Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Project Ugly Horse: Part VIII]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Now With More EcoBoost



There's an EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in there somewhere, and it's headed straight for Ugly Horse.

For the second time in my life, I'm staring at an engine in the back of a truck with no concept of how to get it safely into the garage by my lonesome. The first time this happened, I dragged home a $300 International 345 V8 in the back of my Scout Terra only to discover that the bounds of my manliness terminated well before my ability to muscle that 800-pound cast iron block out of the pickup bed.

Now you know the story of how and why I bought my first engine puller.

Some six years later I'm playing out the same dance, though a Ford F-250 has stolen the Scout's starring role, and there's a towering pallet of thick cardboard boxes in place of the old International mill. It's not that the boxes are particularly heavy. They're just stacked too high to get in the garage. Each one is emblazoned with a massive Ford Racing Performance Parts logo and wrapped in enough plastic to keep both prying fingers and the persistent rain at bay. Good thing, too. There's an EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in there somewhere, and it's headed straight for Ugly Horse.

Project Ugly Horse is an ongoing series. Need to catch up? You can find the previous articles here.

Continue reading Project Ugly Horse: Part VIII

Project Ugly Horse: Part VIII originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1989 ford mustangecoboostecoboost fox body mustangecoboost mustangfeaturedfocusfocus stfordford focus stford mustangproject ugly horseugly horseFri, 17 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570764/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/20570764/article-detail.xml 20570764 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/slot-a-tab-b-628-1368799270_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/slot-a-tab-b-628-1368799270.jpg <![CDATA[Ford sued over alleged 3.5-liter EcoBoost defects]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/ford-sued-over-alleged-3-5-liter-ecoboost-defects/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/ford-sued-over-alleged-3-5-liter-ecoboost-defects/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/ford-sued-over-alleged-3-5-liter-ecoboost-defects/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ford Taurus SHO - Ecoboost engine closeup

Three Ford owners from Ohio have filed a lawsuit against the automaker over defects that they allege exist within the company's twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine. Automotive News reports that the lawsuit claims the engine "contained serious latent design, manufacturing, or assembly defects." Those defects, the suit claims, cause the vehicle to shake, misfire and lose power quickly.

Two of the plaintiffs, a married couple, own a 2010 Ford Taurus SHO, and allege they experienced a loss of power and stalling, while the third, an F-150 owner, claims he lost power while accelerating. In addition to the Taurus SHO and F-150, the 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine is also available in the Ford Flex, Explorer Sport and Lincoln MKT and MKS. Other three- and four-cylinder EcoBoost engines are not included in the suit. There have been no recalls associated with 3.5-liter V6 engine, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently not investigating the matter.

The plaintiffs, however, claim Ford has known about the problem, citing several technical service bulletins issued to dealers of the F-150 that suggest possible fixes. Ford had no comment for Automotive News, saying that it's yet to review the lawsuit, which was filed last Friday in Columbus, OH.

Ford sued over alleged 3.5-liter EcoBoost defects originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5-liter ecoboostecoboostengine defectfordford ecoboostford lawsuitlawsuitnhtsaThu, 16 May 2013 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572622/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/ford-sued-over-alleged-3-5-liter-ecoboost-defects/20572622/article-detail.xml 20572622 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ford-ecoboost-v6-sho-engine-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ford-ecoboost-v6-sho-engine-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Mondeo with 1.5-liter EcoBoost debuts in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/ford-mondeo-with-1-5-liter-ecoboost-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/ford-mondeo-with-1-5-liter-ecoboost-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/ford-mondeo-with-1-5-liter-ecoboost-shanghai-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Does the car above, posing fancifully in white, look familiar? Well, it should. Although it wears Mondeo badges in the form you see above for the Chinese market - as it does in Europe - the car is basically the same thing sold in the US as the Ford Fusion. Of course, it's what's under that shapely skin that counts.

Ford has chosen the Shanghai Motor Show as the venue at which to unveil its 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. We'd heard about the engine before, but now we have a few performance estimates to share: 133 kW of power (about 178 horsepower) and 240 Nm of torque (about 177 pound-feet).

Those numbers pretty much confirm previous rumors indicating about 177 in each category, and it's right on par with what Ford's own 1.6-liter EcoBoost produces. Ford is claiming best-in-class fuel economy as well, but no specific figures have yet been provided. In any case, we'll surely have all the data soon enough, as the 1.5-liter engine is destined for the US Fusion in 2014.

Ford will also offer a 2.0-liter EcoBoost in the Chinese Mondeo that puts out 178 kW (239 horsepower) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft). All that and more can be found in the press release below.

