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[J.D. Power releases sat-nav study findings, crowns Ford tops]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/jd-power-releases-sat-nav-study-findings-crowns-ford-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/jd-power-releases-sat-nav-study-findings-crowns-ford-tops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/jd-power-releases-sat-nav-study-findings-crowns-ford-tops/#commentsFiled under: ,



Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down five of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.

To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:
"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."
Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.
[Source: J.D. Power]

Continue reading J.D. Power releases sat-nav study findings, crowns Ford tops

J.D. Power releases sat-nav study findings, crowns Ford tops originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FlexFordFord FlexFordFlexJ.D. PowerJ.d.PowerJD PowerJD Power and AssociatesJdPowerJdPowerAndAssociatesLincolnLincoln MKSLincolnMksMKSNavigationsat-navsatnavSiriusSirius Travel LinkSiriusTravelLinkSyncMon, 07 Dec 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-the-rest-of-the-best-at-the-ford-display/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The rest of the Ford display - Click above for high-res image gallery

SEMA is an interesting show. We go in knowing full well that 60-75% of the cars we'll be walking past and/or covering are just trash. Sorry if this bombshell offends anyone, but your Chrysler 300C doesn't need 26-inch hoops, nor seventy gallons of sparkle orange paint. Or diamonds. But, as Doyle Brunson might say if he covered cars instead of being the Godfather of Texas Hold 'Em, that's SEMA.

We mention this in the "other Fords" post because some of these custom FoMoCos look fantastic, or at least pretty good. But 60-75% of them, well, we're not entirely sold. Let's start with the good. Despite the two-tone paint job, we're pretty darn smitten with the Fusion T4 by MRT above. More cars need big old intercoolers taking up the whole lower fascia. And while they might be an inch (or three) too big, the wheels are nice. And that white Lincoln MKS? Nice.

But then you got the other cars contained in this here gallery, and... um.... we like the Lincoln MKT, because well, we just like MKTs. But we're not sold on the Focus upgrades, especially since Ford saw fit to bring a Euro Focus RS to the show. Game, set, outmatched. And don't even get us started on the Edge they've cooked up here. Specifically, the wing on the back. No really - see for yourself.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: The rest of the Ford display


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

SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Edgeflexfordford edgeford flexford indiaFordEdgeFordFlexFordIndiaindiaindian laborIndianLaborlabor disputelabor disturbancelabor unrestLaborDisputeLaborDisturbanceLaborUnrestlincolnlincoln mktlincoln mkxLincolnMktLincolnMkxmanufacturingMKTMKXplantsRico autorico auto industriesRicoAutoRicoAutoIndustriesSun, 25 Oct 2009 10:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost turns it up to 11]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery

We were headed on a road trip, because that's what you do when the summer draws to a close and something as gigantic as the Ford Flex rolls into your driveway. Destination: Brooklyn. Five miles into the journey, the Sony audio system belts out the Beastie Boys' "No Sleep Till Brooklyn," and the two sub-five-year-olds in tow agree. But we had an ace up our sleeve: our Flex SEL tester was packing a six-shooter augmented by Ford's EcoBoost turbo system, good for another 100 horsepower over the standard model. If the trip was going to be hellish, at least it would be short.

There's newfound muscle to... flex.
There's a price premium to pay for the heavy breathing, but even at $40,000 as-tested, the kitted out Flex stickered for less than expected, and mitigating drawbacks seems to be a running theme with the EcoBoosted Flex. Its EPA estimated fuel economy in all-wheel drive trim of 17/24 16/22 mpg city/highway, is exactly the same as the unboosted Duratec 3.5-liter, but there's newfound muscle to... flex. A turbocharged engine immediately makes thoughts of premium fuel dance through your head, but nope, the direct-injected V6 is happy to perform tricks on regular, though Ford recommends you run higher octane for maximum performance.

