Autoblog

Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:32:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Crossover, Ford

In case you thought installing SYNC into Ford vehicles was a ho-hum-whatever affair, that's not the case - Ford puts a lot of thought into it. The Blue Oval's latest assembly line advance is to have SYNC's infotainment software installed into the 2011 Ford Edge via WiFi. Made possible by the the latest version of SYNC with WiFi access, the new process allows Ford to save money on parts and inventory by using a common module among vehicles in different cars and made in different plants. After the Edge, the Lincoln MKX and 2011 Explorer will gain the same systems. Follow the jump for the press release.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines

Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Whoops! MT discovers Ford Edge Sport slower than less powerful SEL model

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:24:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Ford

2011 Ford Edge - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to popular American folklore, you should always buy the biggest engine available. Such thinking likely became prevalent in the 1950s, when the American automotive industry was busy building new V8 engines, experimenting with multiple carburetors and high compression, and generally discovering the art of hot-rodding. Gas prices? Fuel economy? Pfft. It was a great time to be an American.

These days, life isn't quite so simple. There are countless reasons to consider a downsized powerplant. First off, we all care about fuel mileage and many of us care about emissions. Then there's the cost consideration, and, finally, the biggest engine isn't always the best performer. Proof of such can be seen in the new 2011 Ford Edge, that we just drove ourselves and that was recently put through the full testing regime by the boys at Motor Trend.

There are currently two V6 engines available in the Edge (a 2.0-liter EcoBoost is on the way in a few months), a 3.5-liter and a 3.7, which comes straight from the Mustang. Power for the smaller engine comes in at 280 horses and 253 pound-feet of torque. The larger 3.7 puts out 305 horses and 280 lb-ft and is available only in the Edge Sport. So, the Sport is the fastest, right?

Not so fast... literally. MT clocked a 7.1-second run to 60 in the base Edge, but only managed a disappointing 7.6 seconds in the 3.7-powered Edge Sport. Apparently, the problem is weight. The base Edge tipped MT's scales at 4075 pounds while the Sport came in at an obese 4405, part of which can be explained by the addition of all-wheel drive. In any case, the Edge Sport, with its massive 22-inch wheels and wide tires, can't keep up with the base Edge in a straight line.

On the flip side, the AWD Edge Sport (with those aforementioned oversize wheels and tires) handily out-handled its base model sibling. In other words, this is a case where you need to pick your poison, either handling or straight-line acceleration. And of course the upcoming EcoBoost will add another interesting option to consider in a few short months.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge: First Drive

[Source: Motor Trend]

Whoops! MT discovers Ford Edge Sport slower than less powerful SEL model originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Ford Edge begins shipping to dealers as model hits 400,000 units

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, Ford

2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

It goes without saying, but we're going to go ahead and say it anyway: Crossovers are so hot right now. According to data compiled by Ford, the CUV industry has expanded 220 percent since 2006, which is the year the Blue Oval introduced the world to the Edge, its main player in the hotly contested market.

Ford also contends that the over 400,000 Edge CUVs have sold since late 2006, making it the best-selling mid-size crossover over that period of time. Don't expect that growth to slow down any time soon, either, as Ford projects the CUV segment will increase another few percentage points in 2011. In fact, the market for CUVs will grow to be as large as that of full-size pickup trucks.

In order to meet the increased demand it expects for CUVs, Ford has sharpened its Edge (sorry, couldn't resist) for the 2011 model year. Of special note are the two new drivetrain choices that join the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 285 horsepower and a 3.5-horsepower 3.7 Ti-VCT V6 in the newly beefed-up Edge Sport.

The House that Henry Built is also quick to point out that its next-gen Edge will come with a full suite of technology options, including Sync and MyFord Touch. So, will all of this added goodness equal a worthwhile improvement to the hot-selling previous-generation Edge? Stay tuned for a First Ride report, and feel free to click past the break for Ford's official press release.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2011 Ford Edge begins shipping to dealers as model hits 400,000 units

2011 Ford Edge begins shipping to dealers as model hits 400,000 units originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Ford Edge gets 19/27 mpg EPA ratings, tops mid-size V6 class

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Ford

2011 Ford Edge - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 3.5-liter V6 edition of the revamped 2011 Ford Edge has finally received its official fuel mileage ratings from the EPA, and like its more luxurious Lincoln MKX sibling, it has topped its class. The Edge is ranked at 19 miles per gallon on the urban drive cycle and 27 mpg on the highway. That's a tick better on the highway than the MKX with its 3.7-liter version of the V6. It's also 1 and 2 mpg better respectively than its chief domestic rival, the 3.0-liter V6 Chevrolet Equinox - despite the fact that at 285 horsepower, the Ford engine is significantly more powerful (the 'Nox offers 264 hp).

