Autoblog

Consumer Reports picks side in V6 pony car wars

Zach Bowman — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've found yourself stuck on the fence between the sultry styling of the Chevrolet Camaro V6 and the downright impressive sports car performance of the Ford Mustang V6, Consumer Reports may just have something to help you make up your mind one way or the other. Those responsible for some of the most aggressive consumer testing in the industry have awarded the Blue Oval a 'Very Good' road test score while the Bowtie was saddled with a mere 'Good' rating. The testers went so far as to say that picking the six-pot in the Mustang didn't take too much away from the car's fun factor, while doing the same in the Camaro did.

That's no surprise to us. We felt the six-cylinder Mustang was fit enough to go toe-to-toe with the likes of the Nissan 370Z and Hyundai Genesis Coupe in our recent Battle of the Sixes - something we wouldn't have even bothered to try with the Camaro, let alone the Dodge Challenger.

Consumer Reports also said that the Mustang is 'Recommended' by the company, but the Camaro is too new to have accurate reliability data. Hit the jump for the press release.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips and Alex Núñez / AOL

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Consumer Reports picks side in V6 pony car wars

Consumer Reports picks side in V6 pony car wars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Battle of the Sixes: Ford Mustang V6 takes on Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 and Nissan 370Z

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 17 May 2010 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, New Car Reviews, Comparisons

V6 Sports Car Comparison - Click above for high-res image gallery

This comparison test couldn't have happened just a few short months ago. Sure, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe has been around since 2009. And not counting a seven-year walkabout, the Datsun/Nissan Z has been with us in one form or another since the first moon landing. Want to talk old? The Ford Mustang dates back to the invention of the wheel. At least it seems that way.

So why no comparison until now? Because until quite recently, Ford's entry level V6-powered Mustang was never really a sports car. The heavy, near impotent Cologne iron-block V6 was a joke, fit for little more than rental car duty, and it wasn't even terribly adept at that. But the non-V8 pony car has undergone some significant changes for 2011 - the biggest being its all-aluminum V6 producing 305 horsepower and 280 pound feet of torque - allowing it to finally hang with these two V6-powered competitors from across the Pacific.

At least on paper.

Read on to find out which V6-powered sports car reigns supreme. If you can't wait, skip right to the results.

Gallery: V6 Sports Car Comparison: Mustang vs Genesis Coupe vs 370Z

Continue reading Battle of the Sixes: Ford Mustang V6 takes on Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 and Nissan 370Z

Battle of the Sixes: Ford Mustang V6 takes on Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 and Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 May 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Video: New Ford promos get cozy with 2011 Mustang engines

Zach Bowman — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang GT promo - Click above to watch video after the jump

At this point, we know all there is to know about the 2011 Ford Mustang. The fact that the all-new 5.0-liter V8 delivers a heady 412 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque is scrawled on our collective consciousness for good. Likewise, it's old news that the base car has been transmuted from rental fodder into a genuine sports car thanks to its new 305 horsepower 3.7-liter V6. Needless to say, Ford has a bit of a challenge ahead of it when it comes to marketing its reborn pony.

How do you advertise a car that has been so thoroughly dissected by every auto rag and site on the planet? If you're the Blue Oval, you do it by showing the adoring public exactly what makes the car so special. Ford has rolled out two new promos for the 2011 Mustang, both of which pour over every detail of both the mighty GT and respectable V6. There's plenty of awesome CG to take you deep into each car's drivetrain, and a burly voice over to remind everyone just how manly you'll be when you hop behind the wheel.

Hit the jump for your daily dose of engine p0rn.

