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[Shelby unveils F-150 Super Snake Concept, turbocharged Mustang package]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/shelby-unveils-f150-super-snake-concept-turbocharged-mustang-pa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/shelby-unveils-f150-super-snake-concept-turbocharged-mustang-pa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/shelby-unveils-f150-super-snake-concept-turbocharged-mustang-pa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Shelby F150 Super Snake Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We figured that anything and everything automotive in Las Vegas would be over at the convention center for SEMA all week, but apparently, we were wrong. Amidst the introductions of custom cars and aftermarket parts, Shelby Automobiles introduced two new vehicles at its Las Vegas facility.

The first is the F150 Super Snake Concept. Built as a pickup version of the potent GT500 Super Snake, the truck version has similar features including a Whipple supercharger system, Borla exhaust system, 22-inch wheels and tires, six-piston brakes, custom Shelby bodywork, and Shelby embroidery inside. Even though it is labeled as a concept, Shelby is offering the package to F150 owners who can get the parts installed only at Shelby's headquarters.

The second car is a (you guessed it) Mustang that features Shelby's new turbo package that can be installed post-title on any 2005-2009 GT at any of the company's mod shops around the country. Using a Turbonetics single-turbo system, Shelby has increased the output of the Mustang's 4.6-liter V8 to by nearly double to 550 horsepower. A variety of other components come with the package as well including a short-throw shifter, Borla exhaust, Shelby grille, 18-inch wheels and more. Other items like Baer six-piston brakes, Eibach suspension system, eight-point roll cage, and the Shelby GT-H hood are optional.

Learn more about each of the cars after the jump.


Gallery: Shelby F150 Super Snake Concept


Gallery: Shelby Turbocharged Mustang



[Source: Shelby Automobiles]

Continue reading Shelby unveils F-150 Super Snake Concept, turbocharged Mustang package

Shelby unveils F-150 Super Snake Concept, turbocharged Mustang package originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Sema2009SemaF-150F-seriesF150Ford MustangFordMustangLas VegasLasVegasmustangmustang GTMustangGtSEMASEMA 2009Sema2009ShelbyShelby AutomobilesShelby F150Shelby F150 Super SnakeShelby F150 Super Snake ConceptShelby MustangShelby Turbo MustangShelby Turbocharged MustangShelbyAutomobilesShelbyF150ShelbyF150SuperSnakeShelbyF150SuperSnakeConceptShelbyMustangShelbyTurbochargedMustangShelbyTurboMustangTurboneticsThu, 05 Nov 2009 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Bigfoot still a crowd favorite, 35 years later]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-bigfoot-still-a-crowd-favorite-35-years-later/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-bigfoot-still-a-crowd-favorite-35-years-later/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-bigfoot-still-a-crowd-favorite-35-years-later/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bigfoot #1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We distinctly remember 3rd grade. Specifically, sitting in the library once a month during recess. Why would we give up dodgeball and four-square to sit inside and read? Because the new issues of Off Road and 4Wheeler had just dropped and they had stories about Bigfoot! Bearfoot too, and Carzilla - but mostly Bigfoot! Happy days, happy days. And here at this year's SEMA Show, both the original 1975 Bigfoot #1 (the world's first monster truck) and the new-for-2009 Bigfoot (#12 of fifteen Bigfoots) showed up to terrorize the Las Vegas Convention Center's parking lot.

Well, not terrorize - because people love the Bigfoots (Bigfeets?) so very much. But lordy, are these some hella intimidating trucks, even all these years later. Perhaps most notable is that the new Bigfoot is actually a 2008 Ford F-250 body cut to look like a 1979 F-250. Also cool is the 35-year gulf in technology between the two beasts. We could have spent a couple hours standing underneath (no, really!) Bigfoot #12 just admiring the headers. And the gas bypass shocks. And the supercharger, etc. Sadly, the duo of Bigfoots won't be crushing any cars this week. Let's make that double sadly, as this year's SEMA show features many deserving candidates. For more (and better) details, check out pickuptrucks.com's Bigfoot post.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Bigfoot

SEMA 2009: Bigfoot still a crowd favorite, 35 years later originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BigfootF-250F-seriesF150FordFord F-250Ford pickupFordF-250FordPickupMonster jamMonster TruckMonsterJamMonsterTruckSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowThu, 05 Nov 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford F-150 SVT Raptor gets suspension explained by IL]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-f-150-svt-raptor-gets-suspension-explained-by-il/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-f-150-svt-raptor-gets-suspension-explained-by-il/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-f-150-svt-raptor-gets-suspension-explained-by-il/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor under the skin - Click above for high-res image gallery

In stock form, the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is one of the most impressive bits of machinery available from any automaker extant. We've managed to snag some seat time in one a couple of times now, and each time we've walked away mightily impressed. But just what is it that makes the off-road-ready supertruck so good? It's not the powertrain, it's the suspension.