The big news that we are still waiting on is the ratings for the 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine. The four-cylinder Equinox is rated at an impressive 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Ford will have quite a challenge beating those figures, however, especially with an engine that is expected to produce about 45 more horsepower than the naturally aspirated engine in General Motors' crossover. Offiicial PR verbiage after the jump, high-res gallery below.

Update: It turns out that while the Edge is tops in highway mileage at 27 mpg, it's combined rating is 22 mpg. The 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe V6 is rated at 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2011 Ford Edge gets 19/27 mpg EPA ratings, tops mid-size V6 class

2011 Ford Edge gets 19/27 mpg EPA ratings, tops mid-size V6 class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ruff Ride: Ford Edge named Pet Safe Vehicle of the Year

Dan Roth — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Etc., Safety, Ford

2011 Ford Edge - Click above for high-res image gallery

When is a dog a 2,700 pound projectile? When little Muffy is riding shotgun, big old fuzzy head stuck out the window, tongue lolling in the breeze and all of a sudden master crashes the darn thing into some unforseen obstacle. In the interest of keeping pets safe, Bark Buckle UP, a pet travel safety organization, has some recommendations. Among endorsement of the Doggie Seat Belt and exhortations to take steps toward pet safety in the car, are some vehicular mentions. While pet safety is a laudable goal, this announcement leaves us feeling a little dirty, like it's mostly a thinly-veiled ploy to sell stuff.

In any case, Bark Buckle UP gave its Top Dog awards away at the New York Auto Show, and the Ford Edge has trotted away with the Pet Safe Vehicle of Choice Top Dog award. "The Ford Edge is perfect for those traveling with pets," says Ford Edge marketing manager Brett Burin upon the Edge's crowning. Bark Buckle UP agrees, citing the vehicle's combination of space, ease of ingress and egress for Fifi and Fido, rear ventilation and adaptability to pet gear as reasons for the win. Ford vehicles took four of the award's 'choice' slots for 2010, with the Transit Connect, Flex, and Lincoln MKT also making the list. The other alternative is to avoid either having a dog altogether (they're smelly, and they lick their butts) or don't chauffeur your pooch around if you have opened your home to canis domesticus. If you're a dog lover, though, you might want to check out the official press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge

[Source: Bark Buckle UP]

Continue reading Ruff Ride: Ford Edge named Pet Safe Vehicle of the Year

Ruff Ride: Ford Edge named Pet Safe Vehicle of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford confirms global concept reveal at next month's Beijing Motor Show. So what is it?

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, China, Beijing Motor Show

Ford has a huge amount planned for its booth at next month's Beijing Motor Show, including technology displays of the 2011 Ford Edge with MyFordTouch, interactive demos highlighting the next-generation Ford Focus, two orange robots hawking EcoBoost, and the chance to meet a crash test dummy that will ~~sing Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm~~ demonstrate safety technologies.

Alongside that Focus, which will sit on a global platform slated to underpin ten cars, the real treat will be the reveal of an "all-new concept car." That's all Ford had to say about it, and whatever it is, the first time anyone's going to see it will be in Beijing. We've contacted Ford to see if they'll give us anything more than a Dave Loggins line about it - "Please come to Beijing" - because we really have no idea what it could be, though we're guessing something on the company's C1 platform. The press release is after the jump, so you can scan it for clues and let the ruminations and rumor-mongering begin in comments...

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford confirms global concept reveal at next month's Beijing Motor Show. So what is it?

Ford confirms global concept reveal at next month's Beijing Motor Show. So what is it? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Ford Edge ordering guide hits the Intertubes

Chris Shunk — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Ford

2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

After spending some time with the 2011 Ford Edge Sport, it's obvious Ford did more than just a run-of-the-mill mid-cycle refresh. And with the overhauled crossover hitting showrooms this summer, more and more information is trickling out. A member of the Blue Oval forums apparently found the Edge's order guide, giving us a complete rundown of the four Edge packages available at launch.