Continue reading Ford Mondeo with 1.5-liter EcoBoost debuts in China

Ford Mondeo with 1.5-liter EcoBoost debuts in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.5-liter ecoboost2013 shanghai motor showecoboostfordford mondeoshanghaishanghai motor showSat, 20 Apr 2013 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546133/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/ford-mondeo-with-1-5-liter-ecoboost-shanghai-2013/20546133/article-detail.xml 20546133 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-ford-mondeo-ecoboost-china-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-ford-mondeo-ecoboost-china-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #329]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/autoblog-podcast-329/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/autoblog-podcast-329/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/autoblog-podcast-329/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subcompact sales, Ford 1.5-liter EcoBoost, Toyota Corolla vs. Ford Focus, Maserati Ghibli

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Episode #329 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth and Zach Bowman talk about the slump in subcompact sales, the upcoming 1.5-liter Ford EcoBoost engine for the Fusion, the Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus best-seller debate, and the Maserati Ghibli. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!


Autoblog Podcast #329:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
2013 Honda CR-V



Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman

Runtime: 01:24:02

Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #329

Autoblog Podcast #329 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastecoboostfeaturedfordford f-150 svt raptorford focushondahonda cr-vmaseratimaserati ghiblipodcasttoyotatoyota corollaTue, 16 Apr 2013 16:44:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #329Autoblog.com01:24:02 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542336/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/autoblog-podcast-329/20542336/article-detail.xml 20542336 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #329 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-329-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-329-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-329-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #329 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #329 [RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #329 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 329autoblog podcast topicsecoboostfordford ecoboostford focusford fusionford fusion ecoboostmaseratimaserati ghiblipodcast topicstoyotatoyota corollaMon, 15 Apr 2013 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20540784/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-329-live/20540784/article-detail.xml 20540784 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Transit Courier completes Ford's new commercial van line, will we get it?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



This week Ford rolled out the 2014 Transit Courier, the fourth addition to its Transit range. Ford says its the first time for the nameplate in the compact van segment.

"Ford has now completely transformed its commercial vehicle line-up, with four all-new, class-leading Transits for European customers," said Barb Samardzich, vice president of product development for Ford Europe. "With the all-new Transit range, we expect sales to grow to 400,000 units per year by 2016, well over 50 percent more than we sell today."

When the Courier goes on sale in the Spring of 2014, it will offer more than 1,400 pounds of payload capacity, multiple mounting points for racks or other framework and a rear cargo area that can carry items 5.3 feet-long. An optional folding passenger seat boosts the cargo length to 8.5 feet.

"With 10 percent more load volume and floor area than its closest competitors, the all-new Transit Courier brings a new level of productivity to the compact van segment," Samardzich said in the press release.
Three engines will be available in the Courier with start-stop optional with all of them. First there is the choice between the two Duratorq TDCi diesel choices: a 1.5-liter, 74-horsepower and a 1.6-liter, 93-horsepower. A step up from that would be the 1.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine with 98 horses.

Pricing on the 2014 Transit Courier hasn't been announced yet and Mike Levine, Ford's truck communications manager, tells us, "There are no plans to bring Transit Courier to the US."

Read the official press release below.

Continue reading Transit Courier completes Ford's new commercial van line, will we get it?

Transit Courier completes Ford's new commercial van line, will we get it? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercial vanduratorqecoboostfordford europeford transitford transit couriertdciSat, 13 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538769/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/20538769/article-detail.xml 20538769 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-transit-courier-000-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-transit-courier-000-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford confirms 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine for 2014 Fusion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/ford-confirms-1-5-liter-ecoboost-four-cylinder-engine-for-2014-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/ford-confirms-1-5-liter-ecoboost-four-cylinder-engine-for-2014-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/ford-confirms-1-5-liter-ecoboost-four-cylinder-engine-for-2014-f/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Ford Fusion

Earlier this week, reports were swirling 'round the internet about the 2014 Ford Fusion getting a new 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine. That was... half correct. Ford today confirmed that the 2014 Fusion is, in fact, getting a new 1.5-liter EcoBoost mill, but it has four cylinders, not three.

Ford 1.5-liter EcoBoost engineThe new 1.5-liter engine will be the fifth EcoBoost powerplant from Ford Motor Company. Initially to be built at the automaker's Craiova, Romania plant, it will also be offered in the Fusion's twin, the Mondeo, in other markets. This engine will debut at the Shanghai Motor Show next month, and the 1.5-liter is of particular importance in the Chinese market - there is significant tax relief in the People's Republic for vehicles powered by engines with a capacity of 1.5 liters or less.

