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[REPORT: Labor unrest in India to cause Ford to idle key NA crossover plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-labor-unrest-in-india-to-cause-ford-to-idle-key-na-cross/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-labor-unrest-in-india-to-cause-ford-to-idle-key-na-cross/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-labor-unrest-in-india-to-cause-ford-to-idle-key-na-cross/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Rico Auto Industries in India makes transmission parts for Ford's Flex and Edge, along with its upscale Lincoln MKT and MKX twins. Unfortunately for the Blue Oval, Automotive News is reporting that Rico's operations are in flux because of persistent troubles between labor and management. A few weeks ago, some of the supplier's workers went on strike after members were suspended and fired by management. On October 18, the striking workers marched to the factory and got involved in an altercation with "unidentified men" supposedly "acting at the behest of Rico Auto's management." During the brawl, a 26-year-old worker was killed.

In the meantime, Ford reportedly hasn't got the parts it needs to build the crossovers it makes at its Oakville, Ontario plant and will be forced to idle the key facility next week. Ford is watching the situation in India closely - if production isn't restored soon, the lack of parts could impact other plants in addition to Ontario and its 3,000 workers.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd. | Image: Simon Hayter/Getty]

REPORT: Labor unrest in India to cause Ford to idle key NA crossover plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Edgeflexfordford edgeford flexford indiaFordEdgeFordFlexFordIndiaindiaindian laborIndianLaborlabor disputelabor disturbancelabor unrestLaborDisputeLaborDisturbanceLaborUnrestlincolnlincoln mktlincoln mkxLincolnMktLincolnMkxmanufacturingMKTMKXplantsRico autorico auto industriesRicoAutoRicoAutoIndustriesSun, 25 Oct 2009 10:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shot: Redesigned Lincoln MKX gains corporate face]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-shot-redesigned-lincoln-mkx-gains-corporate-face/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-shot-redesigned-lincoln-mkx-gains-corporate-face/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-shot-redesigned-lincoln-mkx-gains-corporate-face/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Redesigned Lincoln MKX spy shot - Click above to enlarge

Lincoln's new corporate grille is comprised of a split-wing design that flows up into a pair of swept back headlamps. It debuted on the MKS, has migrated to the MKZ and was expanded for the MKT three-row crossover, and now it's set to appear on the redesigned MKX crossover.

The MKX crossover has always been the odd-man-out in terms of styling when compared to the rest of the Lincoln lineup. Even before the split-wing grille came into being, the MKX debuted with a front fascia that didn't match any of the brand's other models because it was based on the 2005 Lincoln Aviator concept. All that will change as this spy shot reveals.

Whereas the split-wing grille looks over-the-top on the much larger MKT crossover, this most important of Lincoln design cues seems right at home on the smaller MKX. Click the image above for an enlarged view and let us (and Lincoln) know what you think in the comments. Specifically, how do you think the new MKX design compares to its cross-town rival, the 2010 Cadillac SRX?

Spy Shot: Redesigned Lincoln MKX gains corporate face originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lincolnlincoln mkxLincolnMkxmkxredesigned lincoln mkxRedesignedLincolnMkxspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsWed, 08 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKT debuts with a big, toothy smile]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mkt-debuts-with-a-big-toothy-smile/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mkt-debuts-with-a-big-toothy-smile/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mkt-debuts-with-a-big-toothy-smile/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Lincoln MKT

Ford has a major-league hit on its hands with the 2009 Flex crossover - with the media. Sadly, despite its varied and considerable charms, sales haven't met the Blue Oval's admittedly lofty expectations. Blame the recession, blame the marketing department, blame the Flex's divisive styling, blame what you will, but Dearborn is plainly going to have to find more volume for its D4 platform. Enter the 2010 Lincoln MKT.

It doesn't take more than a brief glance to realize that Ford's stylists have exacted much more than a quick nip/tuck on the rectilinear Flex en-route to minting this new Lincoln. But beyond the crossover's assertive looks, there is a host of new technology on offer inside and out that should help put the MKT on luxury crossover shopping lists. Follow the jump to learn more about the MKT and read Lincoln's official press release.

Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKT

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKT debuts with a big, toothy smile

Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKT debuts with a big, toothy smile originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Acura MDXAcuraMdxAudi Q7AudiQ7Blue OvalBlueOvalBMW X5BmwX5Chrysler AspenChryslerAspenCoboCrossoverDearborndetroitdetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowDuratecfeaturedFlexFordFord FlexFordFlexLincolnMercuryMKTMKXMyKeyNAIASNavigatorsoftroaderMon, 12 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford will shut down 10 N.A. plants in early January]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/ford-will-shut-down-10-n-a-plants-in-early-january/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/ford-will-shut-down-10-n-a-plants-in-early-january/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/ford-will-shut-down-10-n-a-plants-in-early-january/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



A bitingly cold wind is sweeping through the Motor City this day, but the bigger chill continues to be the rapidly increasing number of idle plants from Detroit's automakers. As part of a previously-announced bid to trim first-quarter output by nearly 38%, Ford now says it will shut down ten North American factories the week of January 5. Unlike Chrysler's planned one month downtime (where they eerily won't commit to start dates), the Blue Oval has confirmed plans to re-light the fires in eight of those plants beginning the week of January 12.

That means that during the week of January 5, Ford's only active North American plants will be in Dearborn (F-150), and Kansas City (F-150, Escape/Mercury Mariner). The week of January 12 will see all facilities up save Hermosillo, Mexico (Fusion, Milan, Lincoln MKZ) and Oakville, Ontario, where the Flex, Edge, and MKX are built.

Ford is angling to cut down its quarterly output to just 430,000 vehicles, and shutdowns at staggered intervals are expected to continue throughout early next year.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Photo: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Ford will shut down 10 N.A. plants in early January originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assembly plantAssemblyPlantBlue OvalBlueOvalCutbacksDearbornEdgeF SeriesF-150F-SeriesFlexFSeriesHermosilloKansas CityKansasCityManufacturingMKXOakvilleshutdownThu, 18 Dec 2008 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Meet the new face of Lincoln: Harry Connick Jr. baby]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/17/video-meet-the-new-face-of-lincoln-harry-connick-jr-baby/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/17/video-meet-the-new-face-of-lincoln-harry-connick-jr-baby/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/17/video-meet-the-new-face-of-lincoln-harry-connick-jr-baby/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lincoln has seen a bit of a resurgence lately, with sales up 11% over last year. To keep the good times rolling, Ford has tabbed the world's best Frank Sinatra impersonator; Harry Connick Jr. The jazz scion will make his debut on Sunday Night Football sporting MKX duds on a trip through his hometown New Orleans. The spot will run during the Saints game, and the theme is about dreams.

The Lincoln brand also picked up amputee triathlete Sarah Reinertsen to help sell the MKZ. Reinertsen was the first female amputee to finish the Ford Ironman Triathlon Kona. While charitable contributions and inspirational athletes make for great stories, we question how much it helps to move product off dealer lots. Lincoln needs to focus more on highlighting its products, as the MKX and MKZ are newer offerings that many luxury buyers don't even know exist. The MKX commercial is playing during a pricey primetime NFL slot, and the MKX interior is largely unseen and the exterior appears all too briefly. Check out the Harry Connick Jr. MKX commercial after the jump.

[Source: BRANDWEEK]

Gallery: 2007 Lincoln MKX

Continue reading VIDEO: Meet the new face of Lincoln: Harry Connick Jr. baby

VIDEO: Meet the new face of Lincoln: Harry Connick Jr. baby originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Harry Connick Jr.HarryConnickJr.lincoln advertisingLincolnAdvertisingMKXMKZSarah ReinerstenSarahReinerstenWed, 17 Oct 2007 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Behold the Flueguar!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/behold-the-flueguar/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/behold-the-flueguar/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/behold-the-flueguar/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Manolo. He reads the Autoblog. Which is pretty cool, actually. The shoe/styleblogger extraordinaire tipped us off on the fabulous Flueguar. Right about now, you may be wondering, "What the %$#! is a Flueguar?"

