New Ford Mustang gets the virtual Mach 1 treatment

Few Mustang variants are as legendary or desirable as the classic Mach 1. Introduced in 1969 as a high-performance package to slot below the range-topping models from Shelby, the Mach 1 was the every-man's Mustang, and after the pony car lost its way in the late '70s, the Mach 1 wasn't seen again until 2003, when Ford reintroduced the package as the top performing 'Stang this side of the GT500.

We already know there's no Mach 1 for the 2010 model year, but there's at least a little speculation that the historic moniker could be revived for 2011, coinciding with the expected launch of Ford's latest 5.0-liter 400-horsepower Coyote V8 engine. What better excuse could there be for a performance edition? Fortunately for us, Edmundo Cano put mouse to Photoshop and created an enticing rendering of what a factory 2011 Mach 1 might look like.

We're particularly fond of the flat black paint running down the center of the Mustang's hood, which now features the obligatory shaker scoop. Similarly blacked-out 20-inch Torq-Thrust-style wheels look the part, and the whole package is rounded out with Hugger Orange paint and Mach 1 graphics package. We wholeheartedly approve and can't wait to see what Ford has in store in 2011.

© Source: autoblog
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New Ford Focus Styling

The Iosis MAX concept first shown at the Geneva auto salon is the first external clue as to the Ford’s global C-car—the nextgeneration Focus. Due for 2011, it will replace the two very different models currently sold in North America and Europe and provide the basis for Mazdas and Volvos,even though Ford has sold its equity stake in Mazda and might well be out of Volvo in the next year.

The Iosis MAX is a tallish hatchback. Ignore the insanely complex and expensive parallelogram-hinged door frippery, which is strictly concept; the car does provide some design clues. Its height is about halfway between the hatchback and the current C-Max, which sells in the very large compact minivan class in Europe. Ford insiders claim the Iosis MAX is neither a concept version of the next Focus nor the next C-Max. But the strong lower grille, with three horizontal bars, the graphics of the front and rear lights that stretch far along the sides of the car, and the rising beltline and tapering side glass DLO are all elements that will feature on the next Focus.

So too is the form of the body surfacing, which is less angular than on recent Euro-designed Fords such as the Fiesta. This is how Ford’s new-generation C-cars can share some design character with the U.S.-designed cars like the new Taurus. A key element of the new platform is powertrain adaptability.

The concept has a production-intent 180-horse, 1.6-liter four-cylinder Ecoboost engine. It features an idle-stop system with intelligent alternator (charges aggresively when coasting and minimally under acceleration) and mates to a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. Ford will progressively roll out this powertrain to replace its larger-displacement gasoline fourcylinder versions from 2010 and claims it will post a 20-percent economy improvement. Besides Ecoboost, the platform has been engineered for diesel, gasoline-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric powertrains.

© Source: motortrend
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2009 Ford F-350 Striker by Hulst Customs

(from Performance West Group Press Release) Introducing the new 2009 Ford F-150 and 2009 Ford F-350 Strikers, the award winning sport trucks you can own! Created by Hulst Customs, the Strikers are based on the new 2009 Ford F-150 SuperCrew and the 2008 F-350 Crew Cab Dually. Equipped respectively with a 5.4 liter Triton V8 and a Powerstroke Turbo Diesel, the Striker’s subscribe to the hot rodders adage that if a lot of power is just enough, then more is even better. Both of these sport trucks shake the asphalt with the kind of torque and horsepower that are a tribute to the Ford racing legacy that inspired their image.

The appearance of the Striker’s doesn’t merely hint at the rippling power beneath their sensuous skins, it conveys it loud and clear. Both trucks are enhanced with the comprehensive 15 piece Striker custom body kit by Hulst Customs that’s smothered in Sherwin-Williams Planet Color Striker Silver, and accented with Badass Blue stripes that run the entire length of the vehicles. Details abound on both Striker’s, including unique front fascias, black anodized diamond wire accented grille shells, heat extractors on the front fenders, scoops in front of the rear wheels, rocker cladding and even custom cab clearance lights on the F-350. Gaylord’s Lids are featured on both vehicles and provide safe lockage storage, while enhancing fuel economy.