[Source: Ford via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: New Ford promos get cozy with 2011 Mustang engines

Video: New Ford promos get cozy with 2011 Mustang engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #174 - AOL Autos' Reilly Brennan stops by

Dan Roth — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 16:21:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, Audi, Chevrolet, Ford, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Nissan, Ferrari

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

Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid, Chris Paukert and Dan Roth are joined by Reilly Brennan of AOL Autos. After discussing what's in the Autoblog Garage, attention turns to the Ferrari 599 GTO, the ongoing Chevrolet Camaro-Ford Mustang V6 cage match, wacky interior awards from Ward's Auto, Audi beating Mercedes in the most recent sales numbers, and the Daimler-Renault/Nissan tie-up. We hit some questions and then skedaddle just under the hour and twenty mark.

Autoblog Podcast #174: with Reilly Brennan from AOL Autos

In the Autoblog Garage:

Audi A4 Avant
Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
Mini John Cooper Works Cabrio
Ford Escape Hybrid
Mercedes CL550 4Matic

News:

Ferrari 599 GTO
Mustang/Camaro V6 smackdown
Ward's Auto interior awards
Audi outsells Mercedes
Daimler and Renault/Nissan deal

Hosts:
Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert, Dan Roth, Sam Abuelsamid

Guest:
Reilly Brennan of AOL Autos

Runtime: 1:18:02

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Joystiq Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #174 - AOL Autos' Reilly Brennan stops by originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Apr 2010 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

V6 Throwdown: Motor Trend pits Hyundai Genesis against 2011 Mustang, 2010 Camaro and Challenger

Zach Bowman — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:26:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Performance, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GM, Hyundai

Hyundai Genesis 3.8 Track - Click above for high-res image gallery

By now, we've all read the various incarnations of the muscle car shoot-out, which means that had the crew from Motor Trend decided to simply line up the V6 versions of the 2010 Dodge Challenger, 2010 Chevrolet Camaro and 2011 Ford Mustang against one another, odds are you could have picked the podium without breaking a sweat (or reading the article). And that's why we're guessing the editors decided to throw in the Hyundai Genesis Coupe for spice.

At first glance, this feels like the easiest game of "which one doesn't belong" ever played, but on closer inspection, the Genesis 3.8 looks right at home among Michigan's Neapolitan pack of muscle cars. The Hyundai boasts 305 horsepower from its sizable V6, which is more than any of the big domestics. How does it fair against the entry Mopar, Bowtie and Blue Oval? We'll go ahead and spoil it for you by saying that MT didn't just invite the Korean coupe to the dance. It named it belle of the ball, too.

Why did the Genesis Coupe take the gold, even ahead of re-powered 2011 Mustang? According to MT, the Hyundai simply feels more like a sports car than the rest of the suspects. Funny - we thought they were testing muscle cars...

Gallery: Review: 2009 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Track

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Dodge Challenger SE

[Source: MT]

V6 Throwdown: Motor Trend pits Hyundai Genesis against 2011 Mustang, 2010 Camaro and Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

King For a Day? 312-HP Camaro V6 ends short reign of entry-level Mustang *UPDATE

Zach Bowman — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 09:16:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Performance, Chevrolet, Ford

2010 Chevrolet Camaro V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We knew General Motors wouldn't take the rampant boasting coming from Ford about its more powerful and efficient 2011 Mustang V6 lying down. According to the crews at Modern Camaro and Camaro5, the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro will boast a number of features that should help put the Bowtie's six-pot back on top. First and foremost, it appears that GM has directly contacted these enthusiast websites with some select tidbits about the 2011 car, with Camaro5 going so far as to post a short letter credited to a number of GM folks tied to the program - Cheryl Pilcher, John Fitzpatrick, Adam Denison and Scott Settlemire. Of primary importance in the note is that the Camaro's base V6 will now boast a total of 312 horsepower - beating out Ford's offering by seven ponies. That should allow GM to resume bragging that it has the most powerful entry-level muscle car out there, even if the bump in grunt doesn't make up for the fact that the Camaro weighs in at 282 pounds heavier than the Mustang. (See here for an explanation on why that really matters.) Nor does the forum claim to know what the new EPA fuel economy rating of the '11 Camaro V6 model will be after its engine's gets upgraded.

