two distinct performance trims in the U.S. like you do in the Europe?
I think the Mustang has that. I’d say that the GT is the first level of performance and the GT500 is the second level.

How about with a Focus?
I wouldn’t see a reason why not. I think there is room when you see there is a market. I am convinced this segment is growing. The VW GTI is the main competitor to the ST, and there’s the Mazdaspeed 3. The entry performance level of those kind of cars, they are absolutely everyday capable. They have no restrictions compared to a base vehicle, just adding the performance, the sportiness, the sound.

Could you make the case to sell a Fiesta RS and Focus RS at the same time?
To sell one at a time is never an issue. To do an RS, a lot of things have to come together. The industry has to be right, we have to have the right base vehicles, we have to have the right resources, we have to have the right economic clime that you can sell the vehicles. In Europe, we had the ST Fiesta and Focus in parallel, but that is entry-level performance and I think that’s a no-brainer and it’s a very easy answer.

With the RS, it’s an icon, and I’m convinced you shouldn’t just flush the market with RSes. The lesson we learned in Europe is that we shouldn’t do as many cars as we can sell. Our customers, they are really loyal RS customers and they need the car for everyday driving. It’s not their second car, it’s not their third car, and they always want to have the new RS. They can only afford that if they can sell their old RS for a good price. If you keep the RS limited, you keep the used price up so that the guys who are our traditional customers can fulfill their dream and get the new RS. That keeps the whole hype about RS going.

How strongly are your products tied to what’s available in the Ford parts bin?
If you can take an engine that’s already in the platform, it’s much easier, much more cost efficient. But our approach is not starting with, “What engine do we have?” Our approach is, “What should the car be?” and then we know the options and we look in the parts bin. If we have an engine in the platform and delivers what we define the car should deliver, then it’s fine. If there is no engine in the platform that delivers, then we have to look for something else.


(healy Ford would like to sell these!)

by Chris Shunk (RSS feed) on Feb 20th 2010 at 12:18PM


2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

While we wholeheartedly love the F-150 SVT Raptor, part of us wondered whether there'd be many takers for a truck that was purpose-built for the sand dunes. Looks like we needn't have worried, as it appears demand is very strong for the Raptor. In fact, Ford had its flacks issue a press release bragging about just how successful the Raptor's been so far. The factory super-truck has reportedly found 5,300 takers to date, and F-150 marketing manager Mark Grueber says Raptor "is so popular that we actually wound up building more 5.4-liter V-8 models than we had originally anticipated."

The reason Ford thought customers might be interested in waiting to pull the trigger on a Raptor is the spring availability of the Dearborn, MI-based automaker's new 6.2-liter V8 engine. The new 6.2 promises 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque, or 91 more ponies than the soon-to-be-mothballed 5.4. Ford's already taking orders for the 6.2-liter model, and we're thinking they'll only increase in number over the coming weeks and months.

After filling out 5,300 orders, Ford also has a better idea of which amenities customers want in their Raptors, and the content story is a good one for the automaker. Ford reports that customers are checking option boxes for the luxury package, reverse-sensing camera and moonroof at a rate of at least 79 percent. Ford's expensive but fantastic touchscreen navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™ is being chosen in 62 percent of Raptors sold. And while we loved the Raptor in Molten Orange, 52 percent of customers are opting for Tuxedo Black. Hit the jump pore over Ford's bragfest press release.

Did we mention that they were available at Healy Ford Sherwood Ford?
[Source: Ford]


PRESS RELEASE

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 19, 2010 – Customer demand for Ford's new F-150 SVT Raptor is moving nearly as fast as the world's only production high-speed off-road performance truck. Already, over 5,300 orders have been placed for the new performance pickup.

"We couldn't be more pleased with the popularity of the F-150 SVT Raptor," said Mark Grueber, F-150 Marketing manager. "Orders have exceeded our expectations. The truck is so popular that we actually wound up building more 5.4-liter V-8 models than we had originally anticipated. The order banks are now open for the all-new 6.2-liter V-8, and the orders keep rolling in."

The F-150 Raptor is the first ever high-speed off-road performance truck offered by any manufacture and highlights Ford's 33 years of truck leadership by emphasizing Built Ford Tough innovation and engineering. Developed with the DNA of an off-road pre-runner, the comprehensive modifications to the truck focused on chassis and suspension.

Built alongside the best-selling F-150 at Ford's Dearborn Truck Plant, the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor was designed for the off-road performance market which has steadily grown in popularity over the past decade.

Raptor is powered by F-150's proven 5.4-liter Triton® V-8 three-valve engine, which delivers 320 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. This spring, customers will have the added option of an all-new 6.2-liter V-8 engine, producing 411 horsepower and 434 ft.-lb. of torque – making Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market.