While we've offered a basic walkaround of what makes the Raptor tick, the chaps at Inside Line took it upon themselves to delve a bit deeper into the mystery of the truck's cushy pogo sticks. Chief among the updates that turn an ordinary mild-mannered F-150 into a fire-breathing desert runner are the beautiful cast aluminum lower control arms and the special inverted Fox Racing Shocks with remote reservoirs.

Also worth noting are the 13.8-inch ventilated brake rotors with dual-piston sliding calipers and the beefy 17-inch wheels wrapped in LT315/70R17 All-Terrain tires from BFGoodrich. Add it all up and you've got yourself $38,995 worth of eminently capable pickup goodness - and a hearty "attaboy" for Ford's SVT engineers.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

2010raptor_firstdrive0022010raptor_firstdrive0012010raptor_firstdrive0002010raptor_firstdrive0032010raptor_firstdrive004

[Source: Inside Line]

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor gets suspension explained by IL originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford f-1502010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor2010FordF-1502010FordF-150SvtRaptorf-150f-150 raptorF-150 SVT RaptorF-150RaptorF-150SvtRaptorF150fordFord F-150ford f-150 raptorford f-150 raptor svtFord F-150 SVTford f-150 svt raptorford f150ford raptorFord Raptor F-150 SVTford raptor svt f150 v8 5.4 litrosFordF-150FordF-150RaptorFordF-150RaptorSvtFordF-150SvtFordF-150SvtRaptorFordF150FordRaptorFordRaptorF-150SvtFordRaptorSvtF150V85.4Litrosraptorraptor pickupraptor svtRaptorPickupRaptorSvtWed, 14 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/26/top-ten-green-cars-that-met-their-fate-during-cash-for-clunker/#comments

One rule that all clunked cars needed to adhere to was a maximum rating of 18 MPG from the federal government, right? What wasn't required was that the clunked car be considered dirty. After all, it's pretty clear that CNG vehicles burn clean, but that didn't stop 232 of them from meeting their sodium silicate solution-induced death.

We looked through the official, but as of yet unverified, list (PDF) of trade-in cars that were clunked using the Car Allowance Rebate System (Cash for Clunkers) and found that the aforementioned CNG vehicles, 1,779 flex-fuel vehicles and 24 LPG vehicles found their way to the recycler thanks to CARS. Which alternative-fuel models were most dumped? Which single hybrid took a dive? Click above for our top ten and check out the full list after the jump.

Photo by dno1967. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Continue reading Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers

Top Ten "green" cars that met their fate during Cash for Clunkers originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b3000carscash for clunkersCashForClunkersclunkerscnge250explorerf150featuredflex-fuelflex-fuel vehicleFlex-fuelVehiclefordgrand marquisGrandMarquisgreenmazdamercurymountaineerrangersierrasonomaSat, 26 Sep 2009 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford confirms (again) EcoBoost engine for F-150 lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/ford-confirms-ecoboost-engine-for-f-150-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/ford-confirms-ecoboost-engine-for-f-150-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/ford-confirms-ecoboost-engine-for-f-150-lineup/#commentsFiled under: ,

2009 Ford F-150 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The biggest bit of truck news from Ford today may have been the introduction of the latest Super Duty models, but the automaker didn't leave its smaller full-size pickup out of the festivities entirely. Buried down at the bottom of the press release (after the break) is a paragraph on the long-expected EcoBoost engine for the F-150.

No real details are given on the new turbocharged, direct injection mill, but we're expecting to see a 3.5-liter V6 engine similar to the one used in Ford's front-wheel drive models, but modified to accommodate a rear-wheel drive layout. Ford says its EcoBoost technology has been optimized for truck applications, meaning there should be tons of torque with a peak that starts at the lower end of the rpm scale and continues on through the midrange.