Both websites also say that buyers will be able to pick up any trim level in Chevrolet's new eye-searing Synergy Green - a color that was previously limited to the 1LT car. If the forum is to be believed, GM has also made the Camaro's heads-up display standard equipment on all 2LT and 2SS models.

If true, the changes aren't exactly earth shattering, but they should be enough to keep the Camaro near (or even at) the front of the muscle car pack for now. We would have liked to have seen The General put its pride and joy on a serious diet for 2011, but we won't exactly thumb our nose at a little extra horsepower, either. We'll be on the horn with Detroit today to confirm these claims. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

UPDATE: Official press release from Chevrolet added after the jump that confirms everything above. One note: There were no actual changes made to the Camaro's V6 engine that resulted in a power increase. Rather, Chevy says the current 304-hp rating was conservative and a new SAE certification resulted in 312 hp. So that means anyone who bought a 2010 Camaro V6 shouldn't feel shortchanged, as their engine is just as powerful as the 2011 model that will start production on June 7th.

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

[Sources: Modern Camaro, Camaro5]

Continue reading King For a Day? 312-HP Camaro V6 ends short reign of entry-level Mustang *UPDATE

King For a Day? 312-HP Camaro V6 ends short reign of entry-level Mustang *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Inside Line runs the numbers on 2011 Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro V6 models

Zach Bowman — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Performance, Chevrolet, Ford, GM

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Before your palms get all sweaty, let's be clear - the boys and girls at Inside Line have put the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro LT and the base 2011 Ford Mustang toe-to-toe. This isn't the big bad SS vs GT throwdown the world has been clamoring for, but that's fine by us. Both models dish out over 300 horsepower, and when it comes right down to it, there will be more V6 engines battling it out in high school parking lots that V8s.

So how'd they do? The big-boned Camaro V6, complete with its 3,790-pound curb weight, managed to dish out a 6.1-second 0-60 mph run, a 14.3-second quarter-mile time and .86 g on the skidpad. Coming down from 60 mph, the Bowtie delivered a stopping distance of 111.78 feet. Those are all solid numbers, to be sure, but they don't quite stack up to what Ford brought to the table with its pony.

The Mustang is a considerably smaller car in nearly every way, and right off the bat, it has 282 fewer pounds to lug around. With a curb weight of 3,508 pounds, the Mustang clicked off a 5.6-second 0-60 mph sprint, a 13.9-second quarter-mile and .91 g on the skidpad. Can you say "smoked?" Throw in 60-0 mph in 103 feet, and it's clear Ford wanted to ensure that the 'Stang not only puts the hurt on its arch rival from General Motors, but it's also clear that the Blue Oval was seeking to build a solid all-around performer.

Before the Chevrolet faithful start clamoring about price, it should be noted that both cars fall within $1,000 of each other. The General clearly has a lot of work to do before the 2011 models roll out, but we have it on good authority that their engineers are hard at work. Fortunately for enthusiasts, this clearly isn't the end-all, be-all... it's just the latest volley.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

[Source: Inside Line]

Inside Line runs the numbers on 2011 Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro V6 models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 rewrites the rental car rulebook

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Ford, First Drives

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

To many, the terms "Mustang" and "high technology" are as mutually exclusive as "China" and "transparent, open society." After all, the first Mustang rolled off the assembly line before the Vietnam War got under way, and in the minds of most people it hasn't changed all that much in the 4.5 decades since. Sure, every once in a while Ford will bolt a fairly high-tech motor into a special edition 'Stang (SVT, Cobra, GT500), but for the most part the original pony car represents exactly that: the origin of the species. Especially when it comes to the base model, the until now lowly - some might say primitive - V6 iteration.

For seemingly ever, Ford has been content to let its low-hanging fruit edition Mustang rot away in irrelevance. Nothing seemed to make the Blue Oval boys happier than stocking every rental car fleet in the nation with soft-riding, underpowered has-beens. Let's make that never-rans. So for the performance minded buyer, the V6 version of the Mustang never even entered the picture. Worse, do you know what car people interested in a V6 Mustang cross-shopped the most? Pat yourself on the back if you said Honda Accord Coupe. In other words, the V6 Mustang was never a sports car.