The appeal of the Ford's F-150 SVT Raptor extends beyond just desert runners. While the biggest markets for order so far are in the Southwest and Texas, demand also is high in states like Tennessee, Michigan, Colorado, Ohio and Georgia

Customers are showing an appreciation for Raptor's unparalleled off-road performance, as well as its many features. Options such as the luxury package, moonroof and reverse camera all have "take rates" of more than 79 percent. Popular F-150 utility options like touch-screen navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™, trailer brake controller and Ford's tailgate step have take-rates higher than 62 percent.

The overwhelming top color choice has been Tuxedo Black for more than 52 percent of all orders, followed by Molten Orange, Oxford White and Blue Flame.

What does Ford Motor Company have in common with Google, Apple, and Amazon? Ford shares a spot with them on Fast Company’s Top 10 list of “Most Innovative” companies in Mobile technology, and becomes the first automaker to ever be recognized in the category.

Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC, the industry-leading connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, as well as the recent reveal of MyFord Touch, an innovative user interface that promises to redefine the in-car experience.

“The automaker has taken a great leap forward,” says Fast Company.

Ford developed SYNC in response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks. MyFord Touch expands on the system’s device connectivity features by delivering a graphical, touch, and voice-controlled user interface that maximizes SYNC’s capability and provides an intuitive and safer way for drivers to interact with the car.

In addition to introducing MyFord Touch at the recent 2010 International CES, Ford became the first automaker to announce hands-free command and control of smart phone apps. Pandora, Stitcher, and OpenBeak are the first to implement the SYNC Application Programming Interface (API), enabling drivers to voice control the apps through SYNC’s Bluetooth connection.

More information on SYNC and MyFord Touch can be found here or at www.media.ford.com.

Quotes

“This honor represents Ford’s commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer. We’re very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers.”

– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas


“Collaboration and strategic investment in open innovation have been keys to our success. Our relationship with Microsoft was just the beginning, as we’ve forged strong relationships throughout the mobile industry and look forward to even more.”

– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas

08:46 CAPTION By Carlos Osorio, AP



The next Explorer will likely be powered by an EcoBoost engine which is much more cost-effective than a hybrid, using direct-injection and turbocharging technologies.


As we were leaving Orlando yesterday, Drive On was haunted by an encounter with a particularly giddy Ford dealer. He had just come out of a closed-door meeting between executives and dealers, an upbeat session loaded with information about coming attractions at the National Automobile Dealers Association convention. Even though a planned Mercury small car got all the media attention, there was one new entrant that people couldn't stop talking about -- the 2011 Ford Explorer.

After a series of big introductions, with the new Taurus being the most recent, Ford has a secret weapon up its sheet-metal sleeve. The new Explorer is due to go on sale later this year, yet it hasn't shown up at any of the auto shows. All we have to go on are a few slim details:

It will be unibody, not another heavy, fuel-wasting body-on-frame design.
It will come with an incredibly fuel miserly powertrain, the four-cylinder EcoBoost turbocharged engine.
The look will probably roughly parallel the concept that Ford introduced at the Detroit auto show a couple of years ago, seen above, which was generally well received but didn't exactly set the world on fire.
A game changer?


If the new Explorer could combine 30-mile-a-gallon performance with all the good vibes that go with Explorer that was American's favorite family vehicle a decade ago, the brand could have its next mega-winner. Small crossovers are the hot segment -- and the new Explorer would be right-sized at being just a little bigger.

Jalopnik says the new Explorer will have an updated version of the same chassis used on today's Taurus, Flex and Lincoln MKS and MKT. "It'll be sized and shaped like an oversized, three-row (Ford) Edge ... with the spoiler across the back and everything," Jalopnik writes. There are few spy shots of the new Explorer tooling around the landscape.

Yet Drive On can't figure out why Ford is keeping the new Explorer under wraps for so long. The Dearborn crew has one last chance to roll it out before a lot of eyes -- the New York Auto Show in April. You'll be the first to know what we see.

The Ford Fiesta already is proving that it’s got the makings of a star, but now Ford’s new small car is serving as a vehicle to stardom for a few aspiring young artists. Three Fiestas are hitting the road with five young people in tow to promote Simon Fuller’s new reality show “If I Can Dream,” which follows the artists as they move to the Hollywood Hills looking for their big break.

The five artists include a musician, an actor, two actresses and a model, who will be mentored by the best in Hollywood while trying to make their dreams come true. All the while, their lives will be captured and streamed online in real-time, 24/7 on www.ificandream.com. It also will be available for TV viewers exclusively on Hulu, a Web site offering popular TV shows and movies from commercial networks.

Fiesta serves as the “sixth bedroom” of the show – it’s the artists’ primary way of transportation, and it is outfitted with three cameras so they can talk about their experiences through livestreaming.

The “If I Can Dream” tour will be visiting New York, Feb. 10-12; Boston, Feb. 14-15; Chicago, Feb. 16-17; Atlanta, Feb. 18; New Orleans, Feb. 19; Dallas, Feb. 21-22; Phoenix, Feb. 23; San Francisco, Feb. 24; and Los Angeles, Feb. 25.