At a media briefing Thursday, Ford declined to divulge exact power or fuel economy numbers, though Joe Bakaj, vice president of powertrain engineering, told Autoblog that power output should be similar to that of the current 1.6-liter inline-four, and that overall efficiency will be "better than the 1.6." Our earlier report stated that the 1.5-liter four will produce 177 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque - losses of 1 hp and 7 lb-ft versus the 1.6-liter engine. Ford states that the 1.5-liter four will feature many of the same technologies used on the company's 1.0-liter EcoBoost inline-three, including an integrated exhaust manifold that recaptures much of the engine's heat.

Ford will release more information regarding the 1.5-liter engine later this year, including availability in the 2014 Fusion. Earlier, we reported that the 1.5 would only be available with Ford's six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, though the 1.6 would be kept around for those preferring the company's six-speed manual setup.

Scroll down for more information about the 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine in Ford's press release.

Continue reading Ford confirms 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine for 2014 Fusion

Ford confirms 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine for 2014 Fusion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.5-liter ecoboost2014 ford fusionecoboostfordford fusionThu, 11 Apr 2013 15:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/ford-confirms-1-5-liter-ecoboost-four-cylinder-engine-for-2014-f/20537926/article-detail.xml 20537926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-ford-fusion-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-ford-fusion-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Fusion to get 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/2014-ford-fusion-to-get-1-5l-ecoboost-three-cylinder/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/2014-ford-fusion-to-get-1-5l-ecoboost-three-cylinder/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/2014-ford-fusion-to-get-1-5l-ecoboost-three-cylinder/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Fusion

Just one year after launching the all-new 2013 Fusion, Ford is reportedly set to alter the sedan's powertrain lineup with the addition of a new 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder EcoBoost engine. A member of Blue Oval Forums apparently got their hands on the ordering guide for the 2014 model year Fusion, and this 1.5-liter mill is set to be introduced with late availability.

This lines up with other news about the Chinese-market Mondeo being offered with a new 1.5-liter EcoBoost - a derivative of the 1.0-liter triple that will come to North America under the hood of the Fiesta. In the Chinese application, the larger three-pot engine produces 177 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, which is very close to the current 1.6-liter inline-four's output numbers of 178 hp and 184 lb-ft.

What's interesting, however, is that the 1.6-liter engine will reportedly still be offered in the Fusion, but only with the six-speed manual transmission. The smaller 1.5-liter EcoBoost will only be mated to a six-speed SelectShift automatic, and will feature start/stop. This means that while the 1.5 is slightly down on power compared to the 1.6, it could easily improve fuel economy numbers, allowing the Fusion to regain the title of having the best mileage in the segment, likely besting the 38 miles per gallon of the Nissan Altima. Currently, the Fusion 1.6 is rated at 23 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.

Blue Oval Forums also states that the 2014 Fusion will get a number of other changes, including an optional heated steering wheel, cooled seats, summer tire options for select models, and a couple of new exterior paint colors.

A Ford spokesperson could not be reached for comment at this time, but stay tuned for updates as they become available.

2014 Ford Fusion to get 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.5l ecoboostecoboostfordford fusionford mondeoshanghaishanghai 2013shanghai motor showthree-cylinderTue, 09 Apr 2013 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535129/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/2014-ford-fusion-to-get-1-5l-ecoboost-three-cylinder/20535129/article-detail.xml 20535129 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Next Lincoln Navigator to drop V8 in favor of V6, but Ford Expedition might get both]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/next-lincoln-navigator-to-drop-v8-in-favor-of-v6-but-ford-exped/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/next-lincoln-navigator-to-drop-v8-in-favor-of-v6-but-ford-exped/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/next-lincoln-navigator-to-drop-v8-in-favor-of-v6-but-ford-exped/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Lincoln Navigator - front three-quarter view, silver

A great many buyers fled from full-size body-on-frame SUVs to car-based crossovers in large measure to save fuel. But that doesn't mean there's still not a buying audience for more traditional truck-based utility vehicles, and those consumers doubtlessly wouldn't mind saving some dollars at the pump, too. According to Motor Trend, those shoppers might be in luck.

That's because the magazine has confirmed that Ford isn't walking away from the full-size SUV segment, and it's poised to do something about its offerings' economy ratings, too. According to MT, global Lincoln director Matt VanDyke has hinted that the next Navigator may drop two cylinders and go with a V6 model - the current model gets just 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the highway from its 5.4-liter V8. The obvious fitment would be Ford's 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, an engine that has spread like kudzu throughout the rest of the Blue Oval's large vehicle lineup.

