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[Ford EcoBoost Engines see high take rate, customers see higher transaction prices]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/ford-ecoboost-engines-see-high-take-rate-customers-see-higher-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/ford-ecoboost-engines-see-high-take-rate-customers-see-higher-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/ford-ecoboost-engines-see-high-take-rate-customers-see-higher-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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

Ford has been pushing its EcoBoost engines hard since they came out of the gate, with almost as many commercials touting its twin-turbo technology as we've seen all other Blue Oval spots combined. And all that marketing mojo appears to be paying off, as the Ford Motor Company has told The Detroit News that EcoBoost has really taken off on the showroom floor.

Ford just started offering EcoBoost in July, but the early returns show that customers are very interested in Ford's promise of V8 performance with V6 fuel economy. Lincoln MKS sales have been 30 percent EcoBoost, while the Taurus SHO is currently accounting for 20 percent off all sales of Ford's new large sedan. The MKT has only been on the market for a month, but early returns show that over 40 percent of customers want 355 horsepower in their giant crossover. The Ford Flex is seeing a 13 percent EcoBoost take rate, nearly double the expected 8 percent figure.

In fact, Ford says all four EcoBoost-equipped vehicles are exceeding expectations to date, and the engine tech also appears to be bringing in conquest customers at an accelerated rate. For example, an impressive 44 percent of Taurus buyers come from another OEM, while the number jumps to 54 percent with the EcoBoost-equipped Taurus SHO. The MKT has a similar 10 percent conquest boost courtesy of turbo power. And those conquest wins at the dealership also add to Ford's bottom line, as EcoBoost-equipped vehicles carry a $5,000 to $10,000 MSRP bump versus their naturally aspirated counterparts.

While the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine looks like an early success, the real turbo test comes when other, higher volume EcoBoost engines hit the market. Some future boosted Ford engines will come in 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter displacements, and the DetNews is reporting that a much smaller, 1.0-liter three-cylinder version is on the way for applications like the new Fiesta and Focus. Engines as small as 1.0-liter are sure to be an efficiency boon for the Blue Oval, with potential paybacks in the high 40 MPG range in the EPA highway cycle.

The next vehicles to receive EcoBoost will reportedly be the F-150 and Ford Explorer toward the end of next year. Ford is hoping to push the engine tech on 90 percent of its models within the next few years, with up to 1.3M global EcoBoost sales.

[Source: Detroit News]

Ford EcoBoost Engines see high take rate, customers see higher transaction prices originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford flex2010 taurus sho2010FordFlex2010TaurusShodirect-injectionecoboostecoboost salesEcoboostSalesford taurusFordTauruslincoln mkslincoln mktLincolnMksLincolnMktturboturbochargingtwin-turboFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:29:00 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EdgeFlexFocusFocus RSFocusRsFordford edgeford focusford fusionFord Transit ConnectFordEdgeFordFocusFordFusionFordTransitConnectFusionLincolnLincoln MKSlincoln MKTLincolnMksLincolnMktSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowTransit ConnectTransitConnectFri, 06 Nov 2009 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Lincoln and Mercury's new direction involves downsizing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-lincoln-and-mercurys-new-direction-involves-downsizing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-lincoln-and-mercurys-new-direction-involves-downsizing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-lincoln-and-mercurys-new-direction-involves-downsizing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Lincoln Concept C - Click above for high-res image gallery

If The Blue Oval boys intend to keep buyers filing into Lincoln and Mercury showrooms over the next few years, each brand's product portfolios are going to need a bit more than a simple nick-and-tuck to compete with the best from around the world. To that end, expect Lincoln to continue making the switch from large, rear-wheel drive SUVs and old-tech luxury barges to smaller, more nimble premium models akin to the next-gen Focus-based compact Concept C that was introduced earlier this year at the Detroit Auto Show. Around the same time, the very last Lincoln Town Car will roll ingloriously down the assembly line, replaced as it's already been in most buyer's minds by the newer MKS.

Don't expect to see a replacement for the aging Lincoln Navigator SUV any time soon, but joining the MKX and MKT mid-size crossovers may well be a new compact 'ute based on the underpinnings of the next-gen Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner and Ford Kuga (for Europe, at least). Speaking of Ford's interplanetary brand, it's reportedly finally confirmed Mercury has a future products in the pipeline. Starting small - which seems to be a definite theme for Mercury and Lincoln - Mercury should get its own version of the next Focus, probably as a 2012 model.

A year later in 2013, the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ are all scheduled to get a new front-drive mid-size platform that will thankfully share its guts with the European Ford Mondeo. The Mercury Mariner and Ford Escape twins along with the expected Lincoln crossover should show up late in 2011. Finally, the body-on-frame Grand Marquis and Mountaineer will make the long, cold walk to the automotive graveyard within the next few years. Somehow, we doubt many will miss their absence.


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Lincoln C Concept Live


Gallery: Lincoln Concept C


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Lincoln and Mercury's new direction involves downsizing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lincoln mks2010 lincoln mkt2010 lincoln mkx2010 lincoln mkz2010LincolnMks2010LincolnMkt2010LincolnMkx2010LincolnMkzlincoln clincoln compactlincoln concept clincoln mkslincoln mktlincoln mkxlincoln mkzLincolnCLincolnCompactLincolnConceptCLincolnMksLincolnMktLincolnMkxLincolnMkzmercury compactmercury marinermercury milanMercuryCompactMercuryMarinerMercuryMilanMon, 27 Jul 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost offers big American luxury with straight line speed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/review-2010-lincoln-mks-ecoboost-big-american-luxury-with-a-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/review-2010-lincoln-mks-ecoboost-big-american-luxury-with-a-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/review-2010-lincoln-mks-ecoboost-big-american-luxury-with-a-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Lincoln MKS Ecoboost - Click above for high-res image gallery

For more years than we care to remember, Lincoln has soldiered on without a competitive large car. Ford's luxury marque finally gave its high-end roster some love for the 2009 model year with the large-and-in-charge MKS. At 204 inches long, the MKS is a Reese's Cup shy of a Navigator, and at 4,305 pounds, our all-wheel drive tester is only 166-pounds lighter than the super-sized Ford Flex.

When we tested the MKS last year, the relatively modest 3.7-liter V6 left us eagerly anticipating the long-promised twin-turbo EcoBoost variant. The first press samples of the MKS EcoBoost came in the spring, and our brief time with the 355 horsepower sedan at Milan Raceway gave us a newfound appreciation for the big Lincoln. But only a few hours behind the wheel wasn't nearly enough time to fully take in the EcoBoost experience, so we spent a week with Lincoln's Big Easy to see if 355 force-fed ponies catapults the MKS into the realm of the luxury elite. Hit the jump to find out how this latter-day Hot Rod Lincoln fared.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS Ecoboost

Continue reading Review: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost offers big American luxury with straight line speed

Review: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost offers big American luxury with straight line speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20010 Lincoln MKS20010LincolnMks2010 Ecoboost MKS2010EcoboostMksEcoboost MKSEcoboost MKS reviewEcoboostMksEcoboostMksReviewfeaturedFordlincolnlincoln mkslincoln mks ecoboostLincolnMksLincolnMksEcoboostmksmks ecoboostmks reviewMksEcoboostMksReviewreviewreviewsturbo chargingTurboChargingFri, 17 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost and MKS EcoBoost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-and-mks-ecoboost/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-and-mks-ecoboost/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-and-mks-ecoboost/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the last year and a half, Ford has repeatedly discussed EcoBoost as its high volume, mainstream technology for reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. While Ford is putting a lot of effort into developing hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles, the high cost of those technologies will keep volumes low for the near term. Meanwhile, engine downsizing combined with turbocharging and direct fuel injection (GTDI) can cut consumption for a much lower cost. The technology arrives this summer, and while it has a green sheen to it, there's plenty of excitement for gearheads, as we've just learned.

Ford's first GTDI engine is the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that is set to debut in the Lincoln MKS, MKT, Ford Flex and Taurus SHO. Over the last eight months, Ford has conducted a number of background preview drives with EcoBoost equipped vehicles that we haven't been allowed to discuss. With production starting in the next few weeks, however, Ford allowed us to drive some pilot production examples of the two Lincolns powered by EcoBoost engines at its Romeo Proving Ground in Michigan. This time, we can finally tell you about it and give you a preview of the new MKT.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost - First Drive


Photos copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost and MKS EcoBoost

First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost and MKS EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 May 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lincoln mks2010 lincoln mks ecoboost2010 lincoln mkt2010 lincoln mkt ecoboost2010LincolnMks2010LincolnMksEcoboost2010LincolnMkt2010LincolnMktEcoboostecoboostfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivelincolnlincoln mkslincoln mktlincoln mkt ecoboostLincolnMksLincolnMktLincolnMktEcoboostmksmktFri, 15 May 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Lincoln MKS already under the knife]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/spy-shots-lincoln-mks-already-under-the-knife/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/spy-shots-lincoln-mks-already-under-the-knife/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/06/spy-shots-lincoln-mks-already-under-the-knife/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Lincoln MKS is about a year old, but Ford's luxury division has already been caught testing a slightly refreshed version that may debut for the 2011 model year or shortly thereaftter. The spy shot shows a heavily camouflaged prototype with its front and rear end covered. Despite the aversion tactics, we can see a new version of Lincoln's flying wing grille that appears smaller than the current one. AutoWeek points out its similarity to a BMW grille, while we think it looks like the front end of a Pontiac G6 beneath the mesh bra.

The MKS lineup will grow by one model this year when Lincoln begins selling it with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 that produces 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Some here at Autoblog HQ have posited that Lincoln could (or should) be working on a sportier version of the MKS EcoBoost, kind of like a Taurus SHO for the CEO. This prototype could be something to that effect, but we have nothing to back up our guess but wishful thinking.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Spy Shots: Lincoln MKS already under the knife originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lincolnlincoln mksLincolnMksmksspy picspy picsspy shotspy shotsSpyPicSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsFri, 06 Mar 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford using $10,000 car-sized balloons for crash-testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/ford-using-10-000-car-sized-balloons-for-crash-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/ford-using-10-000-car-sized-balloons-for-crash-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/ford-using-10-000-car-sized-balloons-for-crash-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


click the image above for a high-resolution gallery of Ford's car balloons

Ford is working hard to continue earning top marks for crash safety. With a platform inherited from Volvo, they might as well keep piling on the goodies, including radar-assisted cruise control that keeps an eye out for impending collisions and charges up the brakes preemptively. How do you develop, test, and tune such a system? "Why, they smashed a lot of cars into each other" you might conclude. That sounds expensive, and if there's one thing all automakers have been trying to do for quite some time now, it's save cash. Instead of running hunks of metal into one another, Ford has been using balloons shaped like cars for target practice.

With a price tag of $10,000, the balloons might seem a waste, but they can be reused multiple times and no cars get damaged in the process. Plus, the air-filled faux-mobiles facilitate a safer experience for test drivers and are guaranteed to provide some comic relief on windy days. Press release after the jump

Gallery: Ford Crashtest Balloons


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford using $10,000 car-sized balloons for crash-testing

Ford using $10,000 car-sized balloons for crash-testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ford balloonsford car balloonsford crash testingford safetyFordBalloonsFordCarBalloonsFordCrashTestingFordSafetylincoln mkslincoln mks safetyLincolnMksLincolnMksSafetymks active safetyMksActiveSafetyTue, 10 Feb 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKS latest to get EcoBoost V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mks-latest-to-get-ecoboost-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mks-latest-to-get-ecoboost-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-lincoln-mks-latest-to-get-ecoboost-v6/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lincoln MKS with EcoBoost

Following the release of the flagship MKT and Flex CUV, the Lincoln MKS is now the third vehicle to receive the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 for the 2010 model year. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the twin-turbo engine is rated at 355 bhp and 350 lb-ft torque, all while providing 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Those who opt for the EcoBoost will also get a host of other options including 19-inch wheels, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, all-wheel-drive, push-button start, ambient lighting, HID headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a rear window power sunshade. More info on the EcoBoost can be found in the press release after the jump and there are plenty of high-res images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKS with EcoBoost


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKS with EcoBoost


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

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKS latest to get EcoBoost V6

Detroit 2009: Lincoln MKS latest to get EcoBoost V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DetroitDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowEcoBoostLincolnLincoln MKSLincoln MKS with EcoBoostLincolnMksLincolnMksWithEcoboostNAIASMon, 12 Jan 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ford demonstrates automatic parallel parking]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/video-ford-demonstrates-automatic-parallel-parking/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/video-ford-demonstrates-automatic-parallel-parking/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/video-ford-demonstrates-automatic-parallel-parking/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the image above to view the video after the jump

Ford's new Active Park Assist system generated plenty of discussion, ranging from those who berated the Dearborn company for following Toyota and those who thought Ford could do it better. Not having actually tried the system ourselves, we'll reserve judgement on how well it works. However, Ford has put up a video with Ali Jammoul, a Chief Engineer at the Blue Oval, demonstrating the system. In the demo it seems to work pretty well. Check it out for yourself after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ford demonstrates automatic parallel parking

VIDEO: Ford demonstrates automatic parallel parking originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active park assistActiveParkAssistlincoln mkslincoln mktLincolnMksLincolnMktWed, 31 Dec 2008 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford automates parallel parking for Lincoln MKS, MKT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/embargo-12-30-08-12-01am-ford-automates-parallel-parking-for-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/embargo-12-30-08-12-01am-ford-automates-parallel-parking-for-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/embargo-12-30-08-12-01am-ford-automates-parallel-parking-for-l/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res shot of Active Park Assist in action

Admit it, you've embarrassed yourself at some point trying to parallel park. It's like they say about drivers at Indianapolis: There are those who have hit the wall, and those who will. The same principle applies when it comes to parallel parking. Like an increasing number of automakers, Ford is moving beyond the realm of auto-dip side mirrors and into the realm of auto parking systems. The Blue Oval's new Active Park Assist will initially be available on the Lincoln MKS and MKT (about which you'll hear much more on January 12) next summer.

The system takes advantage of the ultrasonic sensors now mounted on the corners of many vehicles (used for backup warning, blind spot detection and other functions), and combines them with a new electric power assisted steering setup. The system can manipulate the steering automatically and the sensors detect where the vehicle is relative to other vehicles. It starts off by using the sensors to measure the distance between cars to determine if there is enough space, and then it operates the steering, instructing the driver when to shift into Drive or Reverse and press the gas or brake. Ford claims the system works much more reliably than the camera-based system used by Lexus. We had no luck with the Lexus system, so we'll be the judge of how well Ford's setup works. Follow the jump to read Ford's official press release.

Gallery: Ford Active Park Assist


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford automates parallel parking for Lincoln MKS, MKT

Ford automates parallel parking for Lincoln MKS, MKT originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active park assistActiveParkAssistfordLexuslincoln mkslincoln mktLincolnMksLincolnMktparallel parkparallel parkingParallelParkParallelParkingTue, 30 Dec 2008 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[CNET announces nominees for Tech Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/cnet-announces-nominees-for-tech-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/cnet-announces-nominees-for-tech-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/cnet-announces-nominees-for-tech-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



About this time last year, Cadillac's CTS added CNET's Tech Car of the Year to its increasingly crowded trophy case. Its entertainment system's recording capability was one of the things that impressed us, and, presumably, the voters. This year, CNET asks its readers to choose between three imports and two domestics, none of which are Cadillacs.

BMW's M3 Convertible DCT gets a spot on the ballot with its dual-clutch transmission. We wonder if the car's recent recall for transmission problems will affect its standing. The Nissan GT-R shows up again, as you might expect with its cabin full of g-whiz electronics, from the in-dash performance computer to the quick-loading navigation. Lincoln makes the list for its THX-equipped MKS and Infiniti's EX35 Journey gets recognized for its lane-departure warning system and park-assist cameras.

The biggest surprise, though, is the Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie. The pachyderm-sized pickup impressed the CNET judges with its UConnect multimedia system which includes a 30GB hard drive, Bluetooth hands-free system, SIRIUS TV and rear seat DVD player.

The winner will be announced the second week of January to coincide with the Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas.

[Source: CNET]

CNET announces nominees for Tech Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw dctbmw m3BmwDctBmwM3cadillac ctsCadillacCtscnetcnet tech carCnetTechCardctdodge ramdodge ram 1500DodgeRamDodgeRam1500gt-rinfiniti ex35infiniti ex35 modelo 2008InfinitiEx35InfinitiEx35Modelo2008lincoln mksLincolnMksm3 convertiblem3 dctM3ConvertibleM3Dctmksnissan gt-rNissanGt-rskyline gt-rSkylineGt-rtech car of the yearTechCarOfTheYearFri, 12 Dec 2008 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shot: 2010 Lincoln MKZ getting MKS-like update]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/spy-shot-lincoln-mkz-getting-mks-like-update/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/spy-shot-lincoln-mkz-getting-mks-like-update/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/spy-shot-lincoln-mkz-getting-mks-like-update/#commentsFiled under: , ,

AutoObserver is showing pics of a face-lifted Lincoln MKZ prototype that looks to be taking on more of a familial facade. With the relative (very relative) success of the new MKS flagship, Lincoln has apparently decided that grafting the MKS mug onto the mid-size MKZ can only help, as well. Not that the old nose really needed rhinoplasty, but the entry-level luxury sedan would look out of place lacking the brand's new "Winged Grille" that debuted on the MKS and will also be seen on the upcoming MKT three-row crossover. We don't know if a new grille is going to do the trick on its own, though we expect the MKZ to also benefit from the same across the board engine updates as the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, sans a hybrid version. All three vehicles will be unveiled at the 2008 LA Auto Show next week, and we'll be sure to bring shots from the show floor.

[Source: AutoObserver]

Spy Shot: 2010 Lincoln MKZ getting MKS-like update originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lincoln mkslincoln mkzLincolnMksLincolnMkzmkz spy picsmkz spy shotsMkzSpyPicsMkzSpyShotsspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsTue, 11 Nov 2008 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2008: Ford stacks the ballot with concepts for election day]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/sema-2008-ford-stacks-the-ballot-with-concepts-for-election-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/sema-2008-ford-stacks-the-ballot-with-concepts-for-election-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/sema-2008-ford-stacks-the-ballot-with-concepts-for-election-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


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


Photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips, Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

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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Click on the pic above for our high-res 2009 Ford F-150 gallery

As staggering as it may seem, the 2008 Ford F-150 pickup can be ordered in billions of different combinations. That's all going to change for 2009. In an effort to reduce complexity and cut spiraling costs in the process, Ford will be slashing the number of possible F-150 configurations by 90 percent. The automaker isn't leaving the rest of the lineup alone either. The Ford Expedition goes from 250,000 combos down to fewer than 10,000. The 2009 Lincoln MKS debuts with about 300 combinations, and the 2010 Ford Focus will offer only about 150, which is 95 percent fewer than the current model. Are you in the market for a 2009 Ford F-150 and worried that you won't be able to get it exactly the way you want? Don't fret, Ford will still offer more than 9 million combinations for next year's model, including a brown one we presume.

Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150


[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

Ford slashing F-150 customization by 90 percent originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 F-1502009F-150configurationscustomizationF-150FordFord ExpeditionFord FocusFordExpeditionFordFocusLincoln MKSLincolnMksoptionsreduce optionsReduceOptionsMon, 18 Aug 2008 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-lincoln-mks/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-lincoln-mks/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-lincoln-mks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Lincoln MKS - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2009 Lincoln MKS may be the marque's last chance at establishing a distinct image after two decades of struggling to find its identity. At one time Lincoln, like its counterparts at Cadillac, stood apart from lesser vehicles with unique styling, powertrains and features that clearly delineated its place in the automotive hierarchy. Not that Mark IVs, Vs and VIs were high-water marks in design, but at least when you saw one rolling down the road, you knew you were looking at a Lincoln.

But the Continentals of the '80s marked the onset of Lincoln's utterly forgettable image, and when Ford went on a buying binge in the late '80s with Jaguar, continuing through the '90s with Volvo, Aston Martin, and Land Rover, the waters began to be seriously muddied. The creation of the Premier Automotive Group, which bundled all the premium brands together, did nothing to help Lincoln's outlook, so Ford's in-house luxury brand needed a fresh start. With the dissolution of PAG, Peter Horbury and the team went back to the drawing board to define a look that would shout "Lincoln!" for years to come. Read on to find out if the MKS succeeds.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS

Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 lincoln mks2009 lincoln mks road test2009 lincoln mks test2009LincolnMks2009LincolnMksRoadTest2009LincolnMksTestautoblog garageAutoblogGaragefeaturedlincolnlincoln mkslincoln mks test driveLincolnMksLincolnMksTestDrivemksreviewMon, 07 Jul 2008 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Get out the popcorn: new Lincoln MKS mini-movie coming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/27/get-out-the-popcorn-new-lincoln-mks-mini-movie-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/27/get-out-the-popcorn-new-lincoln-mks-mini-movie-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/27/get-out-the-popcorn-new-lincoln-mks-mini-movie-coming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Lincoln MKS.

The all-new MKS is a very big deal for Lincoln, and with 10,000 pre-orders already in the books, the Blue Oval's domestic luxury arm just may have a hit on its hands. To keep a steady flow of information to potential customers, Lincoln is planning a multimedia onslaught for print, web, and TV, and it has even put together a three-minute mini movie to help generate interest. The spot, "Mad, Crazy Love," has been created to draw interest from African American customers between the ages of 30-45. Lincoln has also created 15 and 30 second teasers for the spot, and it plans to run the ads during the Black Entertainment Television Awards pre-show. Once the ads begin to air on the networks, Lincoln will also have the spot on Lincoln.com so interested parties can see more.

While we're very interested to see the spot for ourselves, the ultra-long infomersials tend to be painful to watch more than once, and the acting usually isn't all that great, either. Lets hope Ford doesn't jam this one down our collective throats, even if it actually is pretty good.

Gallery: 2009 Lincoln MKS

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Get out the popcorn: new Lincoln MKS mini-movie coming originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Lincoln MKS

Every year, carmakers collectively trot out dozens of new concept vehicles at auto shows around the world. Some fraction of those end up making their way to production lines and onto the streets. Most of the exciting design ideas, however, get heavily watered down in the process of going from auto show stand to showroom. One notable exception is the new Lincoln MKS. When the original MKS concept turned up in 2006, it was basically a slightly fancied up version of the then-new Ford Five Hundred, and it was not warmly received.

In a pleasant change of direction, Ford took the lukewarm reception for the concept to heart and by the time the production version of the MKS appeared at the LA Auto Show last November, it had been transformed. Unlike the "so what" appearance of the concept, the production model elicited much stronger opinions. Some hated it, others loved it. Regardless of how you feel about the new look, it is now a fact of life. The MKS began emerging from Ford's Chicago assembly plant a few weeks ago and Ford invited us down to Washington DC to sample it on the road. Read our driving impressions and check out a video of Peter Horbury's walk-around tour of the new 2009 Lincoln MKS after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Lincoln MKS


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive [w/VIDEO]: 2009 Lincoln MKS

First Drive [w/VIDEO]: 2009 Lincoln MKS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Lincoln MKS

The first 2009 Lincoln MKS is still a couple months away from arriving at your local Lincoln dealer, but Ford has announced that 8,600 customers have already signed up for the all-new sedan. The MKS has garnered this hefty dose of interest no doubt due to Lincoln's new design language, its well-crafted interior and large number of high-tech gizmos, but Ford's marketing team deserves some credit, too. They began their work announcing the sedan's starting price of $37,895 way back in November during the L.A. Auto Show, then followed up by giving would-be customers early access to a build and price tool on the Lincoln website. The marketing team is also reportedly training dealerships to be knowledgeable about the MKS months ahead of the usual timetable, which has helped salesmen secure preorders for the vehicle sight-unseen.

Preorders traditionally happen for high-end trim levels of a model, and the MKS is no different. Sixty-five percent of the 8,600 preorders have been for the high-end "Ultimate Package," which includes features like 19-inch rims, a THX audio system, and navigation system with Travel Link. An MKS with the Ultimate Package goes for $44,180, which means Lincoln's making some money on the MKS before it even shows up for work.

Gallery: 2009 Lincoln MKS


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Lincoln books 8,600 preorders for MKS

Lincoln books 8,600 preorders for MKS originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FordLincoln MKSLincolnMkspreordersTHX audioThxAudioTravel LinkTravelLinkMon, 02 Jun 2008 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Spotted in the wild: 2009 Lincoln MKS in Ann Arbor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/spotted-in-the-wild-2009-lincoln-mks-in-ann-arbor/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/spotted-in-the-wild-2009-lincoln-mks-in-ann-arbor/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/spotted-in-the-wild-2009-lincoln-mks-in-ann-arbor/#commentsFiled under: ,



Ford is desperately hoping that the new Lincoln MKS will prove to be the beginning of a rebirth for its premium Lincoln brand. After flailing about for the past two decades trying to find a design direction for Lincoln, Peter Horbury and the team have created a consistent and unique look that will be applied to all the brand's models over the next couple of years. We've previously seen the MKS on auto show stages and prototypes in various stages of camo on the road for several months. Walking in to my office this morning I spotted a production model on the street for the first time and decided to snap a few pics. Regardless of how you feel about the bow-wave grille, it certainly gives Lincoln a unique, stand-out face for the first time in many years. We'll have our first opportunity to drive the MKS in a couple of weeks, at which time we'll let you know if the driving dynamics back up the visuals.

Gallery: 2009 Lincoln MKS on the street


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Spotted in the wild: 2009 Lincoln MKS in Ann Arbor originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 May 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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