The New Ford Thread

[my3needsaname]

Maybe it's just me but does anybody else feel that Ford is just churning out some of the best looking American made U.S. sold cars? I mean take the new Taurus, it may be the same thing as the MKS which runs off the Volvo S80 chassis but I think it just looks really good. Aside fromthe Ford Interceptor concept rear end, it is a stunning car.

Then you have the new F-150, it's huge, comfortable, and is (IMO) the best looking F-150 to date.

Maybe it's just that I'm a Ford guy from the start but I've been hearing a lot of good praise going towards Ford lately. Motor Trend had an article this month that sad how they were the best off financially along with the release of the new Taurus.
idk, maybe it's just my state of mind but they seem to be doing just about everything right...finally.
I mean somebody has to show teh automakers what it's all about, so why not Ford?

[my3needsaname]

bump
for
link to 2010 Taurus site (http://www.fordvehicles.com/2010taurus/)
I still say it's pretty cool.

[chowhoundMSP]

Wow. I dont think that looks bad at all. Way to go Ford. Lets just hope the build quality is good.

Now they just need to bring over a "Real" Focus from Europe.

[Silver Ecstasy]

I definitely agree. I used to be a hardcore GM fan and I have totally lost respect for them. Year after year, their products get cheaper and lack any form of integrity to them. They fall apart, they don't last worth a shit, and they literally feel cheap in every aspect on the inside.

Ford's really stepped their game up and is shaping up to be the American brand. GM and Chrysler can go suck it for all I care. Except, let me keep a Z06 Vette on the side, since that's the only car worth a damn.

[my3needsaname]

That's the other thing, Ford seems to really be up on that shit with their build quality and how everything is held together and stays together. I just saw the new Taurus and was blown away by it.

As long a schrysler FINALLY goes O.B., then everyhitng will be good. GM can stay as long as their cars stop turning out to be shit...even if they do go they should stay alive in Corvette/Camaro form.

[Dermen]

I don't like the new Taurus, it is too big. Same with the new Accord and Camry. I remember my parents Accord in the 80s was about the size of my Protege.

[SPEED3TYPE2]

The ford hybrid just one the hybrid wars even beating out the camry.

[Silver Ecstasy]

Seen a group of guys in a Hybrid Lincoln MKS today with MI Manufacturer Plates. They were swerving doing lane changes erratically, and I decided to pass them. When I did, there was red tape on the gas tank and it said "Gasoline Removed". Pretty slick, I assumed it was Hybrid-in-testing then.

[MikesMazda5]

I agree, but I am biased a little bit. Ford's quality is on par with Toyota, and far ahead of any other American brand. Of course all of our cars share underpinnings with either Volvo or Mazda. Ford is returning to profitibilty, and if the other brands want to survive then they need to model themselves after us. As already stated, GM's build quality is seriously lacking these days and definitely need to be improved if they wish to compete.

[Olestra]

Damn the red taurus looks awesome!
I'm in love with the headlights and the interior center stack.

[seanmcsean]

The SHO concept is a beautiful vehicle. I can't wait to see it at the NY auto show.

[my3needsaname]

I don't like the new Taurus, it is too big. Same with the new Accord and Camry. I remember my parents Accord in the 80s was about the size of my Protege.
Ummmmm....that's the point. Nobody wants a family sedan that can't fit a family.

Seen a group of guys in a Hybrid Lincoln MKS today with MI Manufacturer Plates. They were swerving doing lane changes erratically, and I decided to pass them. When I did, there was red tape on the gas tank and it said "Gasoline Removed". Pretty slick, I assumed it was Hybrid-in-testing then.
Hahahaha!!! That's pretty funny but I really hope they never make an MKS hybrid...that would be terrible. Like most hybrids.

[Chibana]

Alan Mulally rocks. And Ford's reliability is way up:

http://rumors.automobilemag.com/6437761/news/ford-reduces-warranty-costs-by-12-billion/index.html

http://www.leftlanenews.com/ford-reduces-warranty-costs-by-12b.html

[bacarl]

I don't like the new Taurus, it is too big. Same with the new Accord and Camry. I remember my parents Accord in the 80s was about the size of my Protege.
You might like a Fusion, then. See SPEED3TYPE2's comment below ;)


The ford [fusion] hybrid just won the hybrid wars even beating out the camry.



Seen a group of guys in a Hybrid Lincoln MKS today with MI Manufacturer Plates. They were swerving doing lane changes erratically, and I decided to pass them. When I did, there was red tape on the gas tank and it said "Gasoline Removed". Pretty slick, I assumed it was Hybrid-in-testing then.
Even hybrids need gas :) If they were swerving around they were probably evaluating steering or listening for some noises in the car. Where'd you see them? I don't know of any MKS Hybrid, but the GTDI aka EcoBoost will definitely be big in that car.


Damn the red taurus looks awesome!
I'm in love with the headlights and the interior center stack.
My personal favorite is the silver with the 20" wheel. And I don't even like silver cars!

[bacarl]

It makes me happy to see feedback like this about Ford! The big problem still is converting all the people who have owned crappy cars made by Ford in the past decade or so. There are a ton of them out there and they're tough to convince :-/

[MazdaSpeeder]

Ahh, it's nice to read some praise for Ford. I've always been a Ford guy, and I too am really psyched about the upcoming line. The 350hp SHO, the new Fusion that is more reliable than a Camry and has a wicked good hybrid, the coming Focus (which will hopefully be very Euro). They are on top of it, and the CEO is pretty much the man. I am excited to see their growth, though unless they start offering more manual transmissions in their cars, I'm sticking to Mazdas!

[Newf]

Sorry, still hate em, would never buy one, still igly. They need to let go of the ugly cheap chrome looking crap on their cars/trucks too.,

[my3needsaname]

It makes me happy to see feedback like this about Ford! The big problem still is converting all the people who have owned crappy cars made by Ford in the past decade or so. There are a ton of them out there and they're tough to convince :-/
Oh boy, me tooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!! Since I've got a 2005 Expedition at my expense, I know what it's like to be constantly taking it in for warranty work. Some of it is just to get new parts and some is to actually fix stuff. But no matter what is wrong with it, that engine and tranny and EVERYTHING else on it is amazing. It may be old and out of date but I LOVE THAT SUV! I love the thing more than any other car ever and it's terrible because it always has a problem that still needs to be fixed or a small easily fixable one that just popped up. Thank god for extended warranties! :D

Ahh, it's nice to read some praise for Ford. I've always been a Ford guy, and I too am really psyched about the upcoming line. The 350hp SHO, the new Fusion that is more reliable than a Camry and has a wicked good hybrid, the coming Focus (which will hopefully be very Euro). They are on top of it, and the CEO is pretty much the man. I am excited to see their growth, though unless they start offering more manual transmissions in their cars, I'm sticking to Mazdas!
It really is, I can't wait for that SHO to come out.
Ford has MUCH better automatic transmissions than Mazda does and it is fine by me to be driving around in an auto Ford over a manual Mazda.

Sorry, still hate em, would never buy one, still igly. They need to let go of the ugly cheap chrome looking crap on their cars/trucks too.,
Yes. That chrome grill is shit. I hate the 3 bar ugly crap plastic fake chrome they put on the front. But the new Fords seem to be moving away from that. Which is very good.


Chibana, that's some of the best news I've heard about Ford in the last 6 months. Thank you.

[altspace]

Critics.

[my3needsaname]

Critics.
lol (lurk)

[my3needsaname]

Bump!!!


...FOR THIS (http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/autoshows/chicago/2009/ford2010harleydavidsonf150news.html)
Once you click on the pics, there's a drop down box on the top of the new photo viewing window and there's 26 more photos. Seats aren't my cup of tea but it's niiiiiiiice.

[slug420]

im not feeling the new F150 yet. Maybe in a later year of this style it will have some trim packages that make it look better but as of right now I like the last F150 better.

With the last body style F150 I wasnt a big fan until it was refined a little and they came out with the nice FX4s with the round foglights and the 20" wheels..

I have an 07 F150 HD and I think it looks better than this '10. I think the interior is a step up in some ways (the gauge cluster for example) but those headlights dont really do it for me yet and I still am not feeling the way the tail lights look from the side. The wheels are deinfitely better than the partially-painted-black thing they did in '08.

I wonder what options will be available on the '10.....they dont mention a supercharger in that article and the model shown is 2WD...

[slug420]

just did a little more reading on this...still no SC mentioned but it will be available in 4x2, or a tranny that lets you select from 4x2/AWD/4x4High. Thats new as in previous years it was 4x2 or AWD/4x4High (no 4x2 option in the AWD model).

Some other neat features that it (and other '09 or '10 F150s) has that the previous HD lacked are the backup camera, cooled seats, and heated mirrors....still no powerstep running boards though for some reason.

Window sticker: http://services.forddirect.fordvehicles.com/inventory/WindowSticker.pdf?vin=1ftpw12v19ka00179

edit: just changed that URL to find my original window sticker....turns out I do have heated mirrors...:)

[my3needsaname]

I still say it's nicer but I do agree with you. Like the new Expeditions, the first year the newest body style came out it wasn't until the 08 models that they were really as sexy as they are.

[tunersteve]

I've been a member of a Ford family for years, and I've always had faith in them, especially after they got rid of Nasser, which ran the company into the ground.

With that said, they've got solid chassis, their engine development is finally starting to come around a bit more, and they've made positive steps that GM and Chrysler haven't in this downturn.

I really like the new Fusion, Taurus, and Mustang. My dad just bought a 2008.5 F-250 V10 to replace his 2002 F350 V10 and that truck is simply amazing. I've had the opportunity to drive the new F-150 and several other cars that came out in the past year, and honestly, I'm happy with the changes they've made in them over the past several years.

I'm looking forward to see what they've got in the next 5 years. I think they'll be on a good upward swing once the economy turns.

[coolmazda5]

My family (OK, my dad) has been big Ford fan. It has faded lately though

Out of my head:


195X Ford Fairlane
1975 Ford Maverick (2 door, 4MT)
1977 Ford Maverick (2 door, 4MT)
1980 Ford Fairmont (3MT, you could get to 65Kph in 1st gear, LOL)
1985 Ford Carry-All (I inherited it, 4MT)
1987 Ford Topaz (4MT)
1989 Ford Topaz (3AT, I inherited it)
1990 Ford Topaz (3AT, piece of crap)
2003 Ford Escort Wagon (4AT, mom's)
2006 Ford Mondeo (5AT, brother)


I dag the Taurus SHO, and I now dig the European Focus and the late and new Ford Fusion. As per my current needs, if they would have the S-MAX here, it might have been an option. There have been rumors that will make it to the US, but nobody really knows (dunno)

http://www.allcarwallpapers.com/wallpapers/previews/ford-s-max-6667.jpg

[slug420]

F150 FTW:

Still think big, muscular trucks equal safety? In the case of the new Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan and Chevy Silverado, not necessarily. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (http://www.iihs.org/news/rss/pr021109.html) smashed up the four-door versions of those full-size trucks and, for the most part, found their safety credentials less than stellar.

Let's start with the worst performing of the three. The IIHS says that in its latest round of side-impact crash tests, Chevy's Silverado 1500 gets a Poor rating. Even with the optional side airbags, the Chevy got a Poor. That struck us as odd, so we asked Russ Rader, director of media relations at IIHS, why the truck got a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/). He said it was a combination of a difference in test methods as well as vehicle construction.

"The difference reflects the difference between being hit by a car vs. being hit by another pickup or SUV," Rader said. "The car-like barrier in the government test hits the strong parts of the side structure at rocker panel level, below the test dummy. The Institute's test barrier is taller and higher off the ground, so it's hitting more vulnerable parts of the door."