Ford also announced that its EcoBoost engine will boast a 20-percent improvement in fuel economy with a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions as compared to a similarly powerful naturally aspirated engine.


Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150


Continue reading Ford confirms (again) EcoBoost engine for F-150 lineup

Ford confirms (again) EcoBoost engine for F-150 lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostf-150f-150 ecoboostF-150Ecoboostf150f150 ecoboostF150Ecoboostfordford f-150ford f150FordF-150FordF150Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: U.S. Border Patrol considering Ford F150 SVT Raptor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/report-u-s-border-patrol-considering-ford-f150-svt-raptor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/report-u-s-border-patrol-considering-ford-f150-svt-raptor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/report-u-s-border-patrol-considering-ford-f150-svt-raptor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Ford F150 SVT Raptor - Click above image for high-res gallery

Very few people have ridden in Ford's upcoming Raptor; we have. And allow us to tell you what: it's astonishing. Perhaps the single most impressive production vehicle ever, even if the prototypes we rode shotgun in were only 90% complete. That good, really? Yes, truly. Imagine bounding across the Nevada desert at 100 mph (fuel cutoff) and then leaping 45 feet through the air, landing, and doing it again and again and again. That is the magic of SVT and their Raptor.

With that in mind, what government agency could make use of such a steroidal, hardcore truck? No, not FEMA. Exactly, the Border Patrol. We can think of no vehicle more suited to running down a gang of coyotes that Ford's uber-off roader. After all, the SVT Raptor was developed in the grueling deserts of Southern California and Northern Mexico, the Boarder Patrol's home turf. And with 11.2 inches of gas-shock suspension travel in the front and 13.4 inches out back, there is very little - if anything - that will slow this beast down.

The Customs and Border Protection division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security reportedly wants at least ten of these monsters. Pickuptrucks.com indicates that the government's purchasing agents are requesting bare bones work interiors instead of the fancy leather and Synced up cockpits found in the consumer models. In our estimation, this change would only serve to make the Raptor even more functional and/or intimidating. No word on whether the Feds would like to go for the 5.4-liter Triton V8, or the much more powerful all-new 6.2-liter V8. Either way, keep an eye peeled if you need to make a run for the border.


Gallery: SEMA 2008: Ford F-150 SVT Raptor LIVE


[Source: Pickuptrucks.com]

REPORT: U.S. Border Patrol considering Ford F150 SVT Raptor originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Ford F150 SVT Raptor2010 Ford Raptor2010 Raptor2010FordF150SvtRaptor2010FordRaptor2010RaptorBorder PatrolBorderPatrolF150F150 RaptorF150 SVT RaptorF150RaptorF150SvtRaptorFord RaptorFord SVT RaptorFordRaptorFordSvtRaptorHomeland SecurityHomelandSecurityRaptorSVTSVT RaptorSvtRaptorFri, 07 Aug 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Ay Dios Mio! 2011 Lincoln Mark LT spotted south of the border]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/ay-dios-mio-2011-lincoln-mark-lt-spotted-south-of-the-border/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/ay-dios-mio-2011-lincoln-mark-lt-spotted-south-of-the-border/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/ay-dios-mio-2011-lincoln-mark-lt-spotted-south-of-the-border/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Lincoln Mark LT never really worked out according to plan. The thinking was that trucks and SUVs were so hot, all you had to do was rebadge 'em and then roll around in all the easy money. And while that worked wonders for Cadillac via the Las Vegas-a-riffic Escalade EXT, Lincolns with beds just never got any play. In fairness to the LT, the stage for failure was set by the Blackwood, a truck only intended to appeal to polo players (the bed was carpeted). The LT, on the other hand, was essentially a fully-dressed F-150 with Lincoln badges. Lincoln Mark LT production stopped in late 2008 and no one cared. Except, apparently, Mexicans.

Despite all that, last March brought us some spy shots of a 2011 Lincoln Mark LT running around the Detroit metro area. Huh? Well here's the thing: These trucks are headed down south -- way down south. Turns out that the Lincoln brand still has a certain cachet in Mexico, and our neighbors to the south see no problem in shelling out a little extra for the honor of the badge. Don't laugh, there are plenty Americans who routinely shell out around $50,000 for the same truck with a Ford badge (the Lincoln Mark LT is essentially the Ford F-150 Platinum).

