Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[LA 2009: Ford Super Duty Fire Truck developed for charity, doing good in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/ford-super-duty-fire-truck-la-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/ford-super-duty-fire-truck-la-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/ford-super-duty-fire-truck-la-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty Fire Truck - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're always up for a good cause, and that's exactly what this Ford Super Duty Fire Truck represents. According to Ford, it will make an initial $10,000 contribution to the Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans Fund, plus $10 for each person that visits its stand at the LA Auto Show and another $20 for every person that takes a test drive in a new Ford vehicle throughout the duration of the show - up to a maximum of another $6,000 per day.

Naturally, Ford is looking for a little exposure along the way, and we don't really have any problem with that. After all, it's certainly not uncommon to see Super Duty chassis cabs upfitted as fire department vehicles, and that's exactly what Ford has on display right now in LA. Included in the makeover are a 300-gallon water tank, eight-gallon foam cell, two pumps, an electric rewind reel with 150 feet of hose, three-stage winch with 8,000-pound capacity and 100 feet of wire rope.

Naturally, the top-spec 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel Power Stroke V8 engine is present and accounted for, along with a heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission that features available Live Drive Power Take Off (PTO), which allows the truck's engine to power axillary equipment whether the truck is stationary or in motion. See more in the press release after the break and check out our photo gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty Fire Truck


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading LA 2009: Ford Super Duty Fire Truck developed for charity, doing good in LA

LA 2009: Ford Super Duty Fire Truck developed for charity, doing good in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 F-5502011 F-550 Super Duty2011 F-series2011 Ford2011 ford f-5502011 super duty2011F-5502011F-series2011Ford2011FordF-5502011SuperDutyblue ovalBlueOvalchassis cabChassisCabF-550F-550 Super DutyF-550SuperDutyf-series super dutyF-seriesSuperDutyfire truckFireTruckfordford super dutyford super duty chassic cabford super duty fire truckFordSuperDutyFordSuperDutyChassicCabFordSuperDutyFireTruckla 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowlashow2009Los Angeles County Firefighters Widows and Orphans FundLosAngelesCountyFirefightersWidowsAndOrphansFundsuper dutysuper duty chassis cabsuper duty fre truckSuperDutySuperDutyChassisCabSuperDutyFreTruckFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: U.S consortium now in lead for Volvo purchase]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/report-u-s-consortium-now-in-lead-for-volvo-purchase/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/report-u-s-consortium-now-in-lead-for-volvo-purchase/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/report-u-s-consortium-now-in-lead-for-volvo-purchase/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Just about a month ago, news hit the interwebs that Chinese automaker Geely officially became Ford's preferred bidder for Volvo once concerns over intellectual property were sorted out. Today, though, we're hearing that Crown, a consortium led by former Ford director Michael Dingman, former Ford and Chrysler LLC executive Shamel Rushwin and ex-Volvo CEO Roger Holtback, is gaining momentum in its bid for the Swedish automaker after submitting a revised proposal.

If reports from The Wall Street Journal and Reuters are accurate, Crown's new bid is "on par" with Geely's $1.8 billion offer and is backed by both Swedish and Chinese investors and banks. Not surprisingly, Ford has yet to comment on the speculation, though it has said that talks with Geely are already at an advanced stage. Stay tuned.

[Sources: The Wall Street Journal; Reuters]

REPORT: U.S consortium now in lead for Volvo purchase originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue ovalBlueOvalcrowncrown volvocrown volvo bidCrownVolvoCrownVolvoBidfordford motorford motor co.FordMotorFordMotorCo.geelygeely volvogeely volvo bidGeelyVolvoGeelyVolvoBidMichael DingmanMichaelDingmanroger holtbackRogerHoltbackShamel RushwinShamelRushwinvolvoThu, 03 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-ford-mustang-v6-la-2009-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-ford-mustang-v6-la-2009-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-ford-mustang-v6-la-2009-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It would be reasonable to expect that Ford might pass over the Mustang and instead devote more attention to its other models since it's fresh off a comprehensive revamp for the 2010 model year. However, that's not what is shaping up in the House That Henry Built.

For 2011, the Blue Oval is introducing a new 3.7-liter V6 Mustang that should give it the firepower and refinement needed to take on Chevrolet's six-cylinder Camaro and Hyundai's upstart Genesis Coupe. But it isn't just the spanking all-aluminum powerplant and its 305 horsepower and 280 foot-pounds of torque that's making the scene for the forthcoming model year. In addition to the Cleveland-sourced mill, there are a pair of fresh gearboxes, a new V6 performance package, and a host of nip/tucks to the interior and elsewhere.