Allow us to elaborate.

The Flueguar, seen above, is shoe designer John Fluevog's lead-sled '65 Jaguar Mk X. The car was purchased when it was just a year old by his late dad, and over time it had decomposed into a neglected hulk. For all intents and purposes, it was dead. Fluevog decided to not take the easy way out and junk the ride, however. Instead, he embarked on a restoration/modification project with the help of RX Autoworks. That collaboration resulted in the homage to English elegance and American-style hot-rodder badassedness you see here.

Follow the jump for more.

[Source: Fluevog Shoes via Manolo's Shoe Blog]

Continue reading Behold the Flueguar!

Behold the Flueguar! originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 Jun 2007 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flueguarfluevog shoesFluevogShoesjohn fluevogJohnFluevoglead sledLeadSledmanolomark 10Mark10mk xMkXthe manoloTheManoloSat, 02 Jun 2007 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford earns two IIHS Top Safety Picks for Edge and MKX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/ford-earns-two-iihs-top-safety-picks-for-edge-and-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/ford-earns-two-iihs-top-safety-picks-for-edge-and-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/ford-earns-two-iihs-top-safety-picks-for-edge-and-mkx/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Ford Edge is off to a strong start in sales, at least stronger than the Fusion's first full month of sales, and word has come from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety that the CUV and its platform mate, the Lincoln MKX, has earned a Top Safety Pick, which should help move a few more units. Not only must a vehicle earn a top crash test rating of "good" for front, side and rear crash tests to become a Top Safety Pick, but this year the guidelines were further beefed up to mandate that honorees also offer Electronic Stability Control.

The Ford Fusion, meanwhile, didn't come close to earning a Top Safety Pick last year when 2006 models and pre-production 2007 were tested, but Ford asked the IIHS to test the car again after a few changes were made including side airbags becoming standard equipment and alterations to the door trim and floorpan. This time the Fusion earned a "good" rating for both front and side impacts, but only earned a marginal rating for rear impacts. Since ESC isn't even an option on the Fusion, a Top Safety Pick was out of the question anyway. The same front impact rating also apply to the Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ, but the MKZ won't share the same side impact rating since it uses different door trim than the other two models. .

[Source: IIHS]

Ford earns two IIHS Top Safety Picks for Edge and MKX originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EdgeFusionIIHSInsurance Institute for Highway SafetyInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetyMKXTop Safety PickTopSafetyPickMon, 05 Feb 2007 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Concept to Production: '05 Lincoln Aviator to '07 Lincoln MKX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/14/concept-to-production-05-lincoln-aviator-to-07-lincoln-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/14/concept-to-production-05-lincoln-aviator-to-07-lincoln-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/14/concept-to-production-05-lincoln-aviator-to-07-lincoln-mkx/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Aviator Concept/MKX
Click image for high-res comparison gallery

Attending a show always gets us thinking about concept cars and how they'll wind up translating into real in-the-showroom and on-the-road vehicles. This week, all the talk was about cars like Ford's Interceptor, Lincoln's MKR, Chevy's Volt, Mazda's Ryuga and Nissan's Bevel, for example. The extent to which any or all of those will influence future production vehicles remains to be seen.

It's when new models are on the stands that we can look back and compare. This year, Lincoln's MKX is in showrooms, and we're now able to look back at the concept car that clearly showed the world what was coming. That would be the 2005 Lincoln Aviator (which shared its name with the Explorer-based production vehicle), and aside from some detail changes, it's pretty much the MKX we all see today.

The concept's leaner-looking -- something that didn't carry over as well to the production car. The MKX's more sedate interior trim is much more appealing than the blinged-out chrome look the cabin of the Aviator concept sported. Our feeling is that the Aviator's big wheels and hood-ornament look better than the smaller rollers and integrated grille badge on the production car. We also prefer the thicker c-pillar and rear-end treatment of the concept, but we know as well as anyone that you're going to lose something when you go to production, and that rear looked like it didn't have much of a chance.

Given the trade-offs that were made, the transformation from Aviator Concept to MKX worked out okay. Yes, we're aware that it's an alternately-styled Ford Edge, but the style it has works well. Check out the comparison gallery we put together and let us know what you think. We just wish they'd have kept the old name.



[Photos: Ford]

Concept to Production: '05 Lincoln Aviator to '07 Lincoln MKX originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jan 2007 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005 aviator concept2005AviatorConcept2007 mkx2007MkxaviatorcomparisonmkxSun, 14 Jan 2007 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Lincoln MKR rolls into the spotlight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-lincoln-mkr-rolls-into-the-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-lincoln-mkr-rolls-into-the-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-lincoln-mkr-rolls-into-the-spotlight/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



After the Lincoln MKR found its way to center stage inside the Cobo Arena here in Detroit, Peter Horbury (Ford's North American design chief) stepped out of the Lincoln with the gait of a proud man. Now, that could be just because he avoided the task of explaining Ford's Airstream concept (J Mays must have lost that game of rock-paper-scissors), or perhaps it's because Lincoln has some design cues it can call its own after so many years of wandering the styling wilderness.

In the flesh, the MKR's proportions the include severe inward curvature of the rocker panels and short overhangs make it appear smaller than it actually is, and lend an athletic stance - something we probably haven't said of contemporary Lincoln products. The grille stands out - perhaps too much so - from the other subtle styling cues, but it would at least be unmistakable when headed down the road.

The TwinForce twin-turbo V6 is mated to a six-speed gearbox of unknown type (a twin-layshaft would make sense, given the engine nomenclature), which is shifted via pushbuttons on the T-shaped center console and paddles on the steering wheel. The recycled black oak that runs throughout the interior has just the right finish and looks antique without looking old, and contrasts nicely with the white leather and chrome accents. We're betting that the bottom-swinging pedals and deep-dish steering wheel don't ever make it to production, though.

And so just when can we expect to see showrooms filled with this spiritual successor to the Mark VII and Mark VIII? Well, Ford made no mention of production, so for now everyone is left to guessing.

Check out Lincoln's complete press release after the jump, and the 19 additional high-resolution live shots we've added to the MKR Concept's gallery.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: Lincoln MKR rolls into the spotlight

Detroit Auto Show: Lincoln MKR rolls into the spotlight originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Jan 2007 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordlincolnmark VIImark VIIImkrmkxmkzSun, 07 Jan 2007 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Lights out: Production ends for Ford Freestar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/03/lights-out-production-ends-for-ford-freestar/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/03/lights-out-production-ends-for-ford-freestar/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/03/lights-out-production-ends-for-ford-freestar/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Thank God it's over. Goodbye Freestar, you won't be missed. Ford has turned out its last head-gasket-consuming, transmission-torturing, flaccid minivan. It was a good try twelve years ago when it debuted as the Windstar, but time has not been kind to Ford's efforts. Moreover, Ford was not kind to the Freestar, letting it die on the vine while the competition became ever more competent. The Oakville, Ontario plant will continue to build cars, keeping all its employees busy with Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX production.The only folks that will even notice the unavailability of the Freestar (act fast, there's about 2,500 left) are fleet customers, with whom Ford will work to substitute other FoMoCo vehicles. Seems like a win-win-win: a tired horse is put out to pasture, the blue-collar folks kept their jobs and the fleet customers who lose out will be made whole.

[Source: Automotive News]

Lights out: Production ends for Ford Freestar originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jan 2007 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EdgeendfinalFordFreestarlastMinivanMKXOntarioproduction endingProductionEndingWindstarWed, 03 Jan 2007 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Bottom up? - Ford rolls out a grass-roots effort]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/27/bottom-up-ford-rolls-out-a-grass-roots-effort/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/27/bottom-up-ford-rolls-out-a-grass-roots-effort/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/27/bottom-up-ford-rolls-out-a-grass-roots-effort/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford's trying a multi-pronged approach at raising the public's awareness of their turnaround efforts. Of course the big, glossy, traditional marketing campaigns will lead the way, but the Blue Oval's also beating the streets.

Ford is sending execs across the land to talk with community groups like Lions and Rotary clubs, chambers of commerce, and local news media. Most of the populace is aware that Ford is having some trouble, but they're less aware of how Ford plans to fly out of this stall. Emmissaries are spreading the word about the great Consumer Reports quality results of the Fusion/Milan twins, getting them jazzed about the MKX and Edge, and taking the time to answer locals' questions and let them check out the cars. The message Ford is trying to send appears to be "we want to stick around, we're working on it." Hopefully, those questions and comments coming back from the audience are being relayed up the chain of command. To really be successful, Ford needs to build cars people want, and what better way to find out what the public has on its mind than to ask?

[Source: Detroit News]

Bottom up? - Ford rolls out a grass-roots effort originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Dec 2006 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EdgeFordFusionGrass RootsGrassRootsMarketingMilanMKXWed, 27 Dec 2006 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Hallelujah! Ford Edge begins shipping]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/hallelujah-ford-edge-begins-shipping/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/hallelujah-ford-edge-begins-shipping/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/hallelujah-ford-edge-begins-shipping/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

After some snafus in the supply chain forced a few weeks of delay, Ford has finally begun shipping the Edge, a vehicle that's been built up in the press as the automotive equivalent of a Hail Mary Pass. While we don't think Ford's in that dire a situation, the Edge is certainly a significant launch and the delays were warranted to ensure the first batch of Edge CUVs would be in tip top shape when delivered to dealers. Apparently all stations on the assembly line at Ford's Oakville, Ontario plant where the Edge and its platform mate, the Lincoln MKX, are produced are operating up to spec, and Ford is comfortable now with its suppliers' ability to keep up with demand for the vehicles. With a fourth of December already in the books, however, it appears that any units sold through the end of 2006 won't have much of an impact on the company's sales figures this month. That's the price you pay for quality assurance, though.

[Source: Business Week]

Hallelujah! Ford Edge begins shipping originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Dec 2006 06:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CUVdeliveredEdgeMKXshippedshippingFri, 08 Dec 2006 06:57:00 EST<![CDATA[30 Minutes with the 2007 Lincoln MKX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/18/30-minutes-with-the-2007-lincoln-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/18/30-minutes-with-the-2007-lincoln-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/18/30-minutes-with-the-2007-lincoln-mkx/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Recently we had the opportunity to spend some time behind the wheel of the new 2007 Lincoln MKX crossover. This is a critical vehicle to the brand as it works to establish credibility and build brand equity in the luxury crossover market against competitors such as the Lexus RX and Infiniti FX.

Driving the heaviest model available -- laden with AWD, Vista Roof, etc. -- initial impressions with the powertrain are very positive. The 3.5-liter V6 is smooth until pressed into high rpm duty, where it gets a little raspy. The engine is complimented by an excellent six-speed automatic transmission that provides reasonable acceleration from a standstill, holding the lower gears to prevent premature up shifts. Without the constant up-and-down hunting sometimes experienced with an automatic, this gearbox feels almost intuitive in its ability to be in the right gear at the right time. A request for more acceleration is quickly addressed with a downshift from sixth to fourth or even third when necessary.

Follow the jump for the rest of our driving impressions and some official photos from the MKX press kit.

Continue reading 30 Minutes with the 2007 Lincoln MKX

30 Minutes with the 2007 Lincoln MKX originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30 minutes30MinutesLincolnMKXMKZtest driveTestDriveSat, 18 Nov 2006 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[So you want to be a Special Agent?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/17/so-you-want-to-be-a-special-agent/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/17/so-you-want-to-be-a-special-agent/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/17/so-you-want-to-be-a-special-agent/#commentsFiled under: ,

Generally, manufacturer vehicle programs are held to show the vehicles and go for a short drive. They usually feed you a boring lunch and then send you on your way, loaded with all kinds of information to sift through and find the real story. Tying into the James Bond theme and Ford's affiliation with the new movie "Casino Royale", Lincoln took us all on a full-day adventure. The "My Dream is to be a Special Agent" program held in Detroit to showcase the new MKZ and MKX models as well as Lincoln's new "Dreams" (www.mydreams.tv) website, which goes live Monday, was anything but boring.