Anyhow, here's a pre-production 2011 Lincoln Mark LT running wild somewhere in Mexico. We thought maybe we'd be able to tell from the license plate, but that's definitely a 2002-2007 Distrito Federal plate. Frankly, this truck could be anywhere. But seeing as how most of us don't know our Aguascalientes from our Hidalgo, what's it matter where? The larger point is that in a few years time if someone asks you to bring them the head of Alfredo Garcia Jr. and you want to do so in high style, has Lincoln got the lux-truck for you.

[Source: Auto Cosmos]

Ay Dios Mio! 2011 Lincoln Mark LT spotted south of the border originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Aug 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cadillac EscaladeCadillac Escalade EXTCadillacEscaladeCadillacEscaladeExtEscalade EXTEscaladeExtF150FordFord F150Ford F150 PlatinumFordF150FordF150PlatinumLincolnLincoln BlackwoodLincoln LTLincolnBlackwoodLincolnLtSun, 02 Aug 2009 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford drops 'SFE' label from fuel-efficient trucks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/ford-drops-sfe-label-from-fuel-efficient-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/ford-drops-sfe-label-from-fuel-efficient-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/ford-drops-sfe-label-from-fuel-efficient-trucks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Ford F-150 SFE - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in the summer of 2008, fuel prices hit their highest peak in U.S. history and automakers responded with a raft of new cars and trucks designed to eke out as many miles from a single gallon of fuel as possible. Not surprisingly, Ford followed this tack when it introduced its latest F-150 pickup truck for the '09 model year, which launched with an optional SFE (Superior Fuel Economy, if you must know) edition that featured a number of fuel-saving tweaks and the Blue Oval's long-running three-valve 4.6-liter V8 engine.

After just one year on the market, PickupTrucks.com reports that Ford will drop the SFE model for 2010. The good news for those interested in fuel efficient full-size trucks is that Ford will continue to offer a two-wheel-drive, four-door version of its popular pickup with an SFE-matching 15/21 mpg rating, so it would seem the SFE is disappearing in name only. As far as we're aware, General Motors will continue to offer a competing model that matches the ex-SFE's 15/21 mileage rating and carries an XFE badge, though Ford's truck can tow 500 lbs. more, doesn't require a tonneau cover, and the chin spoiler can remain on when going off road.


Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150 SFE


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Ford drops 'SFE' label from fuel-efficient trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 ford f-150 sfe2009 ford f150 sfe2009FordF-150Sfe2009FordF150Sfe2010 ford f-1502010 ford f1502010FordF-1502010FordF150F-150F150ford f-150ford f-150 sfeford f150ford f150 sfeFordF-150FordF-150SfeFordF150FordF150SfegreenTue, 16 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty looks beefy, more modern]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/rendered-speculation-2011-ford-f-series-super-duty-looks-beefy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/rendered-speculation-2011-ford-f-series-super-duty-looks-beefy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/rendered-speculation-2011-ford-f-series-super-duty-looks-beefy/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Armed with the latest sets of spy photos and insider information, our friends over at PickupTrucks.com have created an illustrated rendering of what they think the 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty will look like.

It's definitely bolder and more masculine, which is the direction that the Blue Oval seems to be taking with its heavy haulers over the last few generations, and it appears to take its basic inspiration from the F-250 Super Chief concept from the 2006 Detroit Auto Show.

Under that bulging hood will reportedly sit either a 6.2-liter gasoline-fed V8 engine or Ford's newly-developed 6.7-liter Scorpion diesel V8, the pair of which are new engines that replace the existing 5.4-liter Triton and 6.4-liter Powerstroke. Interestingly, both of these new powerplants will reportedly be paired exclusively with automatic transmissions.