Fiesta’s involvement with “If I Can Dream” builds on the success of the Fiesta Movement, a social media initiative that generated more than 6 million YouTube views, nearly 740,000 Flickr views and more than 3.7 million Twitter impressions. The Fiesta Movement and test drive program have resulted in more than 100,000 handraisers.

Fiesta has it all – and more
Going on sale this summer, the all-new Ford Fiesta features an expressive, vibrant design, sharp reflexes, and a global track record that will redefine U.S. small car customers’ expectations. With 15 class-exclusive technologies and a projected best-in-class highway fuel economy of 40 mpg, Fiesta brings efficiency and convenience together in one package.

It’s also designed to be versatile, personal and adaptable. In fact, Fiesta is expected to deliver best-in-class safety, convenience and connectivity with the segment-exclusive SYNC® voice-activated communications system, as well as an expressive color palette and available graphics.

Already more than 6,000 consumers have made reservations for the Ford Fiesta – half of them from non-Ford customers – and more than 100,000 handraisers are showing an interest in the new fuel-efficient car. Customers can begin placing their order for the new Fiesta today through their local Ford dealer.

Quote
“This is the perfect way for people across the country to connect with the Fiesta and the ‘If I Can Dream’ artists. Not only will they get to see the Fiesta up close, but they’ll get to meet the artists on the first part of this exciting journey.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content and Alliances Manager

Thinking about replacing that crusty old mini-van, and want a new ride that your spouse and kids won’t groan about getting into? According to Kelley Blue Book’s editors there are 10 family haulers that deserve your consideration, and here are three of their favorites: the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Ford Taurus and 2010 Ford Flex.


“While the product landscape in the new-car world seems ever-changing, the vehicle needs of the typical American family remain fairly constant; capable versatility, value, safety and economical factors usually remain top-of-mind,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.

“Best hybrid experience on the road”


Nerad says the Ford Fusion Hybrid is a top pick for families because it saves money at the pump, keeps everyone entertained with the latest Ford SYNC® technology, and scores high in terms of ride and handling.

“The Ford Fusion Hybrid doesn’t scream its hybrid-ness to the multitudes,” he said. “Instead, it provides what many of us at Kelley Blue Book feel is the best hybrid experience on the road. We love the way the Fusion Hybrid rides and handles, and we applaud its innovative dash and environmental credentials.”

“A visually striking technological tour de force”



Nerad says customers in the market for a family car should also consider the Ford Taurus because it delivers features that American families will appreciate.

“What was once merely a competent full-size sedan has transformed into a visually striking technological tour de force,” he said. “With features uncommon in its segment, a roomy cabin, cavernous trunk, and nimbleness that belies its size, the redesigned Ford Taurus is a family car that pleases everyone, including the driver.”

“A great transcontinental family tourer”


Nerad says if the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com had to pick an overall winner from the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010,” the Ford Flex might get the nod.

“The Ford Flex leaves plain-vanilla crossovers behind with its distinctive styling, and it has all the comfort and convenience features required to be a great transcontinental family tourer while performing equally well in getting the kids to softball practice,” he said. “It drives better than some midsize sedans, offers comfortable seating for seven, and boasts a long list of available interior amenities including an array of infotainment features and even a small refrigerator.”

For more information about the “Top 10 Family Cars for 2010” from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/Top10FamilyCars.

by Sebastian Blanco



Ford Transit Connect Electric

As expected, Ford brought the latest (and greatest?) incarnations of the Transit Connect utility van to the Chicago Auto Show today. The battery-powered Transit Connect Electric was up first, perhaps because it fits so well into Ford's strategy of vehicle electrification (see also: Focus Electric coming next year, followed by a plug-in hybrid and a next-gen hybrid in 2012). At the very least, this is Ford's first battery-powered vehicle, said product development vice president Derrick Kuzak.

The practical and battery-powered delivery van (the standard version was named the North American Truck of the Year this year) uses a powertrain developed with help from Azure Dynamics Corporation. Called Force Drive, the 55 kW system uses a 28 kWh lithium ion battery pack from Johnson Controls-Saft, has a 75 mile per hour top speed and can drive up to 80 miles on a charge. Will these specs be enough for customers? Praveen Cherian, program manager for the Transit Connect Electric, said in a statement that:

We're excited about the potential for our electrified vehicles. People were a little hesitant about hybrid technology at first, but now they accept it and embrace it. We expect the same will be true of electric vehicles.
The Transit Connect Electric goes on sale in the U.S. later this year, so we'll find out soon.

by Drew Phillips (RSS feed)


2011 Ford Shelby GT500 –

Like the 2011 Mustang GT at last month's Detroit Auto Show, the 2011 Shelby was unveiled here at the Chicago Auto Show with little fanfare. In fact, there wasn't an unveiling at all, as the new Shelby was sitting uncovered on the show floor as soon as we arrived. The car looks fantastic in person, especially with the optional Performance Package and its 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, and the thinner stripes look better than we expected.