First, let's begin with what we already know. The Edge will be available in SE, SEL, Limited and Sport trims, come standard with an overhauled 285-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 powerplant and the Sport model will get the same 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 that powers the 2011 Mustang V6. According to the ordering guide, Ford expects 17 percent of customers to opt for the base SE model, 39 percent to go for the mid-level SEL, 40 percent to choose the Limited and only four percent to choose the 22-inch wheels of the Sport model.

SE buyers will have two Rapid Spec option packages from which to choose, though the pickings are slim. Spec 101A includes a convenience package with auto-headlamps, a compass, keyless entry and a reverse sensing system. The SEL will add everything from the best SE model plus standard equipment including 18-inch painted aluminum wheels, heated mirrors, a six-way power driver's seat and dual-zone temperature control. The SEL trim will also afford three different packages: Rapid Spec 201A includes the eight-inch LCD MyTouch interface with SYNC and a rear-view camera while Spec 202A adds features like leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver's seat and ambient lighting.

Stand alone options include an expansive Vista Roof (available with spec 201A or 202A) and Ford's excellent navigation system (available with spec 202A). Jump to the Limited Edge and MyTouch, SYNC, leather, heated seats with power adjust in the front row and visual cues all around are all standard. The Limited has three rapid specs, with The Blue Oval expecting 301A to be the most popular. The package includes navigation, HID headlamps and the Vista Roof. Spec 302A adds BLISS blind spot protection and adaptive cruise control, while the low volume Sport model comes with scores of standard features including the aforementioned 22-inch wheels and 3.7-liter drivetrain. All options, including navigation, are a-la-carte. What the alleged Edge order guide doesn't include is pricing or any information about the 2.0-liter turbo model, which reportedly won't be available until 2011. Check the gallery below for the full guide.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Ordering Guide

Gallery: First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

[Source: Blue Oval News]

2011 Ford Edge ordering guide hits the Intertubes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Exclusive First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

Rex Roy — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Crossover, Ford, Quick Spins

Yee-Ha! in a 2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Manufacturers used to roll out all-new cars every five-to-eight years. Somewhere around the halfway point - usually year three - much hoopla would be made about new front and rear fascias, the addition of some standard features and some new option packages. (*Yawn*). These changes were designed to give shoppers a reason to look at a car that was getting long-in-the-tooth.

Ford Motor Company sung by this songbook for decades, but it's not any longer. As we've seen with the Escape, Fusion and Mustang, the Ford brand is rolling out significant product changes any time they darn well please. For example, the 2010 Fusion could have been a standard refresh, but instead included three all-new powertrains, a significantly upgraded interior, and the expected front and rear fascias.

Introduced as a 2007 model at the close of 2006, the Edge was Ford's second attempt at a more car-like crossover. (Anybody remember the Freestyle/Taurus X ... uhh, not so much.) Heading into its fifth year of production, the Edge needed some serious attention. It just got it: We reported so on the eve of February's Chicago Auto Show.

Following the new model's public debut, Ford offered Autoblog an exclusive opportunity to ride in a 2011 Edge Sport with some development engineers so we could have an early, behind-the-scenes look at their handiwork. The new Edge doesn't go on sale until later this Summer, but you can read all about our experience at the Dearborn Development Center right now after the jump.

Gallery: First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

Continue reading Exclusive First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

Exclusive First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2010: New Ford Edge becomes cutting edge CUV [w/video]

Michael Harley — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:01:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, SUV, Ford

2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford rolled out its 2011 Edge, with a triad of engine choices, in Chicago this morning. As we mentioned earlier, the 2011 variant will offer the all-new EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The four-cylinder turbo, with direct-injection, promises 20-percent better fuel economy without sacrificing performance or suffering emission penalties (Ford has yet to release any specifics on horsepower, torque or fuel economy). The standard engine will be a 3.5-liter V6 (285 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque), while the Edge Sport (pictured above) is fitted with a 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 (305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque).

The front fascia is completely reworked with a new fresh look, while the rear is only slightly updated - the greenhouse appears untouched. Mechanically, the brake system has been upgraded with larger rear rotors, improved pad composition and a revised brake booster. The Edge SEL and Edge Limited wear standard 18-inch tires - now one-half inch wider, with 20-inch tires optional on both. The Edge Sport has (gulp!) 22-inch wheels standard, a class-exclusive says Ford.