Downsized turbocharged engines like Ford's EcoBoost franchise have come under fire as of late for not delivering their EPA fuel economy ratings, but their benefits extend beyond consumption - the 3.5L offers superior power and a better torque curve than the naturally aspirated V8. MT also suggests that Ford's 3.7-liter V6 could form the base engine for the next Navi - it has similar horsepower but a lot less torque than the current 5.4L. That may be less of a problem with the next generation tipped to go on a diet, which could level the playing field somewhat.

Interestingly, Ford will reportedly keep a V8 option in the Navigator's Blue-Oval-badged sibling, the Expedition. That may be a strategy partially borne out of cost, and partially out of concern that the Expedition's more traditional buying audience still maintains a strong affinity for simple and robust V8 engines. That said, MT says the Expedition could also get the 3.7L and the EcoBoost 3.5 V6s

Next Lincoln Navigator to drop V8 in favor of V6, but Ford Expedition might get both originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford expedition2013 lincoln navigatorecoboostexpeditionfordlincolnnavigatorTue, 12 Mar 2013 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20498819/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/12/next-lincoln-navigator-to-drop-v8-in-favor-of-v6-but-ford-exped/20498819/article-detail.xml 20498819 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-lincoln-navigator-silver_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-lincoln-navigator-silver.jpg <![CDATA[Americans will get a four-cylinder Ford Mustang after all? [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/09/americans-will-get-a-four-cylinder-ford-mustang-after-all-w-po/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/09/americans-will-get-a-four-cylinder-ford-mustang-after-all-w-po/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/09/americans-will-get-a-four-cylinder-ford-mustang-after-all-w-po/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Mustang emblem

Ask and you shall receive. Remember that previous report suggesting that the 2015 Ford Mustang getting a four-cylinder EcoBoost engine, and that it would be sold in Europe only and not the United States? Well, according to Road & Track, the rumor is only partially true - The Mustang will get the engine, but it is indeed coming to America.

Additionally, according to RT, the 3.7-liter V6 will continue to serve as the base engine, and since it offers up a stout 305 horsepower in its current form, it's likely that the 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost will produce a bit more than that. At the top of the range, the Mustang GT will continue to soldier on with a V8 engine, which should continue to send over 400 horsepower to the rear wheels.

Finally, while we agree 100 percent with RT's heartfelt request for a paddle-shift automatic, we certainly expect that the EcoBoost 'Stang will be offered with a manual transmission as standard equipment. This is a Mustang, after all...

View Poll

Americans will get a four-cylinder Ford Mustang after all? [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 ford mustangecoboostecoboost mustangecoboostmustangfordmustangmustang ecoboostmustang svoSat, 09 Mar 2013 19:08:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496006/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/09/americans-will-get-a-four-cylinder-ford-mustang-after-all-w-po/20496006/article-detail.xml 20496006 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/ford-mustang-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/ford-mustang-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford starting up 2.0L EcoBoost engine production in Ohio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/ford-starting-up-2-0l-ecoboost-engine-production-in-ohio/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/ford-starting-up-2-0l-ecoboost-engine-production-in-ohio/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/ford-starting-up-2-0l-ecoboost-engine-production-in-ohio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford announces 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine production in Cleveland

Joe Hinrichs, Ford's President of The Americas (pictured above), announced today that in late 2014, the automaker will be building the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder at its Cleveland Engine Plant, a move requiring a $200-million investment and the hiring of 450 new employees. European-built Ford products will continue to source this engine from the Valencia, Spain plant where all of these EcoBoost four-cylinder engines are currently built, and the new Cleveland engines will be used for all North American-made models.

Ford is planning to build its popular EcoBoost engines regionally to maximize production capacity and meet customer demand. Last year, Ford sold 334,364 vehicles with EcoBoost engines in the US alone, and that number is expected to swell to more than 500,000 by the end of this year, with global sales expected to total 1.6 million. By 2015, Ford says that 95 percent of its nameplates will offer an EcoBoost engine.

One such vehicle that could be adding an EcoBoost engine, according to Automotive News, is none other than the 2015 Ford Mustang. The report says that Ford could use either the 2.0-liter EcoBoost or an upcoming 2.3-liter EcoBoost in the sixth-generation pony car.