Now, along comes the 2011 model year and you can throw everything you thought you knew about Ford's entry-level pony car out the window. It simply no longer applies. Gone is the archaic, universally unloved and soon to be totally forgotten 4.0-liter V6. In its place is a very high-tech version of Ford and Mazda's 3.7-liter 60-degree V6. With it, the 2011 Ford Mustang V6 produces 305 horsepower, 280 pound-feet of torque, and yet returns 31 mpg on the freeway according to the EPA. In fact, as Ford was happy to tell us (quite a a few times), the 2011 V6 is the only car ever to produce 305 hp and get 31 mpg. Fabulous numbers no doubt, but they only tell part of the story. In our opinion, the Mustang V6 could be the most significant car released this year. Follow the jump to learn why.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 rewrites the rental car rulebook

First Drive: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 rewrites the rental car rulebook originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mustang V6 burnout shows 305 HP put to good use

John Neff — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 burnout - Click above to enlarge

Right now our man Jonny Lieberman is bombing around Southern California in both the 2011 Ford Mustang GT and Mustang V6. Both cars have received major mechanical upgrades for model year 2011 in the form of two new engines: The return of the fabled 5.0-liter V8 for the GT and a new 3.7-liter V6 for the base model.

Jonny's not allowed to talk about his experience behind the wheel of either car until early next week, but that won't stop us from giving you a sneak preview of the Mustang V6 and its upgraded motor. The 3.7-liter V6 has already been used in such everyday fare as the Mazda CX-9, Lincoln MKS and MKT. It's also destined for duty in the 2011 Ford Edge. The 2011 Mustang V6, however, will give this work-a-day engine an opportunity to shine.

Producing 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, the Mustang's version of the 3.7-liter V6 will be the most powerful available. Paired with a six-speed automatic, it will also make for the most fuel-efficient muscle car on the market with a highway rating of 31 mpg. But we're not interested in fuel economy today. We're interested in evidence of how much better the new V6 model will be compared to the current one, which has used the 210-horsepower "Cologne" 4.0-liter V6 since 2005. We think the image above is all the evidence we need. Stay tuned for our full First Drive reports of both models early next week.

Mustang V6 burnout shows 305 HP put to good use originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Report: GM working on more powerful V6 for 2011 Camaro?

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, Ford, GM, Rumormill

2010 Chevrolet Camaro V6 RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford has certainly upped the ante in the Mustang/Camaro wars for 2011. Chevrolet may have the upper hand in V8 power (Camaro is rated at 426 horsepower, Mustang GT at 412), but the base 'Stang now uses a 305-hp V6, boasting slightly more power (one horsepower, to be exact) and better fuel economy (31 miles per gallon) over a comparable six-pot Camaro.

Even though the 2011 Mustang V6 only carries a touch more power and efficiency, Chevrolet isn't going to just sit back and take it all in stride. An inside source has told Automobile that the Mustang's top honors may be short lived, and that details on the 2011 Camaro will arrive in the very near future. We don't think that General Motors will have much trouble cranking out a couple extra ponies from the Camaro's 3.6-liter V6, but can it surpass the Mustang's 31 mpg highway rating? Consider our interest piqued.

Gallery: The Joy of Six: 2010 Chevy Camaro V6 RS

[Source: Automobile]

Report: GM working on more powerful V6 for 2011 Camaro? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Motor Speedway in V6 Mustang

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 20:33:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

While true Ford Mustang fans will really only care that the new powertrains being introduced for 2011 produce substantially more power than before, Ford is equally interested in promoting their improved fuel economy. We already know about the new V6's 19 mile per gallon city and 31 mpg highway ratings from the EPA. On June 23, Ford will take a V6 Mustang to Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee and attempt to run over 1,000 laps on a single tank of gas. Bristol is one of NASCAR's old school half-mile bullrings, so that means over 500 miles on a tank.