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Rendered Speculation: 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty looks beefy, more modern originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford f series2011 ford f-series2011 ford super duty2011FordF-series2011FordFSeries2011FordSuperDutyF150F250F350F450ford f seriesford f super dutyford f-seriesford f-series super dutyFordF-seriesFordF-seriesSuperDutyFordFSeriesFordFSuperDutyThu, 26 Mar 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[5 Stars for '09 Ford F-150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/5-stars-for-09-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/5-stars-for-09-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/5-stars-for-09-ford-f-150/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ford's 2009 F-150 has garnered five-star government crash ratings and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS), which Ford says makes its newly redesigned full-sizer the safest out there. Vehicle safety is still largely a question of the loose nut behind the wheel, but the F-150 does come with a raft of safety gear. Acronyms and names abound, from RSC (Roll Stability Control), to K-bags and Safety Canopy curtain airbags, it all helps the pickup earn five stars in front- and side-impact crash testing. We'd expect no less from Ford, considering the F-Series is a perennial sales champ, and probably the most pivotal vehicle Dearborn makes. The '09 F-series has been racking up accolades and these safety ratings are yet another feather in its cap. With competitors nipping at its heels, the F-Series cannot be anything other than stellar, and for now, with the long list of huzzahs, it appears to have met the challenge. Press release after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 5 Stars for '09 Ford F-150

5 Stars for '09 Ford F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crash ratingcrash rating f150crash ratingscrash testcrash test f150crash testingcrash testsCrashRatingCrashRatingF150CrashRatingsCrashTestCrashTestF150CrashTestingCrashTestsf-150 safetyF-150Safetyf150f150 safetyF150Safetyford f-150ford f-seriesford f150FordF-150FordF-seriesFordF150Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Flightlink bringing Volt-like F-150 series hybrid with in-wheel motors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/24/sema-preview-flightlink-bringing-volt-like-f-150-series-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/24/sema-preview-flightlink-bringing-volt-like-f-150-series-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/24/sema-preview-flightlink-bringing-volt-like-f-150-series-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Ford and PML Flightlink -- the same company that created the Volvo ReCharge concept -- will be showing off a plug-in hybrid electric F-150 pickup truck at the upcoming SEMA show in Las Vegas. Like the ReCharge, the F-150 will be a series hybrid, so the truck should be powered by the electric motors until the battery is close to being depleted. At that point, we assume a stock Ford V8 would recharge the trucks on-board battery pack. The motors themselves are pancake-style wheel-mounted units and use permanent magnet technology. Each wheel is powered by a separate motor, ridding the truck of its normal axles, driveshafts, transmission and transfer case. At this point, we're not sure what kind of range or performance figures the automaker is claiming for this concept, but we'd expect more details to filter out closer to the show's November 4th start-date.

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

SEMA Preview: Flightlink bringing Volt-like F-150 series hybrid with in-wheel motors originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-150 phevF-150Phevf150f150 phevF150Phevpmlpml flightlinkpml flightlink f-150pml flightlink f150pml-flightlinkPmlFlightlinkPmlFlightlinkF-150PmlFlightlinkF150semasema 2008Sema2008Fri, 24 Oct 2008 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford's light-duty 4.4L V8 diesel DOA?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/16/fords-light-duty-4-4l-v8-diesel-doa/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/16/fords-light-duty-4-4l-v8-diesel-doa/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/16/fords-light-duty-4-4l-v8-diesel-doa/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Ford F-150

Ford's reported decision to put its long-awaited light-duty diesel truck engine on ice for the time being could well be a result of slowing truck sales and the rising cost of diesel fuel. Indeed, the Blue Oval's pickup sales are down by about 27% compared to last year and are a far cry from what they were a few short years ago. That downward trend in sales is partly blamed on the recent rise in fuel prices, and diesel fuel has outpaced gasoline in its upward spiral. So, while diesel engines are inherently more fuel efficient than those running on gasoline, that pricing difference is usually only made up when a truck is used for heavy hauling and towing - one reason the expensive oil-burners prove so popular in the largest of trucks. Ford's not so sure any longer that drivers of its non Super-Duty trucks want or need a smaller diesel engine option. So, for now, Ford's 4.4-liter diesel V8 has been shelved.

Though not in the full-size truck segment for nearly as long, Toyota's Tundra has seen sales declines much steeper than the pickups from Ford, and the Japanese automaker has also put its diesel V8 on hold. General Motors is still on track to launch its 4.5-liter oil-burner, as is Chrysler with a Cummins-built 5.0-liter turbodiesel V8. These relatively small diesels are expected to average about 25% better fuel economy than their gasoline brethren while offering a power improvement of 10-15%. Ford believes it can offer similar performance benefits with its EcoBoost series of engines, one of which is slated for the F-Series trucks in 2010, for a smaller surcharge. We'll see.

Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Ford's light-duty 4.4L V8 diesel DOA? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.4-liter4.4l4.4l diesel4.4lDieselecoboostecoboost f150EcoboostF150f 150f-150f-seriesf150ford f 150ford f-150ford f-150 dieselford f-seriesford f150FordF-150FordF-150DieselFordF-seriesFordF150Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Ford F-150 priced from $21,320]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/19/2009-ford-f-150-priced-from-21-320/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/19/2009-ford-f-150-priced-from-21-320/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/19/2009-ford-f-150-priced-from-21-320/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Ford F-150 XLT

There are advantages being the last automaker to debut its next-generation half-ton pickup, and Ford has taken advantage of watching its competitors roll out redone truck over the past few years. Being last to market means the Blue Oval can effectively undercut its competitors' pricing and offer more standard features, which is exactly what it's done for the 2009 F-150. Pricing begins at $21,320 for a two-wheel-drive XL Regular Cab model and climaxes at $44,860 for a loaded F-150 Platinum. According to PIckuptrucks.com, the base price of the '09 model is about $500 more than a 2008 XL model with a V6 and four-speed automatic at $20,845, but you get more standard features and all the advances that comes with the new truck. Ford also calls out Dodge by claiming a 2009 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew at $35,820 is more than $5,000 less than a comparably equipped 2009 Dodge Ram Laramie Crew Cab. And like we told you yesterday, the F-150 boasts the highest available towing capacity, highest payload capacity, and class-tying fuel economy with the new SFE model.

2009 FORD F-150
Series
MSRP Low $
MSRP
High $
Features
XL
21,320
33,340
 Air Conditioning, 4.6L 2V w/ 4-Spd Auto Trans (Reg Cab)
STX
24,120
31,365
 4.6L 2V w/4 Spd Auto Trans (Reg Cab)
XLT
25,290
36,015
 4.6L 2V w/4 Spd Auto Trans (Reg Cab)
FX4
34,605
38,315
 6-Spd Auto Trans, Sirius Radio, Trailer Tow Package, 6-Way Power Driver Seat, Rear Defrost
Lariat
33,160
39,265
 6-Spd Auto Trans, Sirius Radio, Trailer Tow Package, 10-Way Power Driver Seat and Passenger Seat, Heated Seats, SYNC, Power Pedals
King Ranch
39,815
43,260
 6-Spd Auto Trans, Sirius Radio, Trailer Tow Package, 10-Way Power Driver Seat and Passenger Seat, Heated/Cooled Seats, SYNC, Power Pedals, Universal Garage Opener
Platinum
41,415
44,860
 All New - Includes 20" Wheels, Power Deployable Running Boards, Unique interior/exterior, Heated/Cooled Seats w/flow through console, Rain Sensing Wipers
























Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150 XLT

Continue reading 2009 Ford F-150 priced from $21,320

2009 Ford F-150 priced from $21,320 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 ford f-1502009 ford f1502009FordF-1502009FordF150f-150f150ford f-150ford f150FordF-150FordF150Fri, 19 Sep 2008 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncertain future for Ford's RWD vehicles, more EcoBoost on the way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/uncertain-future-for-fords-rwd-vehicles-more-ecoboost-on-the-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/uncertain-future-for-fords-rwd-vehicles-more-ecoboost-on-the-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/uncertain-future-for-fords-rwd-vehicles-more-ecoboost-on-the-w/#commentsFiled under:



It's been a while since we've heard about FoMoCo's development of large rear-wheel-drive vehicles for Ford and Lincoln - no surprise considering the current climate. With fuel prices continuing their upward trajectory and CAFE standards looming on the horizon, Ford is apparently reevaluating the efficacy of offering RWD vehicles in a market starving for fuel efficient whips.

In addition to this morning's story that Ford is considering offering an EcoBoost four-cylinder on its F-150 pickup, Automotive News is reporting that Ford's use of turbocharged, direct-injected engines could expand to beyond 500,000 vehicles annually by 2012.