It started as a normal media event, with executives and engineers presenting information about the new products and features and walking us through the new website. From there it got interesting. In an effort to give us the true Bond driving experience, we were then invited to a couple of really cool driving events.

We were handed the reins of a new Mustang GT and invited to try our skills at drifting the Mustangs through a wet autocross course. Are they nuts? Asking journalists to drive like, well, journalists? As if that weren't enough, we were then escorted to the Michigan Stare Police "Alley Test" where we guided a P.I. Crown Vic through a narrow lane of cones first forward, then backward, only stopping briefly to back into a parking spot and accelerate out. Lots of fun, damaged cones, and bruised egos.

After my turn in the MKZ, we stopped at the Firing Line gun range and were allowed to shoot an array of pistols, learn close combat skills, and test our S.W.A.T. abilities on a laser simulator. If you haven't had the chance to fire a .44 Magnum, it's one of those things you should put on your list of stuff to do before you die.

Into the MKX and on to the MGM Grand Casino for a "shaken not stirred" martini class and game of baccarat on the house. Are you starting to see the 007 connection yet?

Last but not least we were shuttled to the Star Theatre to attend a pre-screening of the new James Bond 007 movie "Casino Royale" which featured the most automotive nirvana this side of "Gone in 60 Seconds". Of course, James eventually drives the Aston-Martin DBS, but only after piloting a new Ford Mondeo sedan as well as a '64 Aston-Martin DB7. Other notables included a Bentley Continental GT and GTC as well as a Flying Spur. One scene includes the Bentleys, the DBS, a Maserati Spyder, and a Rolls-Royce Phantom. Although the movie has tons of cool automotive iron, very little of the movie revolved around the cars. As a matter of fact, the DBS gets driven about 2 minutes before it is...I don't want to ruin it for you!

Between each of the events, we were able to drive an MKX and MKZ. The initial impressions will be posted soon, with full Autoblog Garage evaluations scheduled in the very near future.

So you want to be a Special Agent? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Nov 2006 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>007Casino RoyaleCasinoRoyaleJames BondJamesBondLincolnMKXMKZFri, 17 Nov 2006 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford cutting production big time in 2007]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/ford-cutting-production-big-time-in-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/ford-cutting-production-big-time-in-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/ford-cutting-production-big-time-in-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A week ago, Ford posted a $5.8 billion loss due to sagging North American sales. To make things worse, CFO Don Leclair announced yesterday that Ford expects North American production for the first six months of 2007 to be down 8 to 12 percent from 2006 due to lower demand for its products and at least partially due to the demise of the Taurus. The second six months of '07 are expected to be up 5 to 10 percent compared with '06.

For the entire year of 2006, For expects production numbers to be down about 9 percent from 2005.

Can Ford pull out of this spiral with new products such as the Edge, MKX, and MKZ? Initial reviews have been good, but we will reserve judgment until we have had them through the Autoblog Garage. Watch for our reviews and comments on all three vehicles very soon.

Wall Street is keeping a close eye on Ford as well. Nervous stockholders saw Ford shares down 19 cents, or 2 percent, at $8.10 in morning trading Monday.

[Source: Detroit News via AP]

Ford cutting production big time in 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Oct 2006 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demandEdgeFordlincolnmercueyMKXMKZproduction cutsProductionCutssalesTaurusMon, 30 Oct 2006 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford brings the bling to SEMA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/ford-brings-the-bling-to-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/ford-brings-the-bling-to-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/ford-brings-the-bling-to-sema/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We've already reported on GM's plan to capitalize on the urban trend of throwing dubs on Grandma's Buick by crashing SEMA with 11 customized Lucernes. Ford intends on bringing their own brand of bling in the form of two custom Edges, a pair of worked-over Lincolns and one turbo'd Fusion.