Now, we could grouse on behalf of 2010 MY 'Stang owners everywhere that these upgrades weren't part of last year's mid-life updo, but instead, we'll just be happy that these advancements are arriving at all.

Despite being smaller than the outgoing 4.0-liter V6, the dual-overhead cam 3.7-liter's horsepower and torque ratings represent massive improvements over the 2010 model (305 HP dismisses 210 HP and 280 lb-ft. plays 240 torques). In fact, that's more horsepower than the 4.6-liter V8 Mustang made just a few years ago. While the 305-horse figure only allows the Mustang to pip the crosstown Camaro by a single all-important stallion in the pony car bragging wars, Ford says the powertrain will be good for 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway when paired with its new six-speed automatic, also one notch better than the Chevy.

Click through to the jump to read more details and check out Ford's suite of press releases.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG

LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Ford Mustang2011 ford mustang v62011FordMustang2011FordMustangV63.73.7-literBlue OvalBlueOvalfeaturedfordFord Mustangford mustang v6FordMustangFordMustangV6lala 2009LA Auto ShowLA Auto Show 2009LA showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowLos Angeles 2009Los Angeles Auto ShowLosAngeles2009LosAngelesAutoShowMuscle CarMuscleCarMustangMustang V6MustangV6Pony CarPonyCarStangV6 MustangV6MustangMon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a surprise move, Ford has announced that it will pursue the development of an all-new Police Interceptor model. The move comes on the heels of General Motors' announcement that it plans to challenge the Crown Victoria's law enforcement dominance with its own heavy-duty Chevrolet Caprice sedan.

Details are slim, but Ford says the forthcoming PI will arrive in 2011 and it will sport durability, safety, and performance parameters that are superior to that of the Jurassic Panther-platform Crown Vic. Given the relatively tight timeframe and durability targets, we have to assume that the replacement cop car could be based on the rear-drive Australian-market Ford Falcon shown above. The Blue Oval promises that the car will be engineered and built in America, so it could also be an Ecoboost version of the Ford Taurus (as seen in the SHO), but front-drive cars have had trouble meeting the durability and cost requirements of police duty in the past, making this something of an open question. In an official release posted after the jump, Ford says it will disclose full vehicle specs in the first quarter of 2010, which should give enough time for both law enforcement and police vehicle equipment manufacturers to prepare for the changeover.

Ford says it presently shifts about 45,000 of the 60,000 police cars sold in the States each year, so it makes sense that Dearborn would not be willing to cede this market to Chevy's Caprice and the already established Dodge Charger.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011

BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalbreakingbreakingnewsCrown Viccrown victoriaCrownVicCrownVictoriaFordFord FalconFordFalconlaw enforcementLawEnforcementpanther platformPantherPlatformpolicepolice carpolice interceptorPoliceCarPoliceInterceptorFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Ford's Euro sales crest 10% for the first time in 8 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/report-fords-euro-sales-crest-10-for-the-first-time-in-8-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/report-fords-euro-sales-crest-10-for-the-first-time-in-8-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/report-fords-euro-sales-crest-10-for-the-first-time-in-8-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Ford Fiesta (Euro-Spec) - Click above for high-res gallery

New products, improved quality and a surge in public perception have helped Ford buttress its sales numbers here in the U.S., but the Dearborn-based automaker also has a good story to tell across the Pond. According to The Detroit News, Ford managed to grab 10.1% of Europe's overall market share in September - the first time since September of 2001 that the Blue Oval has touched double digits. Ford sold 155,000 vehicles in September in Europe's 19 biggest markets, up 12.3% versus September 2008. Ford has now beaten year-over-year sales totals for four straight months.

One vehicle that has gone a long way towards getting the Blue Oval over the 10% milestone is the new Fiesta, as the popular B-Segment vehicle achieved its highest September sales in 15 years. While Ford's overall market share benefited from the quality of its product lineup, the increased volume during the month of September also came in part courtesy of Cash for Clunkers-like scrap programs in several European nations. Many of those programs have recently ended or are being phased out, though, which worries Ford for the short term. Ford of Europe VP Ingvar Sviggum told the DetNews that the health of the market still pretty shaky, adding "It is clear that there is still a need for government intervention in Europe to help bolster the market until demand reaches a more sustainable level."