The best part about the 2011 GT500, however, is underneath the hood. Ford has finally thrown out the heavy iron block in favor of an aluminum unit that contributed to a significant weight savings of 120 pounds. The GT500 still isn't a lightweight at 3,820 pounds, but we fully expect the handling to be improved over the 2010 model with all that weight removed from the nose.

by Damon Lavrinc (RSS feed)


Hennessey VelociRaptor 500

Hennessey has worked its magic on the new Ford F150 Raptor and as you'd expect, the primary addition to FoMoCo's Dakar-ready pickup is... power. Meet the Hennessey VelociRaptor.

With the knowledge that Ford's engineers know infinitely more about suspension tuning, Hennessey has focused the majority of its efforts under the hood, slapping a Whipple supercharger onto the Raptor's 5.4-liter V8 and ramping output to 501 horsepower (at 5,100 rpm) and 520 pound-feet of torque (at 3,200 rpm). Combined with the 9.1 pounds of boost, a K&N intake, upgraded fuel injectors, a stainless steel exhaust and headers, and then tuned with a reflashed ECU, the VelociRaptor's 0-60 time has been reduced from 8.4 to 5.6 seconds with the quarter mile dispatched in 14.1 seconds at 97 mph.

Hennessey plans to create 100 VelociRaptors each year, with the full kit coming in at $10,950 or the Hennessey-installed solution for $14,995, which includes a one-year warranty. Full stats and breakdown after the jump, along with a video of the VelociRaptor running the traps.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qG2kWfng ... r_embedded


VelociRaptor 500
500+ HP Supercharged Upgrade from Hennessey Performance

Power:
• 501 bhp @ 5,100 rpm
• 520 lb-ft torque @ 3,200 rpm

Performance:
• 0 - 60 mph: 5.6 sec.
• 1/4 mile: 14.1 @ 97 mph

The VelociRaptor 500 Upgrade Includes:
• Supercharger System (9 psi)
• K&N Air Filter
• Custom Fuel Rails
• Upgraded Fuel Injectors
• Stainless Steel Headers
• Stainless Steel Exhaust System
• Custom Engine Management Software Calibration
• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
• Exterior Hennessey Emblem on Tailgate
• VelociRaptor 500 Badging
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• Professional Installation
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Warranty

by Chris Paukert (RSS feed)


2011 Ford Edge –


As dutiful American consumers, we've been taught to believe that choice is good. To that end, the splintering of the automotive market into different niches (four-door coupes, small panel vans, high-riding hatchbacks, etc.) is a positive development for buyers. But while the range of total models from automakers has been increasing, individual variation within a given model range has seemingly been reigned in, from a drastic reduction in build combinations of light-duty pickups to the availability of engines and ala carte options in everyday vehicles. Standing in direct contrast to this trend, however, is the 2011 Ford Edge crossover.

Whereas the first-generation Edge has lived since 2006 with a 3.5-liter V6 as its sole drivetrain, the 2011 model will offer no fewer than three powertrain choices. For 2011, the 3.5-liter engine will live on as the Edge line's bread-and-butter, but it is being joined by Ford's first production application of a new EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, as well as the larger 3.7-liter V6 for the popular Edge Sport. In the case of the 3.5-liter, it produces 285 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque, while the Sport's larger 3.7 Ti-VCT V6 delivers 305 ponies and 280 torques on 87 octane. Ford is not yet releasing power and economy numbers on the EcoBoost engine, but it promises "class-leading" fuel efficiency, noting that the new powertrain should eclipse the original 2006 Edge by some 30 percent.

Follow the jump to find out what else has changed for the Edge, as well as Ford's official press release.





G
[Source: Ford]


Where the outgoing Sport model was largely a trim-and-tape proposition, the new model has a better shot at living up to its name – not only because it offers more power than other models in the range, but also because it has standard paddle-shifters, bespoke suspension settings and those cartoon-proportion 22-inch wheels and tires. Incidentally, in case you were wondering, Ford promises that the powertrain will happily hover at the redline when in manual 'Selectshift' mode without upshifting, a common performance bugbear. In addition to the altered oily bits, the Sport receives the usual complement of performance cues including a blacked-out grille, smoked head- and taillamp units, chrome oval exhausts, as well as a brace of body color parts (door cladding, rockers and fascias).



The Blue Oval has begun to make a habit of surprisingly comprehensive refreshes, and not just with sheetmetal and powertrain choices. To that end, the Edge receives a new interior with massive improvements in available technology (MyFord Touch), design and material choices. Even though the Edge won't debut here in Chicago for a few hours, we've already had the chance to sit in its interior, and it represents a massive improvement, particularly the better integrated center stack. We still found a few discount touches (hard plastics on the tops of the doors and somewhat cheap-feeling power lock, window and mirror switches), but on the whole, we feel comfortable saying that the new accommodations will place the Edge at or near the top of the mid-size CUV heap, particularly in light of its massive options list.