The Ford Edge pictured above spent a considerable amount of time with the H&R crew and the resulting pimpage is far from subtle. The customized Edge is bathed in Tangerine Orange gloss and fitted with a custom front-fascia that serves as a home to a pair of Hella Celis fog lamps. The hood gets a dose of black paint to give it the boy-racer look, which sets the tone for the both the roof and the 22x10-inch Modern Society wheels. The aggressive stance is courtesy of H&R's very own Sport Spring kit, equipped with wheel spacers and camber adjustment bolts to bring the body down approximately two inches below stock. The only power mod is the addition of a MagnaFlow cat-back exhaust which gives the prerequisite burble when rolling up to the show stand.

Of the other four vehicles to be debuted, three of which were created by 3dCarbon, with an emphasis on refinement and streetablity and the last, a Fusion, was 'tuned' by MRT. Along with the FoMoCo customs, Ford will also have a set of Mustang GT500s and will show their 2008 Ford Super-Duty pickup for the first time. Details on all the vehicles, along with photos are available after the jump.

[Source: Ford Motor Co.]

Continue reading Ford brings the bling to SEMA

Ford brings the bling to SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 06:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dcarbonedgef-seriesfordfusiongt500lincolnmkxmkzsemashelbyThu, 12 Oct 2006 06:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Dwayne Wade, chef Rocco DeSpirito tapped for Lincoln ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/04/dwayne-wade-chef-rocco-despirito-tapped-for-lincoln-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/04/dwayne-wade-chef-rocco-despirito-tapped-for-lincoln-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/04/dwayne-wade-chef-rocco-despirito-tapped-for-lincoln-ads/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dwayne Wade is still fresh from his first NBA title with the Miami Heat and a "King of Bling" award at GM's All-Car Showdown for custom Hummer H2 SUT. Lincoln has announced, however, that the NBA All-Star will appear in a TV spot for its new Navigator. Celebrity chef Rocco DeSpirito will also appear in ads for the luxury automaker, which will be part of the new "Advancing the American Dream" campaign.

The series of ads is said to be the largest push by Lincoln in over a decade, and is intended to "speak to people achieving success on their own terms". The first spots are said to show the Lincoln product itself (the Navigator, MKZ, and MKX), while the celebs will hit the screen later when the vehicles start arriving in showrooms. Expect the D-wade ad sometime in September. Does this mean the NBA All-Star has traded in his blinged-out Hummer H2 SUT for a new Navi? What would Shaq say?

[Source: Detroit News]

Dwayne Wade, chef Rocco DeSpirito tapped for Lincoln ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Aug 2006 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d-wadedwayneflashfordlincolnmiami heatmkxmkznavigatorwadeFri, 04 Aug 2006 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Lincoln's Build-your-own MKX website goes live]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/21/lincolns-build-your-own-mkx-website-goes-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/21/lincolns-build-your-own-mkx-website-goes-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/03/21/lincolns-build-your-own-mkx-website-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lincoln has opened the virtual book on its MKX crossover utility. The automaker is offering the chance to 'pre-design' their latest offering via their website, Lincoln.com. For Autoblog regulars, you know the drill: All prices, packages and options are survey-only estimates. In fact, savvy Windows shoppers who refresh the site will notice that the pricing actually changes visit-to-visit, but that doesn't mean that the prices and specifications don't provide a reasonable ballpark.

If the 'configurator' is to be believed, MKX will base at around $34,000-$35,000, with AWD variants coming in around $1,500-$2,000 higher. From the looks of it, roll-stability control, 18" wheels and leather seating surfaces will be standard issue. Options include heated/cooled front seats, rear seat entertainment, THX II surround sound and a panoramic sunroof.

Refresh your MKX impressions with a look back at its NAIAS introduction here.

[Source: Lincoln]

(Top tip, R R)

Lincoln's Build-your-own MKX website goes live originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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