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Ford's Euro sales crest 10% for the first time in 8 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 market share10MarketShareblue ovalBlueOvaleurope market shareEuropeMarketSharefiestafordford europe september salesford fiestaford market shareford of europeFordEuropeSeptemberSalesFordFiestaFordMarketShareFordOfEuropeMon, 12 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inside Line pits Ford Fiesta against Honda Fit in small car scrap]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/inside-line-pits-ford-fiesta-against-honda-fit-in-small-car-scra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/inside-line-pits-ford-fiesta-against-honda-fit-in-small-car-scra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/inside-line-pits-ford-fiesta-against-honda-fit-in-small-car-scra/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If you're looking for a practical, fuel efficient subcompact, you've got a few options, and the Honda Fit remains a top pick for many. The five-door hatchback packs plenty of volume, while also providing just enough punch to deliver smiles on the open road.

Doubtlessly jealously eying the Fit's success, Ford officials are counting down the months until they can finally provide some competition in the form of their 2011 Fiesta - but does it have the goods to knock the Fit from atop the subcompact mountain?

The crew at Inside Line wanted to answer that question and brought the Fit face-to-face against a European-spec Fiesta in a battle for B-Segment superiority. The Fit came in for praise for its masterfully engineered interior and massive cargo area, while the Fiesta was lauded for its superb driving dynamics and higher end materials. Which subcompact all-star came out on top in the battle of the (little) bulge? Head over to Inside Line to find out.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Fiesta (Euro-Spec)


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Honda Fit Sport


[Source: Inside Line | Image Source: Kevin Wing]

Inside Line pits Ford Fiesta against Honda Fit in small car scrap originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 honda fit2009HondaFit2011 ford fiesta2011FordFiestaBlue OvalBlueOvalcomparison testComparisonTesteuro spec fiestaEuroSpecFiestafiestafiesta fitFiestaFitfitford fiestaFordFiestahonda fitHondaFitinside lineInsideLineTue, 22 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Lincoln MKT earns Top Safety Pick from IIHS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/lincoln-mkt-earns-top-safety-pick-from-iihs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/lincoln-mkt-earns-top-safety-pick-from-iihs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/lincoln-mkt-earns-top-safety-pick-from-iihs/#comments
2010 Lincoln MKT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford has dumped all of its latest safety gadgets into the already structurally sound 2010 Lincoln MKT, and the Blue Oval's engineering labor appears to have paid off as the luxury crossover has just scored a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. The Top Pick status of the 5,000 lb MKT doesn't come as a surprise, as it is mechanically identical to the well-regarded Ford Flex.

The MKT scored a "Good" rating in each category, including structure, injury measures and restraints. The IIHS added that "dummy movement was well controlled. After the dummy moved forward into the airbag, it rebounded into the seat without its head coming close to any stiff structure that could cause injury."

The Lincoln MKT comes with standard equipment like an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment. Along with the usual safety suspects like side curtain airbags, Ford offers optional safety equipment like Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning Brake Control and a Blind Spot Information system. Hit the jump to read the Ford press release.

Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKT


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Lincoln MKT earns Top Safety Pick from IIHS

Lincoln MKT earns Top Safety Pick from IIHS originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalcrash testCrashTestFord FlexFordFlexIIHSinsurance instituteinsurance institute for highway safetyInsuranceInstituteInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetyLincoln CrossoverLincoln MKTLincolnCrossoverLincolnMktThu, 10 Sep 2009 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford teases 2011 five-seat C-Max people mover ahead of Frankfurt debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/ford-teases-new-five-seat-c-max-people-mover-ahead-of-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/ford-teases-new-five-seat-c-max-people-mover-ahead-of-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/ford-teases-new-five-seat-c-max-people-mover-ahead-of-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2011 Ford Focus C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford has just released a few images of its next-generation C-Max tall hatchback ahead of the model's Frankfurt Motor Show debut, and we're as intrigued as much by what lurks under its hard candy shell as we are with its Iosis Max-derived styling. You see, the EurOval's handsome C-Max "compact multi-activity vehicle" is built on the company's new global C-platform architecture - the very same chassis that will underpin the next Focus that arrives in late 2010.

Ford is not yet disclosing much about its new Euro-market model, but the 2011 C-Max will be powered by a new 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. Like the larger EcoBoost powerplants available in Ford's U.S. products, that means that the little I4 will be equipped with turbocharging and direct-injection for better power and fuel efficiency. No output figures for the engine have been released yet, but we suspect Ford will release horsepower and torque numbers (and further information) when the car rolls out in Frankfurt later this month.