The Titan also received a Poor side-crash rating from IIHS, but with the optional side airbags improved to Marginal. Dodge's new Ram with standard bags got a marginal side crash rating. We'd be remiss not to mention that the 2009 Ford F-150 and 2009 Toyota Tundra both were already chosen as Top Safety Picks by the IIHS.

[seanmcsean]

The SHO is officially offical today.. WANT!

[my3needsaname]

Score 2 for the F-150!!!
Score 3 for the SHO!!!

Ah Ford, where have yee been?

[my3needsaname]

faSHO!!! The SHO Taurus is gonna have a Twin-Turbo 3.5L V6 (ecoboost) with 365HP@5,500 RPM and 350TQ@3,500 RPM!! With a true dual exhaust system! The faux suede is going to be made from recycled soda bottles...lol, cool.
It'll have stiffer suspension with a package for better brakes, even better suspension, and some other cool stuff.

(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(c ool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(coo l)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)

[my3needsaname]

Bump for new info!!!
I was at my (much friendlier than Mazda) Ford dealer today and was talking to this wonderful guy who's the service manager, Tim, he found out that the regular Taurus is going to have a 250HP 3.5L Duratec V6. Not exactly the best thing to have, a bit underpowered, but it's ok for the car. I would've expected something more like 272HP but a nice cold air and CBE can always fix any engine "issues" with power that can come up.

Out of curiosity this 2009 white on black Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin was on their lot...I'm thinking about offering them something for it. What do you guys think? I say it's pretty damn hott. Those are 20'' stockers BTW.
I only had the iPhone camera on me but they're pretty nice pics.

[coolmazda5]

Out of curiosity this 2009 white on black Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin was on their lot...I'm thinking about offering them something for it. What do you guys think? I say it's pretty damn hott

Looks good, but do you really need one? (I start sounding like wife, LOL)

[mikeyb]

faSHO!!! The SHO Taurus is gonna have a Twin-Turbo 3.5L V6 (ecoboost) with 365HP@5,500 RPM and 350TQ@3,500 RPM!! With a true dual exhaust system! The faux suede is going to be made from recycled soda bottles...lol, cool.
It'll have stiffer suspension with a package for better brakes, even better suspension, and some other cool stuff.

(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(c ool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(coo l)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)(cool)

And is going to cost $37,000 starting. I am all set paying that much for a Taurus. Its a nice car and all but the SHO looks to bland. I was hoping for it to be aggressive in styling similar to the Aussie Falcons.

[coolmazda5]

ts a nice car and all but the SHO looks to bland

Plus it looks massive, too big for my taste. A fusion size car would have been OK

[mikeyb]

Plus it looks massive, too big for my taste. A fusion size car would have been OK

It looks Crown Vic massive in the pics. I would have rather seen a Fusion or a Mondeo sized car as well.

[my3needsaname]

Looks good, but do you really need one? (I start sounding like wife, LOL)
Hahaha! ...yes. It's more because I'm having so many damned problems with the Mazda but I have another thread for that.

And is going to cost $37,000 starting. I am all set paying that much for a Taurus. Its a nice car and all but the SHO looks to bland. I was hoping for it to be aggressive in styling similar to the Aussie Falcons.
Hmmm...not terrible but it's not too bad when you think about it. I think teh styling is pretty good, the taillights are kinda bad looking but other than that it's nice.


If you want a size comparison then go look at the MKS. Don't look at the S80 since it's nicer than both are and it's a bit longer and shorter with bigger windows.

[mikeyb]

Hmmm...not terrible but it's not too bad when you think about it. I think teh styling is pretty good, the taillights are kinda bad looking but other than that it's nice.


If you want a size comparison then go look at the MKS. Don't look at the S80 since it's nicer than both are and it's a bit longer and shorter with bigger windows.

I think its a great design overall. Light years ahead of anything in the USDM Ford car lineup. Just its not exciting to me. The performance is exciting but the styling is blah in my option. Lacking a manual transmission as an option is also an issue with me. I am the type of guy to go for in your face aggressive styling for a sports sedan the enjoys spirited driving. So I would be going to either BMW for a 335i or to Pontiac for a G8 GXP. Just my opinion.

I know it is the similar size to the MKS which it shares chassis and components with. The S80 also is on the same platform.

Link to the thread about the Taurus SHO.

[Chibana]

The SHO was never about boy racer styling, so I'm fine with the "boring" styling of the new SHO. However, I don't find anything boring about the new Taurus design, inside or out. It is too big for me, too. As a fun family car, you bet.

[my3needsaname]

I always forget that this is a Mazda forum and the cars we drive are small so opinions are going to be pushed towards smaller type vehicles. Like 3 series and MZ3's. I drive an Expedition when I don't feel like dealing with the damn Mazda so to me the new Taurus is midsize and my car is tiny as hell. lol
I like in your face styling that will eat you when you're not expecting it but I'd still never drive a BMW or Mercedes or something in that category that fall apart fast.

No matter how much I say it, I'm gonna say it again, the S80 is a different car. The MKS and Taurus may share its chassis but the S80 is a Volvo nowhere near a Ford and it's just...different and nicer.

[SCMP3]

i want one of the new SHO Taurus

[dmitrik4]

It looks Crown Vic massive in the pics. I would have rather seen a Fusion or a Mondeo sized car as well.

but Ford already has a Fusion-sized car. it's called the Fusion.

[slug420]

i think they wish the SHO car was a fusion sized car.....not just that ford would make a fusion sized car

[coolmazda5]

i think they wish the SHO car was a fusion sized car.....not just that ford would make a fusion sized car

Yeah so, bottom line, a Fusion SHO would be a good thing :D. Kind of the MAZDASPEED trim for the Mazda6

[mikeyb]

I saw pic of the Fusion Sport and I thought Mazdaspeed6 when I saw it.

[coolmazda5]

I saw pic of the Fusion Sport and I thought Mazdaspeed6 when I saw it.

Add some extra subtle appearance things, EcoBoost and we are on business (naughty)

http://www.drivearabia.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/2010-ford-fusion-image3-450x308.jpg

But I guess they chose the Taurus for the SHO trim to bank in the market legacy. Taurus+SHO is a well known name by enthusiasts (as seen in this thread)

[mikeyb]

Add some extra subtle appearance things, EcoBoost and we are on business (naughty)

http://www.drivearabia.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/2010-ford-fusion-image3-450x308.jpg

But I guess they chose the Taurus for the SHO trim to bank in the market legacy. Taurus+SHO is a well known name by enthusiasts (as seen in this thread)

Ecoboost in a Fusion would be hot. The regular Sport has the new 3.5-liter Duratec V-6 produces 263 bhp and 249 lb.-ft. of torque.

http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/image/2008/W50/121220082012187149.JPG

http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/image/2008/W50/121220082012185697.JPG

I like it.

[my3needsaname]

They can run that kind of power through the front wheels? ...ouch
I always hated the Fusions, my sister owns one that I hate because everything on it is...plastic. Granted it's an '06 but that's when Ford started to up their quality...starting with that car. Too bad their qualiy wasn't better with it, it could have been a nicer car and the rear end could look less sad.


I still think htey look like shit, engine sounds like shit, the interior feels like shit. Actually the engine sounds like a beehive until you hit the redline.

[mikeyb]

They can run that kind of power through the front wheels? ...ouch
I always hated the Fusions, my sister owns one that I hate because everything on it is...plastic. Granted it's an '06 but that's when Ford started to up their quality...starting with that car. Too bad their qualiy wasn't better with it, it could have been a nicer car and the rear end could look less sad.


I still think htey look like shit, engine sounds like shit, the interior feels like shit. Actually the engine sounds like a beehive until you hit the redline.

The updated Fusion addresses the "plastic". Thie Sport has AWD.

Most midsize sedans are making similar power with FWD.

[my3needsaname]

The updated Fusion addresses the "plastic". Thie Sport has AWD.

Most midsize sedans are making similar power with FWD.
I would hope but that grill looks terrible and the rear end lacks...nothing particular, it just lacks. AWD standard on all models would be good but FWD is just hell. RWD or AWD/4WD, never FWD. I kick myself for getting a FWD car.

[coolmazda5]

I still think htey look like shit, engine sounds like shit, the interior feels like shit. Actually the engine sounds like a beehive until you hit the redline.

Sorry, I don't follow, I take there something you don't like about it? :p

But yes, agree, interior is much more improved IMO:

http://image.motortrend.com/f/13084565/112_0812_07z+2010_ford_fusion+interior_view.jpg

[my3needsaname]

Yes, the new ones are a definite improvement but that grill and the rear end have to be re-done. The interior is almost spot on except for that old school Protege looking center stack. lol

[DaleNixon]

Damn the Taurus is looking good! Here's hoping Ford has a lot of success in the future! I hated my unreliable POS Contour, but I'm rooting for them.

[my3needsaname]

Damn the Taurus is looking good! Here's hoping Ford has a lot of success in the future! I hated my unreliable POS Contour, but I'm rooting for them.
woot woot! (nana)

[mikeyb]

I am still waiting for the Kuga, S-Max, C-Max, and Ka to make their way to the states.

[coolmazda5]

When Ford debuted its 6F transmission back in late 2005, we were told it could handle up to 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. That transmission debuted with the automaker's 3.5L V6 and both are now widely used together in a number of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products. Times have changed, however, and Ford has introduced a new version of its 3.5L V6 with twin turbochargers and direct injection. Called the 3.5L EcoBoost, this engine makes more power than the original 6F transmission, now called the 6F-50, can handle. Enter the 6F-55, a new version of the 6F-50 with beefed up internals to handle the 3.5L EcoBoost's 355-365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. One example is the new ring gear on the 6F-55 (shown at right), which is 41.5mm thick compared to 31.5 mm on the 6F-50.

The 6F-55 will be used initially in versions of the Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and MKT that feature the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. It will also be the only transmission available for the new 2010 Ford Taurus SHO that features the most powerful version of Ford's EcoBoost V6 (sorry SHO fans, no standard transmission will be offered). Each application will also feature SelectShift for manual operating the tranny with either the console-mounted shifter or paddle shifters on the steering wheel. We'll have to wait for our first turn behind the wheel of an EcoBoost-equipped Ford product to judge just how well the new 6F-55 handles all that extra power, but based on the rather significant list of internal changes detailed in the press release after the jump, the new tranny appears more than capable of handling our heavy left foot.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/041_2010taurussho_opt.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/55-and-50-rings_hr_opt.jpg

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/18/ecoboosts-best-friend-ford-unveils-new-6f-55-six-speed-automat/

[my3needsaname]

Cool. Good to know they felt like adding metal to the gears so it wouldn't choke up to blow up. That tranny sounds like a lot of fun too. Picture it together with the EcoBoost and I may be getting a little hard...

[7mileshome]

This is what Ford needs to bring over!
http://www.egmcartech.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/2009_ford_focus_rs_concept_image_main.jpg
http://www.dubdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/ford-focus-rs-504-1-copy.jpg


I keep telling myself that my next car is not going to be FWD though...(wow)

[my3needsaname]

Yea that would be pretty sick but my next car isn't going to have anything less than RWD. Guaranteed. I hate FWD with a vengeance.

[mikeyb]

Rumor has it the next Focus will be the Euro Focus.

[my3needsaname]

Rumor has it the next Focus will be the Euro Focus.
Hopefully, Ford needs it to be that good. I don't want another MZ3...or 4 banger...or FWD car so I'm already at V8 territory or truck territory or something big and mean territory. lol (dunno what that has to do with the topic but it's said)

[DaleNixon]

Dude, just sell or trade your MS3 and get a Mustang GT.

[Kymerik]

Hopefully, Ford needs it to be that good. I don't want another MZ3...or 4 banger...or FWD car so I'm already at V8 territory or truck territory or something big and mean territory. lol (dunno what that has to do with the topic but it's said)

Taurus SHO?