A crew of Ford test drivers will circle the track until the tank runs dry, hopefully topping the 1,000 lap mark. During the run-up to the event people can go to www.Mustang1000LapChallenge.com and guess ~~how many jelly beans are in the jar~~ how many laps the Mustang will complete before it's running on fumes. Of those who guess correctly, Ford will randomly draw the name of one person who'll win a 2011 Mustang V6. Hats off to Tim for the tip.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Motor Speedway in V6 Mustang

Ford to attempt 1,000-lap challenge at Bristol Motor Speedway in V6 Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 20:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

2011 Ford Mustang V6 rated 31 mpg highway, most efficient 300+ HP car ever

John Neff — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 at the 2009 LA Auto Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

The pony car wars are about one-upsmanship if nothing else. The Ford Mustang held court for years while Chevrolet and Dodge had their horses on hiatus, but times have changed. The new Camaro has been whaling on the Mustang ever since its return, beating the Ford in sales for nine months straight and offering a range engines that are at once more powerful and efficient than the Blue Oval's aging mills. Advantage: Camaro.

The Mustang, however, received a nicely executed redesign for its 2010 model year and, as is Ford's way, the automaker waited another model year to introduce its new range of engines. You already know all about the return of the storied 5.0 moniker on this year's new Mustang GT. You also know that the V6 model is replacing its Civil War era 4.0-liter engine with a more powerful and efficient 3.7-liter. Powerful as in 305 horsepower, but how efficient? We didn't know before but we do now. The 2011 Ford Mustang V6 will achieve 19 miles per gallon in the city and, more noteworthy, 31 mpg on the highway.

The V6 model's rating of 30 mpg highway (when paired with the six-speed auto mind you, the manual version achieves 30 mpg) is noteworthy because, well, it's 2 mpg more than the slightly less powerful 304-hp Camaro V6. Also, it's a record for being the first 300+ hp vehicle to be officially rated at 30 mpg or more. Wow, think about that. It's never been done before. Sure, the new Mustang V6 is only marginally more powerful and efficient than its Camaro counterpart, but clawing above that 30 mpg mark will no doubt get Ford's thoroughbred some extra ink in the press.

Follow the jump for Ford's official press release on the matter, in which it explains a little more how those magic numbers were achieved (Spoiler: aerodynamics, super smart six-speed auto and electric power assisted steering).

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2011 Ford Mustang V6 rated 31 mpg highway, most efficient 300+ HP car ever

2011 Ford Mustang V6 rated 31 mpg highway, most efficient 300+ HP car ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion

Chris Shunk — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Videos, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The 2011 Mustang is only one year removed from a major refresh, but that didn't stop Ford from adding a host of upgrades, especially to the V6 model, to better-compete against its new pony car competition. While we certainly don't discount the V6 Stang's new suspension and packaging updates, the big story resides under its bonnet. The new 3.7-liter V6 packs 305 horsepower mated to a six-speed auto tranny (a six-speed manual is also available, but you lose 1 mpg) giving the new Mustang a big advantage over its predecessor while reportedly delivering the 30 mpg efficiency the masses are looking for.

We got our hands on some b-roll video of the new Mustang V6, with both static and moving shots. If that's not a good enough reason to watch there is also some aural pleasure courtesy of the new 3.7-liter V6. Unfortunately, the engine sounds are only audible when the Stang is in park but it still sounds pretty meaty when inside the cockpit. Hit the jump to see and hear the 2011 Mustang V6 in action.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion

VIDEO: 2011 Ford Mustang with 305-HP V6 gets seen and heard in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

LA 2009: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 on show floor with little fanfare

Drew Phillips — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

You would think that with all of the new powertrain improvements to the 2011 Mustang V6 that Ford would be making a big deal about the car here at the LA Auto Show. Not so. While the Fiesta display took up nearly a third of the West hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center, a sole V6-powered Mustang sat alone on the show floor. We can understand why Ford would want to turn the spotlight on its new B-segment small car, but thought that its legendary pony car deserved a little more love.