Inside, the dashboard has been completely redesigned around the centerpiece MyFord Touch infotainment center. Standard on the Edge Limited and Edge Sport, the system utilizes a 8.0-inch full-color touch-sensitive LCD screen in the center console. Complementing the main display is the revised instrument panel with dual multi-tasking 4.2-inch information panels on each side of the speedometer that are operated via five-way spoke-mounted thumb switches on the steering wheel. With about a gazillion different features, including the ability to have your Edge welcome you by name when you enter the vehicle, the industry-leading MyTouch system keeps getting better and better - its revised application in the 2011 Ford Edge only serves to reinforce the message. Check out the video and press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport at Chicago Auto Show

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: New Ford Edge becomes cutting edge CUV [w/video]

Chicago 2010: New Ford Edge becomes cutting edge CUV [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Ford Edge gets three engine choices, more ambitious Sport model

Chris Paukert — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Crossover, Ford

2011 Ford Edge - Click above for high-res image gallery

As dutiful American consumers, we've been taught to believe that choice is good. To that end, the splintering of the automotive market into different niches (four-door coupes, small panel vans, high-riding hatchbacks, etc.) is a positive development for buyers. But while the range of total models from automakers has been increasing, individual variation within a given model range has seemingly been reigned in, from a drastic reduction in build combinations of light-duty pickups to the availability of engines and ala carte options in everyday vehicles. Standing in direct contrast to this trend, however, is the 2011 Ford Edge crossover.

Whereas the first-generation Edge has lived since 2006 with a 3.5-liter V6 as its sole drivetrain, the 2011 model will offer no fewer than three powertrain choices. For 2011, the 3.5-liter engine will live on as the Edge line's bread-and-butter, but it is being joined by Ford's first production application of a new EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, as well as the larger 3.7-liter V6 for the popular Edge Sport. In the case of the 3.5-liter, it produces 285 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque, while the Sport's larger 3.7 Ti-VCT V6 delivers 305 ponies and 280 torques on 87 octane. Ford is not yet releasing power and economy numbers on the EcoBoost engine, but it promises "class-leading" fuel efficiency, noting that the new powertrain should eclipse the original 2006 Edge by some 30 percent.

Follow the jump to find out what else has changed for the Edge, as well as Ford's official press release.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge

Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2011 Ford Edge gets three engine choices, more ambitious Sport model

2011 Ford Edge gets three engine choices, more ambitious Sport model originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #165 - Nunez jumps in

Dan Roth — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Podcasts, Government/Legal, Marketing/Advertising, Recalls, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Porsche, Toyota

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

It's not often that veteran 'caster Alex Nunez makes an appearance, but he joins Chris, Sam, and Dan for episode #165 of the Autoblog Podcast. First up, we hit the Autoblog Garage to talk about the Honda Accord Crosstour, Nissan Versa, and Honda Element Dog Edition. Moving on to news items, we start with the 2011 Shelby GT500 Mustang, talk about automotive Superbowl commercials, and then catch our breath while looking over the Porsche 911 Turbo S.

We don't slow down, though, diving right back in to pink Dodge Challengers, special-edition Z cars, an Outback Sport for the rest of the world, Renault's Megane convertible coupe, the new Ford Edge, Wolfgang Bernhard's return to Mercedes, and of course, Toyota recalls. We wrap up with a couple horrible answers to your sincere and excellent questions before calling it a night.

You can send your Alex Nunez fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey, or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #165 - Nunez jumps in

Autoblog Podcast #165 - Nunez jumps in originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Four-cylinder EcoBoost Ford Edge coming to Chicago

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:41:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Spy Photos, Technology, Ford, Rumormill

2011 Ford Edge spy shots - Click above for high-res image galleries

Here's some very exciting news, especially if you're into that whole forced-induction ~~cult~~ thing: Ford is reportedly set to show off its new four-cylinder EcoBoost engine under the hood of the overhauled-for-2011 Edge. To refresh you memory, EcoBoost is Ford speak for turbocharging plus direct injection. In the case of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost found in cars like the Ford Flex EcoBoost, the forced induction, direct injected motor makes much more power than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 (355 horsepower compared to 262 hp), yet gets identical fuel economy (16 city/22 highway).

The 2.0-liter EcoBoost that The Detroit News promises is coming in the substantially refreshed Edge is said to be as powerful as a 3.0-liter V6. We'll take that to mean about 240 or so horsepower. Sure, that's not a very exciting power figure in the Edge, but it will probably make for some sexy fuel economy figures. And just image how thrilling this news will be when the 2.0-liter EcoBoost Focus comes out? Or, Mulally willing, an EcoBoosted Fiesta! Even a Fusion with this new motor (and a manual transmission) would be very, very welcome. We should know much more next week in Chicago.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Edge

[Source: The Detroit News | Images: KGP Photography]

Report: Four-cylinder EcoBoost Ford Edge coming to Chicago originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly naked

John Neff — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln

Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge spy shots - Click above or below for high-res image galleries

Ford and Lincoln's crossover offerings are plentiful, but all attention is being paid nowadays to the boxy-yet-practical Flex and hit-by-the-ugly-stick MKT. What about the Edge and MKX? This duo was launched years before the automaker's polarizing pair of three-row CUVs arrived.

Well, their due for redesigns. Or at least, according to these spy shots, refreshenings of their front and rear ends. In the Edge's case, that means making the already handsome people mover look a bit more windswept, though it appears things will stay largely the same between the A- and D-pillars.

The changes look more substantial for the MKX, which launched before Lincoln debuted its increasingly ubiquitous doubled-winged grille design. That punum looks pretty okay on the MKS sedan and like a baleen whale on the oversized MKT. It looks just right on the MKX to us.

Ford and Lincoln may have other news about the Edge and MKX for us - powertrain and infotainment upgrades most likely - at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in early January, which is when we expect to see these new looks formally trotted out on stage.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Lincoln MKX

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Edge

[Images: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly naked originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: The rest of the best at the Ford display

Jonny Lieberman — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Ford

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

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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Ford and Canadian Auto Workers reportedly reach a deal

Dan Roth — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:09:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Ford, UAW/Unions, Canada

Ford Motor Company and the leadership of the Canadian Auto Workers union have reached a tentative agreement after a marathon four-day wrap-up to negotiations. Union membership needs to approve the deal, which will guarantee a Great White North presence for Ford until at least 2012. Voting is underway this weekend, and if approved, the CAW will be responsible for building 10 percent of Ford's North American production, down from the current 13 percent, which the union had been trying to hold on to.

Workers did agree to time off reductions, and pledged that new employees will have to pay into their pensions. Ford's given its word that the company will build as many vehicles in Canada as it sells there, and the union deemed the pledge good enough to grant GM- and Chrysler-style concessions to Ford.

The Panther platform has been given its last rites; the St. Thomas Assembly plant is the only Ford location currently building the body-on-frame biggies, and that plant will close in September 2011. The 1,600 people in Ontario who build Town Cars and Grand Marquis are understandably unhappy about word that Ford intends to shutter the plant, but the Panther has cheated death more than once. This time, it may stick.

Better news for CAW members is that Ford's Oakville assembly complex, also in Ontario, has the go-ahead to add a third shift when needed. Ford also says it will manufacture a new vehicle at Oakville, which currently builds the Edge, Flex, MKX, and MKT crossovers, but that will likely come after the current labor agreement expires.

[Source: CBC News, Photo: Ford/CC]

Ford and Canadian Auto Workers reportedly reach a deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Labor unrest in India to cause Ford to idle key NA crossover plant

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:47:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln, India

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.

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STUDY: Ford owns brand loyalty in 2009; Scorned Saturn, Pontiac buyers will look outside of GM

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:55:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Pontiac, Saturn, Toyota

Ford buyers appear to love their cars more than customers of any other automotive brand, returning back to the American automaker when it comes time to purchase their next vehicle. According to a study by Experian Automotive, six of the top 10 vehicles for customer brand loyalty wear badges from the Blue Oval. That includes the Ford Fusion (62.4 percent), Ford Edge (57.9 percent), Ford Five Hundred/Taurus (56 percent), Ford Freestyle (51.9 percent), Ford Escape (49.4 percent) and the Ford Focus (47.57 percent).

Other vehicles making up the top 10 include the Toyota Prius (52 percent), Chevy Impala (51.7 percent), Toyota Camry (47.8 percent) and Toyota Corolla (47.56 percent). This brings up an interesting question: With the closing of automotive brands like Saturn and Pontiac, where are those buyers to turn for their next automotive purchase?

Apparently, not back to General Motors. According to Experian, Pontiac owners are most likely to look to the Ford lineup for their next car or truck and Saturn shoppers will switch to Toyota or Honda - not particularly surprising given that Saturn was meant to compete with import brands. Experian predicts that GM's overall market share will fall from 20 percent to about 17.5 percent, with most of the slack being picked up by Ford, Honda and Toyota.

[Source: Experian Automotive, USA Today]

Continue reading STUDY: Ford owns brand loyalty in 2009; Scorned Saturn, Pontiac buyers will look outside of GM

STUDY: Ford owns brand loyalty in 2009; Scorned Saturn, Pontiac buyers will look outside of GM originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Steeda gets all tweaky with Ford's Edge

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Crossover, Ford

If you need more edge - and speed - for your Ford Edge, Steeda could have the package for you. Called the Steeda Edge Sport, it is claimed to be "the perfect answer to those that want to have it all." And by "all," the tuner apparently means an eight-piece body kit, brushed-look interior trim and cross-stitching on custom leather, smoked head- and taillight trim, and 22-inch polished aluminum wheels.

Under those double-dubs lurk Brembo's six-piston Big Brake kit, and under the rear bumper you'll find a Magnaflow cat-back exhaust and a Steeda custom trailer hitch cover. Steeda has yet to release any power figures, but there figures to be a bump of some sort considering that under the hood resides a cold-air intake and cool-tube, a new throttle-body spacer, and an ECU tune. You can read the rest of the details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Steeda Edge Sport

[Source: Steeda]

Continue reading Steeda gets all tweaky with Ford's Edge

Steeda gets all tweaky with Ford's Edge originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2009 Ford Edge Sport offers big wheels, key improvements

Dan Roth — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Crossover, Ford, New Car Reviews

2009 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Twenty-two inch wheels. A chocolate bar shy of two feet, the 2009 Ford Edge Sport has alloys the size of manhole covers. Despite being made of aluminum, these wheels pull the eyes of onlookers magnetically. The big rollers are not everyone's cup of tea, but they're the defining feature of the Edge Sport - even the standard Sport model kicks it with 20s. Ford adds even more visual slickness to the Edge Sport with smoked lenses for the head- and tail-lamps that go along with an uncommonly tasteful bodykit. We spent a week to-ing and fro-ing with an Edge Sport just to see if those rollers crushed our kidneys into renal failure, or if this crossover's aggressive looks are matched to a chassis that you can get along with every day. Click on the jump to find out.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Ford Edge Sport

Continue reading Review: 2009 Ford Edge Sport offers big wheels, key improvements

Review: 2009 Ford Edge Sport offers big wheels, key improvements originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2008: Ford stacks the ballot with concepts for election day

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Tuners, Coupe, Hybrid, Sedan, Wagon, Crossover, Ford, Celebrities

Click above for massive gallery of Fords from SEMA

What recession? Perhaps anticipating the euphoria that will follow the end to the seemingly decades-long Presidential race today, Ford decided to throw a huge tuner party at SEMA this year, and they invited ALL of their friends. The Ford booth always houses a bunch of tuned blue ovals, but they generally tend to be grouped around a central vehicle. Last year it was the Mustang. And the year before. And probably the year before that, too. But this year they gave the ol' spit shine to virtually every model in the lineup. Ford even threw in a Lincoln or two for good measure (above).

In the gallery below you'll see the Lincoln MKS and MKX, as well as Ford Focus Coupe, Escape, Escape Hybrid, Transit Connect, and Edge. Tuners include 3dCarbon, Custom Creations, RKSport, Stout Performance, Barber Driving Experience, FSWerks, Street Concepts, EcoTrek, HPA Motorsports, H&R, and Steeda. For more info on each one, check out the press release after the jump. There are actually quite a few interesting concepts in the bunch.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Ford Booth

Continue reading SEMA 2008: Ford stacks the ballot with concepts for election day

SEMA 2008: Ford stacks the ballot with concepts for election day originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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