Those wishing to purchase the C-Max will have some time to think about whether they're interested in plumping for options like the promised blind-spot detection system or the semi-self parking feature, because the model isn't slated to hit EU dealer forecourts until the second half of 2010. As this five-seater isn't slated to come to the States at all, the rest of us will just have to slake our curiosity on the high-res images below and the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Ford C-Max


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford teases 2011 five-seat C-Max people mover ahead of Frankfurt debut

Ford teases 2011 five-seat C-Max people mover ahead of Frankfurt debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalC MaxC-MaxCmaxFordFord CMaxford cuvFordCmaxFordCuvfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showFrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowpeople moverPeopleMoverThu, 03 Sep 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Priceless 1989 Ford dealer training films offer timeless amusement]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/video-priceless-1989-ford-dealer-training-films-offer-timeless-amusement/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/video-priceless-1989-ford-dealer-training-films-offer-timeless-amusement/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/video-priceless-1989-ford-dealer-training-films-offer-timeless-amusement/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

1989 Ford dealer training clip - click above image to watch the videos

Y'all remember Robocop? You know, the really excellent Eighties action masterpiece about a shot-to-hell cop that comes back as a bulletproof robot to rid Detroit of über baddies like the ruthless Clarence Boddiker and super villain Dick Jones? Well, what you may not remember about Paul Verhoeven's 1987 masterpiece is all the social satire. From the 6000 SUX (8 mpg!) to the slaps at very privatized health care (Jensen Sport model heart!) to the Nuke 'Em family home game, the satire was rich and sardonic.

But where did Verhoeven get the fodder for his gags? Dunno, but it's been said that 49% of the population doesn't get sarcasm. Which explains how these 1989 Ford dealer training ads got made. Someone at Ford saw Robocop and said, "Yes! That's the medium we've been looking for." Don't believe us? Make the jump and watch two of them (one on the Festiva and Escort, and another on the Crown Victoria) for yourself.

[Source: YouTube via Michael Banovsky]

Continue reading VIDEO: Priceless 1989 Ford dealer training films offer timeless amusement

VIDEO: Priceless 1989 Ford dealer training films offer timeless amusement originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue ovalBlueOvalCrown VictoriaCrownVictoriadealer filmdealer trainingDealerFilmDealersDealerTrainingEscortFestivaFordFord Crown VictoriaFord DealersFord FiestaFord LTDFordCrownVictoriaFordDealersFordFiestaFordLtdLTDThu, 20 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: On board with Marcus Gronholm's Ford Fiesta at Pikes Peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/video-on-board-with-marcus-gronholms-ford-fiesta-at-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/video-on-board-with-marcus-gronholms-ford-fiesta-at-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/video-on-board-with-marcus-gronholms-ford-fiesta-at-pikes-peak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Ford Fiesta RallyCross "Peak Performance" - click above to watch video after the jump

As an homage to rallying's legendary Climb Dance video, the blokes at Motor Trend have teamed up with Ford and Marcus Gronholm to concoct a gorgeous new short film chronicling the rally champion's 2009 ascent of Pikes Peak in the Blue Oval's new Fiesta RallyCross. In the interest of clarity, this is not the same car that crashed earlier in practice - that was the #5 car of Andrea Ericksson, this is Gronholm's #3 - a car that looks to have made it to the top just fine, thank you.

Check out the 9+ minute Peak Performance film after the jump, with its breathtaking footage from various in and on-car cameras, it's a high-definition gem with great audio. Just for fun, we've also included its inspiration, the original Climb Dance film of Ari Vatanen's 1988 record-breaking Pikes Peak Hill Climb run in his Peugeot 405. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: On board with Marcus Gronholm's Ford Fiesta at Pikes Peak

VIDEO: On board with Marcus Gronholm's Ford Fiesta at Pikes Peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ari VatanenAriVatanenblue ovalBlueOvalclimb danceClimbDancefiestafiesta rallycrossFiestaRallycrossfordford fiestaFordFiestahill climbHillClimbMarcus GronholmMarcusGronholmmotor trendMotorTrendpeak performancePeakPerformancepikes peakpikes peak hill climbPikesPeakPikesPeakHillClimbFri, 24 Jul 2009 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Nip/Tuck'd Ford S-Max spotted in the Swiss mountains]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/spy-shots-nip-tuckd-ford-s-max-spotted-in-the-swiss-mountains/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/spy-shots-nip-tuckd-ford-s-max-spotted-in-the-swiss-mountains/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/spy-shots-nip-tuckd-ford-s-max-spotted-in-the-swiss-mountains/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford's rakish S-Max people mover may yet come to the States, but we almost certainly won't see it before the facelift seen here takes effect. Caught by long-lensed spy shots for EVO Magazine, this next-generation S-Max mule was caught pulling caravan duty in the Swiss mountains.