Continue reading Ford starting up 2.0L EcoBoost engine production in Ohio

Ford starting up 2.0L EcoBoost engine production in Ohio originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clevelandcleveland engine plantecoboostecoboost productionfordford motor companyjoe hinrichsFri, 22 Feb 2013 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20473468/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/22/ford-starting-up-2-0l-ecoboost-engine-production-in-ohio/20473468/article-detail.xml 20473468 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-cep-ecoboost_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-cep-ecoboost.jpg <![CDATA[<em>Consumer Reports</em> criticizes small turbo engines for misleading performance, fuel economy claims [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Ecoboost Engine Cover

Consumer Reports has taken aim at at small-displacement, forced-induction engines, saying the powerplants don't manage to deliver on automaker fuel economy claims. Manufacturers have long held that smaller, turbocharged engines pack all power of their larger displacement cousins with significantly better fuel economy, but the research organization says that despite scoring high EPA economy numbers, the engines are no better than conventional drivetrains in both categories. Jake Fisher, director of automotive testing for Consumer Reports, says the forced induction options "are often slower and less fuel efficient than larger four and six-cylinder engines."

Specifically, CR calls out the new Ford Fusion equipped with the automaker's Ecoboost 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The institute's researchers found the engine, which is a $795 option over the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder, fails to match competitors in acceleration and served up 25 miles per gallon in testing, putting the sedan dead last among other midsize options.

The Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Sonata Turbo and Ford Escape 2.0T all got dinged for the same troubles, though Consumer Reports has found the turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the BMW 328i does deliver on its promises. You can check out the full press release below. You can also read the full study on the Consumer Reports site, or scroll down for a short video recap.

Continue reading Consumer Reports criticizes small turbo engines for misleading performance, fuel economy claims [w/video]

Consumer Reports criticizes small turbo engines for misleading performance, fuel economy claims [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 3 series2013 chevrolet cruze2013 ford escape2013 ford fusion2013 hyundai sonata3 series328ibmwchevroletchevrolet cruzeconsumer reportscruzeecoboostescapefordford escapeford fusionfuel economyfusionhyundaihyundai sonatasonataturboTue, 05 Feb 2013 10:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20448871/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/20448871/article-detail.xml 20448871 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-ecoboost-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-ecoboost-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling 89k 2013 Fusion and Escape models over engine fires, urges owners to park their cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford Fusion

Ford has announced a recall of 89,153 vehicles equipped with 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engines over the possibility of overheating and, in some instances, fires starting in the engine compartment. The brand new 2013 Fusion accounts for 15,833 of the affected models, the other 73,320 being the 2013 Escape. This is the fourth time the recently launched Escape has been recalled, and this is the third time the recall has involved the 1.6-liter engine.

In a statement issued Friday, Ford confirmed that there have been new reports of these engines overheating, resulting in fires while the engine is running. No injuries have been reported in conjunction with this issue, and Ford states that the affected vehicles' instrument clusters may display warning notifications reading, "Engine Power Reduced to Lower Temps" or "Engine over temp, stop safely."

Ford is currently working on a repair procedure and will notify owners as soon as a fix is found. In the meantime, the automaker is urging owners to stop driving these affected vehicles and to contact a Ford dealer to arrange for alternate transportation at no charge. Owners in the United States may call 866.436.7332 for assistance with securing a different set of wheels (888.222.7814 in Canada).

Fusion and Escape models equipped with 2.5-liter naturally aspirated and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines are not affected by this recall. The Fusion Hybrid is also not affected.

Scroll down to read Ford's official release, which also contains details on how to see if your vehicle is affected by this recall simply by looking at the VIN.

Continue reading Ford recalling 89k 2013 Fusion and Escape models over engine fires, urges owners to park their cars

Ford recalling 89k 2013 Fusion and Escape models over engine fires, urges owners to park their cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.6l ecoboost2013 ford escape2013 ford fusionecoboostengine firesescapefordfusionrecallsafetyFri, 30 Nov 2012 19:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392107/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/20392107/article-detail.xml 20392107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/2014-ford-fiesta-1-0-liter-ecoboost/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/2014-ford-fiesta-1-0-liter-ecoboost/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/2014-ford-fiesta-1-0-liter-ecoboost/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost

There's an analogy to diesel engines hiding in the new Ford Fiesta with the 1.0-liter EcoBoost powerplant. There's still a segment of the population that has bad memories of diesel engines, and that makes it harder for Audi or Volkswagen to sell their new clean diesels in the US today. Not impossible, but more of a challenge than it needs to be. In the same way, ask any car geek if they've had good experiences with three-cylinder engines, and the response is likely to be a flashback to a bad ride in a Geo Metro.

