In U.S., Europe, and China, Ford Fiesta Earns Top Safety Ratings

Ford announced today that its 2011 Fiesta is the first car in the subcompact class to receive top safety ratings in all of the biggest car markets around the world that conduct crash testing: China, Europe, and the United States.
Domestically, that means the 2011 Ford Fiesta will become an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety “top safety pick” according to the agency’s new crash-test standards. Earning safety accolades around the globe is significant because Ford is attempting to prove how it can manufacture just one model that will sell well internationally. Historically, the automaker produced separate models for different markets.
“Ford is committed to safety, including our efforts to deliver top crash test ratings that customers look to when choosing new vehicles,” explained Sue Cischke, vice president of Sustainability, Environment, and Safety for Ford. “Fiesta is the latest example of that safety commitment.”
Ford reports auto-safety agencies in China, Europe, Australia, and the United States rank the 2011 Ford Fiesta at the top of their lists for crash safety ratings. The carmaker also announced that the Fiesta’s most recent five-star crash rating came from the China Automotive Technology and Research Center created by the China New Car Assessment Program, otherwise known as C-NCAP.

2012 Ford Expedition Preview

Introduction

The 2012 Ford Expedition is Ford’s Crossover SUV expected to be released in late 2011. This vehicle can act as a mini van and truck all in one package. With 3rd row seating and towing capabilities, it can hold up to 8 passengers while towing a camper or boat. Many features available in the 2012 Ford Expedition are the same, just updated from the previous years. Previous models still have a higher resale value than many of its competitors. While the body style has stayed the same, certain features have been updated for the model year 2012. In 2012, three models are available: Base Model, XLT and Eddie Bauer.

Features

The first updated feature to mention is the powertrain. The base model Expedition sports a new, smaller 4.8 Litre V8 motor, while the upper trim models still have the 5.4 Litre V8 with more power, but lacks the gas mileage. Another newly updated feature is that of safety. The 2012 Expedition will have not only front row side curtain airbags, but side curtain airbags in both 2nd and 3rd row seats. In addition, roll stability control will be standard on all models, this feature enhances the grip of all four tires, reducing the risk of a rollover accident. Also standard on all models is a post crash alert system where authorities will be called to the location of a crash, even if nobody can actually call for help. Both the 2nd and 3rd row seats will fold flat for situations where there are no passengers, but lots of cargo to haul. With both rows folding flat, this creates a much larger cargo area. Features such as navigation, remote start and anti lock brakes are now standard in every model with a rear view camera available in the XLT and Eddie Bauer models.

Right for the Family

With all the standard features of the 2012 Ford Expedition, it is sure to make a comfortable trip for the entire family. The 3rd row seating allows space for the entire family, while getting 14-19 miles per gallon. Families no longer have to sacrifice comfort for gas mileage. The starting price for the base model 2012 Ford Expedition will be $37,000 which is about the same as a 2011 Ford Expedition. The Expedition has been known as one of the most dependable vehicles on the market since its induction in 1997.

2012 Ford Econoline Wagon Preview

The 2012 Ford E-Series is actually the 2011-2012 versions, so it’s not likely there would be any major changes in the one of the most-loved full-size vans in USA.

History

For 30 years now, Ford had maintained its number one position in this range with best-in-class tough body, power, comfort and capacity to carry cargo. The E series wagon has got 251.4 cubic feet cargo-carrying capacity at the back. Some additional features can be expected that would increase the carrying capacity even further later in 2012. The year 2011 being the centenary year marking 50 years for the E-series, the company has made all efforts to offer premium technology to manage and secure cargo. Some of them include SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system, Ford Work Solutions, and a navigation system with HD radio technology. It definitely has a resale value, and the 2012 model is a great buy with the available options.

luxury & amenities

This full-size versatility has always been the first choice of both individuals and businesses. Flexibility is afforded in the type of fuel that can be used. It takes in both unleaded and normal petrol, so drivers are never stranded. Several classes of trailer-towing packages are offered which can go up to 10,000 pounds including the wiring harness and bumper bracket. Integrated brake controllers, back-up relay systems, and frame-mounted hitch receivers are much-wanted options for added security and braking power. On the inside, standard features have been the highlight of the E-series including the engine service needed warning light, charge system warning light, indicators revealing water in the fuel tank, and other features.

Exemplary Safety

Existing standard safety features have been retained. Some of them include both driver and passenger seats airbags, advance Trac with roll stability control, ABS, and tire pressure monitoring system. SYNC provides a vehicle-health report. The navigation system has a 6.5-inch touch screen display plus SIRIUS traffic link and radio, and reverse sensing system has been fitted. The 2012 Ford E-series standard comes with a front stabilizer bar. It also has heavy duty front and rear shock absorbers to make it safer.

Competition to the 2012 Ford E-Series

If you compare the E-Series Wagon to other vehicles in its class like the Freightliner Sprinter Passenger Van 2500, Chevrolet Express Passenger Van, or GMC Savana Passenger Van, the base model at $28,185 costs much less. All these features and more make the 2012 Ford E-Series a great utility vehicle.

2012 Ford Territory Australian the Spy Shots

The new Ford Territory has been made to the Australian market.The Ford Territory has served Ford Australia VERY well in it’s first 6 years of sales,  Cue spy shots.There’s also some indication that buyers will be able to opt for an inline six-cylinder gasoline mill if the oil burner doesn’t quite suit their wallets. At this point, it’s unclear whether Australian buyers will get to play with the new MyFord Touch system that American buyers have been jockeying with in products like the 2011 Ford Edge.

Exterior of Ford Territory, at the front uses an all-new tri-plane front-end architecture. The new trapezoid-shaped main grille is one of the new Ford Territory’s most noticeable updates. New slim-line headlights with projector beam technology are another stand-out feature of the new Ford Territory’s frontal styling. The high-series Titanium variant takes this a step further with the introduction of LED (Light-Emitting Diode) position lamps integrated into its redesigned front bumper. At the bottom of Territory’s new face is a U-formed lower chin skid plate.

In interior of Ford Territory is displaying sporty and sophisticated. In an Australian Ford-first, the new Territory will be available with Ford’s advanced eight-inch colour touch screen – a technology milestone for an Australian-built Ford vehicle. This stylish and simple-to-use feature will be fitted to the Territory TS and Titanium models as standard equipment. The Ford Territory TX will be fitted with a 5.8-inch monochromatic display screen.

2012 Ford Focus Review

Just north of Los Angeles there’s no shortage of great roads, from Topanga to Mulholland, and Latigo Canyon to Kanan Dume. And we’re driving them all; fast at first, but then at a more leisurely pace, enjoying the scenic views in an attempt to keep the codriver’s lunch in his stomach and off what might very well be the best looking interior in the compact class.

FAST FACTS

1. All new for 2012, the Focus is now powered by a direct-injection 2.0L 4-cylinder that makes 160-hp and 146 lb-ft of torque.2. Gone is the coupe for 2012, replaced by a more functional hatchback model. 3. No official fuel economy numbers have been released, but Ford is targeting 40-mpg on the highway. 4. Coming soon, Ford will deliver a high-performance ST model with a 247-hp EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. 5. Pricing ranges from $16,270 to $22,270 for the sedan and $18,065 to $22,765 for the 5-door.

The change of pace is actually ideal. Sure we’d prefer to hammer the throttle of this direct-injection 2.0-liter 4-cylinder all afternoon, but that’s not what most folks who purchase a new Ford Focus will do. No, they’ll likely sit in traffic much of the time – something we also get to experience plenty of during our first stint behind the wheel of Ford’s highly anticipated new compact. This is LA after all.

MYFORD TOUCH GIVES LUXURY FEEL TO THIS COMPACT CAR

During gridlock we’re able to fiddle with the new MyFord Touch system. Recently panned by Consumer Reports for being too distracting, operating the 8-inch touch screen takes a little getting used to, although with color-coded sections for everything from audio to climate, it doesn’t take long. Being coached though the system by a Ford rep on how to call up a navigation route from the favorites, we’re one step ahead at every command. Better yet, most basic adjustments for things like radio presets and temperature controls can be selected using the five-way toggle switches on the steering wheel.
Of note, Ford has upgraded the material and feel of these components for the Focus, a much needed change after using the same chintzy pieces from the Fiesta on the new Explorer.
Making vehicle controls that much more efficient, we have less of a use than ever for the SYNC voice commands. Almost ready to completely write the system off, one Ford engineer informs us that at a more advanced level it really can make life easier, for example, using voice controls while keeping the Nav screen up so you don’t get lost.
Most customers won’t even begin to fully utilize the system, but Ford is seeing big jumps in sales due to the ‘perceived value’ of such technology. And it’s easy to see why with the advanced telematics system and colorful LCD screens making you think this car costs $10,000 more.

FIRST-RATE INTERIOR WITH EXTENSIVE OPTIONS LIST

A massive step forward from the previous generation Focus, the seats have been upgraded, the dash and gauges redesigned, some high-quality trim installed and a reasonably thick steering wheel sits comfortably in your hands. It’s refreshing to see an all new dash design with new components, rather than just the same old chunky buttons Ford has been using on everything from the Taurus to the Mustang for several years now.
Add in the optional MyFord Touch system, 8-inch LCD screen and 10-speaker Sony audio system (available on the $20,270 SEL trim level and standard on the $22,270 Titanium) and the entire dynamic of the interior is changed. Looking straight ahead at the dash it would be easy to think this was a true luxury car – although the rather low-grade leather on the seats (expected in the compact class) give away the car’s more humble origins.
Still, in an effort to attract mid-size buyers down to the compact segment, the Focus is available with a very long list of premium features and options, including everything from keyless access with a push-button ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear view camera, rain-sensing wipers, power and heated seats, Ford’s easy-to-use Active Park Assist self-parking system and even the ability to turn the car into a WiFi hotspot. Either optional or standard on higher trim levels, you won’t get any of this for under $20,000.
If you’re wants are more basic, Ford will sell you an entry level S trim sedan for $16,270 – roughly $400 less than the base price of last year’s model.

LARGER CAR, MORE COMFORTABLE RIDE, BUT WHERE DID ALL THE SPACE GO?

Along with that vastly improved interior, the 2012 Focus does deliver a more premium drive, thanks to upgraded sound deadening, not to mention an overall size that has grown. With an extra 1.5-inches wheel to wheel and a track that’s roughly 3-inches wider up front and 2-inches wider in the back, it just feels larger and more solid on the road. The sedan is 3-inches longer end to end, although the hatch is actually 4-inches shorter. Either way, moving those wheels further apart makes for a much improved highway cruiser.
Unfortunately, it’s a bit of a mystery as to where all that added space went once you get inside the car. True, rear hip room has grown by 4-inches, but rear legroom is actually down 3-inches, making it one of the most cramped back seats in the segment.
On the sedan, the increased size isn’t translated into added cargo room either with the sedan’s trunk space actually shrinking slightly to 13.2 cubic feet. The 5-door hatchback does, however, offer generous space with a huge 23.8 cu-ft behind the rear seats and a total of 44.8 cu-ft with the 2nd row folded.
That extra size is noticeable on those canyon roads, with this compact pushing the boundaries of the segment. It doesn’t feel large from a handling perspective, it’s just that you can’t help but notice the added width on tighter sections of blacktop.

MORE FUN THAN MOST

As a compact, it’s quite nimble – especially when fully optioned out with 18-inch wheels and some impressive (and expensive) Michelin Pilot Sport summer tires. Whereas Chevy’s new Cruze targets the Corolla in terms of a refined ride, the Focus adds in a bit of flare. It still doesn’t beg to be driven like the Civic does, nor is it as engaging as the Mazda3, but its definitely sitting near the top of the segment when it comes to the fun behind the wheel factor.
Helping to deliver that feeling is an accurate and responsive electric power steering system, a fully independent suspension (rare in the compact class), not to mention what Ford calls Torque Vectoring Control. Essentially it’s an electronic limited slip differential, using the standard stability control system to add brake to the inside wheel in a turn to reduce wheel slip and deliver maximum traction. And with how easy it is to over-work the tires on a front-wheel drive car, it’s much appreciated. Other automakers do offer similar systems, but only on pricy performance models.

NEW TRANSMISSION SAVES FUEL, BUT AT WHAT COST?

Another huge bonus, and one that also helps deliver a 40-mpg highway rating is a dual-clutch automatic transmission. The same hardware debuted on the Fiesta, but at the time drivers weren’t able to shift gears themselves – like in the VW Golf. That has changed with a new SelectShift feature, however, you’ll have to step up to a $20,270 SEL model to get it. And the big disappointment is that rather than paddle shifters or a moveable gearshift, there are tiny buttons on the side of the gear lever that are awkward to reach.
The Focus does suffer from an all-too-common trait of modern cars – an unwillingness to downshift. If you didn’t opt for the SelectShift transmission, or you’re just not in to swapping though the gears, Ford’s 6-speed is almost entirely reluctant to switch down for more usably power – which is particularly evident on windy canyon roads, but is also certain to become a nuisance on more gradual grades on the highway. Full power is still available if you really lay your foot into it, but this is just the latest drawback in the battle to reach increasingly strict fuel economy regulations.
Punched from a stop and the car pulls harder than you’d expect, with 160-hp and 146 lb-ft of torque standard across the board. Some cars in this class do offer more power, but only in higher-grade trims like the Forte SX or Mazda3 s.
The engine is a high-tech unit with dual variable valve timing, but there’s more to building a proper engine than just making power. It’s refined on the highway and quiet at idle, which is something other direct-injection engines on the market aren’t. (Hyundai, we’re looking at you).
While not quite as dramatically styled as the new Elantra, Ford is near the leading edge of design in the segment. Company execs have made it clear that they see the compact segment as the place to be in the future and that’s evident by applying not just technology and refinement, but through designs that even just a few years ago would have been reserved only for premium cars.
And with this gamble on the compact class, Ford is aiming to set the Focus apart from the pack. From the back and side both the hatch and sedan are handsome, but from the front there’s definitely more aggression in an attempt to give this new car a look that’s unmistakable, especially in your rearview mirror. The Elantra may be pretty, but it doesn’t say get out of my way.

THE VERDICT

A significant leap forward for Ford, in building the new 2012 Focus, Blue Oval product planners decided to follow a path similar to what Chevy has done with the new Cruze, adding size and content to the compact car segment – appealing to the American consumer’s desire for larger cars. The Focus then pushes the envelope further, adding a captivating design, some seriously high-tech features to a cabin that already looks and feels first rate, plus a more engaging drive and a bit more oomph from a more refined powertrain.
But Ford is competing with more than just Chevy here, and the Focus, while well-rounded in most respects, isn’t what we’d call a game changer.
Not without its drawbacks, it may feel like a larger car if you’re the one behind the wheel, but you’d be excused for thinking otherwise in the back seat. Official fuel economy numbers also have yet to be released and it’s not yet clear if the 40-mpg highway number is just for the optional Super Fuel Economy Package. During our drive we averaged in the mid 20s, although unless your daily commute involves scooting enthusiastically through the hills north of LA, you should easily do much better.
Starting at $16,270 it’s not a bargain-priced domestic car, even if it is cheaper than last year’s model. Perhaps the best news is that, while expensive, the $22,270 Titanium model ($22,765 for the 5-door) is an incredible amount of content for the price and may prove to be the most enticing option in attracting mid-size customers down to the compact segment. That is, after all, Ford’s goal, having bet heavily that compact cars are to the future what mid-size vehicles are today.

2011 Ford Taurus

Ford Taurus - What the Auto Press Says

The 2011 Ford Taurus ranks 1 out of 7 Affordable Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Taurus, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

If you think the Ford Taurus is a crummy, dated, mid-size sedan suitable only for fleet use, you need to catch up.  The Ford Taurus has been redesigned.  Now the Taurus beats most other large cars when it comes to all-around performance and value: two reasons why we named it the 2011 Best Family Sedan for the Money.

When Ford redesigned the Taurus in 2010, it added some much-needed life (and competition) to the Affordable Large Car class. Before the Taurus’s update, buyers looking for a comfortable large car with decent performance had only one option: the Toyota Avalon.  With the updated Taurus, buyers now have two very good options when shopping large cars.

Car reviewers have a lot of good things to say about the Taurus.Consumer Guide says the Ford Taurus “offers a breadth and depth of features, gadgets, and trim levels, all at prices that make it stand out among a wide variety of midsize and large cars." Some of those standout features include available all-wheel drive, and Ford’s widely-praised SYNC infotainment system.The Taurus also stands out in within the class for being easy-to-drive and having sharp styling. The fact that the Ford Taurus has one of the lowest starting prices in the class doesn’t hurt either.

Other Cars to Consider

Most car reviewers say that the Ford Taurus is an excellent large car, but they say the same things about the Toyota Avalon. The Avalon starts at about $2,000 more than the Taurus does, but car reviewers say it performs better. Plus, the Avalon has slightly better city fuel economy.