According to the U.K. publication, the S-Max's interior is likely to stay the same, meaning that buyers will once again get a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations. The exterior is clearly being tweaked with a new front fascia and grille, as well as reconfigured taillamps featuring LED illumination. Given that the production S-Max first debuted at the Geneva Motor Show back in 2006, this seems like as opportune a time as any to refresh the award-winning MPV.

The engine lineup is expected to remain unaltered, meaning buyers can expect a range of gas and diesel four- and five-cylinder engines as well as manual and automatic transmission choices.

We've been hearing for years now that the sporty S-Max might cross the Pond... is it finally our turn? And if so, would Americans consider it? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Source: EVO]

Spy Shots: Nip/Tuck'd Ford S-Max spotted in the Swiss mountains originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalFord S maxFord S-MaxFordS-maxFordSMaxs maxS-MaxSMaxspy shotsSpyShotsTue, 07 Jul 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Ford Focus to be built exclusively in Europe?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/next-ford-focus-to-be-built-exclusively-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/next-ford-focus-to-be-built-exclusively-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/next-ford-focus-to-be-built-exclusively-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Ford Iosis Max concept - click above for high-res gallery

Since it first came to the market in 2000, Ford's Focus has been consistently lauded for its crisp "European handling," and thanks to a Ford of Europe press release yesterday, that bromide sounded like it was about to become truer than ever. The release in question announced that the next all-new Focus is to be sourced from a single location - the Blue Oval's Saarlouis Plant in Germany. Quite understandably, that proclamation caused a bit of consternation here in the States, with some news outlets reporting that North American Focus models will also originate from the German facility. Not so.

Autoblog spoke with Lincoln, Mercury communications manager Mark Schirmer this morning (despite his title, Schirmer has been tasked with preparing for the U.S. launch of the 2010 car) and he has re-confirmed that all North American Focus models will originate from a freshly renovated Wayne Assembly Plant in Michigan (something that Ford officials initially promised back in May).

The intention of FoE's confusingly worded statement was to note that Saarlouis is to be the single point of origin for all European Focus models. In addition to Saarlouis and Wayne, Ford will also likely produce the next Focus at a plant somewhere in Asia, but a location announcement has not yet been made.


Gallery: Ford iosis MAX Concept

Next Ford Focus to be built exclusively in Europe? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalFocusFocus CoupeFocus hatchbackFocus SedanFocusCoupeFocusHatchbackFocusSedanFordFord FocusFordFocusSaarlouiswayneWayne Assembly plantWayne MIWayneAssemblyPlantWayneMiThu, 02 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Racing announces plans for 2010 Mustang Cobra Jet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/ford-racing-announces-plans-for-2010-mustang-cobra-jet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/ford-racing-announces-plans-for-2010-mustang-cobra-jet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/ford-racing-announces-plans-for-2010-mustang-cobra-jet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Ford Mustang FR500CJ Cobra Jet - Click above for high-res gallery

At last year's SEMA show, Ford unveiled the latest Mustang to join the Ford Racing stable, the FR500CJ Cobra Jet. The purpose-built drag racer came standard with go-fast parts from the Ford Racing catalog, including a 400 horsepower version of the 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (de-tuned to meet specifications needed for NHRA's AA Stock class) and a drag-specific wheel and tire combination. The 2009 model was a success both with customers and on the track. Ford Racing sold the entire run of fifty cars in less than two weeks, and it won its very first race at the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, CA back in February.

Building on that success, Ford Racing announced today that it will be building a 2010 version of the Cobra Jet, with production to begin during the fourth quarter with deliveries taking place in early 2010. The base price is expected to be less than $75,000, and once again production will be limited to just fifty units. Like the 2009 model, the 2010 Cobra Jet will be modified with all Ford Racing parts including the supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that is now rated at 425 horsepower. Perhaps the most exciting news is the availability of an optional 475 horsepower aluminum block motor that we dearly hope will somehow find its way into a production car. Follow the jump for the press release from Ford Racing, and look for more details and photos to come around SEMA in November.