But, if no one were to tell you that the new Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost is rocking three cylinders, you'd probably be hard pressed to notice. The engine has already found a home in the Ford Focus (read our Quick Spin) and, after driving about 100 miles around Los Angeles and the Malibu hills in a Euro-spec Fiesta equipped with one, we can safely say that this is a solid B-segment car - one that happens to get over 40 miles per gallon (city) without a hybrid powertrain. Here's what we learned about the car and Ford's plans to bring it to the US.

Driving Notes
  • The Fiesta with a 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is already on sale in Europe, and will come to the US in about a year, in late 2013. There will be a few little changes (the Econetic badges will be replaced with the EcoBoost wording that we have here) and what we think is a big one. Specifically, auto start-stop, which is available on the European model, will not be an option for Americans. The reason, we were told, is that B-segment customers are extremely price sensitive, and spending a few hundred extra bucks on this technology - which the EPA tests still don't quite understand - is something Ford doesn't expect them to do. There is still a chance this will change, though.
  • Still, at an estimated 40+ mpg, this flavor of the Fiesta will likely be the "most fuel-efficient, non-hybrid vehicle sold in North America." The current high-mileage Fiesta SFE model gets 40 on the highway (and 33 combined, 29 city). Ford is not talking about combined or city mpg estimates for the new Fiesta just yet.
  • It bears repeating that you do not feel that this is a shaky three-cylinder engine. The power - 123 horses - is there when you want it, with plenty of low-end torque. Some people on our drive were bothered by noise from the high-speed turbocharger that spins up to 248,000 rpm "almost instantaneously," but this is not enough to detract many points from the overall package.
  • Also, since a three-cylinder engine is inherently imbalanced, Ford optimized the engine mounts and made other adjustments to decouple engine shaking forces for "extreme smoothness." It worked.
  • For shorter people, the low placement of the side mirrors, especially on the passenger side, might be a problem. I'm about 5'9", and it was fine, but my co-pilot on this drive was a few inches shorter and she could not easily use the mirrors. They do sit awfully low, as you can see here.
  • Going around tight corners, the Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost feels a heckuva lot better than the Honda Fit in the same situation, but we found it roughly the same as the new Chevrolet Spark, two vehicles it will compete against for frugal-minded city drivers.
  • Some of the other ways the new Fiesta will try to set itself apart is the big "40+ mpg!" sign that's sure to be emblazoned all over the dealership, the connectivity of Sync and MyFordTouch (with a new, 6.5-inch touch screen) and Sony HD radio.
  • Jim Farley, executive vice president of global marketing, sales, service and Lincoln, said the new Fiesta is part of Ford's new high-mpg line-up, making fuel economy a reason to buy a Ford. It used to be, he said, "when people thought fuel economy, they did not think of Ford. We have made a tremendous amount of progress in the last few years of changing that perception."
Put all this together and you've got a compelling "smaller is better" package that we need more details on to properly assess (price is a big one). For years, people have been asking for the Euro-spec Fiesta in the US. Well, we're going to get it, start-stop excluded.

Continue reading 2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost

2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford fiestaecoboostfiestafordquick spinquickspinthree-cylinderTue, 27 Nov 2012 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20389483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/27/2014-ford-fiesta-1-0-liter-ecoboost/20389483/article-detail.xml 20389483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-fiesta-1-liter-ecoboost-euro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-fiesta-1-liter-ecoboost-euro.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #309 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-309-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-309-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-309-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We record Autoblog Podcast #308 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #309

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #309 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.0-literactive safetyaudiautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 309autoblog podcast topicscrash avoidanceecoboostfordford ecoboost 1.0ntsbpodcast 309podcast 309 topicstdtdiMon, 19 Nov 2012 16:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383943/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-309-live/20383943/article-detail.xml 20383943 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Ford confirms 2014 Fiesta with 1.0-liter EcoBoost for US]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/ford-confirms-2014-fiesta-with-1-0-liter-ecoboost-for-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/ford-confirms-2014-fiesta-with-1-0-liter-ecoboost-for-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/ford-confirms-2014-fiesta-with-1-0-liter-ecoboost-for-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Ford Fiesta hatchback

Ford has confirmed that it will bring its 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine to the United States under the hood of its 2014 Fiesta, previewed in these photos by the global model that debuted in Paris earlier this year. We pretty much knew this was coming, and we'll see the tiny mill on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week - assuming Ford's luggage made it there unscathed.

Ford 1.0L EcoBoost engineOfficial EPA certification has not been completed, but Ford expects the EcoBoost-equipped Fiesta to be the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car sold in the US. In other words, we're looking at fuel economy around the 45-mile-per-gallon mark. The 1.0L engine is projected to produce 123 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque under the hood of the Fiesta - gains of three horses and 36 lb-ft versus the current car's 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four.