We've always liked the Edge's useful size and modern looks, but handling could be a bit stiff-legged, particularly with the Sport model's larger wheels. Ford says it has not only revisited all of its suspension settings, it has incorporated new subframe mounts to improve handling and minimize NVH issues. We look forward to verifying Ford's claims ahead of its rollout into dealers this summer.

2011 Ford Edge blends technology, design and class-leading powertrains in revamped package

• Dramatic freshening of the 2011 Ford Edge and Edge Sport includes extensive exterior redesign, improved materials and craftsmanship on the interior, class-exclusive technology and new powertrains

• With available MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology, the 2011 Ford Edge crossover wraps an engaging package with superior craftsmanship, capability and performance

• Ford's advanced engine valvetrain technology – Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing) – helps Edge achieve best-in-class power and torque for an uncompromised driving experience

• All-new powertrain lineup includes North America's first application of Ford's global 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine, delivering class-leading fuel economy, plus the new 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V-6 with unsurpassed fuel economy and 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 for Edge Sport


CHICAGO, Feb. 10, 2010 – Style and technology – the hallmarks of Ford Edge since it took the midsize crossover segment by storm starting in 2006 – come together in an all-new way, offering customers even more of what they love for the 2011 model year.

"Customers told us how much they like Edge's design and dynamic driving quality," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "We listened and made sure the new 2011 Edge delivers that and more – including fuel economy leadership, unexpected levels of quietness, a strong new design with quality materials, and MyFord Touch driver connect technology that will change how people experience their vehicles."
Customers made the Ford Edge the No. 1-selling vehicle in its segment in its first full year on the market, and more than 330,000 have been sold since its launch in late 2006. The 2011 Ford Edge now aims to redefine the segment with a wide-ranging scope of improvements.

"The new Edge demonstrates how a refresh at Ford has become more than just a few design and interior tweaks," explains Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. "We have taken every element of the Edge and completely reworked it, including three new powertrains, two new transmissions, a bold new exterior design and a completely new interior. If you add in our industry-exclusive MyFord Touch system, you have a vehicle that will continue to stand out above all the competition on the road."

Improved power; expected to be a fuel economy leader
In addition to delivering customer-focused technology, the new Edge also showcases Ford's impressive drive to bring new powertrain options to the customer. Both the Edge 3.5-liter V-6 and Edge Sport 3.7-liter V-6 use advanced engine valvetrain technology (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, or Ti-VCT) and clever control strategies to increase horsepower and torque to best-in-class levels. This beats competitors such as the BMW X5, Lexus RX350 and Audi Q5, all while delivering unsurpassed fuel economy of 27 mpg (3.5-liter V-6 highway).

The 3.5-liter V-6 produces 285 horsepower and 253 ft.-lb. of torque while the 3.7-liter V-6 delivers 305 horsepower and 280 ft.-lb. of torque – all on regular fuel. Edge's unsurpassed fuel economy is not at the expense of power and performance. For example, the 3.5-liter V-6 with Ti-VCT technology delivers highway fuel economy that is 15 percent better than the Nissan Murano but produces 20 horsepower more.

Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The SelectShift Automatic™ transmission is standard on the 2011 Edge SEL and Limited series, with class-exclusive paddle activation of the SelectShift standard on the 2011 Edge Sport.

In addition, the arrival of the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine in the months ahead will give customers still more choice and will deliver class-leading fuel economy with impressive power and torque.

The new EcoBoost I-4 will be mated to a six-speed transmission that will help channel the impressive performance from the new EcoBoost engine. With the introduction of the 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4, fuel economy on the new Edge will be 30 percent better than it was in 2006. Plus, Ford's newest EcoBoost engine will deliver on the promise of 15 percent fuel economy improvements versus the Edge's current 3.5-liter V-6 engine while offering the performance feel of a six-cylinder.

In all, the Edge will go from one engine and one transmission to three powertrains – all delivering what's expected to be class-leading or unsurpassed fuel economy and class-leading power and torque for a real win-win for the customer.

A more connected driving experience
New 18-inch tires, standard on the Edge SEL and Edge Limited, and new wheels that are one-half inch wider than the outgoing product provide a more engaging steering feel. Twenty-inch tires with new wider wheels are optional on the Edge Limited while the Edge Sport has class-exclusive 22-inch wheels standard.

Complementing the new tire and wheel lineup is a retuned suspension. Shocks, springs and stabilizer bars were adjusted to tighten handling. The shocks now feature a high-flow piston, which allows engineers to tune for both road loads and driving dynamics, without compromising ride for handling or vice versa. The result is a flatter response through turns and over hills while still providing a comfortable ride.

New four-wheel disc brakes provide enhanced stopping power. Key brake system upgrades include steel pistons, larger rear rotors, revised brake friction materials, revised brake booster gain and revised pedal ratios, all of which enable more initial bite and a firmer, more confident feel when customers press on the brake pedal.

