2011 Ford Mustang GT; 5.0L V8

enthusiasts, prepare to rejoice — the Boss is back. In response to ongoing requests from the faithful, Ford is bringing back one of the marque’s most revered badges. It’s just a couple of digits, but “5.0” means the world to this league of Ford pony car fans.

The 5.0-litre V8 was the engine that powered the Mustang to glory in the 1980s. Now it’s being revived in the 2011 Mustang GT being introduced this month at the North American International Auto Show in 
Detroit.

While this completely new engine shares the same displacement, it’s a huge step up from the pushrod small-block that initially cranked out about 175 horsepower decades ago. This new iteration is a sophisticated, lightweight (174 kilograms) DOHC gem that delivers an impressive 412 ponies and 390 pound-feet of torque, plus an expected fuel rating of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the highway and 13.8 L/100 km in the city. It also produces fewer emissions.

In a video shown during an early media sneak peek, the engine spooled up to 7,000 rpm with ease. “And it can run at that speed all day,” says Mike Harrison, an engineer who has spent the past 2  years leading the 5.0 development team.

“The heart of this engine is in its breathing,” Harrison says. Its aluminum four-valves-per-cylinder heads have been configured to allow more room for high-flow ports, while the head structure has been designed to support higher cylinder head pressures and cross-flow cooling for sustained high-rpm use. Even the size of the head bolts has been increased one millimetre to 12 mm to keep the highercombustion pressures contained.

A technology developed by Ford engineers called twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) capitalizes on the improved head design, resulting in a substantial increase in torque and more immediate engine response across a wide rpm range. Basically, it works like a ratchet, using the torque of the four camshafts (two intake, two exhaust) to advance or retard the camshaft timing. Ford says the abundance of available torque and increased responsiveness will be immediately noticeable when the driver pushes the go pedal — and improved fuel efficiency will be 
obvious, too.

Ford first used Ti-VCT on its 3.0L V6 and plans to expand the availability of this powertrain technology to about 90% of its products by 2013.

It has been common practice for enthusiasts to toss out the original cast-iron exhaust manifolds of their Mustangs, replacing them with custom-built high-flow tubular headers to improve the engine’s breathing and boost horsepower. Well, owners of the 2011 Mustang GT won’t have to take that hot rodding step — the new 5.0 engine comes from the factory with specially designed tubular headers. And this footnote will warm the hearts of enthusiasts: Ford says those headers were initially fabricated by an engine team analyst in his home workshop.

The core of the 5.0 engine is an aluminum block that has been specifically designed to withstand the demands of an enthusiast, such as a day at the drag strip or weekend lapping sessions at a track. The main bearing bulkhead widths have been increased and the iron cross-bolted main bearing caps have been secured with upsized bolts to safely handle the increased performance. In addition to improved oil circulation within the block, the capacity of the deep-sump steel oil pan has been increased and baffling has been added to endure sustained high-rpm use. As a bonus, the additional pan capacity enables the lifespan of the engine oil to be extended to 16,000 kilometres before changing. Oil jets that squirt lubricant on the pistons are another performance-oriented feature — they also result in faster oil warm-up on cold starts.

Ford Is First To Offer Factory-Installed HD Radio With iTunes Tagging

2011 Ford Mustang Picture

Ford's 2011 Mustang GT will be among the Ford products to get factory-installed HD radio and iTunes tagging.
Ford is set to become the first automaker to offer a factory-installed HD radio option with iTunes tagging when it introduces the technology next year. This announcement follows a statement last week that the next-generation Ford Sync will essentially allow passengers to turn their vehicle into a rolling Wi-Fi hot spot by plugging a mobile modem or "air card" into the standard USB port.

Next year, all 2011 Ford vehicles will offer standard radio, HD radio technology, Sirius Satellite Radio and even Internet radio if you choose to set it up.

The system will automatically pick up HD signals and provide exclusive access to HD radio HD2/HD3 channels. These "mini-stations" or "sister" channels are found directly adjacent to the main channel on the dial, if they are available. Examples of these stations include a dedicated HD3 channel in Dallas to cover the Cowboys 24/7 and a similar HD2 station in Pittsburgh to cover the Penguins around the clock.

With the HD radio comes iTunes tagging capability. Through the Sync system, drivers will be able to simply press a button labeled "Tag" on the radio display, storing up to 100 songs heard over the radio in the receiver's memory. Customers can then connect an iPod to the Sync system to receive the data and a playlist of these "tagged" songs will automatically appear. They can then conveniently preview and eventually purchase the music if they choose.

"iTunes Tagging and HD Radio technology are strong new additions to the growing collection of Ford convenience features and technology we're offering customers to make driving even more enjoyable. This is another example of Ford's commitment to bring the widest variety of factory-installed customer-focused technology, features and conveniences to millions of people," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas.

Ford Mustang is still cool

2010 Mustang GT

Now 45 years old and revamped for 2010 with new styling and more powerful V-8, the "pony car" that debuted in 1964 is strikingly muscular, more energetic than before and thoroughly cool for a modern buyer.

You dont even have to pretend to be Steve McQueen, the lead actor in the 1968 film "Bullitt" who famously drove a Mustang in one of Hollywoods best chase scenes, to enjoy the new Mustangs unique persona.

Just take todays low-riding, sporty and sinister-looking Mustang out on the streets amid roundly styled sedans like the Toyota Camry and tall-riding sport utility vehicles and see how the Mustang stands out as a special ride.

Surprisingly, the Mustang remains a bit practical, too.

The federal government gives the 2010 two-door Mustang coupe across-the-board 5 out of 5 stars for safety protection of driver and front passenger in frontal crash testing. The coupe gets the same high marks for protection in side crash testing.

It gets an average rating for reliability from Consumer Reports.

Starting manufacturers suggested retail price, including destination charge, is $21,845 for a base, rear-wheel drive Mustang powered by a 210-horsepower V-6 mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

Unfortunately, the real gems of the Mustangs — models with V-8s — are priced much higher. The 2010 Mustang GT with 315-horsepower, throaty V-8 has a starting retail price of $28,845 with manual transmission.

A key competitor, of course, is the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, which has a starting retail price, including destination charge, of $23,530 for a base model with 304-horsepower V-6 and six-speed manual. The rear-wheel drive Camaro with 426-horsepower V-8 starts at $31,595.

Ford officials rightfully play up Mustangs longevity, its status as one of the best-known nameplates in history and its notoriety over the years in film, television and even a magic act in Las Vegas recently.

The test Mustang GT seemed to have some magic, too, with its makeover for 2010. The car arrived wearing an eye-catching "Grabber Blue" paint color, and it was complemented by ambient blue lighting inside illuminating the door sills, cupholders and center console.

I couldnt miss the big Mustang horse badge in the middle of the steering wheel as I slid down and into the drivers seat. The Mustang rides low to the pavement, so a driver cant see anything but the back bumper and tailgate of a pickup truck or SUV ahead in traffic.

The round, deep-set instrument gauges on the dashboard looked old-school, but in a cool, not clunky, way. They also were easy to read.

Turning the ignition on, I heard the 4.6-liter, single overhead cam V-8 come to life. Even just idling, it sounded exciting, and a tap of the accelerator with the gearshifter still in neutral brought up the decibels considerably.

I grabbed the gearshift knob and moved into first gear. The Mustang GT rolled out of the garage as if it was on the prowl. I worried that the low front air dam might scrape at the dip of the driveway where it meets the street, but there was no problem. Indeed, only because I couldnt ever see where the front of the big hood ended did I bump the dam once against a concrete curb that marked the front of a parking space.

Torque in the Mustang GT is 325 foot-pounds at 4,250 rpm, and thankfully, the engine runs fine on regular gasoline. By judiciously selecting gears, I zoomed forward into and around traffic. Glancing frequently down at the speedometer, I found the car always was going faster than I had guessed. At highway speeds, the car almost seemed to be waiting to go faster.

The gearshifter was a bit notchy feeling in the test car, but it seemed to fit fine with the cars overall personality. A few times in city driving, I noticed some driveline lash.

Ford Fusion

The one U.S. automaker that didn't take federal bailout money has the only two American cars to make the Digital Drive Top 10 for 2010. Coincidence? We think not.

The sleeper car in our Top 10 is the Ford Fusion, and we're particularly fond of the hybrid version. It's relatively affordable, the hybrid gets great mileage compared to the gasoline version, and the Sync iPod-and-Bluetooth adapter is on virtually every Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury, which is how it should be. The Ford Fusion provides comfortable transportation and outstanding reliability, according to a number of surveys.

The Ford Fusion hybrid gets higher mileage than a Toyota Camry, which is a better comparison than the smaller, if hipper, Toyota Prius. Ford rates the Fusion at 41 mpg in city driving, which is only about $150 less per year in gasoline costs than a Prius. When I drove a Fusion hybrid, I couldn't match Ford's figures but still got in the high 30s. And it felt and sounded more like a mainstream gas-engine car with fewer weird electric-mechanical noises than competing hybrids.

The Fusion Hybrid's reconfigurable instrument panel dual LCD SmartGuage offers four levels of information from Just the Facts to OMG, I'm Controlling a Nuclear Reactor.

If hybrids are to be widespread, they have to save money over the life of your ownership, not just make you look good in front of your green neighbors. (Payback on a Lexus LS460h hybrid is on the order of 100 years.) The Ford Fusion hybrid will get back the hybrid premium and you'll have a decent driving experience to boot. Add Sync, the free 911 Assist emergency calling, a capless gas tank filler, and you've got a very nice car.

2010 Ford Fusion

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid was awarded the “Most Environmentally Progressive Car of the Year” by “blogazine” Earth, Wind & Power (EWP) at the Los Angeles Auto Show Wednesday. This award is in addition to its other recent accolades, including Car and Driver’s “10Best” cars for 2010 and the Motor Trend 2010 Car of the Year Award. The car also got the highest customer satisfaction rating of any Ford vehicle, ever.

So…what is so awesome about the Fusion? Fuel economy. The Ford Fusion Hybrid gets 41 mpg in the city. Ford reports that this is “70 percent better than comparable non-hybrid models and 8 mpg better than the Toyota Camry Hybrid.”

The Fusion also has a unique “eco-gauge” digital dashboard designed to teach drivers how to increase energy efficiency by following cues that leverage the car’s features. For example, through strategic braking and steady acceleration, drivers can increase the amount of electricity used from regenerative braking. When drivers maximize their eco-performance, a digital tree on the readout grows leaves.

When I took the Fusion for a test drive in NYC last April, I found the “Eco-Gauge” driving experience challenging and fun. In the few short blocks of mid-afternoon stop-and-go traffic, I learned how to drive more efficiently and delighted in watching the leaves blossom on my tree. But it’s not all bells and whistles: my driving coach, Praveen Cherian (Ford’s leader of Hybrid Programs), told me that he has been able to increase overall fuel economy to about 70 mpg when maximizing energy efficiency in this way.

Ford claims no recall link

Ford is adamant there's no link between a runaway car stuck on cruise control on a Melbourne freeway, and the largest recall in the company's history.

Chase Weir had to slam on his brakes repeatedly and pull the handbrake to finally stop his 2002 Ford Explorer yesterday afternoon after driving 54km stuck on cruise control at 80km/h down the Eastern Freeway.

The 2002 Explorer is part of a Ford global recall on faulty cruise control devices used in millions of its vehicles.

But the company says there's no link between its recall and Mr Weir's ordeal.

A Ford spokeswoman says Mr Weird's vehicle could have already had the cruise control fixed in his vehicle because of the recall, but even if it didn't, it's irrelevant.

Another UK price rise from Ford

Ford's sporty Focus RS is not affected by the latest price increase

Ford has announced another round of price rises for the UK; on average its cars will be 2.7 per cent more expensive when the changes are implemented at the end of this month, although the hot Focus RS and some Transit vans will not be affected by the increases.

Ford has had to make several small price increases over the last year or so in order to try to offset the damage that the strength of the Euro is doing to its UK bottom line. The company now makes most of the cars it sells here in continental Europe, and has been badly hit by the depreciation of the pound against the Euro by about 30 per cent since 2007.

Given that the UK is Ford's second-biggest market worldwide, it appears odd that the company should have shut down so many of its British operations, allowing such a big mismatch of production and sales between different currency areas to arise.

However, when Ford decided a few years back to close its last remaining British assembly facilities for cars carrying its own badge, it still owned substantial UK production sites – since disposed of - for Land Rover, Jaguar and Aston Martin, from which large numbers of high-value vehicles were exported to North America and the Eurozone. This pattern of activities probably left Ford much better hedged in currency terms on a group-wide basis than it is today.

One open question is the extent to which Ford can make these price increases stick; several of its models have long been available at large discounts via websites such as drivethedeal.com, and some of its competitors have held their prices back.

Jet-powered Ford guns for 300 mph

Joe Wilkins knew there was only one way to give his supercharged, alcohol-injected Hemi-engined hot rod more power: Put a jet engine in the trunk.

"It started as a hobby and turned into a monster," said Joe Wilkins, the motor madman behind what might be the wildest 1939 Ford ever built. He's an inventor and defense department contractor, and the idea of goosing the Ford's ability to turn heads and shred tires came when he bought a used gas turbine engine.

"I got hooked on the simplicity and power that this thing produced, and I decided one day I want to put it in a car."

Luckily for us, he did. The Hemi Jet -- Wilkins has copyrighted the name -- fires up this weekend at the Houston AutoRama, and Wilkins plans to attempt a land speed record in the near future.

In the meantime, he's tooling around Navasota, Texas, in what he says is the ultimate sleeper when the jet engine's tucked away in the trunk.

If you see this car pull up next to you at a traffic light, you may want to think twice before trying to race it.

Most people say "Nice car" and assume he's got the obligatory small-block Chevrolet engine under the hood. Little do they know.

"I can drive it up to the store and get a gallon of milk if I want to," he told Autopia.

The car is an amalgamation of the Big Three, with a Chrysler engine, Chevrolet drivetrain and Ford body. Wilkins says the jet engine was probably used as an APU and weighs 110 pounds.

He claims the car is street legal so long as the jet stays stowed. He fires it up from time to time to show off, and he plans to run it flat-out at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

"We want to be the fastest street legal car in the world," he said.

He's got some intense competition. The Bugatti Veyron tops out at 253 mph and the Shelby Supercars Ultimate Aero TT does 255. And then there's Red Vector One, that crazy Vauxhall that does zero to 60 in under a second. Record, schmecord -- we just want to see the video.

"I'm more than certain the car will go over 300," Wilkins said. "We've still got a ways to go [before Bonneville], but not a long way. We'll have to experiment in some wind tunnels and end up with a spoiler on the back to keep the front end on the ground."

Sadly, Wilkins won't be behind the wheel during the car's test run.

"I turned 61 last Sunday. I just don't think I'm going to be able to handle it [without] the reflexes I had 20 or 30 years ago," he said. "I know several people who would be more than interested."

2009 Ford Kuga

Ford’s new 2009 Kuga inspired by the 2006 Ford iosis X concept and previewed at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show, the production-spec Kuga debuted at Geneva as the brand's first European crossover. With a 2.0-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine and all-wheel drive, the Kuga gives drivers better traction and more room than its Focus platform mate, all while beautifully maintaining Ford's kinetic design language.

The Kuga's exterior features a light assortment of chrome accents, side vents, projector-style headlights and fog lights, rear parking sensors, dual exhaust outlets, and a "liftgate-in-liftgate" tailgate. Inside, the crossover's instrument cluster and audio/navigation systems are shared with the Focus, but each vehicle receives its own unique air vents and smaller design touches.

2009 Ford S-Max

Ford S-MAX has won the large MPV class in the British Insurance Car Security Awards, for the third year in a row, with Galaxy yet again named as runner-up.

Standard security features on S-MAX include Thatcham Category 1 alarm, remote-control deadlocks, engine immobiliser and visible VIN numbers. Ford S-MAX is available from £19,895, on-the-road.

2009 Ford Focus X Road

Ford announced that it will premiere the limited edition Ford Focus X Road at the 2009 AutoRAI show. The Ford Focus X Road is based on the Wagon version of the focus and will be available in 300 units. The Ford Focus X Road comes with the 1.8-liter 16v engine that develops 125 hp and is able to run on both petrol and bio-ethanol.

The Ford Focus X Road comes with a robust and sturdy black bodykit which includes front and rear bumpers and the black finish on the doors and side panels.

The Ford Focus X Road sits on 17" wheels and comes with a range of equipment including a navigation system with a 5-inch color display, Bluetooth phone and cruise control.

[Source: Ford]

2010 Ford Mondeo Titanium ECOnetic

Ford has added a brand new ECOnetic technologies powered version to its Mondeo line-up. Named Mondeo Titanium 2.0 115PS TDCi, the new Ford excels with really low levels of CO2 emissions – 139g/km without compromising the vehicle’s specifications.

The new Ford Mondeo Titanium ECOnetic is available in five-door hatchback or estate form. Furthermore, the car possesses the following features, which helps to reduce the CO2 emissions and improve the fuel economy:

16in Y-Spoke lightweight alloy wheels (standard)
17in Y-spoke alloys (option)
An optimum gear change indicator
Aerodynamically optimised sports suspension and air deflectors
Rear spoiler (five-door only)

The Mondeo Titanium 2.0 115PS TDCi is priced from £23,295.00 for the five-door and £24,545.00 for the estate – just above the equivalent Titanium 2.0 140PS TDCi series. With Vehicle Excise Duty falling in band E, costing £120 per year, and combined with improved fuel economy, this delivers competitive cost of ownership maximising the appeal to fleets and user-chooser customers.

2009 Ford F-150 SFE Hybrid

2009 Ford F-150 SFE Fuel-Efficient Pick-up Truck

Not to be outdone in the market they’ve dominated for so many years, Ford has engineered a strong response to the Chevy Silverado XFE with the 2009 Ford F-150 SFE. While still maintaining its sterling credentials as a serious work truck, the ‘09 F-150 SFE still carries the same 7,500lbs tow capacity – but with a 12% higher fuel economy.

Available as a trim package on both the F-150 SuperCrew XL and XLT 4×2 pick ups, the F-150 SFE will feature a 4.6L V8 engine and will average an EPA estimated 15 mpg city/ 21 hwy. The F-150 SFE’s new fuel economy can largely be attributed to Ford’s new lightweight engineering, which shaved roughly 100lbs off previous model years’ curb weight. The increase in mpg’s is also the result of Ford’s unique hybrid pick-up engineering which continuously regulating fuel consumption.

To maximize fuel economy, the F-150 SFE employs an automatic deceleration fuel shut-off system. When the acceleration pedal is released, the flow of fuel is temporarily shut-off, but is automatically restored once the driver accelerates again. Anticipating the possibility of engine hesitation caused by the continuous interruption to the fuel delivery system, Ford has engineered “proprietary software” to integrate the fuel-saving technology with the F-150’s powertrain. I say: I’m sincerely rooting for Detroit as a whole to rally against the growing dominance of imports in the American market, and I’m especially rooting for Ford, but I’ll admit I’m a little skeptical of anything that shuts off the delivery of fuel to the engine. What I’m most interested in is how the fuel shut-off system will fare over time, so I guess I’ll have to wait and see if I can get my hands on a test mule to find out.

[Photo Source: thetorquereport.com]

2009 Ford F-150 SFE Hybrid

2009 Ford F-150 SFE Fuel-Efficient Pick-up Truck

Not to be outdone in the market they’ve dominated for so many years, Ford has engineered a strong response to the Chevy Silverado XFE with the 2009 Ford F-150 SFE. While still maintaining its sterling credentials as a serious work truck, the ‘09 F-150 SFE still carries the same 7,500lbs tow capacity – but with a 12% higher fuel economy.

Available as a trim package on both the F-150 SuperCrew XL and XLT 4×2 pick ups, the F-150 SFE will feature a 4.6L V8 engine and will average an EPA estimated 15 mpg city/ 21 hwy. The F-150 SFE’s new fuel economy can largely be attributed to Ford’s new lightweight engineering, which shaved roughly 100lbs off previous model years’ curb weight. The increase in mpg’s is also the result of Ford’s unique hybrid pick-up engineering which continuously regulating fuel consumption.

To maximize fuel economy, the F-150 SFE employs an automatic deceleration fuel shut-off system. When the acceleration pedal is released, the flow of fuel is temporarily shut-off, but is automatically restored once the driver accelerates again. Anticipating the possibility of engine hesitation caused by the continuous interruption to the fuel delivery system, Ford has engineered “proprietary software” to integrate the fuel-saving technology with the F-150’s powertrain. I say: I’m sincerely rooting for Detroit as a whole to rally against the growing dominance of imports in the American market, and I’m especially rooting for Ford, but I’ll admit I’m a little skeptical of anything that shuts off the delivery of fuel to the engine. What I’m most interested in is how the fuel shut-off system will fare over time, so I guess I’ll have to wait and see if I can get my hands on a test mule to find out.

[Photo Source: thetorquereport.com]

2009 Ford Edge

The 2009 Ford Edge gives drivers plenty of cargo space and a smooth ride.

The 2009 Ford Edge adds a new Sport model to its lineup. This five-passenger crossover SUV is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. SE, SEL, and Limited trims are joined by the Sport model for 2009. All have a 265-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Sport models have standard 20-inch wheels or available 22-inch wheels, unique body panels, dual exhaust, specific seats, and unique interior trim. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Other available features include a power tailgate, power-folding rear seatbacks, 20-inch wheels, and the Vista Roof, a sliding glass sunroof that covers both the front and rear seats. Ford’s Sync, a software system that offers voice-activated control of cell phones and digital music players, is standard on Limited and Sport and optional on SEL. Note that Lincoln sells a luxury-trimmed version of the Edge called the MKX. The evaluation of the 2009 Ford Edge Sport is based on preview test drives.

2009 Ford Edge

The Ford Edge provides enough power to get ya going quickly and remains a quiet and peaceful ride.

Powering the Edge is Ford’s latest V-6, a 3.5-liter that packs 265horsepower. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the drivetrain’s well sorted transmission made the Edge satisfying to drive. The engine’s power is good enough to get it up to speed with reasonable quickness, engine noise is not too intrusive (although it’s not particularly elegant either), and the transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Note that the supposedly sporty Edge lacks manual shift control for its transmission, a feature standard on many Edge competitors.

2010 Ford Taurus

The 2010 Ford Taurus is among the five hundred full-size Taurus sedans renamed and redesigned after the takeover of Ford CEO Alan Mulally. Dubbed by Mullally as “the one we should have made originally”, the 2010 Ford Taurus was unveiled during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January this year.

Repositioned as a personal luxury sedan, the 2010 Ford Taurus is powered by a 3.5-Liter V6 Duratec engine producing 263 horsepower and mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It has been given the badge of Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle or ULEV II which means the Hydrocarbon and Carbon Monoxide emission levels of the Ford Taurus are lower by nearly 50% than LEV II certified vehicles.

The 2010 Ford Taurus has a starting tag price of $25,995 which can reach as high as $31,995 for the top-end Limited models. Ford North American design director Peter Horbury said the 2010 Ford Taurus is much like the 1986 original but it has combined style with substance.

Among the high tech features of the 2010 Ford Taurus include the MyKey parental programmability, Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, Adaptve Cruise Control with Collision Warning, Blind Spot Information System, Rain-sensing wipers, Cross-Traffic Alert and Voice Activated Navigation among others.

2010 Ford Focus

The front-end design will be inspired by the Verve Concept, including swept-back LED headlamps, a small upper grille and a larger lower air intake. At the rear, the rakish tailgate gets L-shaped lights as well as a neat roof spoiler. A further design highlight is the panoramic windscreen, which brings even more light into the cabin.

The 2010 Focus will have a longer wheelbase creating more space inside. The interior will also feature the latest generation technology: Sat-nav is set to feature as standard on even the most basic models, along with Bluetooth phone connectivity and Internet access. All variants will have key­less entry and starting, too.

The nor­mally aspirated petrol engines will be replaced by new small turbocharged units. The diesel range is to be uprated and carried over. All Focus variants will also feature a stop-start system, which switches the engine off when station­ary in traffic, to cut CO2 output. The ST version will be powered by a 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine that will deliver 260 hp.

New 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Unveiled

2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

The updated 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 was unveiled at the Detroit Auto show. Power was bumped up to a crowd pleasing 540 HP and 510 lb-ft of torque as a result of improved air flow and tuning. The suspension gets improvements in new dampening, springs and sway bars. Early reports are that while the core handling characteristics are improved, overall ride quality is dramatically better than the earlier GT500 models.

The greatest improvements were made in the quality, namely in the interior. Build quality improvements are immediately evident at first glance. There are distinct improvements over the stock GT interiors.

The question that all are posing though may offer a slight disappointing answer, “Is this model lighter than the previous GT500?” The answer is no. Actually this facelift added 20lbs to the already beefy GT500 curb weight.

Full Ford Press Release:

2010 FORD SHELBY GT500 PACKS MORE POWERFUL PUNCH

• Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) delivers a more powerful 2010 Shelby GT500 increased to 540 horsepower, torque increased to 510 foot-pounds, downforce increased and drag reduced

• New gearbox enhancements, plus a standard 3.55:1 rear axle ratio, mean the 2010 Shelby GT500 will deliver improved acceleration performance, while providing better highway fuel efficiency

• Aggressive new exterior design features new functional details, such as the hood extractor to remove heat from the engine and “Gurney Flap” spoiler to tune rear downforce; world-class materials and craftsmanship create the most unique GT500 interior yet

• 2010 Shelby GT500 will be in dealer showrooms in spring

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 1, 2009 – The new 2010 Shelby GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang – and a few surprises, too.

“The 2010 Shelby GT500 demonstrates Ford’s continuing commitment to high-performance vehicles,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “In addition to the numerous performance and refinement improvements inside and out, the 2010 Shelby GT500 is an estimated 2 miles per gallon more fuel efficient on the highway.” “We’re proud of the many of the enhancements that were developed jointly by the Ford and Shelby Automobiles team last year that we’ve now incorporated into the new 2010 Shelby GT500,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby Automobiles. “Building on what we learned to create the Shelby GT500KR, this new car offers a great combination of power, handling and braking. It is truly a special car that is a great deal of fun to drive.”

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team used the gains made on the 40th anniversary edition Shelby GT500KR “King of the Road” Mustangs as the performance starting point and built from there. The design team, with a nod to the original Shelby Cobras from the 1960s, takes those design cues even further with nuanced improvements in both the coupe and convertible, each of which boasts a more-refined interior.

“Working together on the KR, the Ford and Shelby teams developed new systems to continually improve the iconic Mustang,” stated Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles. “Those lessons learned are incorporated into the 2010 Shelby GT500. This approach will help maintain Mustang’s leadership position at the front of the pack and make the ownership experience even more enjoyable.”

“The muscle car segment is becoming even more competitive,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer for SVT. “We need to uphold the Mustang badge with honor, the Shelby badge with honor and most importantly the Ford badge with honor. The 2010 GT500 is the car that will do all of that.”

More horsepower, more refinement, more functionality
The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the 2010 Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car. The 2010 Shelby GT500 delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine expected to produce 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. The redline is 6,250 rpm. The car’s aluminum power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby’s appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor.

The Shelby’s open-element air induction system features a conical air filter instead of a flat-panel closed system to reduce air restriction. This approach allows more air to be pumped through the engine, producing more power and increasing the engine’s efficiency.

A cold-air intake feeds the coolest air possible directly into the air box, helping further increase horsepower. The intake necessitated moving the Cobra snake badge to the other side of the grille to enable maximum airflow.

The twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission has been significantly upgraded, improving drivability and NVH. The discs on the 2010 Shelby GT500 are larger – 250 mm in diameter compared with 215 mm in diameter on the outgoing model – and made of copper and fiberglass to make them more robust.

A unique component of the twin-disc system is the control of the intermediate disc. Rather than floating, it instead has six straps that control the engagement of the clutch, improving drivability.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 offers customers improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on the highway in the top gears. Gears 1-4 remain the same, but fifth gear changes from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50, meaning that the 2010 Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency. The new final drive ratio, from 3.31 to 3.55, enables the improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios.

The Shelby’s distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A patented resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check. “You still hear the supercharger but not so that it’s intrusive,” said Kerry Baldori, chief functional engineer for SVT. “It’s the same with the exhaust. You want people to know you’re driving something special, but you don’t want an exhaust note that overpowers the whole interior.

“We spent a lot of time getting the right sound quality out of the exhaust so you get that nice, crisp Shelby sound outside and a pleasant sound inside the cabin. It’s a nice balance; one isn’t overpowering the other.”

Driving dynamics also are improved, thanks to SVT’s signature chassis tuning as well as new 19-inch Goodyear F1 Supercar tires and forged aluminum wheels on the 2010 Shelby GT500 coupe and 18s on the convertible.

Spring and dampers have been optimized for better roll control, giving customers more confidence when braking, accelerating or turning. The new chassis tuning takes its philosophy from the KR program, with a greater emphasis placed on primary body control.

The team also stiffened the steering shaft.

“All our changes were about making the car to respond as fast and as predictable as possible,” Hameedi said. “The 2010 Shelby GT500 conveys an athletic, confident feel. The shifter, clutch pedal, brake-pedal efforts and overall steering efforts are easier now. We wanted to make sure we had a nice, crisp short-throw shifter that was easy to go from gear to gear.”

The Goodyear F1 Supercar 19-inch tires have been upgraded, too. SVT members developed a “recipe” for the attributes and characteristics they wanted in the tire, which Goodyear’s team of engineers, designers and manufacturers brought to life. The result is better grip, better handling and better NVH properties, leading to a better customer experience.

The wheels themselves complement the high-performance nature of the 2010 Shelby GT500. The 19-inch wheels are forged aluminum wheels milled on both sides. The extra machining process creates “blade” spokes with very thin, yet strong, cross-sections. The spokes have a specific curve from the rim to the hub, not only for strength, but also to accentuate the offset and width of the tires.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 features AdvanceTrac, Ford’s stability control system with several options for performance. The default “on” mode accommodates every-day driving, and a Sport mode delivers for those wanting to put the Shelby GT500 through its paces on the track. The system also can be turned completely off, although the anti-lock brake system and other active safety systems remain in place. Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front air bags, side-impact air bags and Ford’s Personal Safety System.

Numerous aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned splitter, were made to the front end of the 2010 Shelby GT500.

“We worked hard to get as much downforce with as little drag as possible,” Baldori said. “We worked to seal off the air that comes in the front so it can’t go underneath the car. We spent a lot time sealing components such as the radiator and intercoolor to get rid of all the leak paths.

“The result of this evolution of aerodynamics is we’ve increased downforce, reduced drag and improved the overall efficiency of the 2010 Shelby GT500.”

Directing the air so it’s used most efficiently was a painstaking process that ultimately will be rewarding to customers. The design of the front fascia and the car’s “flush” hood helps focus air flow. The top grille focuses air into the radiator, with a rubber flap inside the engine compartment helping to seal the system. The lower grille helps cool the intercooler. SVT engineers also went as far to block off specific diamonds in the front of the 2010 Shelby GT500’s distinctive grille to help maintain the correct cooling and aerodynamic balance. A meaner, reskinned snake ready to take to the streets

The 2010 Shelby GT500 is the most-robust design and most-distinctive model of the new 2010 Mustang lineup. “The design we chose was a ‘flush’ hood where the fascia defines the entire front of the vehicle,” Hameedi said. “That’s very hard to execute from an engineering standpoint, but it really sets the Shelby off as very, very different from the base Mustang.”

“This epitomizes the ultimate Mustang,” added George Saridakis, Exterior Design manager of the Mustang and Shelby GT500. “It’s all about power and expressing power.”

Saridakis said his team took a cue from the Shelby AC Cobra 427 with respect to the front grilles, which are gaping and appear ready to swallow the road.

Another obvious difference for the Shelby is the addition of racing stripes, which also will now be available on the convertible. “Racing stripes made their mark on 1960s-era Ford performance vehicles,” Hameedi notes. “That’s something we feel is a key part of the Shelby performance DNA – maybe more so than some of our competition.”

Rounding out the Shelby’s exterior modifications are the unique signature coiled Cobra badges on the front grille and front fenders, a more aggressive front splitter and lower-drag rear spoiler, which added to improved aerodynamic features, round out the exterior modifications. “We wanted the spoiler raked back aggressively to minimize drag, but we also have an integrated Gurney Flap that provides the downforce,” Saridakis said.

What’s inside counts with the 2010 Shelby GT500
The base 2010 Mustang received a powerful new interior design. For the GT500, the interior design team members challenged themselves to raise the bar even higher to create the ultimate Shelby Mustang interior.

Using genuine materials such as real leather in all seats, real aluminum on the instrument panel and Alcantara inserts on the seats and steering wheel gave the appearance a precisely crafted, jewel-like yet functional feel. “You’ll definitely know you’re in a Shelby,” said Douglas Gaffka, Chief Designer, Shelby GT500.

The genuine aluminum finish panels have a unique-to-GT500 three-dimensional dimpled texture pattern inspired by racing clutch plates, braided hoses and cross-drilled racing brake rotors. The pattern has been painstakingly tuned to compensate for the compound curvature of the instrument panels. In addition, the “GT500” logo has been discretely engraved into the aluminum in front of the passenger as a nod to classic Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s.

This unique aluminum finish panel is fully encapsulated by an exquisite soft seamless TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) instrument panel with a shape that resonates with Mustang’s powerful heritage. The center stack flows into the console and features a sub-flush shifter trim ring, flush cup holder door and lockable console stowage featuring the word “SHELBY” engraved in its Satin Liquid Chrome release button.

All 2010 Mustangs and Shelbys feature bright 360-degree rings surrounding the gauge cluster, uninterrupted by the steering column. These rings will come in chrome for the Mustang and a Satin Liquid Chrome finish for the GT500. This finish is featured throughout the interior. An intricate cobra is etched into the center of the aluminum steering wheel badge. The Shelby Cobra appears at startup on the navigation screen, and the familiar red “SVT” logo utilizes new ambient lighting to illuminate the door scuffplate.

“When customers drive this car, they’re not only going to be impressed by the performance and the Shelby heritage, but they’re going to see all these carefully designed details and know they’ve bought a well-crafted car,” Saridakis said.

Even the classic white shift knob – an icon of Shelby Mustang DNA from years past – received special attention. First, it had to be the traditional white. It also had to be specific to the Shelby.
The answer was to combine the racing-stripes theme with the traditional “H” pattern found on shifters to create a one-of-a-kind knob. Like the exterior, the racing stripes wrap from end to end, encircling the knob.

Wide suite of standard features on the 2010 Shelby GT500

The 2010 Shelby GT500 includes several Ford innovations and industry-exclusive standardfeatures, including:

• SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment systemdeveloped by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabledmobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone andmusic selection capabilities – plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided withno monthly fees.

911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in theevent of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed,as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.

Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter ofminutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer’s paired and operable mobile phone.

• Ambient Lighting System with MyColor™ allows drivers to customize the interior lightingof the vehicle to suit their mood. The enhanced MyColor system features seven base colors –ice blue, purple, blue, orange, red, white and green. Customers also can create 125 custom colors by mixing the red-green-blue palette.

Available options:
• Voice-Activated Navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™ is an industry-leading technologythat will provide users with a unique, information-rich in-car experience. The suite of dataservices includes up-to-the-minute real-time traffic data with accident and incidentinformation for 78 markets, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions andfive-day forecasts and fuel price information for more than 120,000 gas stations. SIRIUSTravel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movietheaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.

This combination of outstanding performance coupled with a fresh, exciting, well-crafted interiorintensely focused on improving the entire experience will make the 2010 Shelby GT500 evenmore sought after, and a fitting addition to a long and proud history.

The 2010 Shelby GT500 will be in dealer showrooms in spring. The cars will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

2010 Ford Mustang

The 2010 Ford Mustang will not be an all new model as was introduced in 2005. However, several sytling changes are forecast as well some upgrades under the hood.

On the outside expect to see some of the squarish lines to be altered somewhat to create a more muscular appearance. In particular, a noticeable hip will be added to the body line just rear of the doors. The rear bumper will also receive some sharper lines which should eliminate the 2005-2009 bland bumper cover. The headlamps will receive horizontal bars modelled after the 1970 Ford Mustang and a new grill is expected to be introduced. An optional Giugiaro concept inspired glass panel roof is expected to be offered in this new model. New styled wheels are anticipated.

Interior upgrades will include refinements to better position the driver, new colour packages, new vintage styled seats, and an expected navigation screen area.

Base motor is expected to the the 2008 Bullitt inspired 315hp V8. However, rumour has a new twin turbo EcoBoost V6 may be considered. Do not assume this is your standard minivan motor - it can generate over 400hp and compete with V8's for torque. But how Ford will make it sound as good as a GT Mustang V8 remains to be seen.

Ford Hybrid Sales Are Up, Way Up

Even in times as financially bleak as these, Ford seems to be moving from strength to strength, at least on the product front. They are able to stand on their own, financially speaking, and have not been propped up by the government, as has GM and Chrysler. The cars they have been turning out have been getting good review and very positive feedback from consumers. And now it’s looking like Ford
hybrids are going to own a serious chunk of the green market.

Ford says that hybrid sales have been up considerably over the last year. Sales in September were up 73% from the previous year, and according to Automotive News this will put Ford within a few thousand cars of passing Honda as the second largest seller of hybrids in America. Not bad.

“More than 60 percent of Fusion Hybrid sales have been from non-Ford owners, and more than half of those are customers coming from import brands, mostly from Toyota and Honda,” says David Finnegan, Ford hybrid marketing manager.

Compare Ford’s hybrid sales figures with those of the top dog in the green car market, Toyota. During the same time period that Ford has seen that 73% skyrocketing in hybrid sales Toyota, has seen sales of its hybrids drop by 28%. Overall though, Toyota is still king of the hybrid hill, owning nearly 66% of all US hybrid sales.

New hybrid shoppers have been attracted to the ford line of hybrids due to superior mileage numbers and increasing consumer confidence in Ford build quality. The Fusion Hybrid is certified by the EPA at 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, thumping the Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway.

Taken in total, what this all means is that on a level playing field Ford is a serious player. They will most likely surpass Honda soon, and if green-minded car buyers start to get a more patriotic bent in their buying decisions, Ford could also start to worry Toyota.

Shopping Tools * Free Dealer Quote * Insure It Advertisement 2010 Ford Mustang NASCAR Race Car

As we reported in June, the Ford Mustang is headed to NASCAR’s Nationwide series (one step down from the big-league Nextel Cup), and the Mustang-bodied race car has now made its first official public appearance at Roush Fenway Racing headquarters in Concord, North Carolina.

The Mustang will be based on the controversial—but firmly entrenched—“Car of Tomorrow” (CoT), meaning that, although labeled a Mustang and wearing a modified version of the street Mustang’s grille, the Nationwide car is still saddled with the CoT’s upright windshield, long roof, and steep rear window. The fact that the CoT template makes room for the Mustang’s body-side scallop lends a little more personality to the shape.

Daytona International Raceway will host the Car of Tomorrow’s (and Mustang’s) Nationwide debut in July 2010, with three other series races next year also running the new car. The 2011 season will be the first full season the Nationwide series runs with the CoT. While rumor strongly suggests Dodge will cloak its Nationwide entries in Challenger garb, Chevrolet has indicated it has little interest in entering the Camaro in the series.

2010 Ford Mustang to be Raced in NASCAR Nationwide Series Unveiled

In July, Ford announced that it would bring the Mustang back to NASCAR in July 2010 when a limited number of Mustangs will race at the Daytona International Speedway in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. The Roush Fenway Racing and Con-way Freight Mustang was officially unveiled yesterday.

While the Mustang is no stranger to the track, competing in various drift events -- the Grand-Am Koni Challenge Series, and the SCCA World Challenge Series to name a few -- but the famous pony car has been absent from stock car racing since 1969. Next July will be the first time since then that the Mustang will hit the oval track.

“This truly marks the start of the next era of Mustang Racing. We fully expect this Mustang, with drivers like Colin [Braun] behind the wheel, to start to enjoy the kind of success so many other Mustang racing programs have enjoyed throughout the last four decades,” said Brian Wolfe, director of Ford North America Motorsports.

Ford recalls 4.5m vehicles on fire risk

A faulty cruise-control switch prompted the Ford recall.
Ford Motor Co. said 4.5 million more vehicles may have a faulty cruise-control switch that could cause a fire, prompting the automaker to expand a recall that was already its biggest.

The voluntary recall affects models of vans and trucks including Windstars, Rangers, and Explorers.

The switch, made by Texas Instruments Inc., can leak and then overheat, smoke, or burn. Ford had previously recalled 9.8 million vehicles, beginning in 1999, on the same defect. That number is Ford’s estimate of affected vehicles that are still on the road, a spokesman said.

Ford Is Recalling More Vehicles Over Fire Problem

The Ford Windstar

Addressing concerns over fires, Ford is conducting a recall of 4.5 million vehicles in the United States equipped with speed control deactivation switches from Texas Instruments. The switches have already been the subject of six recalls.

Recalls began in 1999 and covered some 10 million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles from 1992 to 2004.

This means that more than 14 million Ford vehicles have been recalled for this problem, a record number for a single problem, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The earlier recalls involved the Texas Instruments cruise-control deactivation switch, which was powered at all times and could develop a short circuit. That could cause a vehicle to catch fire even while it was parked and the ignition was off.

The agency issued a consumer advisory in February 2008 because vehicles were continuing to catch fire and in some cases were burning down garages.

These 4.5 million vehicles with the same switch were not part of those recalls because the switch wasn’t powered at all times. At the time, Ford and the agency said there was no evidence of a problem in those vehicles. The Center for Auto Safety was critical of both the automaker and the agency for not including them anyway.

4.5 million Fords are recalled

Cruise control switches can overheat, burn

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 4.5 million vehicles because of a switch that can overheat and catch fire. It's the automaker's eighth recall in a decade involving the same switch, which has resulted in the recall of more than 14 million vehicles.

Ford announces deal with UAW

Ford (F) has announced a tentative agreement with the United Auto Workers that should help sustain its return to profitability in the coming months.

The company noted that the deal must still be ratified by UAW-Ford membership and that details will not be discussed until after that process is complete.

However, a report by the Detroit Free Press cites some provisions as including a $1,000 bonus for current full-time employees "in recognition of recent quality and productivity gains." Other items reportedly include a wage freeze for entry-level workers hired through September 2015 and various commitments for adding jobs and other investments to Ford plants.

Ford also indicated this week that it is showing new strength in international markets. For example, the company reported that it had achieved record sales in China for the third quarter of 2009, along with eight consecutive months of growth in that market.

Also, the company reported that it had achieved a market share of 10.1 percent last month in its 19 European main markets, indicating further strength for Ford products overseas.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid Car

HIGHLIGHTS: The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid features a smaller and lighter nickel-metal hydride battery. Driving the 2010 Fusion is fun and probably the best Ford Hybrid ever built.

Car Specifications For 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient midsize automobile on the market. The Ford Hybrid It has a MPG rating Of 41 MPG city and 36 MPG highway. It can go over 700 miles between fill-ups, which for the average commuter translates into a stop at the pump once a month. The 200 Fusion offers a starting price of $27,625.

With a wider and more sportier look, the Ford Fusion has improved aerodynamics. Ford's attention to detail on the Fusion begins with a new design that gives the car a look that is both sportier and more upscale as well as improved aerodynamics. The car's newly designed front end, including a powerfully domed hood, and new headlamps, grille and larger fog-lamp area further enhance the sporty nature of the 2010 Fusion.

Aerodynamic enhancements and new under body shields further boost Fusion's fuel economy. This sporty new look helps to make the Ford Fusion more appealing to consumers who are seeking fun-to-drive Hybrid cars. This new interior design features a more contemporary look with metallic new finishes.

The new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin which carries through the center console, doors, and steering wheel. The leather wrapped steering wheel was completely redesigned with form fitting palm swells and a new shifter. The seat actually conforms to you, offering more side support with smoother bolsters and comfort.

Earth-friendly cloth fabric in the Fusion Hybrid is made from 85 percent post-industrial materials, polyester fibers that would otherwise have ended up in landfills. This is another great way to be friendly to our environment. Using natural materials, the 2010 Fusion is one of the best eco cars on the planet.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid can operate for up to 47 mph in the pure electric mode. Recently, Ford drove the Fusion for more than 1,400 miles on only one tank of gas. This was done while using driving techniques to conserve fuel.

With the vehicle's enhanced electronic throttle control, it reduces airflow on shutdowns. Additionally, it reduces fuel consumption on restarts. The Ford Hybrid has wide-band lambda sensors that analyze the air-fuel ratio and will adjust the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.

The Hybrid Ford Fusions all uses a smaller and lighter nickel-metal hydride battery. By using these batteries, they are able to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature, and it is cooled using cabin air. It is also equipped with a new high-efficiency converter to provide 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.

If you are shopping for a new vehicle, you should try out the 2010 Ford Hybrid. The Hybrid car offers several incentives including a rebate. Several Ford Fusion owners have reported greater fuel economy than the EPA estimates.

Toyota Prius vs. Ford Fusion hybrid

Readers debate which is the better hybrid, the Toyota Prius I reviewed last week or the Ford Fusion hybrid.

"As good as this car is, and I believe it to be a good car, I would prefer the VW TDI for the long haul. My primary reason is 'green' -- what are we going to do with these old batteries used in Prius?"

"I've driven a Prius and I've driven a Fusion hybrid. It's no contest. Give me the Ford. It's a more reasonably-sized auto than the Prius, is much quieter, and has a feel of quality and safety."

Ford Fiesta to debut at L.A. Auto Show

Ford will unveil the North American version of its popular Fiesta compact at the L.A. Auto Show in December.

The five-door hatchback won’t look much different from the handful of German-built Fiestas that have been in the hands of a few select U.S. drivers since May. There will be a four-door model just for the North American market.

The Fiesta will be the first of Ford’s next-generation small cars to hit these shores. It’s the No. 2 selling car in Europe, according to Ford, where the current 2010 model debuted to positive reviews last year.

The North American Fiesta will be in showrooms next summer and will carry a 2011 model year designation.

Americans may remember the Fiesta from the Carter years — a three-door hatchback version was sold in the United States from 1978-1980.

Ford designed an innovative marketing campaign around the Fiesta launch that included doling out cars to select drivers who auditioned for the honor by posting short videos on YouTube. The automaker said more than 50,000 people applied.

The L.A. Auto Show is scheduled to run Dec. 4-13 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Ford Steps Up Ad Campaign

Ford Motor Co. has made progress with its "Drive one" advertising campaign since its launch 18 months ago by persuading some U.S. shoppers—sometimes at the expense of its bailed-out competitors—to buy its vehicles based on improvements in quality, fuel economy and safety.

But Ford officials admit they have made fewer gains persuading would-be buyers that they will feel clever and savvy if they drive off in a Ford—the kind of emotional purchase-triggers that could outweigh the more rational ones.

Starting Monday, Ford is launching a new chapter of its "Drive one" campaign, featuring 15-second spots using real customers talking about the "cool" features of their new Fords. It comes as the car maker plans to boost its fourth-quarter ad budget 10% from a year ago.

"It's all about what real customers are saying," said Matt VanDyke, Ford's director of marketing communications. Ford will air 30 to 40 spots over the next 26 weeks that have a grainy, home-video feel. Mr. VanDyke said they are meant to showcase owners' testimonials as "believable, honest and authentic."

"Drive one" has given Ford a consistent theme after years of changing slogans as often as once a year. But the company still needs to find ways to lure import buyers.

At the same time, Ford's competitors are boosting their ad presence, convinced that the last three months of the year could mark the beginning of a recovery in the car industry.

Slammed by declining sales and disappearing profits, Toyota Motor Co. is preparing a $1 billion marketing effort to prime the U.S. market in the quarter. The world's largest auto maker needs to turn around its North American business after acknowledging it expects to report a loss in its current fiscal year, which would be its second annual deficit in a row.

The $1 billion plan is 30% to 40% more than Toyota typically spends in the quarter.

Ford's recent challenge has been to entice buyers to reconsider the brand, a problem Toyota doesn't face. But as the industry suffered its worst slump in a quarter century and General Motors Co. and Chrysler Group LLC reorganized in bankruptcy aided by government cash, Ford's message over the past year has also been tailored to remind Americans the car company shunned a bailout.

In a variety of venues from public speeches to Internet postings, Ford began to preach the message that "Ford is different"—a not-too-subtle jab at its cross-town competitors.

But Jim Farley, Ford's global marketing chief, insisted at the Frankfurt motor show last month that the company's "Drive one" slogan remains paramount.

All-New Ford Fiesta

# All-new Fiesta developed in Europe for customers around the world
# Extends core Fiesta values of style, efficiency and value for money
# Dramatic exterior design and exciting interior styling, with high quality materials and bold use of colours
# Excellent driving quality blends sporty, confident handling with sophisticated ride
# Specially-tuned Electric Power Assist Steering offers low-speed steering ease with more direct driver feedback at higher speeds
# All-new Fiesta Zetec S model available from launch for driving enthusiasts
# Two all-new engines: ultra-low CO2 Fiesta ECOnetic, with target emissions of just 99 g/km, plus top-of-the-range 120PS 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT petrol unit
# Robust safety performance, with over 55 per cent of body structure made of high-strength steels
# Approximately 40 kilogrammes lighter than previous Fiesta, contributing to improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions
# Stiffer body structure and reduced vehicle weight delivers ‘light-yet-solid’ driving feel
# Intelligent Protection System with standard knee airbag – first in a Ford small car – and head-and-thorax side airbags, with optional safety curtain airbags plus an array of pedestrian protection features
# ‘Big car’ convenience features brought to small car segment, include Ford EasyFuel capless refuelling, keyless entry and ‘Ford Power’ start button
# Mobile phone-inspired entertainment system, plus sophisticated Human Machine Interface
# Maximum driver comfort with improved seating and reach and rake steering wheel adjustment
# Wide choice of series – Studio, Style, Style Plus, Zetec, Zetec S, Titanium – to suit all customer requirements, from sporty to sophisticated, affordable to luxury
# High level of standard equipment in all models includes power door mirrors
# All powertrains new or enhanced for greater efficiency across the range
# Projected annual reduction in CO2 emissions in Europe of over 11,000 tonnes versus previous Fiesta
# Low overall cost-of-ownership from higher fuel efficiency, lower insurance ratings and repair costs
# Three-door and five-door models available from October 2008

Ford Fiesta Named Schottish Car Of The Year

The all-new Ford Fiesta has been named "Scottish Car of the Year 2008" at the 11th annual Association of Scottish Motoring Writers (ASMW) awards dinner in St Andrew's, Scotland.

A jury of 17 Scottish automotive journalists reviewed every new car available and, in an exhaustive selection process, short-listed eight category winners. At the ceremony, the all-new Fiesta was crowned with the prestigious award thanks to its qualities of style, dynamic driving and value for money.

This is the second successive year that the ASMW has honoured Ford with the title of Scottish Car of the Year – in 2007 the award went to the Ford Mondeo. Also this year, recognition was given to the new Ford Kuga, which collected the category award for "best 4x4 crossover" vehicle.

The awards were presented by President of the ASMW, Bill Caven, who commented: "To win the Scottish Car of the Year once is a marvellous achievement for any manufacturer. However to triumph again the following year is absolutely unbelievable.

"The all-new Ford Fiesta was simply streets ahead of everybody else when it came to offering something fresh, dynamic and value for money. Within hours of getting our first drive in the car we were all blown away by the experience.
And when you consider the high calibre of the other new models up for consideration it is a truly tremendous feat by the Blue Oval."