[slug420]

Dude, just sell or trade your MS3 and get a Mustang GT.

i feel dirty for having read that.....what a step down.

[Kymerik]

i feel dirty for having read that.....what a step down.

no kidding...Life rear axle ftl

[DaleNixon]

Not what I would do, but the OP is clearly after something with a big engine that weighs as much as Jupiter.

[dmitrik4]

or a miata. ;)

[my3needsaname]

Dude, just sell or trade your MS3 and get a Mustang GT.
I love how everyone assumes I have an MS3, I just have a regular MZ3. If I'm getting rid of it I'm getting a Tacoma.

i feel dirty for having read that.....what a step down.
Meh...not from my car. Bet you a Mustang GT would run better than my 3. Slipping transmission and sticking clutch gear FTMFL.

Taurus SHO?
Hell yea but I don't want a turbo car. Premium gas costs too much. (lol)

no kidding...Life rear axle ftl
V8 FTW.

Not what I would do, but the OP is clearly after something with a big engine that weighs as much as Jupiter.
No, the size of Jupiter...not the weight. Yes, a big engine would rule.

YOU GUYS NOTICE THIS IS A THREAD ABOUT THE NEW FORD LINE-UP OF VEHICLES, LET'S KEEP IT THAT WAY.
THANKS.

[Kymerik]

Hell yea but I don't want a turbo car. Premium gas costs too much. (lol)


They are tuning the Ecoboost motors to run on 87 :)

[Captain KRM P5]

really like the new SHO personally

[my3needsaname]

They are tuning the Ecoboost motors to run on 87 :)
Really? That's awesome! Great news because my dad owns a 99 V70 GLT (turbo 2.4L I5) and what both my parents have always hated about it is that it runs premium gas. They would fill up the Expedition over the summer (like $9x.xx for 18 gallons of regular) and then immediately the Volvo and t would cost around $5 less for 12-16 gallons or so of premium and actually made the Expedition the more efficient vehicle to drive around town.

[Kymerik]

Really? That's awesome! Great news because my dad owns a 99 V70 GLT (turbo 2.4L I5) and what both my parents have always hated about it is that it runs premium gas. They would fill up the Expedition over the summer (like $9x.xx for 18 gallons of regular) and then immediately the Volvo and t would cost around $5 less for 12-16 gallons or so of premium and actually made the Expedition the more efficient vehicle to drive around town.

Ford was aware of this typical scenerio for F/I cars. Due to the increased compression in the cylinders, higher octane was required to avoid premature detonation and knocking. Supposedly they figured out how to modify the timing of the ignition to avoid having to use premium fuel. I'll try to find where i read about the Ecoboost 87 octane.

[my3needsaname]

That's awesome, I'd love to see that article.

[Kymerik]

ECOBOOST BENEFITS
2008-01-05 18:36 GMT
EcoBoost: Go Farther. Use Less. Save More.
Compared with more expensive hybrid and diesel engines, Ford EcoBoost technology will affordably provide the power and torque that customers crave from their vehicles, while delivering the improved fuel efficiency and reduction in tailpipe emissions that they demand.

EcoBoost builds upon today’s affordable gasoline engine with the addition of proven mechanical enhancements. EcoBoost’s more efficient use of fuel means increased performance yet fewer trips to the gas pump. EcoBoost provides:

•Up to 20 percent improvement in fuel economy.
•Up to 15 percent reduction in CO2 emissions.
•Improved engine performance.
Plus, EcoBoost is easy on the wallet. Customers in North America purchasing a vehicle featuring an EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine can expect to recoup their initial investment within two and a half years through savings in fuel costs. Drivers of diesel-powered vehicles in North America need seven and a half years to recoup their investment. Hybrid owners need nearly 12 years when all options are equalized for miles driven per year and fuel costs.

EcoBoost engines – while featuring advanced technology – still run on regular grade gasoline (87 octane). Their real-world fuel economy benefit is consistent no matter the drive cycle, meaning the engine is efficient in the city as well as on the highway.

Source: http://ford.digitalsnippets.com/2008/01/05/ecoboost-benefits/

[Mazda3]

2008 and newer CX-7 runs on 87 octane with the DISI turbo engine.

[my3needsaname]

That...is...awesome! Go Ford! PWN Hybrids!

[slug420]

Premium fuel is unfortunate but it was never even close for me (ur volvos must get awful mileage)....my msp with 93 octane was still way cheaper to fill than my f150 on 87 octane. ~30mpg vs 15/16mpg?? F150 was never more economical to drive.

[my3needsaname]

It gets around 18 mpg in the city the wat my father drives but it is 10 years old and has 1998 (industry leading ;)) turbo technology.
So it does ok but it's just got a big tank thta my dad runs down to the E line almost regularly.
So in it's defense if he filled up at the same 1/4 mark we do with the Expedition then it would have cost less but where he filled up, the Expedition was more economical.

[MazdaSpeeder]

When Ford debuted its 6F transmission back in late 2005, we were told it could handle up to 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. That transmission debuted with the automaker's 3.5L V6 and both are now widely used together in a number of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products. Times have changed, however, and Ford has introduced a new version of its 3.5L V6 with twin turbochargers and direct injection. Called the 3.5L EcoBoost, this engine makes more power than the original 6F transmission, now called the 6F-50, can handle. Enter the 6F-55, a new version of the 6F-50 with beefed up internals to handle the 3.5L EcoBoost's 355-365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. One example is the new ring gear on the 6F-55 (shown at right), which is 41.5mm thick compared to 31.5 mm on the 6F-50.

The 6F-55 will be used initially in versions of the Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and MKT that feature the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. It will also be the only transmission available for the new 2010 Ford Taurus SHO that features the most powerful version of Ford's EcoBoost V6 (sorry SHO fans, no standard transmission will be offered). Each application will also feature SelectShift for manual operating the tranny with either the console-mounted shifter or paddle shifters on the steering wheel. We'll have to wait for our first turn behind the wheel of an EcoBoost-equipped Ford product to judge just how well the new 6F-55 handles all that extra power, but based on the rather significant list of internal changes detailed in the press release after the jump, the new tranny appears more than capable of handling our heavy left foot.

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/041_2010taurussho_opt.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/55-and-50-rings_hr_opt.jpg

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/18/ecoboosts-best-friend-ford-unveils-new-6f-55-six-speed-automat/

This is all well and good...but I want a manual. With a clutch. Please.

[Kymerik]

This is all well and good...but I want a manual. With a clutch. Please.

Hopefully the SVT Fusion (which is also slated to get this motor in 2012) will come with said left foot pedal :)

[my3needsaname]

Hopefully the SVT Fusion (which is also slated to get this motor in 2012) will come with said left foot pedal :)
SVT Fusion...that is a weird combination. I guess I'm just used to the terrible current gen Fusion so it gets weird to me.
Ah well, can't wait to see it either way.

For me, I'm glad there are more "manumatic" type options out there, the 6 speed was the only thing keeping me from a speed. I like shifting myself but clutching it too isn't something I like or really want.
i think a SHO Taurus will be good for me, just wanna feel one first.

[mikeyb]

The 2012 Fusion will be an all new car.

[coolmazda5]

Hopefully the SVT Fusion (which is also slated to get this motor in 2012) will come with said left foot pedal :)

3rd pedal is a dying breed I'm afraid


The 2012 Fusion will be an all new car.

Would still be based out of the Mazda platform?

[mikeyb]

3rd pedal is a dying breed I'm afraid



Would still be based out of the Mazda platform?

Manuals are a dying breed. And the next Fusion will either ride on the CD3 2 which the new Mazda6 uses or will get the EUCD2 from the Euro Mondeo.

[Kymerik]

Apparently as the years go by, i'll be less and less inclined than i already am to buy a new car if theres no left pedal :)

Granted, new cars are stupid :P why buy something that loses 50% of it's value in 2 years lol

[tunersteve]

The new Fusion in 2012 is going to be based on the Mondeo, presumably to cut costs.

[Kymerik]

Manuals are a dying breed. And the next Fusion will either ride on the CD3 2 which the new Mazda6 uses or will get the EUCD2 from the Euro Mondeo.

EUCD2 plz :)

[tunersteve]

Although Ford (http://www.leftlanenews.com/ford.htm)’s all-new Fusion (http://www.leftlanenews.com/january2009/fusion.jpg)sedan just debuted at last November’s Los Angeles Auto Show, Ford engineers are already focusing on the next iteration of the car. More specifically, Ford’s European engineers are already working on the next Fusion. That’s because the next-generation of the mid-size sedan will be based on the Euro-spec Ford Mondeo.

According to Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president of global product development, the Blue Oval will be merging the Fusion and Mondeo into a single global model. “We’re transitioning to a Fusion-Mondeo convergence,” he told Automotive News.
The next Fusion (http://www.leftlanenews.com/ford-fusion-review.html)will ride on a modified version of the Mondeo’s EUCD platform. Ford engineers decided to base the next Fusion on the EUCD platform rather than the current Fusion’s CD3 platform because it is a newer architecture. Ford’s decreased stake in Mazda (http://www.leftlanenews.com/mazda.htm) was also likely factored into the decision, as the CD3 platform is derived from the Mazda6 sedan.
Ford’s CD3 platform also underpins the Mercury (http://www.leftlanenews.com/mercury.htm) Milan, Lincoln (http://www.leftlanenews.com/lincoln.htm) MKZ and MKX and Ford Edge, but it remains unclear if all of those models will be making the jump to the new platform – internally dubbed CD4.
The CD4-based Ford Fusion is expected to launch in 2012 as a 2013 model year.



From: Left Lane News

[my3needsaname]

The 2012 Fusion will be an all new car.
Thank god! Hopefully it won't look as bad as current/previous versions.

Thanks for the article and links, tunersteve!

[tunersteve]

Just got back from a ride in a 2010 Mustang GT. The interior is absolutely gorgeous in it, and the car itself rides much better than before. Only complaint is that its still small dog in the game, and it really could use that 5.0. It felt like a whole new animal.

Ford definitely cleaned up their act and are heading in the right direction.

[my3needsaname]

Where and when can I ride in one???

[Kymerik]

Just got back from a ride in a 2010 Mustang GT. The interior is absolutely gorgeous in it, and the car itself rides much better than before. Only complaint is that its still small dog in the game, and it really could use that 5.0. It felt like a whole new animal.

Ford definitely cleaned up their act and are heading in the right direction.

thanks for the update on it mate :) Good to hear ford's got their ass in gear

[slug420]

does ford have any plug-in electric or fuel cell concepts in the works?<iframe src="http://www.google.com/search?lookitup&q=define:ford&css=div#guser,body%3Ecenter%7Bdisplay:none%7D&xremove=/html/body/table%5Bposition%28%29%3C=3%5D" style="border: 1px solid black; width: 460px; height: 100%; top: 0px; right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; position: fixed; background-color: white; z-index: 1000; display: none;" id="ResultBox5"></iframe>

[coolmazda5]

Meh, SUV, but much better looking than the ones in NA to say the least

When Ford began laying out its plan to build European product over here, Ford's Louisville assembly plant was tipped to build the Euro Focus. But according to sources who spoke to Louisville's NBC affiliate Wave3, the plant will actually be getting the Ford Kuga. It's a coup for the plant's roughly 3,000 employees, who currently build the slow-selling Explorer and its siblings, to now have an undeniably anticipated vehicle to look forward to.

Ford and city and state authorities have been negotiating the fate of the two plants for a while. The truck plant was reportedly safe, but the assembly plant's future was uncertain. Ford has said it will spend over $100 million to retool both of its Louisville plants - it also has a truck plant there that makes Super Duty F-Series vehicles - which will save 6,000 jobs. The conversion is expected to take six months and probably won't be ready until 2011. A Ford spokeswoman had no comment on reports about the Kuga.


http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/kuga_louisville_plant7.jpg


Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/01/local-tv-reports-ford-kuga-to-be-made-in-louisville/

[mikeyb]

It will be nice to see the Escape finally replaced.