In search of some kind of glaring downfall, we kept the Flex EcoBoost for a while, trying to suss out what penalties you might ultimately pay for the added brawn. Follow the jump to see how the big Ford fared.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost


Photos copyright (C)2009 Dan Roth / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost turns it up to 11

Review: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost turns it up to 11 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford flex2010 ford flex ecoboost2010FordFlex2010FordFlexEcoboostecoboostecoboost flexEcoboostFlexfeaturedflexflex ecoboostFlexEcoboostfordford ecoboostford flexFordEcoboostFordFlexin the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGaragereviewreviewedreviewsMon, 12 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost delivers more than just a better engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/first-drive-2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-delivers-more-than-just-a-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/first-drive-2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-delivers-more-than-just-a-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/first-drive-2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-delivers-more-than-just-a-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just a year after the Ford Flex first appeared, the Blue Oval has revamped its lineup in ways that make the 2010 model quite different from its forebearer. First among the changes is the Blue Oval's EcoBoost engine, which packs 3.5 liters of displacement and a duo of turbochargers to produce V8 power with V6 fuel economy. Autoblog went to the Colorado hinterlands to spend some with with the Flex and its new powerplant, and as we found out, there's more to Ford's boxy crossover than boosted performance and fuel economy.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon R. Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost delivers more than just a better engine

First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost delivers more than just a better engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford flex2010FordFlexcrossovercuvecoboostfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveflexfordford flexford flex ecoboostFordFlexFordFlexEcoboostturboturbochargedtwin turbotwin-turboTwinTurbowagonTue, 21 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Racing a Lincoln MKS EcoBoost at Milan Dragway [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/drag-racing-with-ecoboost-at-milan-dragway-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/drag-racing-with-ecoboost-at-milan-dragway-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/drag-racing-with-ecoboost-at-milan-dragway-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery from Milan Dragway

When the 2009 Lincoln MKS entered production, it arrived to market with a 273 horsepower, 3.7-liter V6. This made the new luxurious Lincoln a large, loaded, heavy vehicle with the power of a Nissan Altima. When we reviewed the MKS, we liked the newest Lincoln's interior, loved its in-car technology, and found the package itself acceptable to drive, but we were left longing for Ford's seemingly far off twin-turbocharged, direct-inject 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine. A vehicle as big as the MKS deserves the extra pop, we figured.

It took a year, but it's finally turbo time at the top of Lincoln's lineup. We already had the pleasure of a first drive with the force-fed MKS, and we found the 4,300-lb all-wheel-drive sedan to be quick and nimble for its size with fuel economy that handily bests its V8-powered competition. But we drove the EcoBoost MKS in the controlled environment of Ford's Romeo Proving Grounds. This time, we were given the chance to drive the EcoBoost MKS at a place where few Lincolns roam: the drag strip. Hit the jump to see how Ford's new hot rod Lincoln handled itself on the track. We have performance numbers and video waiting for you, as well as video and stats for the EcoBoost Ford Flex.


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost at Milan Dragway


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading Racing a Lincoln MKS EcoBoost at Milan Dragway [w/VIDEO]

Racing a Lincoln MKS EcoBoost at Milan Dragway [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford flex ecoboost2010 lincoln mks2010 lincoln mks ecoboost2010FordFlexEcoboost2010LincolnMks2010LincolnMksEcoboostdrag racing ecoboostDragRacingEcoboostecoboostfeaturedflexfordford flexford flex ecoboostFordFlexFordFlexEcoboostlincolnmilan dragwayMilanDragwaymkstwin-turboFri, 22 May 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKT debuts with a big, toothy smile]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mkt-debuts-with-a-big-toothy-smile/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mkt-debuts-with-a-big-toothy-smile/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mkt-debuts-with-a-big-toothy-smile/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

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

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

Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKT

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Acura MDXAcuraMdxAudi Q7AudiQ7Blue OvalBlueOvalBMW X5BmwX5Chrysler AspenChryslerAspenCoboCrossoverDearborndetroitdetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowDuratecfeaturedFlexFordFord FlexFordFlexLincolnMercuryMKTMKXMyKeyNAIASNavigatorsoftroaderMon, 12 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Ford debuts 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in Flex]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-ford-debuts-3-6l-ecoboost-v6-in-flex/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-ford-debuts-3-6l-ecoboost-v6-in-flex/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-ford-debuts-3-6l-ecoboost-v6-in-flex/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Ford EcoBoost Flex

Ford will finally bring the first of its EcoBoost engines to market in 2009, and one of the first few vehicles to get it will be the Flex. The 2010 Ford Flex will be offered with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 that employs twin turbochargers and direction injection to achieve 355 horsepower (@ 5,700 rpm) and 350 lb-ft of torque (@ 3,500 rpm). Not only is the EcoBoost V6 powerful, but it's also relatively fuel efficient with MPG ratings of 22 on the highway and 18 combined in the Flex. Take note, however, as AWD is a requirement when ordering the EcoBoost engine on either the SEL or Limited models. And Ford's crossover isn't the only vehicle that will offer the EcoBoost V6, as the Lincoln MKS and new MKT full-size, three-row crossover will also offer the motor in 2009.