The 2011 Edge offers several new brake-related features: Hill Start Assist, which reduces rollback on hills; Trailer Sway Control, which provides greater towing stability when equipped for trailer tow; Hydraulic Brake Assist, which provides greater braking force in emergency stops; and available segment-first Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support, which helps reduce speed and automatically pre-charges brakes and engages an electronic brake assist system to help drivers stop more quickly when the system detects a collision is imminent.

New subframe mounts enhance drivability, help reduce road noise
The original Edge set numerous benchmarks in overall quietness, and that tradition continues as the 2011 Ford Edge has better wind noise than many premium vehicles such as the Lexus RX350, Audi Q5 and Acura MDX. Both the front and rear subframe mounts have been upgraded, adding to the increased tunability of the suspension and improving NVH (noise, vibration, harshness). The larger rear subframe bushing's rubber volume was increased by more than 500 percent compared with the outgoing bushings, improving the isolation between the subframe and the body, which in turn helps decrease road noise.

Both road noise and wind noise are significantly decreased in the 2011 Edge because of improvements found throughout the interior and exterior, including powertrain. Here's a look at some of the other actions:
• Sound pack and acoustic glass: A more absorptive sound pack is found throughout the interior, which reduces high-frequency noise more effectively than material that acts merely as a barrier. The result is an improved articulation index, which measures how easy it is to hear and understand someone in the vehicle. The 2011 Edge also features an acoustic headliner, and the microphone for the SYNC® system has been relocated so it is closer to the driver for improved voice recognition. The windshield also is thicker and now acoustic-laminated on all Edge models. Finally, baked-on expandable foam baffles in the fenders and D-pillars help seal out unwanted road noise.

• Powertrain NVH improvements: Three main actions contribute to a quieter 2011 Edge from a powertrain NVH perspective. One is the more robust engine cover. The intake and exhaust systems have been completely retuned for a crisper note corresponding to Ford powertrain DNA. Finally, a "tighter" torque converter reduces engine rpm on launch and tip-in events, reducing engine noise.

• Aerodynamic improvements: Both the lowered front fascia and new underbody shields contribute to improved wind noise.

Bold, flowing design makes Edge the can't-miss crossover
The bolder, more seamlessly flowing exterior design freshening is mirrored by a complementary interior, characterized by increased craftsmanship, improved materials and overall better execution. Improved fit-and-finish, softer touchpoints, and flexibility in terms of stowage in the cabin and throughout mark the 2011 Ford Edge.

"To me, craftsmanship isn't just fit-and-finish," said Bannon. "It's also the layout and the ergonomic experience. It's where we put the material – the stitching, the cutlines – and all the attention to detail to give the customer a great experience."

Increased presence is announced through a bolder grille and a chin spoiler that appears more crafted. The A-pillar flows into the hood, which adds subtle undulations to create a heightened sculptural quality. The wrapping lines emphasize both the front end and the new wheel lineup.

2011 Edge Sport adds more power, distinctive look
The 2011 Edge Sport is powered by a 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine that produces 305 horsepower and is similar to the one added to the 2011 Ford Mustang. The 2011 Edge Sport includes all of the content found on Edge SEL as well as a specially tuned suspension, paddle shift transmission and its own unique style.

The Edge Sport's class-exclusive 22-inch polished aluminum wheels have distinctive Tuxedo Black spoke accents. Other unique styling cues include a Tuxedo Black grille, smoked headlamp and taillamp treatment, body-color rocker moldings, oval chrome exhaust tips, body-color door cladding and revised body-color lower front and rear fascias.

Key interior differentiators are liquid silver smoke appliqués that are echoed in the silver smoke metallic leather seat inserts, aluminum pedals and class-exclusive paddle shifters, which activate the six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission to give customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.

In SelectShift mode, the transmission doesn't second-guess the driver, offering total control over gear selection and performance feel. Upshifts, for instance, are not commanded at redline, and downshifts are allowed at the lowest gear possible as defined by the engine speed.

When the system is in manual mode, engine speed matching provides faster and smoother downshifts, and customers get the gear they request within the limits of the rev limiter.

When a lower gear is selected while descending a long downhill grade, the 2011 Ford Edge Sport in SelectShift mode will hold that gear until the driver manually upshifts or returns to the fully automatic setting. To ensure safe shifting, the transmission will downshift to the lowest acceptable gear, based on a calculated maximum speed. That means if a vehicle were traveling at highway speeds, the driver could not downshift to first gear in SelectShift mode.

"The 2011 Ford Edge Sport, with its exceptional powertrain, specially tuned suspension and unique style, offers a driving experience not seen in other crossovers, and really appeals to the driving enthusiast," said Bannon. "Like the rest of the 2011 Ford Edge lineup, it perfectly blends technology and style."