Rolling stock on the F-350 consists of American Force 24 inch forged dually wheels, while Rodtana created the custom multi piece wheels for the F-150. Both wheel designs feature an abundant amount of exposed surface area to insure the SSBC enhanced disc brakes receive plenty of fresh cool air. DJM Suspension provides the “just right” stance on both vehicles, working in concert with Pirelli Scorpion Zero Assimetrico tires for unrivaled corner carving capability, while flattering the extreme body lines of the Striker’s.

The interior of both Striker’s feature glove soft Katzkin custom leather seating that provides the perfect complement to the vehicle exteriors. In addition, audiophiles will appreciate the Sony Xplod audio / video entertainment systems that are matched with Quiet Ride Solutions AcoustiShield insulation for the ultimate sound experience. The Ford F-150 and F-350 Striker’s demand a larger than life adventure. More than a mere weekend glide up the interstate, the Striker’s are ready to run the four mile course at Road America and duke it out with some pony cars and maybe even a Cobra or two!

For more information on turnkey 2009 Ford F-150 and F-350 Strikers, or the parts and accessories they feature, contact Hulst Customs at 1501 Ort Lane, Merlin, OR 97532, phone them at 541-474-1980 or visit their web site at www.hulstcustoms.com.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2009 Ford Mondeo tri-fuel

Ford of Europe is set to add a rather frugal and versatile model into its Mondeo line-up, capable of running on three different types of fuels.

The new tri-fuel Ford Mondeo is compatible with either petrol, ethanol or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) which results in a vastly extended range and lower running costs.

The entire Mondeo line-up – including sedan, hatchback and wagon – is available with the new tri-fuel system, all featuring a 108-kW 2.0-litre engine as standard.

The combined petrol and ethanol tank is capable of storing up to 70-litres of fuel, while the separate LPG tank will have a capacity just under 49-litres.

This gives the tri-fuel Mondeo an expected range of 850km on petrol or ethanol and 460km on LPG for a combined total of 1,310km on just one fill-up.

The wagon version is slightly disadvantaged thanks to its added weight, boasting a slightly diminished range of 1,230km.

© Source: caradvice
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Ford Iosis Max Concept

Ford will reveal the Iosis Max Concept which it refers to as a next generation multi-activity vehicle or MAV at Geneva. The Iosis name is known from previous Ford concepts like the 2005 Iosis Concept and the 2006 Iosis X which became the Kuga. Ford Iosis Max further confirms Ford's design future language in the striking trapezoidal shapes, sharp angles and a bold face. It's supposed to be a flexible option for those not just looking to transport the kids but who also want something that could easily pass as a plaything.

Positioning itself as a sporty vehicle the Iosis Max features a sloping roofline that flows all the way on to the bonnet just above the aggressive lower front grille. Instead of little bulbs for the LEDs, little strips were installed in the rocker panels. Four 19-inch alloy wheels, an extended panoramic windscreen, the absence of a B pillar and an aerodynamic rear spoiler on the roof above the tailgate glass help the Iosis Max signal its sporting intentions quite clearly.

Ford fitted the car with a new 1.6-litre EcoBoost (direct injection) engine that produces 180PS (132kW). Not only is it a powerful engine but Ford says it's also friendly to the environment.
The interior seating arrangement is courtesy of seats that are designed to make occupants feel like they are floating on air. The four seats are made of lightweight materials and can be folded to increase interior space. A touch screen panel on the dashboard gives accesses to utilities like the music and satellite navigation system.

© Source: worldcarfans
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2010 Ford Mustang GT pricing

Need further proof that the pony car wars are once again raging through the Detroit 3 automakers? Look no further than Ford's official press release pasted after the break. Ford is quick to point out that its 2010 Ford Mustang holds a distinct pricing advantage over its rivals, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro and the recently-revived Dodge Challenger. On the low end, a base V6-powered Ford Mustang will run you $20,995, a figure that undercuts the Camaro LS at $22,995 and the Challenger SE at $22,545. For a little more comparison, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe will start around $22K and the R-Spec will be available mid-2010 with a base price of $23,750.