Continue reading Uncertain future for Ford's RWD vehicles, more EcoBoost on the way

Uncertain future for Ford's RWD vehicles, more EcoBoost on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselecoboostexpeditionf150fiestafordlincolnmustangnavigatorrear wheel driveRearWheelDriverwdMon, 14 Jul 2008 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford considering four-cylinder EcoBoost for F150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/#commentsFiled under: ,



According to sources speaking with Pickuptrucks.com, Ford is considering offering an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine on its F-150 pickup in 2013. The boosted mill is expected to displace around 2.5-liters, produce 260 hp and 300 lb.-ft. of torque, and would only be available on the two-door Regular Cab F-150 4x2 and 4x4.

Ford's rationale for equipping its workaday pickup with a turbo'd four is partially due to the rising cost of gasoline, but is primarily fueled by new CAFE regulations that will require light trucks to average 28.6 mpg by 2015. Ford has already decided to drop its 4.2-liter V6 for the 2009 model year, only offering the 4.6-liter V8, which produces more power and more torque, while still offering similar fuel economy.

The EcoBoost range of engines are likely to find their way into several different models across Ford's line up, and according to Ford's director of powertrain research, Dan Kapp, EcoBoost engines could allow the automaker to reduce engine sizes by between 40- and 50-percent, so 3.0-liter V6s could be replaced by two-liter fours and a 2.5-liter four cylinder could be reduced to 1.5-liters.

Before the EcoBoost four-pot debuts on the 2013 F-150, Ford will launch a turbocharged V6 in the pickup in 2010. Displacement is expected to be around 3.5-liters, with output estimated at around 350 hp and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Partnered with a new six-speed transmission, fuel economy should be around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

And what of the rumored F-100 pick-up? It's conceivable that the range-topping version of the compact truck could be packing the same turbo'd four as its big brother, while a naturally aspirated version would power the entry level model.

[Source: Pickuptrucks.com]

Ford considering four-cylinder EcoBoost for F150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingecoboostf-150f150fordford f-150ford f150FordF-150FordF150four cylinderfour-cylinderFourCylinderturbochargedMon, 14 Jul 2008 01:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford confirms U.S. production of Euro Focus in 2010, delays new F-150 launch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/20/ford-confirms-u-s-production-of-euro-focus-in-2010-delays-new/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/20/ford-confirms-u-s-production-of-euro-focus-in-2010-delays-new/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/20/ford-confirms-u-s-production-of-euro-focus-in-2010-delays-new/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a gallery of the Euro-market Ford Focus

Finally. The European Ford Focus will go into production in the United States in 2010 along with the Fiesta. This has been officially confirmed by Ford, which will offer the Euro Focus here in both four- and five-door body styles. That's not the only news, either. Production of large trucks and SUVs will be further dialed back for the remainder of this year, and the introduction of the new F-150 pickup truck has been pushed back two months to "late fall". The catalyst for all this? Expensive gas, the new boogeyman that has people running from trucks and SUVs en masse. The F-150 delay is designed to give dealers more time to thin out existing '08 truck inventory before the new pickup arrives in the fall. On the flipside, Ford will add shifts to increase production of the current Focus, Mariner/Escape, Edge/MKX, and the new Flex. In the end, however, expect more red ink on the balance sheet, as Ford states that its pre-tax Automotive results will fall short of 2007's, and follows that up with an announcement that it expects Ford Motor Credit to post a loss, as well. You can read the full release after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford confirms U.S. production of Euro Focus in 2010, delays new F-150 launch

Ford confirms U.S. production of Euro Focus in 2010, delays new F-150 launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010euro focuseuro focus confirmedEuroFocusEuroFocusConfirmedf-150f150fiestafocusfordFri, 20 Jun 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Ford F150 "Raptor" caught roaming the streets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/12/spy-shots-ford-f150-raptor-caught-roaming-the-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/12/spy-shots-ford-f150-raptor-caught-roaming-the-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/12/spy-shots-ford-f150-raptor-caught-roaming-the-streets/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for more shots of the Ford F150 "Raptor"

We've got to give the folks at Ford credit for the camoflague (or lack thereof) they've used to conceal the newest mule for the F150-based "Raptor" pickup. Despite the artfully placed stickers on the windows and bumper, nothing can draw attention away from the massively flared wheel arches and lifted ride-height of the off-road mule.