What's the big deal, you ask? For starters, the new 3.7-liter V6 is putting out 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft torque, a significant improvement over the aging 4.0-liter engine that it replaces. As a bonus, the new engine will net an expected 30 mpg on the highway thanks in part to new 6-speed transmissions, available in both manual or automatic. The updates were a long time coming, and we fully expect them to put the Mustang back in the lead of the pony car sales war.

Hit the jump for full details about the 2011 Ford Mustang V6, or check out both official and live photos in the high-res galleries below.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Ford Mustang V6

Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 on show floor with little fanfare

LA 2009: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 on show floor with little fanfare originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...

Dan Roth — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Podcasts, Audi, Buick, Chevrolet, Ford, GM, Mazda, Nissan

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

With the LA Auto Show near at hand, Chris, Dan, and Editor Extraordinaire Paukert sat down and talked over some of the latest for Episode #155 of the Autoblog Podcast. First up is the surprisingly thorough re-rework of the Mustang, before we move on to talk about the early release of U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta pictures. Gazing at photos brings us to the Chevrolet Cruze, which has also been lensed in North American garb. The Chinese-market Buick Excelle is rumored as a possibility for our market, and we scratch our heads about that for a while. Toyota's handling of its gas pedal recall and Nissan's low-priced and well-integrated navigation unit wraps it up before we move on to some of your questions. Right before signing off, we jump back to talk briefly about the newly unveiled Audi A8 and Saab's sad fortunes. At one hour, 50 minutes, it's an epic. We blame Paukert.

If you get bored once the new Autoblog Podcast bliss has worn off, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...

Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show... originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG

Chris Paukert — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Technology, Ford

2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It would be reasonable to expect that Ford might pass over the Mustang and instead devote more attention to its other models since it's fresh off a comprehensive revamp for the 2010 model year. However, that's not what is shaping up in the House That Henry Built.

For 2011, the Blue Oval is introducing a new 3.7-liter V6 Mustang that should give it the firepower and refinement needed to take on Chevrolet's six-cylinder Camaro and Hyundai's upstart Genesis Coupe. But it isn't just the spanking all-aluminum powerplant and its 305 horsepower and 280 foot-pounds of torque that's making the scene for the forthcoming model year. In addition to the Cleveland-sourced mill, there are a pair of fresh gearboxes, a new V6 performance package, and a host of nip/tucks to the interior and elsewhere.

Now, we could grouse on behalf of 2010 MY 'Stang owners everywhere that these upgrades weren't part of last year's mid-life updo, but instead, we'll just be happy that these advancements are arriving at all.

Despite being smaller than the outgoing 4.0-liter V6, the dual-overhead cam 3.7-liter's horsepower and torque ratings represent massive improvements over the 2010 model (305 HP dismisses 210 HP and 280 lb-ft. plays 240 torques). In fact, that's more horsepower than the 4.6-liter V8 Mustang made just a few years ago. While the 305-horse figure only allows the Mustang to pip the crosstown Camaro by a single all-important stallion in the pony car bragging wars, Ford says the powertrain will be good for 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway when paired with its new six-speed automatic, also one notch better than the Chevy.

Click through to the jump to read more details and check out Ford's suite of press releases.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG

LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

New York 2008: Ford debuts 2009 "Warriors in Pink" Mustang

Alex Nunez — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:22:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Coupe, Ford

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the '09 "Warriors In Pink" Mustang

New York has been a relatively quiet show for Ford, with the Transit Connect Taxi Concept being its highest-profile (literally, even) unveiling at the show. It's not the only one, however. Ford quietly unveiled the 2009 "Warriors in Pink" Mustang. Like its predecessors, the WIP 'Stang will be produced in a limited run (1,000 cars) with $500 from each sale going to the Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure, a charitable organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness. The '09 Warriors In Pink cars are Mustang V6 Premium models adorned with a new grille, pink hood and side stripes, pink-ribbon badging, and pink accent stitching inside. The display car is a silver coupe with the optional glass roof. The car is also available as a ragtop, and black or white paint is also on offer. On the coupe Carroll Shelby once referred to as a "secretary's car", the Warriors In Pink package seems to fit right in.