Gallery: 2010 Ford EcoBoost Flex


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Ford debuts 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in Flex

Detroit 2009: Ford debuts 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in Flex originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Ford EcoBoost Flex2010FordEcoboostFlexecoboostecoboost flexEcoboostFlexflexSun, 11 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford will shut down 10 N.A. plants in early January]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/ford-will-shut-down-10-n-a-plants-in-early-january/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/ford-will-shut-down-10-n-a-plants-in-early-january/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/ford-will-shut-down-10-n-a-plants-in-early-january/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



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

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

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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assembly plantAssemblyPlantBlue OvalBlueOvalCutbacksDearbornEdgeF SeriesF-150F-SeriesFlexFSeriesHermosilloKansas CityKansasCityManufacturingMKXOakvilleshutdownThu, 18 Dec 2008 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Preview: CGS ReFlex]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/sema-preview-cgs-reflex/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/sema-preview-cgs-reflex/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/sema-preview-cgs-reflex/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to enlarge

Every time we see a Flex on the road, it looks cartoonish to us - those two massive rectangles sitting on cute little wheels. We wouldn't be surprised if, a la CARS, a Flex started talking to us. The "ReFlex" above, designed by Sean Smith of SS Designs and being prepared by CGS Motorsports for this year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas, looks like it could have something interesting to say. Who knew that a minimal body kit, a drop, and a set of 22s could give the Flex that personality it's been missing. The custom DuPont-painted CUV is also getting a suede interior, a Kicker sound system, and even new door solenoids from SPAL. We'll take it, or at least a ride in it. Check out the full press release after the jump, and stay tuned for the full report from SEMA.

[Source: CGS]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: CGS ReFlex

SEMA Preview: CGS ReFlex originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketcgscgs motorsportsCgsMotorsportsflexfordford flexFordFlexreflexsean smithSeanSmithsemasema 2008Sema2008ss designsSsDesignstunersThu, 09 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Ford Flex Limited [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-ford-flex-limited-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-ford-flex-limited-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-ford-flex-limited-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Ford Flex - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the Ford Fairlane concept bowed in Detroit in 2005, it proved that Ford could design a stylish crossover recognizable from a mile away. Unfortunately, Ford didn't exactly have a stellar record of bringing hot concepts to market, so expectations were low that we would ever see the Fairlane reach production. Fast forward to 2008, and the Ford Flex is born. It's bigger than the Fairlane, yet it looks very much like the outlandish wagon that we saw in Motor City a few years earlier. Does the Ford Flex have the style, capability and appointments to be a player in the suddenly crowded large CUV market? Or is this modern day Woody just another oversized people hauler that misses the mark? Hit the jump to see how the all-new Flex fared during its stay in the Autoblog Garage.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Ford Flex


All photos Copyright (C)2007 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Ford Flex Limited [w/VIDEO]

Review: 2009 Ford Flex Limited [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Ford Flex - Click above for high-res image gallery

Those of you who follow the auto industry as obsessively as we do will immediately recognize the all-new 2009 Ford Flex as the production version of the well-received Ford Fairlane "People Mover" concept from the 2005 Chicago Auto Show. The suicide doors are gone and the front has been opened up a bit to allow the engine to breathe... but Ford's execution from concept to production is, for the most part, dead-on. Ford recently gave us the opportunity to drive the new Flex in Southern California, so follow the jump to read our first impressions of the Blue Oval's new people mover.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Ford Flex


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Ford Flex Limited AWD

First Drive: 2009 Ford Flex Limited AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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On one end, General Motors is announcing its intention to wind down SUV and truck production, while at the other, Ford is just gearing up production of a vehicle that's plenty large in its own right. Ford Flexes are now beginning to roll off the line in Oakville, Ontario, and the plant even has plans to bring on new hires in order to meet production demands. Considering the current rise of gas prices, one might think Ford's boxy people carrier will quickly meet its demise. However, despite its full size stature, room for seven humans and a few cold drinks, the Flex doesn't attack your gas budget like Cookie Monster on a binge. Its 3.5L V6 engine gets a respectable 24 mph on the highway, assisted by a high-tech six-speed automatic transmission. Down the road, when the Flex is available with a turbocharged direct injection Ecoboost option, its fuel economy should raise a bit more.