According to a report from Pickuptruck.com, the four-wheeled titan will be sporting a Fox Racing-tuned suspension, 35-inch tires and possibly a supercharged V8 pulled from the upcoming Boss Mustang when it's unveiled in the next year or two.

Gallery: Ford F150 "Raptor" - Spy Shots

Spy Shots: Ford F150 "Raptor" caught roaming the streets originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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click above for more high-res pics of the 2009 Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is America's annual best seller, moving more units than anything else since Jimmy Carter was president. It's also one of the most challenged when it comes to cutting through the air, although we know there's worse. If the F-150 is going to clear the hurdle of new CAFE regs, that's going to change: its combined 16.5 mpg won't make it any friends come 2020.

Ford designers, led by North American Design Director Peter Horbury, are already looking at ways to make the next generation F-150 more aerodynamic, despite the all-new 2009 Ford F-150 having just debuted. The problem is, there simply aren't many options for making a difference: the only two components are the giant block of a passenger compartment and the massive drag-creating void of a bed behind it. Ford design did attempt to go a little aero with the front end of the 10th generation 1997-2003 F-150, but that, frankly, wasn't what people expected from an American pickup.

[Source: Auto Week]

Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150



Continue reading Ford already thinking about more aerodynamic F-150

Ford already thinking about more aerodynamic F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2008 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerodynamic f-150AerodynamicF-150car designCarDesignf seriesf150f250fordford f150ford pickupford pickupsFordF150FordPickupFordPickupsFSeriessuper dutySuperDutytruck designTruckDesignTue, 22 Jan 2008 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[AutoWeek picks Best of Show and honors others from Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/18/autoweek-picks-best-of-show-and-honors-others-from-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/18/autoweek-picks-best-of-show-and-honors-others-from-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/18/autoweek-picks-best-of-show-and-honors-others-from-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Here's a way to create content long after an auto show has ended, dream up a list of editorial favorite picks. Well, what the hell, we might as well be meta and report on the anti-news. Here we go blithely. AutoWeek handed out its Editors' Choice awards for the North American International Auto Show at its Design Forum on Wednesday. We can debate the relevance, but we'd rather just talk about the cars. The four vehicles that AutoWeek thought were the bee's knees are as follows:

As Linda Richman would say: discuss.

[Source: AutoWeek]

AutoWeek picks Best of Show and honors others from Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009audiautoauto showAutoShowautoweekawardscadillacchevroletchevycorvettecoupectscts coupeCtsCoupedetroitf150fordnaiasnorth american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowr8showtdiv12zr-1zr1Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2008: Live intro of the 2009 Ford F-150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/13/detroit-2008-live-intro-of-the-2009-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/13/detroit-2008-live-intro-of-the-2009-ford-f-150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/13/detroit-2008-live-intro-of-the-2009-ford-f-150/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above for high-res live shots of the 2009 Ford F-150

We already brought you official photography of the newly-revamped 2009 Ford F-150 just after midnight today, but that's hardly enough attention for America's best-selling vehicle. Now that the Blue Oval boys have rolled out the new truck into Cobo Arena - with help from Toby Keith and a cast of characters - we see little reason to think that the F-series won't retain its crown.

Improving the F-150 "truck-ness" are several features, such as the tailgate step that we appreciated so much on larger Super Duty, and new fold-down steps that can be accessed from the side of the truck. Considering how deep the box is on this truck, the steps will definitely come in handy on the ranch or at the grocery store.

Ford's slick Integrated Trailer Brake Controller is now available on a half-ton truck for the first time, and Trailer Sway Control helps keep the vehicle on the road while towing so that hopefully you won't need to experience the effectiveness of Roll Stability Control and side-curtain airbags. Tow and payload ratings are as-yet announced; we expect to hear more by the Chicago Auto Show next month.

More after the jump...

Gallery: Detroit 2008: 2009 Ford F-150 - Live Reveal

Continue reading Detroit 2008: Live intro of the 2009 Ford F-150

Detroit 2008: Live intro of the 2009 Ford F-150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jan 2008 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingDetroit Auto ShowF-150F-seriesF150FordFord F-150Ford F150FordF-150FordF150NAIASpickuppickup trucktruckSun, 13 Jan 2008 12:24:00 EST