Another hot new entry in the large car class is the Buick LaCrosse.  The LaCrosse has slightly less passenger space than the Taurus does and starts at a little over $1,000 more, but most car reviewers say it’s an excellent value, with a quiet, luxurious interior, a longer warranty and better fuel economy than the Taurus.

Performance

The 2011 Ford Taurus performs well for a large sedan, with strong acceleration, sure-footed handling and good fuel economy despite its tremendous curb weight.  Reviewers say it will easily meet the needs of most families.  A high-performance SHO edition, which wins a great deal of praise for its enthusiast-level performance, is reviewed separately.

Acceleration and Power

The standard engine on every version of the 2011 Ford Taurus except the high-performance SHO is a 3.5-liter V6,  making 263 horsepower.  Reviewers say it's a good match for the Taurus’s 4,000-pound curb weight. The engine is mated to, a six-speed automatic that can be shifted manually with steering-wheel mounted paddles.  Reviewers say the transmission is one of the best on the market. The EPA rates the Ford Taurus at 18 miles per gallon in the city (17 with AWD) and 28 mpg on highways (25 with AWD).

Handling and Braking

The 2011 Ford Taurus handles well for its large size, but is not the equal of most European sport sedans.  Reviewers say its ride strikes a careful balance between gentle and crisp, but most wouldn't call it sporty.  The available all-wheel drive adds wet-weather grip. The anti-lock brakes perform predictably, earning little praise or complaints from test drivers.

Pictures

2011 Ford Fiesta by Ford Vehicle Personalization

 

The Ford Fiesta Personalization fomite valid colorations green accents on the wheels and grille to enable auto unique, which is equipped with a consistent four-piece kit.Fresh entry interior package, boasting aerofoils inducting black-and-white, lower door inserts, steering wheels and interior components. They also came with sides of acquired graphics – a development by a tattoo graphic that is currently not yet implemented.

2011 Ford Excursion

Living Ford Excursion, but not one Ford. The wise teacher Custom Cars from the team to change the 2010 or 2011 Ford F-250 or F-350 relating to the interpretation na’n works perfectly for what the trip might look like if it was sent in 2005. Buyers can get their show with doors at four or six and usually take the crew to Tim about six weeks for the vehicle with a van converted into an SUV. At that time, the store receives the output 2005 from the south-west barriers in their shop in Guthrie, Oklahoma, and surgery to remove the rear of the vehicle.

 

From there, the vaccine after a new truck and a completely new interior installed. The whole story will cost you $ 23,000 above the purchase price of the standard F-250 or F-350. Since the start F-250 at $ 29.480, without purpose, it is likely that the search for a cost of more than $ 53,000 when all is said and done. We think that as soon stick with the Chevrolet Suburban is our chips on the table.

2009 Ford Mustang GT

For 2009, Ford has also added more standard equipment to the popular "Premium" arrays offered on both the Mustang V-6 and GT, including SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, ambient lighting, satin aluminum instrument panel trim and upgraded interior trim. A new, optional GT Security Package includes an active anti-theft system and wheel locking kit and Brilliant Silver clearcoat metallic joins the list of available Mustang exterior colors. The Mustang V-6 coupe and convertible are equipped with a 210-horsepower, 4.0-liter SOHC 6-cylinder engine that is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic. The Mustang GT coupe and convertible are powered by a 300-horsepower, 4.6-liter 3V V-8 engine. The standard gearbox is 5-speed manual, with an available 5-speed automatic. Other highlights include:

* Standard front-seat side air bags; dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags; safety-belt pretensioners; passenger seat sensing; crash severity sensing.
* Available High Intensity Discharge headlamps.
* 18-inch wheel offering on V-6 coupe.
* Available customizable instrument panel allowing mix-and-match lighting at the touch of a button.

2006 Ford GT Tungsten

To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Ford's first win at Le Mans, the 2006 Ford GT will be offered in a limited-edition Tungsten Silver, which replaces Quick Silver on the Ford GT's color palette. A Quick Silver racing stripe can be added to the Tungsten Silver package.Tungsten Silver was developed for the 2004 North American International Auto Show Ford "Performance Trilogy" show cars - the Ford GT, the Shelby Cobra roadster concept and the new 2005 Mustang GT. Customer demand was so overwhelming that the color was added to the production palette.