Gallery: 2009 Ford "Warriors In Pink" Mustang - LIVE

Gallery: 2009 Ford "Warriors In Pink" Mustang

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading New York 2008: Ford debuts 2009 "Warriors in Pink" Mustang

New York 2008: Ford debuts 2009 "Warriors in Pink" Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Want a new Bullitt or BOSS Mustang? Go to Japan.

Alex Nunez — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:35:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Japan, Ford

While everyone waits patiently (or for some folks, impatiently) for Ford to release the new Bullitt Mustang, Blue Flame, a Japanese firm that imports and distributes Mustangs over yonder, has taken the initiative to offer its very own Bullitt package. And it looks really good. Available for both V6 and V8 Mustangs, the obvious cosmetic changes (optional blacked-out grille, side window louvers, side scoops, spoiler delete, Bullitt badging, Highland Green paint, etc.) are paired with additional features like Eibach springs, Saleen pedals, and an upgraded Pioneer stereo. Those looking for more can opt for performance and handling upgrades from Ford Racing and Saleen at added expense. Based on the pictures on Blue Flame's site, it's a very nice conversion.

If that's not enough, the company has a slick BOSS package on offer as well. Follow the jump for that one.

Thanks to Scott for the tip!

[Source: Blue Flame American Distributions Network]

Continue reading Want a new Bullitt or BOSS Mustang? Go to Japan.

Want a new Bullitt or BOSS Mustang? Go to Japan. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Ford offering 0% APR financing on all 2007 Mustangs, including Shelbys

Alex Nunez — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 14:26:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Ford

Yes, you read that headline correctly. It seems that Ford's offering 0% APR financing over 36 months on all new 2007 Mustang purchases (from dealer stock) through July 9, 2007. The tip came in via a California Ford dealer, and a quick visit to the Ford Direct website confirmed what his email said.

The reason this seemed worth mentioning is that we almost never hear of deals like this on desirable cars like the Mustang, particularly the higher-end GT models and up. From what we see on the website, it applies to the 2007 Mustang V6, Mustang GT, Shelby GT, and Shelby GT500. Lately, the only promos we've been seeing on TV, etc. focus on deals related to the V6es with the Pony Package, etc. The 0% deal that's been available since June 28 was completely off our radar screens until now.

If you're in the market and can swing a 3-year deal, this might be worth looking into, particularly if you're shopping for a V8 Mustang. Don't expect any favors from dealers when it comes to Shelby pricing, though.

[Source: Ford]

Ford offering 0% APR financing on all 2007 Mustangs, including Shelbys originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Shelby look for your new 'Stang

Alex Nunez — Sun, 17 Sep 2006 11:06:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Ford

The only quibble I have with the new Mustang GT -- and it's a really small one -- is the set of oversized driving lights mounted in the grille. I tend to prefer the smaller, more retro-looking ones seen on the Pony Package-equipped V6 models. While perusing Planet Mustang, however, I saw something that changed my mind about the big lights. Street Scene Equipment is selling a replacement grille for 2005 and newer Mustangs that takes the GT-sized driving lights and centers them in the manner of some late-60s Shelby Mustangs.

Granted, installing the new grille will result in the loss of your stock pony badge, but that's easily rectified by installing an offset pony as seen above. The car depicted is actually a V6 owned by one Tom Rasada, who details the installation at 4.0 Collective.

V6, V8, whatever -- this grille is a nice customization that looks as if it came directly from the factory. Check out Planet Mustang for more specifics.

[Source: Planet Mustang]

Shelby look for your new 'Stang originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 17 Sep 2006 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments