- Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Government/Legal, Work, Ford, Specialty
Hold on to your sap gloves and night sticks - it's that time of the decade! An Autoblog source reveals that Ford is about to release a brand spankin' new Police Interceptor. Not only is this humongous news for our pals in the law enforcement community, but this is 120-point headline font for taxi companies around the country, as they typically buy old Police Interceptors with 90,000 miles on 'em and repurpose them as the cabs we all know and love passing out in. Why? Because Police Interceptors are the toughest passenger cars money can buy.
Few of us have the need to drive over curbs at 50+ mph, but if that need arises, you're going to want to do so in an Interceptor. Aside from the "severe duty" shocks, you get a beefed up frame and body mounts. Yes, that is correct. The Crown Victoria-based Police Interceptor is body-on-frame. Listen, when you're PIT maneuvering a perp during a high speed chase, the last thing you want to worry about is bending the chassis. Plus you got them heavy duty brakes, suspension components and oil coolers. A sweet package, no doubt.
Here's the thing though. If this new Police Interceptor is more than a package, what platform will it ride on? Ford has stated publicly that it's ending the geriatric Panther Platform Crown Victoria's life in 2011. We'll go ahead and interpret that to mean that this new Police Interceptor won't be Crown Victoria-based. Do we know that for sure? No, but it's a logical bit of speculation. Could the new Interceptor be Taurus-based, maybe something with a SHO motor and stouter brakes? Again, yes, but for all we know the upcoming car's a Fiesta with the Mustang GT's new 5.0-liter V8 crammed in the rear seat. Or one of them apocryphal Australia-only rear-drive Falcons. All we know for sure is that Ford's introducing a new Police Interceptor to a select group of folks in Las Vegas this Friday. Production? Concept? We're not entirely sure yet. More details when we get them.
[Image: davidsonscott15 | CC2.0]Source: Next-gen Ford Police Interceptor will debut this Friday in Las Vegas originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Truck, Chevrolet, Ford, GM, GMC, Diesel
2011 GMC Sierra Denali HD - Click above for high-res image gallery
Not even a month ago, at the end of our post on the 2011 Ford Super Duty engine specs, we wrote: "General Motors, there's a big ass ball in your court." Someone at GM has apparently grabbed their big ass racket and said, "Oh, I got this...", then smacked the ball right back into play. The Ford's measurements 390 horsepower, 735 pound-feet of grunt. The General has just announced that its 6.6-liter Duramax turbo diesel has 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft. of torque, a jump of 32 horsepower and 105 lb-ft. over the previous Duramax.
A closer look at the numbers does reveal some give-and-take, however. The Ford's maximum tow rating is 21,600 pounds, while GM's is 20,000 pounds. And while not exactly engine related, the Ford truck also has a higher max payload than the GM twins. Still, the RenCen pickups take the power crown, and the new Duramax is more efficient than the previous one - GM didn't put a specific mileage number to it, but claims 680 miles of highway going possible from the 36-gallon tank. You'll find GM's press release on the new engine after the jump.
In related news, GM has released the first image of its GMC Sierra Denali HD pickup, mechanical and sheetmetal twin of the Chevrolet Silverado HD. There's an additional press release after the jump for it as well.
So... anyone else want to take a swing at that even bigger ass ball?
[Source: General Motors via PickupTrucks.com]Continue reading GM quickly one-ups Ford with 2011 Duramax diesel ratings, shows off GMC Sierra Denali HD
GM quickly one-ups Ford with 2011 Duramax diesel ratings, shows off GMC Sierra Denali HD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, New York Auto Show, Podcasts, Safety, Acura, Cadillac, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Rumormill
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Episode #169 of the Autoblog Podcast has arrived, and it's Chris, Sam, Alex, and Dan again this week. As usual, the Autoblog Garage starts us off, this time with a couple Suzuki Kizashis, a Ford Transit Connect, and the Cadillac SRX. The first topic for discussion are the latest developments in the ongoing Toyota Recall issue. The Cadillac CTS-V Wagon catches our fancy next, and we stay on the wagon tip to talk about the Acura TSX Wagon, which will debut at the New York International Auto Show. Honda's CR-Z is next, before we go big and talk about the 2011 Ford SuperDuty. Wrapping up on a sporting note, we offer totally uninformed commentary on the Carl Edwards NASCAR wreck before taking a few listener questions and calling this turkey done. Thanks for listening!
Direct 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 #169: Wagons and SuperDuty and NASCAR, Oh My!
Autoblog Podcast #169: Wagons and SuperDuty and NASCAR, Oh My! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Performance, Wagon, Ford, Design/Style
Many of us who sit around the Autoblog campfire every day are fans of station wagons. We love cars and love the idea of having some extra utility without giving up the generally superior driving dynamics of cars versus SUVs or crossovers. We also like the idea - if not necessarily the execution - of the Ford Taurus SHO.
Being aware of that fact, one of our readers put his Photoshop skills to work and created the rendering you see here of a SHO wagon. Ford, of course, has never officially built an official SHO wagon - either with the current model or with its predecessors. Naturally, there have been some aftermarket and homebuilt conversions over the years, and even at least one that we know of that was built inside Dearborn.
Of course, building a wagon off of previous models was substantially easier because Ford actually marketed a wagon bodystyle in the first couple of Taurus iterations. Not so with today's massive-yet-handsome sedan. Judging by reader Josiah's rendering above, that's a real shame, because the 2010 Taurus could really put some of its continental bulk to good load-lugging effect with an estate variant. Unfortunately, we'll likely never see anything like this slick wagon produced. The closest we figure to get is an Ecoboost Flex, which isn't exactly a bad alternative. Thanks for the great rendering, Josiah!
[Source: JosiahLacolla.com]Rendered Speculation: Ford Taurus SHO wagon is the apple of our eye originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, Videos, Ford, Racing
Ken Block testing the Ford Rally Focus before last weekend's Rally Mexico - Click above to watch video after the jump
A snowy, icy and muddy Greystoke Forest in England probably isn't the best place for a new rally driver to practice for the WRC's Rally Mexico, but that's where Ken Block had to get his testing done, and he had just one day to do it. Follow the jump to watch the DC Shoes maestro getting to grips with his steed. Having already seen the results of the race, it appears he didn't do all bad.
[Source: Monster World Rally]Continue reading Video: Ken Block's one and only Rally Focus test before Mexico
Video: Ken Block's one and only Rally Focus test before Mexico originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Truck, Work, Ford, First Drive, Off-Road
2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty - Click above for high-res image gallery
It's a guy thing. Tim Allen understands. If you've got a job to do, you need the right tool. As guy logic goes, the bigger and more powerful the tool, the better.
If what you do requires a tool shaped like a truck, then you're currently experiencing a nirvana-like period in history. In just the last few months, Chrysler and General Motors introduced their new heavy-duty trucks. We drove the 2010 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty in October and liked it. We also saw the Chevrolet and GMC HDs at the Chicago Auto Show last month. Although we've yet to get behind the wheel, the powertrain and chassis improvements appear promising.
Not to be left out, Ford's rolling introduction of its latest F-Series Super Duty just culminated with an Arizona-based press-only driving event (we first reported on the new truck in September). Want to know everything about Ford's big, new tool? For starters, the blue oval on the grille measures 13 inches. Believe it or not, there's more. Find out after the jump.
Photos by Rex Roy / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty brings the biggest tools
First Drive: 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty brings the biggest tools originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford
2010 Ford Mustang Boss 302R - Click above for high-res image gallery
Last week in The Wall Street Journal, writer Ben Austen publised an article in which he ruminates on why no one appears to be racing the Detroit Three's neo-muscle offerings - the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. That the piece succeeds overwhelmingly at, however, is highlighting the myopia of America's mainstream press when it comes to motorsports. Many people in media seem to be completely unaware that there are forms of automotive competition other than NASCAR, because the cars the WSJ article focuses on most assuredly are involved in active competition.
NASCAR may be the big dog in terms of the number of races, sponsor participation, and even people at the track. But by no means is anything about modern stock car racing in any way relevant. A more important question might be why automakers continue pour hundreds of millions of dollars into NASCAR every year, but we'll leave that for another day.
All three of the current crop of pony cars compete in a wide variety of racing, from drags to ovals and road courses. Ford in particular has offered turnkey Mustang race cars for several years, and they've been very successful in a number of classes, including the NASCAR-owned Grand-Am series. In fact, fans watching the 2010 Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge will see Mustangs, Camaros, and at least one Dodge Challenger slugging it out on a regular basis.
Pratt & Miller racing currently runs a program in which it converts Grand-Am Pontiac GXP.Rs to Camaro bodies. Dodge Challengers can be found at many drag strips (along with innumerable Mustangs and Camaros). And let's not forget that NASCAR is running Challenger- and Mustang-branded stockers in a few Nationwide Series races this year as part of its own "Car of Tomorrow" program.
Admittedly, it would be nice to see a revival on the level of the old Trans Am series, with all three of these machines running in force, but journalists like Mr. Austen would do well to remove the NASCAR blinders before summarily dismissing the modern pony cars as being absent from today's racing scene. It's just not so.
[Source: The Wall Street Journal]Who says Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers don't race each other? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Mar 2010 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Ford
2010 Geiger Cars Shelby GT500 - Click above for high-res image gallery
We don't know why Karl Geiger is fascinated with American performance cars, but we're sure glad he is. The 2010 Shelby GT500 is the latest muscle car to go under the German tuner's knife, and the results are nothing less than impressive. Thanks to a larger Whipple supercharger, larger throttle valves, upgraded fuel injection system and ported cylinder heads, the 5.4-liter V8 produces an incredible 799 horsepower and 697 pound-feet torque. Geiger claims a top speed of 220 miles per hour, but with the Mustang's aerodynamics we would peg that number as more theoretical than anything.
To cope with extra horsepower, Gieger has also fitted the GT500 with a three-disc carbon clutch and reinforced the six-speed transmission. Handling improvements have been made through a "racing chassis" (we're not sure what that means), a panhard rod with polyurethane bushings and adjustable lower control arms. Finally massive 15-inch, six-piston front brakes help haul the Shelby down from inevitable high speed runs. You can see the full press release after the jump, and high-res images courtesy of Gieger can be found in the gallery below.
[Source: GeigerCars.de]Continue reading Geiger Cars takes on the 2010 Shelby GT500 with impressive results
Geiger Cars takes on the 2010 Shelby GT500 with impressive results originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - 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).
[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 - Filed under: Budget, Wagon, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Ford, UK
2012 Ford Focus Wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery
We'll be honest - we're all pretty excited about the 2012 Ford Focus as it's set to add new levels of refinement and technology to the booming C-segment in the United States. And while we're pleased to see the return of the five-door hatchback, we'd be lying if we said we weren't a bit jealous that other markets will be getting this haul-ready wagon variant.
Plans for bringing the wagon to the States haven't been completely ruled out, and executives have said that if market demand is there, Ford will answer (we've heard this one before). Still, Europe should be relatively impressed with the 2012 Focus Wagon, what with its new Kinetic design, optional MyFord Touch system, and a range of both petrol and diesel engines. Click through our attached gallery to see live shots of the not-for-U.S. Focus Wagon.
Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Geneva 2010: 2012 Ford Focus Wagon is a stylish C-segment tease
Geneva 2010: 2012 Ford Focus Wagon is a stylish C-segment tease originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Car Buying, Ford, GM, Toyota, Earnings/Financials
February's automotive sales numbers are slowly rolling in, and we're already seeing that Toyota's recall crisis has severely hurt the company's overall sales. On the other hand, its loss has proved to be a real gain for other automakers, especially Ford Motor Company, sales of which topped not only Toyota's in February, but General Motors' as well.
Both Ford and GM posted healthy increases last month - the Blue Oval folks up by 43 percent and GM up by 12. Toyota, by contrast, was down 9 percent versus February 2009. Keep in mind, not only were new car buyers eager to stay away from Toyota lots, but the automaker was required to stop selling many of its most popular models for a short period of time last month. Camry sales, for example, dropped 20 percent versus last year's numbers.
Ford may be wearing the crown of America's best selling automaker for February 2010, but it's important to note that it only sold 334 more vehicles than GM. We'll see if Ford can hold on to this trend, especially since new products like the 2011 Fiesta will be hitting showrooms in the not-too-distant future and GM has still yet to permanently shed its four non-core brands.
[Source: The New York Times]Ford outsells GM, Toyota in February sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Hybrid, Geneva Motor Show, Technology, Ford, Electric
Ford Transit Connect Electric - Click above for high-res image gallery
Ford has big plans for electrification of its fleet over the next decade, and while most of the emphasis has been on North America so far, Europe will be joining in on the party starting in 2011. Nancy Gioia has announced that between 2011 and 2013, Ford of Europe will get five new hybrid and battery electric models added to its lineup. About six to nine months after each of the new models rolls out in North America, they will be introduced in Europe.
Ford's first new battery-powered vehicle, the Transit Connect Electric goes on sale this fall in North America followed by a European launch in the middle of 2011. The battery powered van is just the beginning of Ford's global electrification plan. Read more about it after the jump.
Photos by Drew Phillips, Sebastian Blanco / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Ford]Continue reading Ford to expand electric and hybrid offerings to Europe from 2011
Ford to expand electric and hybrid offerings to Europe from 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Ford, Rumormill
Next-gen Ford Focus - Click above for high-res image gallery
It may not be an earth-shattering revelation or anything - Ford's own Jost Capito said about as much a couple weeks back - but Ford has reportedly confirmed at the Geneva Motor Show that it is merging its European and American high-performance divisions into one unit. First up on The Blue Oval's hi-po radar will be a hotted-up version of the new next-gen Focus.
Will the car carry an ST, RS or SVT badge? That we don't yet know. Nor do we know what engine will be powering the hot hatch, though our best guess (which goes along nicely with rumormill fodder) would be a four-cylinder EcoBoost. Perhaps Ford will find a few more ponies lurking within in its new 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected mill. We'd also gladly take the Powershift six-speed dual clutch gearbox.
All-wheel or front-wheel drive? Dunno. Hatchback bodyshell? Probably, and we hope so. Sale date? No clue, but certainly not before 2011 hits and probably well into the year. Price? We'll see. Clearly, there are way more questions than answers at this point, but you can consider our interest officially piqued by the notion of a return to real performance from Ford's neglected (in the U.S. at least) Focus platform.
[Source: Inside Line]
Report: Global 'high-performance' Ford Focus variant to spawn U.S. SVT version? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Hatchback, Ford, Subaru, Off-Road, Racing
Ken Block wins 100 Acre Wood Rally in Ford Fiesta shown in testing above
He did it. Ken Block made it five-in-a-row at the 100 Acre Wood Rally, showing that his new Ford Fiesta is doing just as good for him as his old Subaru. Block and Alex Gelsomino were the overall winners of the Open Class in their Monster World Rally Team Ford Fiesta, but it wasn't easy for them. Block started the second leg more than a minute behind Subaru Rally Team USA's Travis Pastrana after having a bit of trouble on stage one. Although the Ford was pretty quick, Pastrana was quicker, as was Antoine L'Estage, the Rockstar Mitsubishi Evo driver who now leads the Rally America championship race with 34 points.
Pastrana was leading until he broke his left rear control arm on the Super Special Stage in Potosi. That put Block into the lead with L'Estage barreling down on him - that is until L'Estage also hit some bad luck, getting a flat on the second stage and battling low visibility conditions at a water crossing. Block charged on and never looked back, crossing the finish some 20 seconds ahead of the Evo. Privateer Bill Bacon grabbed the last step on the podium in his last-gen 2006 Mitsubishi Evo IX. Despite some difficulties this year, Bacon has at least been consistent, and finds himself in second place in the championship standings with 28 points. Dave Mirra nabbed 4th, his best finish yet in Subaru Rally Team USA's 2010 STi.
Next up for Rally America will be the Olympus Rally in Olympia, Washington on April 24-25. Full results in the official press release after the jump. Hat tip to Jason!
[Source: Rally America]Continue reading Block Rockin' Beat: 100 Acre Woods rally results
Block Rockin' Beat: 100 Acre Woods rally results originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Wagon, Geneva Motor Show, Ford
2012 Ford Focus wagon - Click above for high res-image gallery
With the debut of the 2012 Focus Wagon at the Geneva Motor Show, Ford has reached the halfway point in the roll-out of its new C-segment platform. When Ford first announced the new C-Max and Grand C-Max at the Frankfurt Motor Show last fall, it said the C platform would eventually spawn at least 10 different variants. The two MPVs were joined by the four- and five-door Focus at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The new station wagon is number five and we expect it to be joined by a three-door hatch and coupe-convertible in the coming months. Ford also revealed that a small SUV will join the C-segment lineup soon.
While the new wagon will likely be a popular configuration on the continent, there are currently no plans to make the estate available in North America. Frank Davis, executive director of North American product programs at Ford, told Autoblog that when a wagon was last offered as part of the U.S. Focus lineup, the market share never got over 14 percent and only hit four percent in the final year of availability.
Davis wouldn't rule out offering a wagon in the U.S. at some point if it were justified by market demand. Since Ford will be using common manufacturing processes for the new Focus globally and the lines are flexible, it would not be difficult to add production at the Michigan Assembly Plant where the North American Focus will be built. Davis emphasized that over 80 percent of the parts on the new Focus are common globally, considerably more than the 60 percent commonality on the new Fiesta.
Design-wise the new Focus wagon differs little from the sedan and five-door hatch. It is identical back to the B-pillars with only the extended roof-line and cargo area setting it apart. Ford has integrated the cargo rails into the roof in order to maintain the sleek looks of the latest iteration of its Kinetic design.
Inside the wagon gets the same up-scale interior shown in the sedan and hatch including the first European availability of the new MyFord Touch system as part of the latest generation of Sync technology. Unlike here in the U.S. where we will initially get only one 2.0-liter engine, Europeans will get a range of updated gas and diesel engines to choose from. Production of the Focus starts simultaneously late this year in Europe and the U.S.
[Source: Ford]Continue reading 2012 Ford Focus Wagon to be shown in Geneva
2012 Ford Focus Wagon to be shown in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Archive for the 'FORD' Category
Friday, February 1st, 2008
Chicago Auto Show
![2009 Ford Edge Sport [Chicago Auto Show]](http://www.myspace-world-cars.info/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/2009-ford-edge-sport.jpg "2009 Ford Edge Sport [Chicago Auto Show]")
If you’ve been holding off on a brand new Ford Edge because the styling just wasn’t sporty enough, have we got good news for you. Tonight at a press event in Dearborn, Ford took the wraps from it’s latest trim level of the well received crossover, the 2009 Ford Edge Sport. Featuring some nice design details like perforated alcantera seating surfaces, an 8 piece body kit, smoked headlights, dual exhaust tips, stiffened up performance suspension, and… oh okay, big stinky wheels. The Edge Sport gets polished 20″ wheels standard and 22 incher’s optional, both wrapped in fat Pirelli Scorpion Zeros. And just because you were already thinking it, no, there are no additional ponies riding under that hood. Expect to see the sportier looking Edge at dealers by fall. Keep it parked here for our live Chicago Auto Show coverage as we bring you all the reveals that are fit to print, er, publish.
CHICAGO, Feb. 5, 2008 - Ford is providing still more sizzle for America’s best-selling mid-size crossover, introducing a new factory-customized model - the 2009 Edge Sport.
“The new Ford Edge Sport is designed to instantly appeal to crossover customers who want a sportier custom look and feel,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford Division. “This specialty design reflects the growing popularity of personalization and more customers’ interest in industry shows like the annual Hot Import Nights around the country and the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas.”
The Sport model - which joins the SE, SEL and Limited models in the range - makes the Ford Edge the first vehicle in its segment to offer a customized model. Its modern, athletic design, flexible package and unique features like VistaRoof™ and SYNC helped sell 130,125 Edge units in 2007, making it the nation’s top-selling crossover. The new Edge Sport model will further distinguish it from competitors.
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Sport Cars, Automotive News, FORD | No Comments »
Thursday, April 19th, 2007
New York 2007: Ford, Shelby and Hertz team up for Shelby GT-H “Rent a racer” Convertible
Lightning has struck again, the Ford Shelby GT-H “Rent-A-Racer” program from Ford Motor Company, Shelby Automobiles and The Hertz Corporation has returned with a special run of convertible versions of the performance-modified Ford Mustang GTs for rent exclusively through Hertz. Unveiled and sold for $250,000 on the block at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in West Palm Beach, Fla., the companies announced that approximately 500 convertibles, a first for the GT-H program, will be available through the Hertz Fun Collection at select airport locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, and Hawaii, later this year. Proceeds of the sale will benefit the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation.
- New Shelby GT-H is the first convertible in the history of Shelby/Hertz “Rent-A-Racer” program
- 500 convertibles will be available for rent through the Hertz Fun Collection at select airport locations
- Shelby GT-H packs Ford Racing performance and handling parts in the classic Black & Gold Hertz livery
- The convertible GT-H makes a live debut during the Barrett-Jackson Auction on SPEED on March 31, as CS VIN #001 is sold for $250,000, benefiting the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation
The Shelby GT-H Mustang program was launched in 2006 to commemorate a plan by Carroll Shelby and The Hertz Corporation in 1966 to help put high-performance, special-edition Shelby Mustang coupes into the hands of racing enthusiast-minded rental customers. Ford supplied the new Mustangs with V-8 engines and automatic transmissions while Shelby added extra performance and style. Hertz gave the public access to a unique driving experience. Those Shelby GT-H Mustang coupes are being retired from the fleet, and are in the process of being auctioned off to Ford dealers. Some of the early GT-H coupes to reach auction have achieved impressively high prices – in the range of $60,000-$90,000 – which underscores the desirability of the Shelby GT-H program.
The program was so popular that Shelby, Ford and Hertz have again teamed up to create the first Shelby GT-H Mustang convertibles. The 500 cars will be built at Shelby Auto’s facility in Las Vegas for delivery to Hertz.
“The Ford Shelby GT-H was so much fun to drive that people literally begged us for more,” said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles, Inc. “The Mustang program never stands still, so we created a Ford Shelby GT-H convertible that gives people another unique driving experience. It’s a genuine American pony car that delivers open air motoring.”
Hertz Fun Collection
Highlighting its position as a leader at U.S. airports in the leisure car rental market, Hertz’s Fun Collection features vehicles tailor-made for travelers seeking exciting driving experiences. The Fun Collection, with cars that can be reserved by specific make and model, adds more entertainment to the driving experience as each car comes equipped with SIRIUS (Nasdaq: SIRI)* Satellite Radio.
The 2008 Ford Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible will be available at select airport locations that feature the Hertz Fun Collection including Phoenix, Arizona; Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and San Francisco, California; Denver, Colorado; Maui and Honolulu, Hawaii, and Las Vegas, Nevada.
“We’re excited to be offering a special edition Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible,” commented Joe Nothwang, Executive Vice President and President of the Americas and Pacific for Hertz. “Customer reaction to last year’s Shelby GT-H Mustang was so positive that we felt it only natural to offer yet another exclusive car through Hertz’s Fun Collection. Once again, customers can experience the thrill of renting a high-performance car that provides the utmost in driving experiences while adding a splash of fun with its open roof capabilities.”
Consumers can check-out the Shelby GT-H convertible which will be on display in the SIRIUS booth, booth CP-9 (Crystal Palace 9), at the New York International Auto Show April 6 – 15, 2007.
With the addition of the Shelby GT-H Mustang Convertible, Hertz now offers 14 Fun Collection cars that can be specifically reserved. More than 40,000 Fun Collection vehicles are available at approximately 20 major airport locations in the United States.
Shelby Styling
Like its 2006 Shelby GT-H Mustang coupe, the 2008 convertible will be instantly recognizable. Clad in black exterior paint set off with gold “Le Mans” dual racing stripes and “Shelby GT-H” rocker stripes, each will wear a Hertz Edition emblem on the front fenders and feature Hertz Shelby GT-H sill plates. A numbered dash badge with Carroll Shelby’s signature will be inside the cockpit.
The Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible will be fitted with a unique hood with pins and a brushed aluminum grille with running horse emblem. A unique front fascia with integrated lower grille, as well as a set of body side scoops will be incorporated. The GT-H’s 18-inch black aluminum wheels will be shod with P235/55ZR18 performance rubber. To give the car additional stiffness, a stylish light bar and supplemental bracing will also be added to the convertible.
Thundering Ponies
Ford Racing Performance Group’s Power Pack (FR1) will kick up the 4.6L V-8/Five-speed automatic transmission powertrain to 319 horsepower. To put that extra power to the ground, the Ford Shelby GT-H will feature the Ford Racing Handling Pack (FR3) including special-tuned dampers, lowering springs, sway bars and a strut tower brace – plus a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly for extra off-the-line acceleration.
“Any Mustang touched by Carroll Shelby has a head start on becoming a legend, and a highly desirable collectible, but they’re all designed to be seen, heard and driven hard” said Cisco Codina, group vice president, Ford North America Marketing, Sales and Service. “That’s why demand is so high in our showrooms, and on the auction block.”
With total production expected to number only 500 units exclusively for Hertz rental fleets, this special-edition Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible will give Hertz customers a truly exclusive driving experience.
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Sunday, August 7th, 2005
Details info: Alternative names:
Ford Grand Marquis (Ford - Venezuela)
Sales Company:
Available version:
4.6 V8 aut.
Previous version:
Variation:
Limousine 4d
Assembly Plants:
Ford (Canada)
Info:
What used to be known simply as a car preferred by cabbies, cops, and older family fogies alike has evolved into an aggressive, handsome, and powerful full-size sedan. Available as an LX Sport, the Crown Victoria can be made sinister with monochromatic paint schemes, leather, bucket seats, console-mounted gear selector, tuned suspension, and performance differential. The Crown Victoria has earned a Five-Star crash rating, ranking it as among one of the safest cars in the world. Available ABS makes the safe even safer, and optional all-speed traction control help to keep the Crown Vic secured to the asphalt. The Ford Crown Victoria, already a favorite of customers, taxi drivers and police officers who appreciate the advantages of a full-size rear-wheel-drive car, receives a new frame and major upgrades in ride, handling, comfort and safety for 2003.
Donors:
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Sunday, August 7th, 2005
Details info: Alternative names:
Ford Econoline 150/250/350
Ford Econoline Passenger Wagon 150/350
Ford Econoline 250/350 Ext.
Ford Econoline Passenger Wagon 350 Ext.
Ford Econoline Cutaway - 350 LWB
Ford Econoline Cutaway - 350 MWB
Ford Econoline Cutaway - 350 SWB
Sales Company:
Available version:
4.2 V8 aut.
4.6 V8 aut.
5.4 V8 aut.
5.4 V8 NGV aut.
6.0 TD V8 aut.
6.8 V10 aut.
7.3 TD V8 aut.
Previous version:
Variation:
Van
(150/250/350)
Van
(250/350 Ext.)
Van Minibus
(Passenger Wagon 150/350)
Van Minibus
(Passenger Wagon 350 Ext.)
Van Chassis
(Cutaway - 350 LWB)
Van Chassis
(Cutaway - 350 MWB)
Van Chassis
(Cutaway - 350 SWB)
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
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Saturday, August 6th, 2005
Details info: Alternative names:
Escape (Ford - Vietnam)
Maverick ()
Maverick (Ford - People\’s Republic of China)
Ford Escape SUV 5d
Sales Company:
Available version:
2.0 16v 4wd
2.3 16v 4wd
2.3 16v 4wd aut.
2.3 16v aut.
2.3 16v
3.0 V6 24v 4wd
3.0 V6 24v 4wd aut.
Hybrid
Hybrid 4wd
Previous version:
Variation:
Assembly Plants:
Ford (Philippines)
Previous Assembly Plants:
Ford (Malaysia)
Ford (Vietnam)
Info:
Available in two guises, XLS and XLT, the Escape offers people SUV style, ruggedness, and room without the parking and fuel hassles. A plethora of interior configurations assures maximum cargo capacity, while not sacrificing comfort levels. The standard stereo features tape and CD players, while the XLT features an in dash 6-disc changer. Front fenders are reinforced for impacts, directing impact energy through the upper and lower doorsills. An energy-absorbing steering column and knee bolsters assist passengers in severe accidents, while pretension-designed seat belts help hold passengers securely in place. New for 2003 is the XLT Appearance Package, which includes glossy Dark Shadow Gray bumper fascias and side cladding, machined bright aluminum 16-inch wheels and Dark Shadow Gray step bars.
Donors:
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