Gallery: 2009 Ford Flex


[Source: Detroit News]

Ford begins production of the Flex originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 ford flex2009FordFlexflexford flexford suvFordFlexFordSuvsuvThu, 05 Jun 2008 08:33:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Autoblog talks design with Ford Director Peter Horbury]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/video-autoblog-talks-design-with-ford-director-peter-horbury/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/video-autoblog-talks-design-with-ford-director-peter-horbury/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/video-autoblog-talks-design-with-ford-director-peter-horbury/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Autoblog talks design with Ford Design Director Peter Horbury.

Ford has seen its ups and downs when it comes to vehicle styling, but with immense competition around the world and in North America specifically, design disasters will hurt an automaker now more than ever before. Ford design director Peter Horbury leads Ford's North American design, so responsibility for both beauties and beasts will rest firmly on his English shoulders. We had the opportunity to spend some time with Horbury and learn more about his plans for both Ford and Lincoln, and as usual the eloquent designer didn't disappoint. Hit play on the video above to hear what Horbury had to say about future European Fords in the U.S., global design, and the future of Ford interiors.

Click here if embedded video above does not work.

VIDEO: Autoblog talks design with Ford Director Peter Horbury originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DesignFlexFordFord Motor CompanyFordMotorCompanyLincolnMKSPeter HorburyPeterHorburyWed, 04 Jun 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Flex gets fridge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/ford-flex-gets-fridge/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/ford-flex-gets-fridge/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/ford-flex-gets-fridge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The move to make your car a rolling house makes takes another step. Ford has included a refrigerator option on the all new Flex, and in doing so has provided something better than what you'll find on many luxury cars. The rear seat gadget doesn't just chill the holding area -- it runs off of a compressor, like a proper fridge, to chill a liquid to keep things cool.

In normal operation it can take drinks from room temperature, at 77 degrees Fahrenheit, down to 41 degrees in two- and-a-half hours. It also has a freezer option that can get keeps items a chilly 23 degrees F. And it is sealed well enough so that it takes almost three hours for the temperature to go up just 18 degrees F. Should you wish to add the fridge to your Flex, the option will cost you a cool $760.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

Ford Flex gets fridge originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 May 2008 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flexflex crossoverflex refrigeratorFlexCrossoverFlexRefrigeratorfordford flexford flex refrigeratorFordFlexFordFlexRefrigeratorFri, 23 May 2008 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford shoots for 100,000 Flex sales a year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/11/ford-shoots-for-100-000-flex-sales-a-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/11/ford-shoots-for-100-000-flex-sales-a-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/11/ford-shoots-for-100-000-flex-sales-a-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Ford Flex.

The SUV exodus means Ford's Flex has the potential to be a hit and it's gearing up for an onslaught of orders when sales begin this summer. Ford's group veep of marketing and communications, Jim Farley, told Automotive News that consumers leaving the full-size SUV fold and others who haven't considered putting a Blue Oval badge in their garage might be ready to give something like the Flex a chance. CUV sales have been strong over the last year, and Ford and Farley believe that the Flex could rack up 100,000 sales annually if the trend continues.

Gallery: 2009 Ford Flex


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Ford shoots for 100,000 Flex sales a year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercuvflexfordford flexFordFlexjim farleyJimFarleyFri, 11 Apr 2008 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 HUMMER H2 and H2 SUT will be E85 compatible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/30/2009-hummer-h2-and-h2-sut-will-be-e85-capable/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/30/2009-hummer-h2-and-h2-sut-will-be-e85-capable/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/30/2009-hummer-h2-and-h2-sut-will-be-e85-capable/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In Dallas, a businessman has spent half a million dollars to install nine pumps that dispense E85, E10, and biodiesel. The catch: the businessman is a HUMMER dealer, and the pumps are next to his dealership. The station is called Classic Clean Fuels, and it is intended to make a statement for next year's H2 and H2 SUT, which will be the first production models to be Flex-fuel capable.

You won't need to drive a HUMMER to get E85 at the station. The pumps are open to the public, a first for a dealer-owned gas station. By 2010, GM has said all HUMMERs will be biofuel-capable. GM plans to market 15 Flexfuel models next year, but only one percent of the country's service stations sell E85. GM is using that as an opportunity to open the public's (and dealers') minds to putting alternative fuel stations in alternative places.

Said GM's Larry Burns, "Down the road we may even want to consider hydrogen dispensers at dealerships."