Earlier this year, we had a chance to drive a Euro-spec Focus with the same 1.0-liter engine, and said that while it was pretty good, the lighter Fiesta figures to be a better fit for this mill here in the States. Our wish was apparently Ford's command. Scroll down for the full details.

Continue reading Ford confirms 2014 Fiesta with 1.0-liter EcoBoost for US

Ford confirms 2014 Fiesta with 1.0-liter EcoBoost for US originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.0l ecoboost2012 la auto show2014 ford fiestaecoboostfiestafordlala auto showthree cylinderMon, 19 Nov 2012 14:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383769/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/ford-confirms-2014-fiesta-with-1-0-liter-ecoboost-for-us/20383769/article-detail.xml 20383769 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/gofurther-new-ford-fiesta-06_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/gofurther-new-ford-fiesta-06.jpg <![CDATA[Ford's 1.0L EcoBoost engine makes the journey to LA... in a carry-on bag]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fords-1-0l-ecoboost-engine-makes-the-journey-to-la-in-a-carr/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fords-1-0l-ecoboost-engine-makes-the-journey-to-la-in-a-carr/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/fords-1-0l-ecoboost-engine-makes-the-journey-to-la-in-a-carr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford 1.0L Engine in a suitcase

We can't even begin to imagine all of the weird stuff that the Transportation Security Administration has seen through the screen of the airport x-ray machine (or worse, when they find when they get to snap on those latex gloves and actually rummage through your belongings). But we have to imagine that this, right here, was worth a second look or two as it ran through the TSA line.

What you see nestled into this carry-on-size suitcase is Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, making the journey from Detroit to Los Angeles for the 2012 LA Auto Show. According to the Ford communications team member who forwarded these along, the TSA had no issues with sending the diminutive engine through the x-ray machine, though much like a laptop, the engine did have to be sent through the scanner in its own plastic tub.

Why is the 1.0-liter engine heading for LA? Because Ford will be offering it in the States pretty soon. We'll be finding out early next week exactly what car will be fitted with the 1.0-liter mill, though our best guess is the Fiesta, since it's due to be refreshed for the 2014 model year anyway, though Ford recently gave us the opportunity to sample this engine under the hood of a Euro-spec Focus hatchback.

Ford's 1.0L EcoBoost engine makes the journey to LA... in a carry-on bag originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.0l ecoboostairportecoboostfordsecurityFri, 16 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20381864/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/16/fords-1-0l-ecoboost-engine-makes-the-journey-to-la-in-a-carr/20381864/article-detail.xml 20381864 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/1lopensuitcase628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/1lopensuitcase628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Fiesta ST to pack 180-horsepower single-turbo engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/2014-ford-fiesta-st-to-pack-180-horsepower-single-turbo-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/2014-ford-fiesta-st-to-pack-180-horsepower-single-turbo-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/16/2014-ford-fiesta-st-to-pack-180-horsepower-single-turbo-engine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Ford Fiesta ST spy shot - disguised

Ford's Fiesta launched into the US market with a splash thanks to a very well-orchestrated pre-launch PR campaign, but sales haven't proven all that robust over time, with Ford selling just 47,474 examples through October of this year (down 22.6 percent versus 2011).

Ford will be looking to reignite some of that early excitement with a new performance model, the 2014 Fiesta ST, and thanks to some leaked specs made available to Autoblog, we now have a very complete picture of what the tiny terror will look like.

Powered by a 1.6-liter EcoBoost four wearing a single turbocharger, our source says the ST will deliver 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, with a temporary overboost mode to extend peak twist. Both figures represent very healthy increases over the standard Fiesta's 1.6-liter Duratec engine, which chips in 120 hp and 112 lb-ft of torque. Like its Focus ST big brother, the new model will feature a so-called "Sound Symposer" to deliver a proper enthusiast's soundtrack. Shifting duties will fall to a six-speed manual, and the front-wheel drive five-door will also feature torque-vectoring technology and a three-mode stability control system for more entertaining handling antics.

The Fiesta ST will ride on a uniquely tuned and lowered sport suspension paired with 17-inch alloys (an inch larger than those available on the lesser Fiestas) wrapped in 205/40R17 Bridgestone Potenza rubber, and braking will be augmented by four-wheel discs with high-performance pads instead of the disc/drum combination on lower models.