Moving on up the performance ladder, the latest Mustang GT will run $27,995. Again, the 'Stang costs less than the Camaro SS at $30,995 and the Challenger R/T at $30,545. The Blue Oval also carries a big advantage over its rivals in that it offers a droptop option on the Mustang, which will cost its sun-loving purchasers an extra $5K over a standard hardtop. For those looking to let just a little sun in, there's a glass roof option for both the V6 and GT models that will carry a $1,995 surcharge.

The ultimate in factory Mustang performance can be had for $46,325, which will net buyers a brand new 540-horsepower Shelby GT500 Coupe. For the complete rundown on Mustang options and pricing, click past the break.

© Source: autoblog
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2010 Ford Taurus SHO

The Ford Taurus SHO returns as the sporty version of Ford's new flagship introducing a new generation of premium performance and fuel economy with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6. This engine delivers V-8 levels of power – with an estimated 365 horsepower – without compromising its V-6 fuel economy.

The new Taurus SHO driveline combines a high-capacity six-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission with a sophisticated torque-sensing All-Wheel Drive System. These components work in harmony to deliver ample traction when putting EcoBoost power on the road. The six-speed transmission offers a wide array of gears to enable spirited acceleration, yet comfortable high-speed cruising, through a 2.77 to 1 final drive ratio.

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO features an enhanced SelectShift® six-speed automatic transmission with control paddles mounted on the steering wheel, in combination with a sophisticated torque sensing all-wheel drive system, a sportier SHO interior, subtle exterior design cues and myriad technologies and features offered on Taurus

Ford Taurus SHO will be available this summer, starting at $37,995, including destination fees.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150

(from Ford Press Release) 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 edition features a new, bold front fascia and grille along with a premium interior and model-specific ornamentation Sport suspension and standard 22-inch polished, forged aluminum wheels and tires – the largest available on F-Series – complement refined ride of the new Harley-Davidson F-150 edition ю

The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson™ F-150 delivers a new standard of “custom cool,” combining the smooth handling and legendary durability of America’s best-selling truck with the authentic styling of Harley-Davidson, the industry leader in motorcycles. This marks the 14th Harley-Davidson edition of an F-Series truck and latest in a line of Ford Harley-Davidson F-Series models dating back to 2000, which aim to appeal to customers who appreciate quality and unique details only this kind of collaboration can bring.

“Our successful co-branding, unmatched in the industry, offers customers true specialized truck luxury,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “Just like with our other associations, we’ve linked with an industry leader to offer the best
of the best.”

The successful collaboration between these two icons of the open road has produced eight F-150 models, as well as six Super Duty F-250, F-350, and in 2009, the first Harley-Davidson F-450 edition truck. The 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 is the first Harley-Davidson edition vehicle built off the award-winning new 2009 Ford F-150.

“This truck builds on the legacy of toughness that’s been the hallmark of the Ford F-Series brand,” said Matt O’Leary, chief engineer. “Now we’re giving customers more of everything they love with the best F-150 and the boldest Harley-Davidson F-150 ever – featuring a fully differentiated design, all-wheel-drive capability, 22-inch wheels and a knock-out interior.”

The exterior of the 2010 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 offers a bold front fascia and six-bar shaped billet style grille and boasts specialized forged aluminum and Harley-Davidson® chrome badging. The truck will have a lowered appearance because of a fully integrated deployable running board.

Also standard are 22-inch low-profile performance tires – the largest in the F-Series lineup –
and Euroflange forged wheels with a polished and painted center wheel cap. The paint selection is classic Harley-Davidson – Tuxedo Black and the first Ford application of Lava, a deep maroon with three-color metal flake.

The interior is customized to appeal to the truck buyer who appreciates the attention to detail for which both Ford and Harley-Davidson are renowned.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Ford Fiesta is top selling car in UK

The Ford Fiesta was Britain's most popular car in January, the third successive month it has topped the UK's sales charts. Despite the depressed UK market being over 30 per cent down on a year ago, Fiesta sales were up by 28.3 per cent last month. January brought more good news for Fiesta when the newcomer was declared What Car? Car of the Year 2009.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' latest figures, Ford Ka, Fiesta, Focus and Galaxy were all sales leaders in their segments. The new Ford Kuga crossover, capable of over 44mpg while emitting only 169g CO2/km, has been Britain's favourite compact 4x4 for four consecutive months.