[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]

2009 HUMMER H2 and H2 SUT will be E85 compatible originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Mar 2008 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biodieselbiofuelbiofuelsdealerdealersdealershipdealershipse10e85e85 stationse85stationsflexflex fuelflex-fuelFlexFuelgasgas stationgas stationsgasolineGasStationGasStationsh2h2 suth2suthummerSun, 30 Mar 2008 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Ford Flex gets the woody treatment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/spy-shots-ford-flex-gets-the-woody-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/spy-shots-ford-flex-gets-the-woody-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/spy-shots-ford-flex-gets-the-woody-treatment/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Certain automotive fashions are better left in the grave. To wit: faux wood paneling. It looks good on the old Woody, but it's an absolute atrocity on everything else (see: Griswold, PT Cruiser). However, spies have caught the new Ford Flex donning some woodgrain shelf paper paneling, and as much as FoMoCo is trying to redefine the people-mover/minivan segment with the Flex, this would seem to be a seriously counterintuitive move. We're hoping it's a joke, and for our money, it is.

[Source: The Car Connection]

Spy Shots: Ford Flex gets the woody treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flexfordford flexford flex woodford flex woodyFordFlexFordFlexWoodFordFlexWoodyMon, 24 Mar 2008 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford's "effing" problem needs a fix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/18/fords-effing-problem-needs-a-fix/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/18/fords-effing-problem-needs-a-fix/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/18/fords-effing-problem-needs-a-fix/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Towards the end of 2003, Ford unveiled the Freestar. It was a lousy minivan, and its name wasn't much better. From there the f-bombs started pouring in with the Freestyle, Five Hundred, and Fusion. Ford had a Shakespearean stranglehold on alliteration, but outside of the decent success of the Fusion, Ford's effed-up naming convention brought little name recognition to the Blue Oval's car lineup. When Allan Mulally came to town, he scrubbed the Freestyle and Five Hundred names for the much more recognizable and respected Taurus and Taurus X, but unfortunately the basic shape of the family haulers didn't change enough for customers to want them.

Detroit News Columnist Daniel Howes accurately points out that Ford is back to effing up the names of its vehicles. The Flex arrives this summer, and the Fiesta arrives in 2010. The News says Ford marketing head Jim Farley questioned why the Flex name would adorn Ford's full-size crossover, but even the ex-Toyota wunderkind is unable or unwilling to lose the F. We don't understand the fixation Ford has with the sixth letter of the alphabet. The Dearborn automaker's two most successful cars of the past 40 years are the Taurus and Mustang, both of which are decidedly sans F. As a matter of fact, the Camry, Civic, Accord, Impala, and Malibu are all alliteration-free. Sure, if the Flex and Fiesta are great products they'll sell no matter what they're called, but we'd like for Ford to give us an effing break.

[Source: Detroit News]

Ford's "effing" problem needs a fix originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FiestaFlexFordJim FarleyJimFarleyMulallyVerveMon, 18 Feb 2008 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Lincoln MKT may be unveiled at Detroit show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/08/report-lincoln-mkt-may-be-unveiled-at-detroit-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/08/report-lincoln-mkt-may-be-unveiled-at-detroit-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/08/report-lincoln-mkt-may-be-unveiled-at-detroit-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image for a gallery of the suspected Lincoln MKT mule

According to an LA Times piece on the silliness that is modern vehicle naming, the paper appears to have flubbed a little bit revealing that Ford will introduce the 2009 Lincoln MKT at the Detroit Auto Show next week. What's the MKT? Well, the conventional wisdom suggests that it's a large 3-row crossover based on the Ford Flex architecture. We expect to see it wearing Lincoln's new, more dramatic styling language as introduced on the MKS along with a more upmarket interior in terms of look and feel. Looks like the spy shots that came out last week were timelier than we thought. While the mule pictured is disguised with Taurus X bodywork, not even that black mask can hide the new-look baleen whale grille that Lincoln has adopted. We won't need to wait much longer to see how this ultimately plays out, so as soon as we know the full skinny, you'll know, too.

[Source: Los Angeles Times via Inside Line]

Gallery: Lincoln MKT Flex-based CUV - spy shots

REPORT: Lincoln MKT may be unveiled at Detroit show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flexford flexFordFlexlincoln crossoverLincoln flex-based crossoverLincoln MKTLincolnCrossoverLincolnFlex-basedCrossoverLincolnMktMKTTue, 08 Jan 2008 11:56:00 EST