Aesthetically, the Fiesta ST will receive a full performance rework, with a gaping trapezoidal grill with a mesh honeycomb insert that's a close kin to that of the Focus ST, along with a body kit said to mirror Ford's World Rally Championship racer (interestingly, Ford has already announced it will exit the series after 2012). Other additions include a rear spoiler, dual chrome exhaust tips and blacked-out headlamp surrounds.

When the hot hatch launches sometime in 2013, it will arrive in the buyer's choice of seven colors: Green Envy Metallic, Molten Orange Metallic, Ingot Silver Metallic, Oxford White, Performance Blue, Race Red or Tuxedo Black Metallic.

Given that Ford debuted the Fiesta ST in concept form at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year, we'd be surprised if the production model didn't surface in the City of Angels later this month. No word yet on pricing or availability, but logic suggests it will need to come in well under the reasonably priced Focus ST, which starts at $23,700.

2014 Ford Fiesta ST to pack 180-horsepower single-turbo engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford fiesta stbreakingecoboostfiestafiesta stfordFri, 16 Nov 2012 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20381897/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/16/2014-ford-fiesta-st-to-pack-180-horsepower-single-turbo-engine/20381897/article-detail.xml 20381897 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fiestastspies_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/fiestastspies.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Focus RS could get 350-hp EcoBoost, E-diff]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/07/ford-focus-rs-could-get-350-hp-ecoboost-e-diff/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/07/ford-focus-rs-could-get-350-hp-ecoboost-e-diff/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/07/ford-focus-rs-could-get-350-hp-ecoboost-e-diff/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We may have to make due with the Focus ST here in the United States (note: we are not complaining), but an even hotter version - the Focus RS - has historically been quite a hit in Europe. And according to a report in Auto Express, the next-generation RS should be one hot little number when it launches in 2014.

Rather than simply turning the ST's 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four up to 11, Ford's European performance division - Team RS - will likely use a larger-displacement mill for development of the hotter-than-hot Focus. The most likely candidate is a new 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine - rumored to be shared with the 2015 Mustang - that will produce around 350 horsepower.

Ford will likely offer the Focus RS with a six-speed manual transmission, but engineers have not ruled out the possibility of using a version of the company's PowerShift dual-clutch 'box. The main concern from Team RS is that using a DCT will add weight, though the engineers understand that the trend in this segment is to use dual-clutch gearboxes.

Auto Express reports that the new Focus RS will retain its front-wheel-drive architecture, but Ford is already working on new technologies to reduce the sort of squirreliness that comes with sending that much power to a car's front wheels. An active limited-slip differential - an E-diff - would "really optimise traction in all situations," according to Team RS powertrain engineering manager Len Urwin.

It's unclear whether or not the Focus RS will come to the US, despite the company's One Ford global product strategy. When it launches in Europe, Auto Express expects the RS to retail for about 25,000 pounds - just shy of $40,000 based on current exchange rates.

Ford Focus RS could get 350-hp EcoBoost, E-diff originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostfocusfocus rsfocus stfordrsWed, 07 Nov 2012 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20373066/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/07/ford-focus-rs-could-get-350-hp-ecoboost-e-diff/20373066/article-detail.xml 20373066 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/008-2013-ford-focus-st_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/008-2013-ford-focus-st.jpg <![CDATA[Ford picks black and blue stripes as official racing colors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ford-picks-black-and-blue-stripes-as-official-racing-colors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ford-picks-black-and-blue-stripes-as-official-racing-colors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ford-picks-black-and-blue-stripes-as-official-racing-colors/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Racing Livery

Ford has a new livery for its racing efforts. The automaker has officially chosen an offset black and blue stripe as its family colors. The paint scheme officially debuted on the new 2013 Ford Fusion headed to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, but the automaker says we can expect to see it crop up in every corner of the company's racing program. That includes on the NASCAR Mustang, the NHRA Mustang Funny Car, Grand-Am Focus ST-R, the Rally America Fiesta, the BITD off-road F-150, the CTCC Focus and the V8 Supercar Falcon in Australia. How's that for a family portrait?

We've already seen a hint of the new livery on prototype models like the new twin-turbo Cobra Jet, but Ford says the actual racers will feature the gloss black and blue stripes on a matte black field. We like the sound of that combo. Check out the quick press release below for more information.

Continue reading Ford picks black and blue stripes as official racing colors

Ford picks black and blue stripes as official racing colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostfordford ecoboost liveryford liveryford racingliverymotorsportsnascarnhraracingv8 supercarsWed, 31 Oct 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20366438/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/31/ford-picks-black-and-blue-stripes-as-official-racing-colors/20366438/article-detail.xml 20366438 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-racing-livery-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-racing-livery-628.jpg -1 2