The ever-strengthening appeal of Ford's new car range was reflected in an 18.7 per cent share of January's car market – up 2.4 points on 12 months ago.

The total market of cars and commercial vehicles combined shrunk by around 33 per cent to 127,398 units. While Ford accounted for almost one in five sales, its registrations were down by 27 per cent to 24,276 vehicles last month.

Nigel Sharp, Ford of Britain managing director, said: "Our aim of prioritising retail growth is paying off, buoyed by the new Ford small car range. New Ford Ka arrived last month, joining Fiesta to offer the combination of style, value and economy which private buyers are looking for more than ever."

© Source: automotoportal
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2010 Ford Transit Connect

Just ahead of the Chicago Auto Show, Ford has revealed its 2010 Ford Transit Connect for the U.S. market. The previous versions of the compact panel van has been on the market in Europe since 2002. The commercial vehicle will be powered by a 2.0-liter, 138-horsepower four-cylinder motor with the standard four-speed automatic, capable of 24 mpg on the highway. Though not the most exciting reveal of the upcoming Chicago show, the Transit Connect could be important to Ford’s bottom line if it successfully creates a new niche in North America.

Large, fuel-thirsty V8 vans like the E-Series have reigned supreme in the commercial van market for decades, but Ford hopes to capitalize on the success Chrysler has had with the Mercedes-engineered Sprinter. The Transit Connect will be available in four flavors: Van (for cargo hauling) and Wagon (with side windows and bench seats for passenger hauling) in either base XL or more upmarket XLT trim.

According to the leaked specs, the XLTs will add a CD player, optional reverse sensing, power windows and locks and body-colored bumpers. The Wagon will come with standard stability control (optional on both models of the Van) in addition to the bench seats and side windows. Optional on all will be various elements of Ford’s Work Solutions system, which helps commercial users keep track of tools and vehicles via an in-dash computer.

Compared to the European model, changes have been made to the grille – as well as to the front bumper, and possibly a slight alteration to the headlamps. In addition – we have exclusive interior photos – showing an updated look to the aging interior. Changes include rearranging the gauges on the dash, various controls on the steering wheel and new, rounded air vents.

2010 Ford Transit Connect features a Duratec gasoline, despite the fact that the European-spec vehicles displayed in Chicago last year featured diesel motors. The four cylinder/automatic combination is believed to return 19 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway, a 40 percent increase over typical full size vans. All models are front-wheel-drive.

Two sliding side doors, vertical 180-degree-opening “barn door” cargo doors, a low floor and a high ceiling differentiate the Transit Connect from its rivals. The XLT model will be available with a 270 degree hinge. Ford claims the vehicles offer 155 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats. The load space can accommodate items up to 6.5 feet long and 5 feet wide.

© Source: leftlanenews
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Ford Focus RS in action – Video

Ford released a new promotional video of the Ford Focus RS to help give the Europeans a little more detail on the car, but it also taunts us in the U.S. with a hot hatch we can’t have. Because the Focus RS is powered by a 2.5-liter 20-valve DOHC engine that delivers 300 hp at 6500 and a peak torque of 440 NM (325 lb-ft.), we were hoping that Ford was at least going to show us a little front wheel burnout.



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New Ford F-150 Pricing

Ford product planners became more than a little concerned over the long term future of the company cash cow, the F-150 pickup. Although the all-new F-150, then undergoing final testing before launch, was a careful evolution of a highly successful formula, no-one knew whether that meant much anymore.

In May, as the average price of a gallon of gas neared $4.00, the F-150 was knocked off the top of the monthly sales charts for the first time in 17 years, outsold by Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord. That sent a chill through Dearborn: Ford's product planners knew that for most of the 30-plus years the F-150 had reigned as America's -- the world's - best selling vehicle, gas had cost $2 a gallon or less. The world had changed. America was changing. Maybe the F-150 would have to change, too.

The solution wasn't rocket science: develop a pickup truck that was smaller and lighter. The product planners looked at three options -- adapting the T6 Ranger pickup being developed by The T6 Ranger was discounted because it was simply too small. A D4-based unibody truck looked costly and time consuming. That left a lighter truck built around the new F-150 hardware.

The more the product planners looked at it, the more appealing the idea appeared. The new Ford F-150 frame, designed to deliver maximum towing and payload capacity, was stoutly engineered, and therefore heavy. A revised frame, built to the smaller 126 in. and 133 in. F-150 wheelbases (which would allow a regular cab model with a 6.5 ft bed and a Supercab model with a 5.5 ft bed) and optimized for lower towing and payload, could be made lighter. Lighter wheels, tires, and suspension components could be used.

Body-on-frame construction mean a unique cab and front clip could be relatively inexpensively engineered. The F-150 beds could be carried over. Powertrains would be Ecoboost four cylinder and V-6 turbos. The V-6 looked especially promising -- even in a relatively mild state of tune the 3.7-liter turbo could pump out more power and torque than the F-150's base V-8.

The Ford F-150 could tow 11,300 lb, more than anything in its class. They reasoned that if the F-100 was to be Ford truck tough it, too, would need an impressive towing number. They picked, quite arbitrarily, say my sources, 7500 lb. That pushed up the overall vehicle weight. It pushed up cost. It killed engine choices. And in the end, it killed the F-100, too, when Kuzak and marketing boss Jim Farley rightly concluded that suddenly they didn't have the 21st century, $4-a-gallon pickup truck they thought they once had.

© Source: motortrend
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2009 Ford Expedition

Recent years have seen sales of truck-based, full-size SUV fall as dramatically as fuel prices have risen, forcing consumers to be more realistic about what they drive. The growing number of crossover SUVs (which are based on lighter car platforms) has given those who need the passenger and cargo-carrying capacity of a big SUV a more reasonable alternative. Though not as capable in terms of heavy-duty towing and off-road ability, these more maneuverable and fuel-efficient crossovers are ideal for most large-SUV intenders. But for that smaller percentage of buyers who require the serious work capabilities of a traditional full-size SUV, there is the 2009 Ford Expedition.

All is not excellent in Expedition world, however. The big bruiser has a few minor faults. Some controls and displays aren't always easy to read or use, and some plastics feel cheap. And rivals beat the Ford in a few areas. The Chevrolet Tahoe rides a bit smoother, the Nissan Armada has more off-road prowess and the Toyota Sequoia has a more powerful V8. But in the areas that typically matter the most, the 2009 Ford Expedition compares favorably. It's the king at carrying both people and cargo, it's relatively easy to drive and it boasts a lower-than-average price. For those shopping for a traditional full-size SUV, Ford's Expedition is certainly worth consideration.

The 2009 Ford Expedition is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV available in four trim levels: XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited and King Ranch. The well-equipped XLT model seats five and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, running boards, air-conditioning (with rear controls), front captain's chairs, a power driver seat, cruise control, full power accessories and a six-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary input jack. Next up is the Eddie Bauer, which adds 18-inch wheels, gold body cladding and running boards, a power-folding third-row seat, leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded sound system (with an in-dash CD changer and satellite radio), the Sync multimedia voice control system, power front seats with driver memory settings, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

All Expeditions come standard with a 5.4-liter V8 making 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. It's matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Two-wheel or four-wheel drive (with low-range gearing) is offered. An Expedition 4WD we tested accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds, a respectable time for this heavyweight class. Properly equipped, the Expedition can tow a 9,200-pound trailer. Fuel mileage estimates for a 2WD Expedition stand at 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined, about par for the segment.

© Source: edmunds
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2010 Ford Taurus SHO – spied

The Ford Taurus SHO is back, and here's further proof. These photos show the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO, which we expect to see revealed next month in Chicago, doing some humid weather testing in Florida.

The undisguised exterior doesn't leave much to the imagination — especially since we've already seen the 2010 Ford Taurus live and in person. In fact, the only difference in design between the SHO and non-SHO Taurus appears to be the badge on the back and the separated double pipes.

Based on what we learned from the leaked Taurus ordering guide and other sources, the new SHO will likely get the EcoBoost V6 engine, which is good for 355 HP and 350 lb-ft of torque in its 2010 Lincoln MKS platform-mate.

© Source: jalopnik
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2009 Ford Ranger

Like the leftovers in most bachelors' refrigerators, the 2009 Ford Ranger is past its expiration date. While other compact pickups have grown bigger, more refined and more powerful, the Ranger is still acting like it's 1995. As such, in this age where folks also use pickups as daily drivers and even family vehicles, the hard-working Ranger comes up short in the areas of driving dynamics and passenger room and comfort.

But if you're among the relative few looking for either a stout, economical work truck or a nimble and capable off-roader for weekend adventures, the Ford Ranger certainly has its charms. An available segment-exclusive 7-foot bed allows a lot of stuff to be hauled to work sites, while the Ranger's relatively small size and rugged underpinnings make it ideal for trail-bashing.

As an everyday driver, though, the Ranger doesn't make much of a case for itself. Its more modern rivals offer more powerful engines and larger crew-cab body styles. The latter is key for those who regularly carry backseat passengers, as a crew cab provides a conventional bench seat back there with nearly sedanlike comfort. The Ranger only offers the option of an extended cab with inward-facing jump seats -- cute but they're not safe and not ideal for seating anyone except children for short trips. And sadly, the Ranger also falls behind in terms of safety features and interior design. Stability control and side curtain airbags are not available, while the cabin, though functional, is dated.

So unless you're a hard-core off-roader or a business owner in need of a basic workhorse, there's little reason to consider the 2009 Ford Ranger. Trucks like the Dodge Dakota, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are easier and more comfortable to drive on pavement, and all offer roomier cabs with more convenience and safety features.

The XL is sparsely equipped with 15-inch steel wheels, a 60/40 front bench seat (vinyl with regular cab, cloth with SuperCab) and an AM/FM stereo. The XLT adds chrome exterior trim, air-conditioning, a CD/MP3 player and an auxiliary audio jack. These items are optional on the XL. The Sport is similarly equipped but adds unique styling elements (such as a color-keyed grille surround and bumpers), a Class III trailer hitch, satellite radio and different wheels. The FX4 Off-Road adds two-tone paint, 16-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, heavy-duty shocks, a limited-slip rear axle, skid plates, full power accessories, keyless entry, bucket seats with a center console, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel and cruise control.

© Source: edmunds
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FPV Open Day back in 2009

Ford Performance Vehicles is set to repeat its Open Day for 2009 much to the delight of blue oval and motorsports fans alike. Eager punters will have the chance to get up close and personal with the entire FPV fleet on March 1 at the brands Campbellfield headquarters.

Along with the current FG range of vehicles, past models will also be on display along with other Ford performance models. Members of the public will also be allowed unprecedented access to the FPV production facility to see how and where the current range is assembled.

In addition to this, Ford Performance Racing will also open the doors to their race workshop with FPR drivers Mark Winterbottom and Steven Richards on hand to answer questions and sign memorabilia. A variety of family activities will also be available, with all proceeds going toward the Guide Dogs Association of Victoria.

The FPV Open Day will be held on Sunday 1st March, 2009 at 33 Glenbarry Road, Campbellfield and runs from 9am until 3pm.

© Source: caradvice
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2009 H and R Springs Hot Rod Ford F-150

(from H&R Press Release) Ford F-150 pickup trucks continue to be the number one selling vehicle in the U.S. and you can safely say that theirs is the greatest American automotive phenomenon—the new 2009 Ford F-150 is no exception. The newest addition to the Ford lineup has more model variations than ever before, promises more power and efficiency, and is looking to set a new standard in fulfilling driver needs and desires. Our team at H&R Special Springs decided it was the perfect canvas for us to demonstrate its opportunities for personalization. Our vision for the F-150 reflects its versatility. Ford says the F-150 is built for you, and we took them at their word to create a project vehicle that is our take on a classic American hot-rod truck—and, with some ready available aftermarket parts, we created a truck that is truly original and unique.

First things first, suspension. Though it is uncommon to lower a 4-wheel drive pickup truck, we did. In keeping with our goal of creating a unique vehicle, we lowered the F-150 3 inches in the front and 4.5 inches in the rear using our H&R Sport Cup Kit prototype—improving handling and increasing ride comfort. The F-150 has a perfect stance, and hauls in turns come rain or shine. In order to go fast, you must be able to brake fast. We have upgraded the rotors with slotted and drilled Baer DecelaRotors as they increase stopping power and have a dynamic visual appearance. Adding to our truck’s hot-rod theme, and borrowing from the 1970’s, we have painted the factory calipers gold.

Now, throw on your safety glasses to protect your retinas from the awesome, custom built Forgeline VRP3 alloy wheels. Forgeline has precision built the lightweight wheels to custom fit this project—with matte black centers and exclusive, transparent red outer rim finishes wrapped by some of the largest Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimetrico tires available. This tire and wheel package is ready to rumble. We cannot get enough them—and the vivid red perfectly compliments the vehicle’s Blue Flame exterior.

The new 2009 Ford F-150 has exceeded our expectations, once again. Its versatility, combined with its practicality and rich automotive heritage, make it impossible to ignore. Whether attracting attention on Main Street or your favorite off-road path, the H&R Ford F-150 will stand out as an original and functional vehicle that offers great potential for matching individual style and performance preferences—a true American classic.

© Source: seriouswheels
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2010 Ford Taurus

Back in 1985, the then-futuristic 1986 Ford Taurus set the world (and Ford’s sales charts) on fire with its spacey yet stylish design and family-friendly mid-size-sedan packaging, even nabbing a spot on our 10Best list. Of course, we all know what happened next: the car was only significantly updated once in two decades, and what was once revolutionary became an irrelevant rental queen. Moving the Taurus name to the large Five Hundred body for 2008 made news, but hardly proved the sales success Ford hoped it might be.

Now with the vastly improved 2010 Fusion holding down the mid-size sedan spot in Ford’s lineup, the Taurus really has no choice but to continue on as a larger and more luxurious vehicle. The Taurus’s extensive redo comes on the heels of the Fusion’s similarly extensive one, and based on what we’ve seen at its debut at the 2009 NAIAS in Detroit, it looks to be a whole lot better than it’s been in a long time.

Befitting the exterior is a more upscale full-size interior. The flowing center stack reminds of the one in the Lincoln MKS and is just as button-ridden as most recent Ford dashes, but at least the graphics are elegant and the assembly quality is convincing. New assembly processes allow more creative color and trim combos.

New features include radar cruise control and collision-warning systems, push-button start, automatic high beams, blind-spot warning with cross-traffic alert, SYNC integrated audio/navigation, SIRIUS Travel Link with a screen that can be personalized with up to 32 pictures, and, most interesting, “Multi-Contour” massaging seats with “Active Motion” cushions that, according to Ford, subtly and continuously move beneath the driver, “stirring a change of muscular activation, helping a driver avoid back pain.” Other tech-y features include MyKey, via which individual keys can be programmed to restrict things like top speed and audio volume, and Ford’s capless fuel-filler system.

© Source: caranddriver
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Thai-market 2010 Ford Ranger MAX - spied

A cunning photographer has grabbed some shots of what appears to be production versions of the Thailand-bound Ford Ranger Max. While hardware and interior information are scarce at this point, it's clear that some of the details have been toned down from what was shown on the concept (namely the notches on the fender flares and the hood intakes).

That said, the production compact pickup remains essentially true to what we saw at last Fall's Thailand Motor Expo, giving it a bed-load of personality.

© Source: autoblog
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2010 Ford Shelby GT500 - Detroit Show preview

With just days until the 2009 North American International Auto Show opens to auto industry guests, followed by public-access days, automakers continue to tease about upcoming production and concept car unveilings. At the LA Auto Show, we saw the next-generation Ford Mustang introduced. We have since reviewed the 2010 Mustang and can appreciate the basis for the latest treat to escape Ford’s pony corral, the drool-inducing Shelby GT500 variation.

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 upon the revised 2010 Mustang platform. Like the KR, the new GT500 boasts 540 horsepower from a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine with a 6,250 rpm redline. The engine is rowed with an upgraded six-speed manual transmission, with revised gearing that sees fifth gear change from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50. Translation: the 2010 Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency.

Carroll Shelby says, "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."

© Source: automedia
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