MyFord Touch ushers in new era of interaction
The industry-first MyFord Touch driver connect technology provides a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. It replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way controls like those found on cell phones and MP3 players.

Standard on the 2011 Edge Limited and 2011 Edge Sport, the MyFord Touch system displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.

The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where the driver's hand falls as he or she grabs the wheel. The five-way buttons feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player.

Like the song? You can tag it
Also new on the 2011 Ford Edge is the world's first use of iTunes® Tagging in an available factory-installed HD Radio™ receiver. iTunes Tagging provides customers with the ability to "capture" a song they hear on the HD Radio receiver for later purchase from iTunes. With a simple push of a "TAG" button on the MyFord touch-screen display, the song information will be stored in the radio's memory.

Once a song is tagged and customers dock their iPod to the SYNC system, the tagged song information will transfer to that iPod. Up to 100 tags on SYNC can be stored until the iPod is connected. When the iPod is then synced to iTunes, a playlist of tagged songs will appear. Customers then can preview, and if they desire, purchase and download tagged songs from the iTunes Store.

One significant benefit of HD Radio technology is that the sound quality of the broadcast is dramatically better because of the digital transmission – FM sounds like a CD and AM sounds like today's FM broadcasts. Unlike analog broadcasts, digital broadcasts aren't susceptible to interference, fadeout and other issues.

2011 Ford Edge brimming with standard and class-exclusive technologies

MyFord driver connect technology headlines the list of 12 class-exclusive standard and available features and technologies for the 2011 Ford Edge, joining SYNC; Easy Fuel® (standard); SecuriCode keyless entry keypad; Blind Spot Mirrors (standard); MyKey™ (standard); AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™, standard); Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support; Cross Traffic Alert; and 22-inch wheels and paddle activation on the 2011 Edge Sport.
Here's a closer look at some of the technologies:

• Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support allows the driver to set the vehicle's speed and maintain it without using the accelerator pedal, and warns the driver of a potential collision risk. It also helps reduce speed and automatically pre-charges brakes and engages an electronic brake assist system to help drivers stop more quickly when the system detects a collision is imminent.

• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert is a feature that can help detect vehicles in blind spots during normal driving and traffic approaching from the sides when reversing out of parking spots.

• MyKey is designed to allow parents to encourage teenagers to drive safely and more fuel efficiently, and increase seat belt usage. The standard MyKey feature allows owners to designate keys that can limit the vehicle's top speed and audio volume.
• Easy Fuel Capless Fuel-Filler System is a standard Ford-exclusive feature that uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap.

"You can jump in the 2011 Ford Edge and bring your technology – your lifestyle – with you and have everything at your fingertips," said Bannon. "The 2011 Ford Edge gives you all the capability and flexibility you want along with great style."

The 2011 Ford Edge will be built at Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada, and will be available in dealers this summer.

by Noah Joseph (RSS feed) on Feb 7th 2010 at 9:01AM



Ford Focus RS WRC special edition for Switzerland
While the rest of us think "rallying", the Swiss look at their snow-capped mountains and think "skiing". That's largely because the Swiss are not known to be car people. But for every rule there's an exception.

In Switzerland those exceptions include the efforts of notable speed-freaks like Peter Sauber (of F1 fame), Frank Rinderknecht (Rinspeed) and Franco Sbarro (the flamboyant coachbuilder – not the food-court pizza guy). And we can now add Ford to that list, as the Detroit automaker's Swiss subsidiary is rolling out a special edition Focus RS to pay tribute to the 40th anniversary of the company's iconic RS division, exclusively for the Swiss market.

Although mechanically identical to the existing Focus RS – not much change needed there – the Focus RS WRC edition wears a special livery submitted and chosen through an online forum. Black and green decals overlay a white background, complimented by blacked-out 19" OZ Superturismo GT alloys, while inside, a special plaque carries the Hancocks of Ford's top rally ace Mikko Hirvonen and his co-pilot Jarmo Lehtinen.

Only 50 examples will be offered, exclusively in Switzerland at a price of 55,900 Swiss francs – equivalent to about $53k in American greenbacks and representing a 2000-franc premium over the standard Focus RS. We'll see if we can grab a closer look when we descend upon the multilingual alpine nation for the Geneva Motor Show next month, but in the meantime you can view the top liveries proposed in the gallery below and, if your French, German or Italian is up to the task, check out the press release after the jump. After all, while "speed" is not among the languages commonly spoken in Switzerland, neither is English.

And if some of you longtime readers think that a 50-unit Focus WRC special edition sounds familiar, well, it should. Back in 2007, The Euro Oval did a similar package based on the Focus ST.

by Alex Nunez (RSS feed) on Feb 5th 2010 at 7:57PM

2011 Shelby GT500 with SVT Performance Pack

The latest Ford Racing email newsletter contains some juicy stuff for Mustang fans. It confirms that the 2011 Shelby GT500 will be revealed this coming Monday, February 8, at 1:30 PM Eastern time via a live webcast, during which FoMoCo VP for global product development, Derrick Kuzak will also run down the SVT product strategy with Jost Capito, Ford's director of global performance vehicles. The newsletter includes a link to FordMediaLive.com, which is counting down the seconds to the webcast in real time. We recommend you click on the system test button, because doing so gives you a teaser reel of the 2011 Shelby GT500 (shown above), and if you've been following the leaked developments so far, it's pretty revealing. (Note: Ford has since pulled down the old test/teaser reel and replaced it with generic nature scenes.)

As you know, the Shelby GT500 order guide found its way onto the web last week. Among the new-for-2011 features mentioned (beyond the aluminum block for the blown 5.4-liter V8), are the glass roof option, which is installed on the car in the video, and the new SVT Performance Package, which is also equipped. Visual giveaways that differentiate the performance pack cars are readily evident: the hood stripes are skinnier than the ones on the standard GT500, and the body-side stripe is solid (it's bisected on the regular GT500).

Even more obvious are the different wheels, 19 x 9.5 inches in front, and 20 X 10 inches in back) that are exclusive to the SVT Performance Package. Finally, in the shot of the car's rear end, the spoiler with Gurney flap is plainly visible As specified in the leaked order sheet, the performance pack cars also get upgraded to a 3:73 rear axle ratio over the base GT500's 3:55s.On top of all that, The Detroit News reports this morning that the tweaked, aluminum-block 5.4 gets another 10 horsepower over the iron-block version, raising total output to 550 HP.

There's more to tell, but unfortunately, we're sworn to secrecy until 1:30 sharp on Monday. What we will say is this: The Mustang V6 and GT aren't the only ponys in the stable that get better for 2011. As good - great, even - as the 2010 Shelby GT500 is, the 2011 improves on the formula. Stay tuned for some pretty hot stuff on Monday. Thanks to Murray for the heads-up, and to commenter Mike for the Detroit News link.

Update: The teaser video has been posted to YouTube, and is now embedded after the jump.
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/05/snea ... #continued

by Jonny Lieberman (RSS feed) on Feb 2nd 2010 at 4:41PM



2010 Ford Edge

Here's some very exciting news, especially if you're into that whole forced-induction cult thing: Ford is reportedly set to show off its new four-cylinder EcoBoost engine under the hood of the overhauled-for-2011 Edge. To refresh you memory, EcoBoost is Ford speak for turbocharging plus direct injection. In the case of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost found in cars like the Ford Flex EcoBoost, the forced induction, direct injected motor makes much more power than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 (355 horsepower compared to 262 hp), yet gets identical fuel economy (16 city/22 highway).

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost that The Detroit News promises is coming in the substantially refreshed Edge is said to be as powerful as a 3.0-liter V6. We'll take that to mean about 240 or so horsepower. Sure, that's not a very exciting power figure in the Edge, but it will probably make for some sexy fuel economy figures. And just image how thrilling this news will be when the 2.0-liter EcoBoost Focus comes out? Or, Mulally willing, an EcoBoosted Fiesta! Even a Fusion with this new motor (and a manual transmission) would be very, very welcome. We should know much more next week in Chicago.

by Jeremy Korzeniewski (RSS feed) on Feb 3rd 2010 at 2:25PM


2009 Ford Focus RS

It's no secret that we openly covet the Ford Focus Rallye Sport. Unfortunately, the Blue Oval never found it in its heart to let the hottest version of its Focus hatchback into the United States... or any version of the European Focus for that matter. As such, we're certainly not expecting to see the rumored Clubsport model that Auto Express claims will be the current car's swan song before the new version is unveiled based on the all-new Focus.

Too bad, as the idea of 350 horsepower from Ford's highly lauded 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine sounds just peachy, as do the lightweight racing seats, lowered and stiffened suspension and suitably sticky rubber. If there's any truth to all of this, expect the run to 60 to be dispatched in just about five seconds flat. Don't be too saddened by the news, though.

The next juicy bit of internet rumormongering is that a new version of the RS has been greenlit, based on the new Focus platform that was recently unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show. This model would seemingly have a much better chance of coming Stateside, being that the next Focus will be a true global vehicle.

If you're the type that likes to save fuel while scorching asphalt, you'll like the rumored inclusion of a hybrid powertrain centering on Ford's 2.0-liter Ecoboost four cylinder. That boosted mill would reportedly drive the front wheels while an electric motor would send torque to the rear, resulting in an all-wheel drive arrangement, estimated 0-60 run of (again) five seconds and a top speed of 155 miles per hour.

Interestingly, AE reports that this is the same powertrain Peugeot used in its SR1 concept, and the French automaker is said to have co-developed the hybrid drivetrain with Ford. We won't know whether or not any of this is accurate for quite some time, as the car reportedly won't be ready for another three years, but a 240-horsepower Ecoboost Focus ST may be on the way within the next 18 months. We'll see...