Fiesta, Focus, and now Kuga...When will the Ka and C-Max make it?

[Kymerik]

It will be nice to see the Escape finally replaced.

Fiesta, Focus, and now Kuga...When will the Ka and C-Max make it?

Ka is too damn small for the US, good luck fitting the gigantic asses of this country into that thing

[Kymerik]

oh yeah, and see the back end of the kuga, anyone else see tiguan?
http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/images/ford-kuga-concept-4-big.jpg

[Silver Ecstasy]

I sorta see it, but I definitely see a viable replacement of the Escape. Ford is on their SHIT!

I see a mini Chevy Traverse, that's what I see.
http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/images/ford-kuga-concept-4-big.jpg
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/autoshows/chicago/2008/2009chevrolettraverse.09chevrolettraverser34.img.j pg

[mikeyb]

Ka is too damn small for the US, good luck fitting the gigantic asses of this country into that thing

I do not think its to small and not everyone here has a gigantic asshole.

[coolmazda5]

I see a mini Chevy Traverse, that's what I see.


http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/images/ford-kuga-concept-4-big.jpg

http://www.viamichelin.co.uk/viamichelin/gbr/tpl/mag5/art20071015/img/VW-Tiguan-texte-1.jpg

It definitely has a little bit of every friggin' SUV (Traverse, Tiguan), but looks better than the Escape/Mountaineer/Tribute thing at least...

[mikeyb]

^Mountaineer is a rebadged Explorer. You're thinking the Mariner.

[coolmazda5]

^ LOL, true, Do you see how much I pay attention to SUVs? :D

[mikeyb]

^ LOL, true, Do you see how much I pay attention to SUVs? :D


thats because you are a little sport van groupie.

[my3needsaname]

I like the Escape, I mean it could get a few tweaks to be better but it's an ok small SUV...I would never buy one but it is nice. Kuga ehhhhh...idk about it, I think it's gonna have to grow on me.


thats because you are a little sport van groupie.
lol Mazda5=funny ;)

[coolmazda5]

thats because you are a little sport van groupie.



lol Mazda5=funny ;)

Hey hey hey, show some respect, LOL (...little sport van groupie... (boom01), that IS funny (lol2))

[mikeyb]

Striking people carrier concept debuts at the Geneva Motor Show

Take a look at the future of Ford! This stunning machine is the Iosis MAX – a concept car that reveals how the next generation C-MAX and Focus family cars will look.

Making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the head-turning model boasts the latest example of Ford's kinetic design language, which was first revealed by the S-MAX back in 2004. It has been penned by Martin Smith, who presented the car along with his design team.

Showing off a new front end with a six-bar lower grille and long stretched back headlights the Iosis-MAX gets similarly eye-catching tail-lights and a split tailgate that opens up in the same style as a Skoda Superb.

Other neat touches include a full length glass roof – and all these details will be carried over to the production version of the C-MAX. Details that will remain strictly concept-only include the sliding rear doors, roof spoiler, lack of B-pillars and 'floating' seats.

While this four-seater concept is a lot smaller than the current C-MAX, the production version will be available in full five-seat specification – most likely staying as close as possible to the sporty shape of the show car – and, for the first time, in seven-seater trim too.

Expect the finished model to get a development of the striking multi-surfaced dashboard shown here, with a new Human Machine Interface control system, digital dashboard display and rear-facing camera. It will also be available in the bright yellow, known as Limelight, in which the concept is displayed.

It will also get the same 178bhp 1.6-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, automatic stop-start and a Powershift twin-clutch gearbox. The new engine – built at Ford's Bridgend plant – will first debut in the S-MAX and Mondeo ranges, though, within the next 12 months.

As for the arrival of the new C-MAX, it was first thought that the people carrier would debut in 2010. But there's currently a debate raging within Ford about whether it'll actually be the third generation Focus that brings the new compact family car look to showrooms first.

Bosses are weighing up whether to make the Focus a global car – i.e. a model sold across all world markets – and if that happens, it'll go on sale first, possibly as early as 2010 with the C-MAX arriving in 2011. Both projects are being worked on in parallel and a decision will be made imminently.


http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_606/car_photo_303010_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_606/car_photo_303009_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302824_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302817_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302825_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302811_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302823_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302826_25.jpg

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_605/car_photo_302820_25.jpg

[mikeyb]

Now will Ford bring this over here?

[my3needsaname]

Hey hey hey, show some respect, LOL (...little sport van groupie... (boom01), that IS funny (lol2))
I am it was just funny.


Here's to hoping I never see that I-Max on a street in this country...ever.

[Kymerik]

Now will Ford bring this over here?

Supposedly we ARE getting both the CMAX and the KA

[my3needsaname]

Supposedly we ARE getting both the CMAX and the KA
Will they dump the Focus for them? Otherwise there's no need. I mean an Escape replacement or something of that nature would be appreciated but that's not a CMAX OR KA.

[coolmazda5]

The question is: Why would you want a bloated hatchback like the C-MAX? The bloating part has a purpose: car size yet added space for people and cargo a-la S-Max, a-la Mazda5 or a-la Rondo, the bloated part pays off, but cars like the Fit, the Yaris or this I-Max is just bloated for no reason, I don't see a dramatic increase of space compared to a regular hatchback.

C-MAX 7-Seater, they already have the S-MAX, why reinventing the wheel?

http://www.allcarwallpapers.com/wallpapers/previews/ford-s-max-6667.jpg

And by the way, Ford already has an I-Max in Taiwan, it is a Mazda5 rebadge:

http://www.diariomotor.com/imagenes/ford-i-max-0.jpg

[happy and angry]

You get similar space to a regular hatchback with a smaller, lighter car running a smaller, lighter engine and get better fuel economy.

The Ka, the Fiesta, and the Focus are all different sizes. You all realize this, yes?

[Kymerik]

You get similar space to a regular hatchback with a smaller, lighter car running a smaller, lighter engine and get better fuel economy.

The Ka, the Fiesta, and the Focus are all different sizes. You all realize this, yes?

Yes we do...

[mikeyb]

You get similar space to a regular hatchback with a smaller, lighter car running a smaller, lighter engine and get better fuel economy.

The Ka, the Fiesta, and the Focus are all different sizes. You all realize this, yes?

Yes we all know or should know it.

Ka = city car
Fiesta= supermini/subcompact
Focus = compact/small family car

[my3needsaname]

You get similar space to a regular hatchback with a smaller, lighter car running a smaller, lighter engine and get better fuel economy.

The Ka, the Fiesta, and the Focus are all different sizes. You all realize this, yes?
Essentially but it's not like Americans can fit into a car that's that small. Like a MZ3 or a Focus is about as small as we can get without turning into Europe. The other thing is that our towns are spaced out and small cars like that would be hell to drive to other town and such.

[tunersteve]

I really wish that Ford would stop naming cars with F in their name. It just seems really cheesy. They've gotta figure out some stupid name with an F at the beginning. Same goes with their SUV/CUV line...all start with E. Lame.

[my3needsaname]

I really wish that Ford would stop naming cars with F in their name. It just seems really cheesy. They've gotta figure out some stupid name with an F at the beginning. Same goes with their SUV/CUV line...all start with E. Lame.
I've never notied how they all start with "E" I just thought the name implied what you shoul do with it, i.e. Expedition: weekend expedition farther away than normal, Escape: a little escape to a beach, Explorer: go exploring in the wilderness etc etc...

[mikeyb]

Essentially but it's not like Americans can fit into a car that's that small. Like a MZ3 or a Focus is about as small as we can get without turning into Europe. The other thing is that our towns are spaced out and small cars like that would be hell to drive to other town and such.


What are you saying that we are all fat? What about the Mini that is a supermini.

[Kymerik]

What are you saying that we are all fat? What about the Mini that is a supermini.

but a spacey super mini :P

[coolmazda5]

You get similar space to a regular hatchback with a smaller, lighter car running a smaller, lighter engine and get better fuel economy.

The Ka, the Fiesta, and the Focus are all different sizes. You all realize this, yes?

Yup, and just to emphasize my point, check this out. Do you thing all these are needed in NA? Isn't that what took the big three into the big hole they are now, so many models for similar markets? They say the C-Max may also a seven seater option, don't they have that on the S-Max already? What about the Focus Wagon and C-Max 5 seater? They may sell in Europe BUT some redundant for NA IMO

Ford Ka

http://www.verdictoncars.com/cars/300/ford/ka.jpg

Ford Fiesta

http://www.autoindiaforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/new-ford-fiesta-2.jpg

Current Ford Focus Hatchback

http://images.paultan.org/images/2008_Ford_Focus_1.jpg

Current Ford Focus Wagon

http://img.motorpasion.com/2007/11/ford_focus_station_wagon-05.jpg

Ford C-Max

http://www.autobytel.com/images/Autoshows/2006/Paris/400/Ford_Focus_C-MAX_01.jpg

Ford S-Max

http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/03/geneva_auto_show/image/ford-smax6688.jpg

[mikeyb]

The funny thing is I alot of fat people driving small cars. The S-Max is larger then the C-Max. The S-Max shares components with the Volvo S80.

[happy and angry]

The funny thing is I alot of fat people driving small cars.And it is always comical. More small cars, more fat people in small cars, more laughs. It's win win no matter how you slice it.

[mikeyb]

And it is always comical. More small cars, more fat people in small cars, more laughs. It's win win no matter how you slice it.

LOL...Just this morning I was passed on the highway by a very large woman in a Toyota Yaris 3 door.

[mikeyb]

The Iosis-Max is the concept for the MKIII Focus.

[Kymerik]

And it is always comical. More small cars, more fat people in small cars, more laughs. It's win win no matter how you slice it.

Best thing is the 6'6 350lb monster in a miata making the car sag on the driver side....always funny seeing people wedged into cars

[coolmazda5]

I believe we have different views which is OK, it is a forum after all

I'm just talking the facts based on what I've seen in the last 3-5 years in the car industry from the sales and target market perspective, and that gives me a very good view to give an opinion.

And so to keep the topic Ford leads the case of bad local and global decisions and needs to fix it pronto (i.e. with some of the moves posted earlier)

[mikeyb]

Here we go for car classifications

<TABLE class=wikitable style="FONT-SIZE: 85%"><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle colSpan=5>Car classification</TD></TR><TR><TH>American English (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_English)</TH><TH>British English (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_English)</TH><TH>Segment (used in Europe)</TH><TH>Euro NCAP (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euro_NCAP) class</TH><TH>Examples</TH></TR><TR><TD>Microcar (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcar)</TD><TD>Microcar (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcar), Bubble car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bubble_car)</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>BMW Isetta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Isetta), Smart Fortwo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_Fortwo)</TD></TR><TR><TD>-</TD><TD>City car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_car)</TD><TD>A-segment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A-segment)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Supermini</TD><TD>Daewoo Matiz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daewoo_Matiz), Renault Twingo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renault_Twingo), Toyota Aygo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Aygo), VW Lupo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Lupo)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Subcompact car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subcompact_car)</TD><TD>Supermini (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supermini_car)</TD><TD>B-segment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B-segment)</TD><TD>Hyundai Accent (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyundai_Accent), Ford Fiesta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Fiesta), Opel Corsa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel_Corsa), Suzuki Swift (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki_Swift)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Compact car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_car)</TD><TD>Small family car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_family_car)</TD><TD>C-segment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C-segment)</TD><TD>Small family car</TD><TD>Ford Focus (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Focus_(International)), Toyota Corolla (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Corolla), Opel Astra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel_Astra), VW Golf (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Golf)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mid-size car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size_car)</TD><TD>Large family car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_family_car)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>D-segment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D-segment)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Large family car</TD><TD>Ford Mondeo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mondeo), Opel Vectra (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel_Vectra), Toyota Avensis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Avensis), VW Passat (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Passat)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Entry-level luxury car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entry-level_luxury_car)</TD><TD>Compact executive car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_executive_car)</TD><TD>Audi A4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A4), BMW 3 Series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3_Series), Mercedes C-Class (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_C-Class)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Full-size car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Executive car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Executive_car)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>E-segment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-segment)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Executive car</TD><TD>Ford Crown Victoria (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Crown_Victoria), Holden Commodore (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holden_Commodore), Opel Omega (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel_Omega)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mid-size (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size_car) luxury car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_vehicle)</TD><TD>Audi A6 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A6), BMW 5 Series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series), Mercedes E-Class (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_E-Class)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Full-size (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car) luxury car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxury_vehicle)</TD><TD>Luxury car</TD><TD>F-segment (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F-segment)</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Audi A8 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A8), BMW 7 Series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_7_Series), Mercedes S-Class (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_S-Class)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Sports car (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_car)</TD><TD>Sports car</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Chevrolet Corvette C6 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette_C6), Porsche 911 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Grand tourer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_tourer)</TD><TD>Grand tourer</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Jaguar XK (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_XK), Maserati GranTurismo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maserati_GranTurismo)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Supercar (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercar)</TD><TD>Supercar</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Bugatti Veyron (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugatti_Veyron), Ferrari Enzo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_Enzo)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Convertible (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible)</TD><TD>Convertible (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convertible)</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Mercedes CLK (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_CLK-Class), Volvo C70 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_C70), VW Eos (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Eos)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Roadster (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster)</TD><TD>Roadster</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Roadster sports</TD><TD>Audi TT (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_TT), BMW Z4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_Z4), Porsche Boxster (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster)</TD></TR><TR><TD>-</TD><TD>Leisure activity vehicle (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leisure_activity_vehicle)</TD><TD>B-segment</TD><TD rowSpan=3>Small MPV</TD><TD>Peugeot Partner (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peugeot_Partner), Škoda Roomster (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%A0koda_Roomster)</TD></TR><TR><TD>-</TD><TD>Mini MPV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini_MPV)</TD><TD>B-segment</TD><TD>Opel Meriva (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel_Meriva), Fiat Idea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiat_Idea), Ford Fusion (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Fusion_(Europe))</TD></TR><TR><TD>Compact minivan</TD><TD>Compact MPV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_MPV), Midi MPV</TD><TD>C-segment</TD><TD>Mazda5 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda_Premacy), Opel Zafira (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opel_Zafira), Renault Scénic (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renault_Sc%C3%A9nic), VW Touran (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touran)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Minivan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minivan)</TD><TD>Large MPV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_MPV)</TD><TD>D-segment</TD><TD>Large MPV</TD><TD>Ford Galaxy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Galaxy), Toyota Previa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Previa), Renault Espace (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renault_Espace)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mini SUV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini_SUV)</TD><TD>Mini 4x4</TD><TD>B-segment</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Small Off-Road 4x4</TD><TD>Daihatsu Terios (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daihatsu_Terios), Mitsubishi Pajero iO (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsubishi_Pajero_iO) , Suzuki Jimny (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki_Jimny)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Compact SUV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_SUV)</TD><TD>Compact 4x4</TD><TD>C/D-segment</TD><TD>Honda CR-V (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_CR-V), BMW X3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X3), Ford Escape (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Escape), Toyota RAV4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_RAV4)</TD></TR><TR><TD>-</TD><TD>Coupé SUV</TD><TD>C/D-segment</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Isuzu VehiCROSS (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isuzu_VehiCROSS), SsangYong Actyon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SsangYong_Actyon), BMW X6 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X6)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Mid-size (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-size_car) SUV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sport_utility_vehicle)</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Large 4x4</TD><TD>E-segment</TD><TD rowSpan=2>Large Off-Road 4x4</TD><TD>Ford Explorer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Explorer), BMW X5 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_X5), Jeep Grand Cherokee (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Grand_Cherokee), VW Touareg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Touareg)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Full-size (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-size_car) SUV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sport_utility_vehicle)</TD><TD>F-segment</TD><TD>Cadillac Escalade (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_Escalade), Chevrolet Suburban (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Suburban), Range Rover (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Range_Rover), Toyota Land Cruiser (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Land_Cruiser)</TD></TR><TR><TD>Pickup truck (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pickup_truck)</TD><TD>Pick-up</TD><TD>-</TD><TD>Pick-up</TD><TD>Ford F-150 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_F-150), Mitsubishi Triton/L200 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsubishi_Triton), Nissan Navara (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Navara)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[coolmazda5]

^^ Hmmm, I see that Ford also offers yet another 7-seater MPV (the Galaxy) in Europe, yikes.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6a/Fordgalaxy2006.jpg/250px-Fordgalaxy2006.jpg

[tunersteve]

To all in this thread, please keep in mind that we're discussing current US Ford vehicles and those confirmed to arrive here in the next year or so. Keep it on topic and do NOT insult other members for any reason, or this thread will be locked and tossed.

[Donas64]

G8 GT > Ford Taurus IMHO.

Now if there was an SVT Fusion...I'd be interested.

[my3needsaname]

Thanks Steve!

Ooooooh, that is interesting...I'm not sure what would be my choice. I think I would go for the Ford only because you can pull up the center console when it's bolted down on a brand new G8 GT. But that engine in the G8 is amazingly fun...still a really hard decision.

[tunersteve]

G8 GT > Ford Taurus IMHO.

Now if there was an SVT Fusion...I'd be interested.

I'm interested to see a comparo between the G8 GT and the Taurus SHO. That would be interesting.

As for an SVT Fusion, I think we'll have to wait since the Fusion Sport just came out. Unless they dropped the Ecoboost 3.5 in the Fusion with AWD, then it would be sick, but only with a 6 speed.

[my3needsaname]

I'd say that should come up within the next month or so, Ford has production spec SHO's out there so teh magazines just have to get their hand on one and BAM! A new comparison is born...

Keep in mind the refresh of the Fusion is already conceived and ready for production so an SVT Fusion with AWD could be very soon. I don't think there's going to be a 6 speed in it though...sorry. :/

[mikeyb]

G8 GT > Ford Taurus IMHO.

Now if there was an SVT Fusion...I'd be interested.

Don't get me started on the SHO vs G8 GXP....

I would love to see SHO vs Charger SRT-8 vs G8 GXP in a magazine comparo.

[my3needsaname]

Don't get me started on the SHO vs G8 GXP....

I would love to see SHO vs Charger SRT-8 vs G8 GXP in a magazine comparo.
Busted! Not the G8 GXP, that would win, just the regular GT comparo but it'll most likely be the GXP since that's the "souped up" model.

[mikeyb]

I would like to see the SHO take on the Euro and Jap middle size luxury sedans. Oh wait that is were the Lincoln MKS comes in.

[mikeyb]

I want to see where the Lincoln C Concept comes in play in the Ford's lineup.

[my3needsaname]

Hahaha! Mikey, too much lol that was good.
Aren't the MKS and the Taurus the same exact thing??? ;)

[tunersteve]

The MKS and Taurus share the D-platform, and obviously, the MKS is the more luxurious of the two. Going from the last 500/Taurus to the new Taurus is night & day in the interior, from what I've seen so far.

Speaking of cars, the wifey and I are going shopping for her new car tomorrow, and we're going to take a serious look at the 2010 Fusion and the 2009 Mazda6. I'm hoping to see some Fusions in person tomorrow and will report back.

[Silver Ecstasy]

The wifey, LOL.

[tunersteve]

The wifey, LOL.

Call it what you want LOL.

[Donas64]

new car shopping. Nothing like it!

[tunersteve]

I'm sure it'll be interesting. At least her desires are simple: silver, CD, moonroof, Sirius, and cloth. Anything else is negotiable.

[Silver Ecstasy]

Typically, "sun and sound" packages exist with moonroof and a sirius-capable headunit. But not too many dealerships will order that without the leather seats as well.

I'd check your dealers to see.

[coolmazda5]

we're going to take a serious look at the 2010 Fusion and the 2009 Mazda6. I'm hoping to see some Fusions in person tomorrow and will report back.

Fusion Sport FTW, unless she (err, you) wants a 4cyl 6MT. "Wifey" (lol2) and I prefer MT even with the decrease of amenities that comes with it.

[tunersteve]

They offer a Sun n' Sync package for an SE (which is what she wants). She's not sure on motor choice, but I think the I4 is more than enough for what shes using a car for. And, while the Sport would be nice, she'll never get one. Too much car for her.

[my3needsaname]

Hahaha! Sport is too much car lol That was kinda funny but get the SEL if you can, she'll enjoy the extra "luxury" to it. At least my sister likes the extra "luxury" touches of her '06 SEL V6.

[tunersteve]

I don't think she'll splurge for the extra touches, and since I won't be driving it, I just want her to get something dependable and comfortable. I'm almost positive she's gonna lease this car, then buy something new in 2 years.

[tunersteve]

So I just priced out that 2010 Mustang GT that I got to see last week. $38,215 for all the options that it had on it. Still wouldn't mind having one.

[my3needsaname]

Then screw it and get it to your specs, I hear getting a new car and always think financing because that's all my family has ever done.
Especially my dad he's around 55 and only had 4 cars in his life. All run up around 10-16 years service for him. My mom on the other hand gets a new one every 5-6 years.
If it's only gonna be around 2 years then get a good one with a nice incredibly low lease rate (I'm sure you know all this).
The Mustang is really really nice but unless you're keeping it for more than 3 years, I wouldn't see any reason to get something that expensive on a lease. If you were trading in the MS6 then I could see it but she doesn't want a car with all that power. I'd say just stick with the Fusion for now. Unless you're gonna get a GT for you and let her drive the MS6... ;)

[tunersteve]

Ha, she wishes she could drive the MS6. She's gonna get a Fusion or the 6, regardless of what I drive. MY next car will be exactly what I want, just like my MS6 was when I got it. I just happened to be on the website and they have pricing available for the 2010 Fusion and 2010 Mustang now.

That's one thing I've learned from my parents, you buy what you can afford and get what you want. If you can't afford it, then start saving.

Also, I noticed that as far as options go, they've really trimmed the fat down and made it easier to build a car. More packages, less combinations, which is a good thing in my book.

[my3needsaname]

Haha! What is exactly what you want? A Mustang GT? lol That would be a lot of fun.

I really like how there's not too many options but when you read through the packages you actualy have to read them to find the differences.

[coolmazda5]

Unless they dropped the Ecoboost 3.5 in the Fusion with AWD, then it would be sick, but only with a 6 speed.

Would we ever see an Ecoboost engine with 6MT a la MazdaSPEED (turbo-disi MZR with the MazdaSPEED3 or MazdaSPEED6 or CX-7 in Europe)? Given the Ford cost cutting pressures at the moment, I believe they will be mutually exclusive...

[tunersteve]

Haha! What is exactly what you want? A Mustang GT? lol That would be a lot of fun.

I really like how there's not too many options but when you read through the packages you actualy have to read them to find the differences.

Yes, I've been a Mustang fan for a long time, and I actually almost bought a Bullitt before I got the MS6. I'd get one, but only if it has the 5.0 (which is coming out 2011/2012), spoiler delete, 19" wheels, and pretty well equipped inside. I'd probably even splurge for the FRPP S/C while I'm at it.


Would we ever see an Ecoboost engine with 6MT a la MazdaSPEED (turbo-disi MZR with the MazdaSPEED3 or MazdaSPEED6 or CX-7 in Europe)? Given the Ford cost cutting pressures at the moment, I believe they will be mutually exclusive...

I agree, but we might get lucky. They still share components and as long as the current 6/Fusion are being built, they ride on a lot of similar architecture. Mazda likes to go diving in the FoMoCo parts bins.

[my3needsaname]

Me too, but the salesguy was an ass and kept saying how he'd sell it for over 36,000 when the sticker was marked up to 34K.

[tunersteve]

Me too, but the salesguy was an ass and kept saying how he'd sell it for over 36,000 when the sticker was marked up to 34K.

I get A-plan and they said no dice, sticker +3k markup. I walked out.

[my3needsaname]

Yea I heard that and told him to GTFO...no way was I ever paying more than 7K under sticker on that car. It's nice, but not that nice.

[rapter]

I agree, but I am biased a little bit. Ford's quality is on par with Toyota, and far ahead of any other American brand. Of course all of our cars share underpinnings with either Volvo or Mazda. Ford is returning to profitibilty, and if the other brands want to survive then they need to model themselves after us. As already stated, GM's build quality is seriously lacking these days and definitely need to be improved if they wish to compete.

PEH! are you crazy. FORD is no where near Toyota.
ITs a joke i hope.
All the AMERICAN cars are finally getting bit in the ass, cause they built cheap crap.
I'm sorry if i come out so strongly but i have felt this way well since i have been born or since ford has been sucking.

just look at the parts differance. all the Japanese or Euro cars have amazing engineering thats down to the wire, everything is so nice and tight, with well thought out materials. ALL the American cars are still Making 40% of there parts from PURE STEEL! come on man its Heavy and makes the car fall apart.

When you pick up a car comparison magazine youll see that MOST american cars are at the bottom, when it comes to realibilty.
Dont get me wrong some look really nice, and ARE much cheaper.
thats the only way they can compete.
Brand new FORD FUSION V6, costs $27,000.
Brand new Mazda 6 V6 costs $33,500.
Brand new Toyota Camry V6 costs $35,500.

and according to edmunds.ca Editors reviews/
The Fusion scored a 7.5/10
The Mazda 6 scord a 8.1/10
The Toyota Camry scored a 8.3/10.

So once again and this is like the 20th time in arrow.
Its not new news that Japanese and Euro cars are better quality.

[Rotary_Powered]

In it's defense the new fusion is really nice, especially with the bigger V6 and AWD. and in hybrid form it's at the top of its class.

[MazdaSpeeder]

PEH! are you crazy. FORD is no where near Toyota.
ITs a joke i hope.
All the AMERICAN cars are finally getting bit in the ass, cause they built cheap crap.
I'm sorry if i come out so strongly but i have felt this way well since i have been born or since ford has been sucking.

just look at the parts differance. all the Japanese or Euro cars have amazing engineering thats down to the wire, everything is so nice and tight, with well thought out materials. ALL the American cars are still Making 40% of there parts from PURE STEEL! come on man its Heavy and makes the car fall apart.

When you pick up a car comparison magazine youll see that MOST american cars are at the bottom, when it comes to realibilty.
Dont get me wrong some look really nice, and ARE much cheaper.
thats the only way they can compete.
Brand new FORD FUSION V6, costs $27,000.
Brand new Mazda 6 V6 costs $33,500.
Brand new Toyota Camry V6 costs $35,500.

and according to edmunds.ca Editors reviews/
The Fusion scored a 7.5/10
The Mazda 6 scord a 8.1/10
The Toyota Camry scored a 8.3/10.

So once again and this is like the 20th time in arrow.
Its not new news that Japanese and Euro cars are better quality.

How does steel make cars fall apart? Come on, let's be serious. Certainly the domestic automakers have had their share of poor build quality, but by all accounts the Fusion is a very reliable vehicle. Just because American Automakers have made crap in the past doesn't mean they're still doing it now.

It's good to see the Kuga being made here in Louisville, BTW. I've wondered what's going to happen to that plant with the downturn in trucks...I'm glad there will still be jobs there, and that is going to be a nice vehicle to have.

I'm hoping Ford's new lines and fuel-efficiency focus won't mean a lack of fun-to-drive pocket rockets. This article (http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/report-next-ford-fiesta-st-shelved/) about the shelving of the Fiesta ST and the rumor (http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/01/will-the-new-focus-be-fords-last-rs/) that the Focus RS is going away make me worry about the near future of Ford's small performance vehicles.

[my3needsaname]

^^^^^^^ I totally agree. Even when Ford was "crap" (the 05 Expedition I drive) they were still great! Their engine top of the class enjoyment, transmission is glassy smooth, steering is light and easy for an SUV, suspension is sporty yet comfortable, and although outdated now the cabin tech is very nice.

I really enjoy the car even though it was when Ford was just starting to get their quality back up. I don't get where rapter gets his info from but some of it is definitely WRONG.

[Donas64]

^^^^^^^ I totally agree. Even when Ford was "crap" (the 05 Expedition I drive) they were still great! Their engine top of the class enjoyment, transmission is glassy smooth, steering is light and easy for an SUV, suspension is sporty yet comfortable, and although outdated now the cabin tech is very nice.

I really enjoy the car even though it was when Ford was just starting to get their quality back up. I don't get where rapter gets his info from but some of it is definitely WRONG.

Two words that should NEVER be used in the same sentence: Expedition & Sporty.

Saying the suspension setup on an Expedition is sporty is like saying Brian Urlacher is as graceful as a prima ballerina. The Expedition is many things. Sporty is not one of them

[Mazda3]

Two words that should NEVER be used in the same sentence: Expedition & Sporty.

Saying the suspension setup on an Expedition is sporty is like saying Brian Urlacher is as graceful as a prima ballerina. The Expedition is many things. Sporty is not one of them

Unless you consider dump trucks sporty. :D

[Silver Ecstasy]

Mustang's are starting to get some decent incentives with the new 2010 coming. Anyone want one? lol

[Kymerik]

Mustang's are starting to get some decent incentives with the new 2010 coming. Anyone want one? lol

uh no...live rear axle = ill never own one :)

My roommate has a 2005 v6 MT and ive driven it, feels like im driving a tank. :/

[Silver Ecstasy]

I drove an 06 too and hated it as well.

My mom got a new 09 MKX with the THX sound system and that thing is amazing. I think that's all i'm intensely curious about is the upgraded sound systems in a lot of these new Ford's are amazing.

[rapter]

How does steel make cars fall apart? Come on, let's be serious. Certainly the domestic automakers have had their share of poor build quality, but by all accounts the Fusion is a very reliable vehicle. Just because American Automakers have made crap in the past doesn't mean they're still doing it now.

It's good to see the Kuga being made here in Louisville, BTW. I've wondered what's going to happen to that plant with the downturn in trucks...I'm glad there will still be jobs there, and that is going to be a nice vehicle to have.

I'm hoping Ford's new lines and fuel-efficiency focus won't mean a lack of fun-to-drive pocket rockets. This article (http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/report-next-ford-fiesta-st-shelved/) about the shelving of the Fiesta ST and the rumor (http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/01/will-the-new-focus-be-fords-last-rs/) that the Focus RS is going away make me worry about the near future of Ford's small performance vehicles.


Well ok, Im not gonna say that the new Fords are crap.
And this is only because TIME will TELL!
its just that every time Ford says OK NOW these lines of cars are better.
Will see a few years down the road if these NEW fords are really as good as they say they are.

And as for the Steel, yes its worse, Ill give you an example.
Look at the F-150 and The CV boot desgin. with all the ball bearings.
So the metal peice that rotates is made of steel. then NO RUBBER seal is put in place between that and the rotters.
Steel Rubbing on STEEL, i dont know about you but thats not good, and steel is hard to machine properly. other wise ok sorry the engineering is not as EXCAT as the foregin cars.
Take a look at a Accord, man There is NO ROOM for parts to become loose, plus use liter metals.

[rapter]

^^^^^^^ I totally agree. Even when Ford was "crap" (the 05 Expedition I drive) they were still great! Their engine top of the class enjoyment, transmission is glassy smooth, steering is light and easy for an SUV, suspension is sporty yet comfortable, and although outdated now the cabin tech is very nice.

I really enjoy the car even though it was when Ford was just starting to get their quality back up. I don't get where rapter gets his info from but some of it is definitely WRONG.

yet its rated one of the worst SUV's in its class.
just cause you had a good experince doesnt mean everyone else will.
and the info is on Edmunds.com.
I gave you the site.
i dont make this stuff up.

[rapter]

More proof, this time not even Realibilty.

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison_test/sedans/2010_ford_fusion_vs_mazda_6_honda_accord_compariso n_test

check it out. again i would love to see Ford and other american cars do better i live here. it would do wonders for our economy, but time and time again they seem to be short of the japanese cars.

I hope the new ones are better.....

[MazdaSpeeder]

Well ok, Im not gonna say that the new Fords are crap.
And this is only because TIME will TELL!
its just that every time Ford says OK NOW these lines of cars are better.
Will see a few years down the road if these NEW fords are really as good as they say they are.

And as for the Steel, yes its worse, Ill give you an example.
Look at the F-150 and The CV boot desgin. with all the ball bearings.
So the metal peice that rotates is made of steel. then NO RUBBER seal is put in place between that and the rotters.
Steel Rubbing on STEEL, i dont know about you but thats not good, and steel is hard to machine properly. other wise ok sorry the engineering is not as EXCAT as the foregin cars.
Take a look at a Accord, man There is NO ROOM for parts to become loose, plus use liter metals.

Aluminum rubbing on aluminum would do the same thing...my point is that steel has nothing to do with it, the design does. Additionally, I agree that Ford quality hasn't been spot on in the last 10 years, but your first post was arguing that Ford's nowhere near Toyota now, and that seems not to be the case. The Fusion has beat comparable Hondas and Toyotas in a number of comparisons, and its inital quality ratings have been very high. Will that lead to a better, more reliable car in the long term? Time will tell, but signs point to that being the case.

[rapter]

Aluminum rubbing on aluminum would do the same thing...my point is that steel has nothing to do with it, the design does. Additionally, I agree that Ford quality hasn't been spot on in the last 10 years, but your first post was arguing that Ford's nowhere near Toyota now, and that seems not to be the case. The Fusion has beat comparable Hondas and Toyotas in a number of comparisons, and its inital quality ratings have been very high. Will that lead to a better, more reliable car in the long term? Time will tell, but signs point to that being the case.

yeah true time will tell.

but as i posted above you, The fusion scored the lowest between the 6, the fusion and the accord.
So even reviews are not that good. Ford claims to be as good.
But hey i CAN SAY i claim to be the best racer car driver.
Not untill time goes by and they built a good solid realiable product there going down the drain.

[MazdaSpeeder]

yeah true time will tell.

but as i posted above you, The fusion scored the lowest between the 6, the fusion and the accord.
So even reviews are not that good. Ford claims to be as good.
But hey i CAN SAY i claim to be the best racer car driver.
Not untill time goes by and they built a good solid realiable product there going down the drain.

Not trying to be an ass here, but there are other sources of info about a car other than edmunds.com. Both Car and Driver and Autoweek gave it high marks for quality, while complaining about the 4 cylinder and in one case, available interior room. Plus, it scored very high in JD Power's initial quality survey, rating just about even with the Camry in 2008 and 2009 and higher than the Accord in almost all areas. Is it perfect? No, but it's a big stride in the right direction, and if we keep seeing this kind of stuff from Ford, they're going to be very successful.

[my3needsaname]

I'll save more for later...can't read straight right now but...


Two words that should NEVER be used in the same sentence: Expedition & Sporty.

Saying the suspension setup on an Expedition is sporty is like saying Brian Urlacher is as graceful as a prima ballerina. The Expedition is many things. Sporty is not one of them
Never!!! I'm serious! It's so much fun. If you count weight and size and all those ratios in then the Expedition handles and drives about the same as the MZ3. Not lying!!! It just has more torque. :D

Unless you consider dump trucks sporty. :D
I do! Especially in Expedition form ;)

Mustang's are starting to get some decent incentives with the new 2010 coming. Anyone want one? lol
Heck to the yes!! I'll take one anytime there's a good offer on them definitely a keeper in my book!

yet its rated one of the worst SUV's in its class.
just cause you had a good experince doesnt mean everyone else will.
and the info is on Edmunds.com.
I gave you the site.
i dont make this stuff up.
True but one good experience is a good word out there to the many people I know. If I'm satisfied with my Expedition then I'll definitely tell other people to check one out. It works the same with the Mazda: dissatisfaction=no recommendations, satisfaction=recommendations. Just saying if I'm happy with it then other people will at least go to check it out...especially if they like mine.

[coolmazda5]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---02.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---03.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---04.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---05.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---06.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---07.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---08.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---09.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---10.jpg

[coolmazda5]

While visiting our favorite weekly car gathering in SoCal today, we were stopped in our tracks when we spotted "Everybody Loves Raymond" star Ray Romano, happily answering questions about the shiny new Ford Fiesta parked beside him. We thought it odd for Ford to enlist such a well-known stand-up comic to pitch the product at such a meager gathering, but figured even A-list talent might be hurting for a little extra scratch in this economic climate. We approached to get a better look and realized it was actually Fiesta Brand Manager Sam De La Garza a dead ringer for the actor who portrayed everybody's favorite Italian-American non-mobster on television.

Sam brought the Fiesta to Cars & Coffee to show it off and elicit some reactions. He also wanted to remind folks that the Fiesta Movement is still underway, although he declined comment on sister site AB Green's entry. Without giving too much away, he did mention that the response to the contest has been overwhelming. He told us that the entries have been beyond imagination, mentioning, for example, that Juston Laipply, creator of the über-viral "Evolution of Dance", was among the entrants. While the Fiesta's success in America seems to be a foregone conclusion in some camps, Sam also brought along a Ford Ka to see whether the Fiesta might have big enough coattails to carry its kid brother as well. We can hardly wait to get our hands on one

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/29/everybody-loves-the-fiesta-movement/

[coolmazda5]

Site
http://www.fiestamovement.com/

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3xEN7QivewM&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3xEN7QivewM&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Rogue]

what's up with this:
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/fordfiestaka---10.jpg

[my3needsaname]

Sweet, but that Ka is GAH! (yupnope)

Fiesta looks nice. For a really small car it looks more higherishkinda end.

That sticker is because people are retarded and they don't remember how to turn off the radio. Or because they can't find the button...or some reason.

[creina1221]

I went to the Lehigh valley auto show last night and they had an SHO there. It is impressive looking but apparently the price tag will be at about 38k and as the Gen III SHO's, only offered in an automatic. It really is sharp looking. I'm sure this has already been mentioned but just wanted to say I saw it close up, Its nice.

[Kymerik]

Oh the dirty dirty things i wanna do to that fiesta ... I am in love with that car

[my3needsaname]

I went to the Lehigh valley auto show last night and they had an SHO there. It is impressive looking but apparently the price tag will be at about 38k and as the Gen III SHO's, only offered in an automatic. It really is sharp looking. I'm sure this has already been mentioned but just wanted to say I saw it close up, Its nice.
I heard 36K at meh Ford dealer, good to know its first impressions are up there.

[coolmazda5]

Oh the dirty dirty things i wanna do to that fiesta ... I am in love with that car

Yup, looks very good, and those wheels really help it. I hope they don't change the appearance much when built on this side of the pond.

[coolmazda5]

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/jalopnik/2009/03/2011_Ford_Explorer.jpg

The 2011 Ford Explorer will likely be built in Chicago at the same factory currently producing the Taurus X, supporting the conventional wisdom that the new Explorer is going car-based.

The 2011 Explorer has been spied testing in a more crossover-like form and its new car-ness was hinted at by last year's Ford Explorer America concept. Ford has also confirmed Chicago's Torrence Avenue assembly plant will receive a new product, but hasn't identified it. Now it appears Ford has committed to producing the 2011 Explorer there in a deal with the UAW.

The Taurus X will be discontinued this Spring, replaced by the more successfully styled Ford Flex, which is built in Oakville Ontario. This leaves capacity available in Chicago for the Explorer.

The Ford Explorer America concept showcased a range of fuel-efficient EcoBoost (newspeak for turbocharged) engines, including, "a 4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque or, as a premium engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp. Depending on engine selection, fuel-efficiency will improve by 20 to 30 percent versus today's V-6 Explorer." It's expected the 2011 Explorer will use those powerplants.

Source:
http://jalopnik.com/5190286/2011-ford-explorer-to-be-built-in-chicago-taurus-x+based

[my3needsaname]

I just hope the next gen Explorer is as nice to look at as this generation, that America concept is ugly to me though and Ford ahs been on a hot streak, so here's to hoping! (cheers)

[Kymerik]

Yup, looks very good, and those wheels really help it. I hope they don't change the appearance much when built on this side of the pond.

I believe that IS our version of the car which is why im in love :)

[coolmazda5]

I believe that IS our version of the car which is why im in love :)

If you look at the video, they were produced in Germany for this US Fiesta movement, but they are not USDM yet, they seem EDM stock. For example I can see that the US mandated orange and red side markers are not yet present.

Also check this article, I hope they are just subtle/silly appearance things :D:

http://jalopnik.com/5160894/2011-ford-fiesta-spied-in-frozen-north-with-us+spec-nose

[Kymerik]

If you look at the video, they were produced in Germany for this US Fiesta movement, but they are not USDM yet, they seem EDM stock. For example I can see that the US mandated orange and red side markers are not yet present.

Also check this article, I hope they are just subtle/silly appearance things :D:

http://jalopnik.com/5160894/2011-ford-fiesta-spied-in-frozen-north-with-us+spec-nose

Yes but why would they slap a Michigan Manufacturer tag on it :P

[my3needsaname]

Yes but why would they slap a Michigan Manufacturer tag on it :P
To mess around with us! (screwy)

[coolmazda5]

Yes but why would they slap a Michigan Manufacturer tag on it :P

Because it is the law? Otherwise it cannot be driven anywhere. I doubt they would allow riding it with EU license plates (would look funny though)

[Rogue]

The Ford Explorer America concept showcased a range of fuel-efficient EcoBoost (newspeak for turbocharged) engines, including, "a 4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque or, as a premium engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp. Depending on engine selection, fuel-efficiency will improve by 20 to 30 percent versus today's V-6 Explorer." It's expected the 2011 Explorer will use those powerplants.

Source:
http://jalopnik.com/5190286/2011-ford-explorer-to-be-built-in-chicago-taurus-x+based
derivative of the MS3 engine?

[Kymerik]

derivative of the MS3 engine?

Probably not...it'll probably be the Duratec 4banger if i had to guess. but 270hp out of a 2L is impressive! last time i checked...those kinda numbers = insane amounts of fuel...

[coolmazda5]

derivative of the MS3 engine?

I believe it is the same technology (turbocharged direct injection thingie) based on the Duratec family, so I guess there should be some Ford-Mazda intelligence sharing.

The main difference I've seen is that Ecoboost tech will also be available on 6cyl engines, which Mazda has only ventured on the 4cyl MZR area.

[Rogue]

any rumors of the ecoboost making it to Mazda?

[Silver Ecstasy]

You have to be specific.

The idea of "EcoBoost" is essentially already being used and found in the MS3, MS6 and CX-7.

If you were asking whether or not we were getting "EcoBoost" V6 engines, that's a valid question.

Otherwise, "EcoBoost" is what Mazda is already using.

[happy and angry]

Probably not...it'll probably be the Duratec 4banger if i had to guess. but 270hp out of a 2L is impressive! last time i checked...those kinda numbers = insane amounts of fuel...The Duratec 2.0 motor is derived from the Mazda MZR family of engines.

[Kymerik]

The Duratec 2.0 motor is derived from the Mazda MZR family of engines.

muh bad...more research revealed this to be true :) thanks for setting me straight ;)

[Kymerik]

You have to be specific.

The idea of "EcoBoost" is essentially already being used and found in the MS3, MS6 and CX-7.

If you were asking whether or not we were getting "EcoBoost" V6 engines, that's a valid question.

Otherwise, "EcoBoost" is what Mazda is already using.

Ecoboost is not what mazda already uses... Ecoboost on the V6 engines are twin turbocharged DI motors. Different setup than the Mazda Turbo setup.

[Silver Ecstasy]

Ecoboost is not what mazda already uses... Ecoboost on the V6 engines are twin turbocharged DI motors. Different setup than the Mazda Turbo setup.

Once again, the concept of "EcoBoost" is a forced induction, direct-injection 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder engine!

MS3, MS6 and CX-7 all are equipped with a DI 4 cyl Turbo. Where do you think EcoBoost came from? Ford's engineers??

EcoBoost is also not limited to DI v6 Turbo's. It's their branding for a vehicle equipped with the above drivetrain.

[tunersteve]

Initially all we'll be seeing is the TT 3.5 V6. That's not to say that in the next year or two that the 2.0 and 2.5 I4 engines won't get the same treatment. It's even possible that the big V8 would get one for an SVT application, but who knows. The technology was basically an evolution of the DISI motor and expanded across the lineup, with the ability to be a modular addition to an existing motor.

[my3needsaname]

Initially all we'll be seeing is the TT 3.5 V6. That's not to say that in the next year or two that the 2.0 and 2.5 I4 engines won't get the same treatment. It's even possible that the big V8 would get one for an SVT application, but who knows. The technology was basically an evolution of the DISI motor and expanded across the lineup, with the ability to be a modular addition to an existing motor.
That would be sooo hott! (upbum)

Great arguments guys! Hella good info!

[Chibana]

Once again, the concept of "EcoBoost" is a forced induction, direct-injection 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder engine!

MS3, MS6 and CX-7 all are equipped with a DI 4 cyl Turbo. Where do you think EcoBoost came from? Ford's engineers??

EcoBoost is also not limited to DI v6 Turbo's. It's their branding for a vehicle equipped with the above drivetrain.

That doesn't change the fact that the Ford engines are *not* just re-badged versions of the Mazda turbo engine. They are completely Ford engines. There may be some "EcoBoost" engines based on the 2.0 and 2.3/2.5L MZR/Duratec engines, but considering that Ford gave Mazda the job of designing that engine for the Ford empire, it's hard for me to consider it a truly Mazda engine, anyway. The 3.5L EcoBoost has nothing to do with any Mazda designed engine, and neither will the 1.6L EcoBoost that will likely find its way into the new Focus.

And I wouldn't be dissing Ford engineers to much. I have some inside information regarding Ford. According to this source, the main reason Ford sold most of their Mazda shares was not to raise cash. It was because Ford felt they no longer needed Mazda for their engineering expertise. Mulally had been working on getting the best and brightest engineers at Ford since he started there, and apparently they felt they had reached the point where they no longer needed Mazda. From what I'm seeing, and reading about, there seems to be some truth in this. The new Fusion Hybrid is a good example. There are over 200 patents Ford has in that car's hybrid system that are improvements over the base system they bought from Toyota years ago. Every review has agreed that it is by far the best hybrid sedan on the market.

[my3needsaname]

That doesn't change the fact that the Ford engines are *not* just re-badged versions of the Mazda turbo engine. They are completely Ford engines. There may be some "EcoBoost" engines based on the 2.0 and 2.3/2.5L MZR/Duratec engines, but considering that Ford gave Mazda the job of designing that engine for the Ford empire, it's hard for me to consider it a truly Mazda engine, anyway. The 3.5L EcoBoost has nothing to do with any Mazda designed engine, and neither will the 1.6L EcoBoost that will likely find its way into the new Focus.