Gallery: Ford Mustang FR500CJ Cobra Jet


[Source: Ford Racing]

Continue reading Ford Racing announces plans for 2010 Mustang Cobra Jet

Ford Racing announces plans for 2010 Mustang Cobra Jet originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1320Blue OvalBlueOvalCobra jetCobraJetdrag racingDragRacingFord MustangFord RacingFordMustangFordRacingFR500CJMustangNHRAquarter-mileStangFri, 12 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Ford to increase production by 10% in third quarter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/ford-to-increase-production-by-10-in-third-quarter/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/ford-to-increase-production-by-10-in-third-quarter/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/ford-to-increase-production-by-10-in-third-quarter/#commentsFiled under: , ,



General Motors and Chrysler are knee deep in bankruptcy proceedings, with many plants closed for weeks on end. With Ford's domestic competition embroiled in financial distress, the Blue Oval has a unique opportunity to grab market share. Ford has experienced share growth for six of the past seven months, and it plans a larger assault on sales increases in the third quarter. As such, FoMoCo plans on upping its Q3 production by 10% to capitalize on the situation.

The Dearborn, MI-based automaker plans to increase production to 460,000 units from Q3 2008's total of 418,000 cars and trucks. While many calls have been trumpeted to increase car sales because customers want more fuel efficient products, Ford is actualy decreasing its car production from 184,000 units to 150,000. The big volume increase falls squarely into the truck category. The move to increase truck production is a gamble for Ford, considering the fact that gas prices are inching upward. Truck demand could see a shot in the arm, though, as construction work from the $788 billion stimulus plan starts to take effect.

Despite the fact that Ford is taking full advantage of the situation at Chrysler and GM, the automaker insists that it isn't merely dancing on its long-time competitor's graves. Ford President Mark Fields told The Wall Street Journal that he feels for his competitors, but "This is not a case of 'Gee, let's stick it to them.' We have been watching our inventory levels and we've seen our market share grow. This is really just us working our plan."

If that plan includes taking share from ailing GM and Chrysler, the Blue Oval seems to be okay with that. We're guessing they'd be just as happy to take share from Honda or Toyota.

[Source: Wall Street Journal]

REPORT: Ford to increase production by 10% in third quarter originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue ovalBlueOvalchryslerfordford motor companyford salesFordMotorCompanyFordSalesgmplant productionPlantProductionQ3 salesQ3SalesMon, 01 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Visteon reportedly files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/breaking-visteon-reportedly-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/breaking-visteon-reportedly-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/breaking-visteon-reportedly-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



According to Automotive News, Visteon Corp. has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The Michigan-based tier-1 supplier was spun off from the Ford Motor Company back in 2000, and it has struggled ever since. The filing took place in a Delaware courtroom, where the company has listed total assets of $4.58 billion and total debt of $5.3 million.

Visteon's struggles have been well documented, with its ballooning debt, falling sales (down by more than 50% in the first quarter of 2009 alone) resulting in a $681 million dollar loss last year. In fact, back in 2005, Visteon had to ask Ford to step in as part of an agreement that saw the Blue Oval agree to take ownership of all of the supplier's hourly employees who were United Auto Workers members, as well as most of the company's North American facilities.

Despite no longer technically being part of Ford, the Blue Oval is still Visteon's largest customer (accounting for around 31% of its sales last quarter), and according to AN, Visteon says that Ford is still committed to help the company with debtor-in-possession financing and future parts orders while the supplier undergoes restructuring.

[Source: Automotive News (subs. req.)| Image: Jonathan Ferrey/Getty]

BREAKING: Visteon reportedly files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptbankruptcyBlue OvalBlueOvalbreakingbreakingnewschapter 11Chapter11DelawareFordsuppliertier-1VisteonThu, 28 May 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mercury Sable reaching the end of the line Thursday]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/mercury-sable-reaches-the-end-of-the-line-thursday/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/mercury-sable-reaches-the-end-of-the-line-thursday/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/mercury-sable-reaches-the-end-of-the-line-thursday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2008 Mercury Sable - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mercury's born-again Sable sedan is dead again - or, more accurately, it will be come so on Thursday. According to The Detroit News, Ford's gussied-up Taurus (itself a gussied-up Five Hundred) will expire later this week, leaving Mercury with just four models: the Milan, Mariner, Mountaineer, and Grand Marquis.

And while the Taurus is getting a brand-spanking new replacement model for 2010, a Sable stablemate is apparently not in the cards, in large measure because Ford reportedly chose to spend more money on developing and marketing its Taurus replacement.

Ford's middle-tier brand is expected to lose both the Mountaineer and Grand Marquis within the next couple of model years, and the only new product mooted for the waterfall-grille brand is a new small car that has yet-to-be confirmed.

Eerily, the Blue Oval recently tested the small car waters for its Lincoln luxury brand with its Concept C showcar that debuted at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The presence of the tidy Euro-look hatchback once again set tongues wagging that Ford may be pondering whether or not to axe the Mercury marque altogether. For its part, Blue Oval officials dismiss such plans, but there is no denying that Mercury's stable is getting smaller, and at the moment, little product appears to be in the replacement pipeline.

According to the DetNews, Ford sold just 1,158 Sables in April, a drop of nearly 40% year-over-year versus 2008.


Gallery: 2008 Mercury Sable


[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Mercury Sable reaching the end of the line Thursday originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 May 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalDetroit NewsDetroitNewsFordFord TaurusFordTaurusLincolnLincoln MercuryLincoln-MercuryLincolnMercuryMercury sableMercurySableNAIASTaurusMon, 18 May 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford to offer 100,000 test drives as part of Fiesta Movement]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/ford-to-offer-100-000-test-drives-as-part-of-fiesta-movement/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/ford-to-offer-100-000-test-drives-as-part-of-fiesta-movement/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/ford-to-offer-100-000-test-drives-as-part-of-fiesta-movement/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Euro spec Ford Fiesta - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford is pulling out all of the marketing stops with its Ford Fiesta. The Blue Oval has already given 100 lucky Fiesta Movement contest winners a free six month lease of a Euro spec Fiesta, including free gas and some interesting Ford-sponsored excursions. That's not nearly enough customer interaction for the Dearborn automaker, however, as evidenced by its desire to log 100,000 test drives before the North American spec Fiesta hits the market.

Ford is traveling to 100 cities in total, with five teams of five Euro spec Fiestas permeating all parts of the USA. Ford will also offer free wireless Internet at the drive sites, giving test drivers the ability to blog about their Fiesta experience in real-time. And Ford won't simply show up in big cities like LA and Chicago, as some rural locations are being planned. Ford also plans to show up unannounced at high traffic areas like amusement parks and college campuses.

Hit the jump to read the official Ford press release.


Gallery: Ford Fiesta in NYC


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford to offer 100,000 test drives as part of Fiesta Movement

Ford to offer 100,000 test drives as part of Fiesta Movement originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 May 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>000 test drives000TestDrives100Blue OvalBlueOvalfiesta movementFiestaMovementford fiestaFordFiestaThu, 14 May 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford teams up with American Idol on one-off, karaoke-equipped, special edition Fusion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/02/ford-teams-up-with-american-idol-on-one-off-karaoke-equipped-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/02/ford-teams-up-with-american-idol-on-one-off-karaoke-equipped-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/02/ford-teams-up-with-american-idol-on-one-off-karaoke-equipped-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the American Idol Edition Ford Fusion Hybrid

Some of use here at Autoblog gave up on American Idol a long time ago, but we're obviously the exception, because the talent show still pulls down monster ratings on a weekly basis. In this regard, AI's been a better showcase for Ford (whose involvement dates back to season 1) than say... Knight Rider.

Ford's sponsorship now includes a sweepstakes that will ultimately net someone a new car. Each week, the Idols are featured in some cringe-inducingly terrible music video that makes one long for the understated sophistication that was The Brady Bunch Variety Hour. Anyhow, these videos are posted on the American Idol website, where visitors can register to enter the Ford Music Video Challenge for a shot at the grand prize of a trip to the show's finale and a one-off American Idol Edition Ford Fusion Hybrid fitted with headrest-mounted backseat video screens, an in-car karaoke rig, AI floormats, and an AI trunk decal that would fall victim to a heat gun if it were up to us.

You can watch this week's video here if you dare. It's briefly encouraging in that it momentarily seems as if a Fusion Hybrid is going to mow down the intensely earnest and annoying final five Idols like black-clad bowling pins, but it swerves at the last minute to turn desert into grass, with pink trees sprouting in its multicolored electrical wake. You probably think that we're kidding, but no.


Gallery: 2010 Ford Fusion American Idol Edition



[Source: American Idol / Ford]

Ford teams up with American Idol on one-off, karaoke-equipped, special edition Fusion originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 May 2009 14:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Ford2010FordAmerican IdolAmericanIdolBlue OvalBlueOvalFord FusionFordFusionFox NetworkFoxNetworkidolKara DioGuardiKaraDioguardiPaula AbdulPaulaAbdulRandy JacksonRandyJacksonRyan SeacrestRyanSeacrestSimon CowellSimonCowellSat, 02 May 2009 14:37:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Crazy Horse - 1967 Ford Mustang with butterfly doors and folding hardtop]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-crazy-horse-1967-ford-mustang-with-butte/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-crazy-horse-1967-ford-mustang-with-butte/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-crazy-horse-1967-ford-mustang-with-butte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


1967 Ford Mustang hardtop convertible custom - Click above for an image gallery

According to this eBay seller, this is the only 1967 Ford Mustang ever fitted with a retractable hardtop. As we've never seen one before (or one wearing butterfly doors, for that matter), we'll give the auctioneer the benefit of the doubt.

In any case, this restomod 'Stang has been comprehensively reworked, including a new Ford Racing 302 crate motor, along with a new Tremec T5 gearbox, a fully reworked suspension and a set of four-wheel discs hiding out under the American Racing Torque Thrust II wheels.

Of the staffers we surveyed here at Autoblog, we're not crazy about the paint or the doors, but the retractable fiberglass top unit from Mustang Plus is something we can't help but find interesting, particularly if this conversion was done to a donor car that wasn't originally terribly collectible (non numbers-matching, etc.). Admittedly the lines of the top don't blend with the rest of the design as nicely as a stock hardtop's roofline does, but that's to be expected with conversions like this. Besides, both the engine bay and the underbody are incredibly sanitary - certainly cleaner than they were the day this 'Stang rolled off the assembly line.

The seller says that the droptop conversion is something of an homage to a concept Mustang model that Ford originally considered building back in 1967. According to the listing, the Blue Oval invested some $250,000 in exploring the concept, only for it to get nixed by Henry Ford II because it couldn't be motorized. A quarter century later, retired Ford designer Ben J. Smith apparently devised the system seen here. Be sure to check out the huge gallery of images and the link below... only a few hours left to get your bid in!


Gallery: eBay Find of the Day: Custom 1967 Ford Mustang hardtop convertible


[Source: eBay]

eBay Find of the Day: Crazy Horse - 1967 Ford Mustang with butterfly doors and folding hardtop originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben J. SmithBenJ.SmithBlue OvalBlueOvalbutterfly doorsButterflyDoorscustom carCustomCareBayFordFord RacingFordRacinggullwinghardtop convertibleHardtopConvertiblemuscle carMuscleCarMustangMustang PlusMustangPluspony carPonyCarRestomodretractable hardtopRetractableHardtopStangTremecMon, 27 Apr 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Wall Street rallies around better-than-expected Ford results]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/report-wall-street-rallies-around-better-than-expected-ford-resu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/report-wall-street-rallies-around-better-than-expected-ford-resu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/report-wall-street-rallies-around-better-than-expected-ford-resu/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



On the surface, at least, news that a company lost $1.4 billion wouldn't normally be greeted as good news by Wall Street. However, the Ford Motor company's just-published quarterly earning reports have done just that, with the stock trading 15% ahead of yesterday and the entire Dow Jones stock market perking up at the news.

Why the positive reaction? The Blue Oval has fared markedly better than most analysts' estimates, and the size of the loss indicates that Ford is at least stemming its hemorrhaging. In further news that perked up trading, Lewis Booth, Ford's CFO reiterated that Ford expects to make it through the rest of the year without seeking any government monies, and the company notes that it expects to actually exceed the $4 billion cost-cutting goals it set for itself this year.

Of course, all is not rosy, although things are better than expected. For the first three months this year, Ford's sales dropped 43%, with accompanying revenue of $24.8 billion - a drop of almost 37 percent year-over-year versus 2008's $39.2 billion intake.

Perhaps the best news of all? Dearborn officials reinforced that the company is looking good to break even in 2011, noting that it could even post a profit before taxes. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: The Associated Press | Image: Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: Wall Street rallies around better-than-expected Ford results originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalDearbornDow JonesDowJonesearnings reportEarningsReportFoMoCoFordFord MotorFordMotorLewis BoothLewisBoothStock tradingStockTradingWall StreetWallStreetFri, 24 Apr 2009 12:57:00 EST