And I wouldn't be dissing Ford engineers to much. I have some inside information regarding Ford. According to this source, the main reason Ford sold most of their Mazda shares was not to raise cash. It was because Ford felt they no longer needed Mazda for their engineering expertise. Mulally had been working on getting the best and brightest engineers at Ford since he started there, and apparently they felt they had reached the point where they no longer needed Mazda. From what I'm seeing, and reading about, there seems to be some truth in this. The new Fusion Hybrid is a good example. There are over 200 patents Ford has in that car's hybrid system that are improvements over the base system they bought from Toyota years ago. Every review has agreed that it is by far the best hybrid sedan on the market.
Yes. Great post!

BTW, I got the chance to look at a Fusion SE I4 and Fusion Hybrid and I gotta say it does look much better in person. I was in the SE and the interior is MUCH improved and the quality feel is WAAAAY UP. I couldn't get into the Hybrid since someone had just bought it and I didn't want to sit in someone else's car without their approval even though the sales guy had no problem with me doing it he was an ass anyway. But the car has made leaps and bounds in every direction over the old model. Should've gotten pics but the thought didn't cross my mind at that moment.

[Rogue]

is the new Ford Fusion on the same chassis as the new MZ6?

[coolmazda5]

Initially all we'll be seeing is the TT 3.5 V6

Imagine that coupled with a 6MT (naughty) (OK OK, I like to dream :()


is the new Ford Fusion on the same chassis as the new MZ6?

Yup, the CD3 platform...

[Silver Ecstasy]

That doesn't change the fact that the Ford engines are *not* just re-badged versions of the Mazda turbo engine. They are completely Ford engines. There may be some "EcoBoost" engines based on the 2.0 and 2.3/2.5L MZR/Duratec engines, but considering that Ford gave Mazda the job of designing that engine for the Ford empire, it's hard for me to consider it a truly Mazda engine, anyway. The 3.5L EcoBoost has nothing to do with any Mazda designed engine, and neither will the 1.6L EcoBoost that will likely find its way into the new Focus.

And I wouldn't be dissing Ford engineers to much. I have some inside information regarding Ford. According to this source, the main reason Ford sold most of their Mazda shares was not to raise cash. It was because Ford felt they no longer needed Mazda for their engineering expertise. Mulally had been working on getting the best and brightest engineers at Ford since he started there, and apparently they felt they had reached the point where they no longer needed Mazda. From what I'm seeing, and reading about, there seems to be some truth in this. The new Fusion Hybrid is a good example. There are over 200 patents Ford has in that car's hybrid system that are improvements over the base system they bought from Toyota years ago. Every review has agreed that it is by far the best hybrid sedan on the market.

I'm not downing Ford. It's in my best interest they do well..trust me.

What I am saying is, don't forget that a MAJORITY of Ford's cars are Mazda underpinning's. While both platforms share parts, there are a fair share of Mazda designs underneath Ford name badges.

And....they sold the shares to raise cash. Mazda has the capabilities of being a very successful company even as an independent. At their rate of improvement and growth, they could move on to be a great Japanese company. It was in Ford's best interest to raise cash, because all they've done now is gained credibility for NOT needing Government Bailout support. It will ultimately be in Ford's best interest to buy those shares back in an attempt to have an edge, per say, on the latest technology (since they will have their upper hand back).

Ford, Mazda and Volvo are a great marriage. But Ford didn't do this all on it's own...I will not give Ford that credit. Mulally is extremely smart, but he can't change Ford's past and he's doing absolutely great things for the future.

[Chibana]

The only reason Mazda is where they are today is because of Ford's involvement. They were on the verge of extinction when Ford upped their shares years ago. Rather ironic when you consider that Ford went downhill while Mazda actually became worth something. Remember that Ford and Mazda had joint ventures long before Ford bought up such a large percentage of shares. Believe what you want about why Ford sold the shares--obviously getting cash was a good thing, but it was not the primary reason.

[tunersteve]

They will still continue to work together...AutoAlliance in Flat Rock is still a joint venture with them both, going back to the mid-80's IIRC.

[Chibana]

Yep. That's why I'm not worried about either of them. This just restores their relationship to what it was in the past, and gives Mazda more freedom with their plans. I think it will probably be best for both parties.

[coolmazda5]

Still a lot of dough in debt, but they seem to be doing some things right, I hope they keep it up!

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/ford-hq-aerial-platt-getty-580.jpg

The Ford Motor Company has announced that it has completed more of its financial restructuring initiatives, lessening its debt by some $9.9 billion (from a starting place of $25.8 billion at the end of last year). The company says this move will lower its annual interest costs by more than $500 million. Ford and its financing arm, Ford Credit, are using 468 million shares of stock and $2.4 billion in cash to reach that figure.

Other parts of the company's debt restructuring efforts include the tendering of approximately $4.3 billion in Senior Convertible Notes (not due until December 15, 2036) for purchase related to Ford's conversion offer, along with previously announced gains like its revised agreements with the United Auto Workers and a cash tender offer for the company's unsecured, non-convertible debt securities.

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/ford-announces-it-has-successfully-reduced-debt-by-9-9-billion/

[coolmazda5]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/focus-rs-n.jpg

Could the North American market finally get the Ford Focus RS? According to the latest reports, it could happen. But not until after the next-generation model debuts in a couple of years. Like the new Fiesta, the next Focus is being developed as a global product, with the North American market in mind as much as those overseas. And with the amalgamation of Ford's performance divisions in the United States and Europe – SVT and Team RS, respectively – an RS version could reach American shores in a few years' time.

According to Automotive News, Ford's global performance guru Hermann Salebauch says the potential for a U.S.-market Focus RS depends entirely on demand. That is, if enough American buyers want an RS, it could happen. So what do you think, should Ford give its home market a smokin' hot hatch based on the next Focus?

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/rumormill-entry-no-3-256-north-america-could-get-next-gen-for/

[coolmazda5]

^^ This time I've been told is almost true, LOL ;)

[MazdaSpeeder]

Two pieces of great news IMO. Love that RS!

[DaleNixon]

Ford stock is through the roof right now! I'm glad I bought some back at $2.29/share.

[Silver Ecstasy]

Yeah..I bought back when it was a couple dollars more expensive. I'm still recouping my losses..but i'm not worried. They'll be fine.

[tunersteve]

Ford is closing in on $4/share, while GM is down at just over $2. Oh, how times have changed...

[coolmazda5]

Looking very good, but this is far from over, let's sit tight (shady)

[tunersteve]

I really, really love the look of the new GT500. I would love to have a coupe after I get established on my own.

[coolmazda5]

I really, really love the look of the new GT500. I would love to have a coupe after I get established on my own.

You were saying? (naughty)

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/10shelbygt500_32_hr-1280_opt.jpg

[Donas64]

not gunna lie, the new GT500 is the Bees Knees. Just wicked!

http://www.motorauthority.com/content/images/2/0/2010_shelby_gt500_main_630-1231.jpg

[my3needsaname]

Ford is closing in on $4/share, while GM is down at just over $2. Oh, how times have changed...
Hehehe...and the best is surviving...:D

not gunna lie, the new GT500 is the Bees Knees. Just wicked!

http://www.motorauthority.com/content/images/2/0/2010_shelby_gt500_main_630-1231.jpg
:drool: dat is teh sex!
*fap fap fap fap fap fap*

[my3needsaname]

Just thought I'd...(bump)

[Rotary_Powered]

The reviews are out and people love the GT500!

[my3needsaname]

Man, with that body and mind...who wouldn't? It's soooooooooooo sexy...(bowdown)

[coolmazda5]

The 2010 Fusion and its siblings will probably be the last Ford cars that use an architecture developed by Mazda.

The Fusion, Lincoln MKZ and Mercury Milan all come from a Mazda-led engineering program that created the architecture for those vehicles and the Ford Escape, Edge, Mercury Mariner and Lincoln MKX crossovers and the Mazda6 midsize sedan, Tribute SUV and CX-7 crossover.

An architecture is a set of components and systems that can be used as the basis for a wide variety of vehicles.

Ford turned to Mazda for midsize help when the Dearborn company inexplicably forgot to develop any new midsize models of its own. Since then, Ford has made its European engineering centers its global centers for engineering midsize, compact and subcompact cars.

The next generation of the Fusion will share its architecture, and much of its styling, with the replacement for Ford of Europe's Mondeo.

Ford has reduced its stake in Mazda, but the companies still cooperate closely. The next Mazda6 could use the Mondeo's architecture, but that's not set yet.

Source:
http://www.freep.com/article/20090416/BUSINESS02/904160407/1014/BUSINESS01/Ford+plans+to+use+own+architecture+next+time

[Kymerik]

The 2010 Fusion and its siblings will probably be the last Ford cars that use an architecture developed by Mazda.

The Fusion, Lincoln MKZ and Mercury Milan all come from a Mazda-led engineering program that created the architecture for those vehicles and the Ford Escape, Edge, Mercury Mariner and Lincoln MKX crossovers and the Mazda6 midsize sedan, Tribute SUV and CX-7 crossover.

An architecture is a set of components and systems that can be used as the basis for a wide variety of vehicles.

Ford turned to Mazda for midsize help when the Dearborn company inexplicably forgot to develop any new midsize models of its own. Since then, Ford has made its European engineering centers its global centers for engineering midsize, compact and subcompact cars.

The next generation of the Fusion will share its architecture, and much of its styling, with the replacement for Ford of Europe's Mondeo.

Ford has reduced its stake in Mazda, but the companies still cooperate closely. The next Mazda6 could use the Mondeo's architecture, but that's not set yet.

Source:
http://www.freep.com/article/20090416/BUSINESS02/904160407/1014/BUSINESS01/Ford+plans+to+use+own+architecture+next+time

Wouldnt that be a strange role reversal...mazda6 using a ford platform?

[my3needsaname]

Haha! That would be weird...

But it's good to see Ford picking up it's own architectures. I have a theory that Ford used Mazda's components because they were re-structuring and pulling htemselves together. Gives them a big check off for a major part and let's them focus on other things. Again, just a theory.

[my3needsaname]

Gotta add something I did yesterday...
My sisters Fusion had a creaky passenger window when it rolled down so Ford ordered the part and let us keep teh car until the part arrived and yesterday we brought it up for a window regulator to be installed and I was looking around and they have 2010 Fusions, a 2010 F-150, and...wait for it...2010 MUSTANG GT'S!!! You can only guess what I totally did!
Took out a 2010 Mustang GT Premium coupe automatic. Silver outside, black inside with SYNC, the Shaker system, the upgraded 18 or 19'' 10 spokers (the black/brushed ones), and everything but the full on nav system. It was NIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIICE!!! At about $34K it should be but this one was just about as perfect as the white one in the show room with nav. This one was in front of the dealer so to drive we had to take it down the sidewalk to get it on the road. lol (good thing no pedestrians were around)

It's got a lot of incredibly nice touches, like the gauges all max out when you start it, it greets you formally, that exhaust, they've got a new bing-bong thing when you leave the key in or headlights on that's incredibly funny, and other miscellaneous things like that.
The engine and exhaust are absolutely amazing! The car is so fast it takes 2 gears to hit 85MPH and there were 3 more to go! Its acceleration is superb and the handling is perfect. It's way past any Mazda chassis I have driven on and Mazda makes some of the best chassis around.
Now the sound system isn't called shaker for just anything, but I wish I turned on the regular radio vs. Sirius because Sirius doesn't have good sound quality at all IMO. Even so it was awesome.
The car's design is great, it's mean and low while still being subtle and cool. Just the entire package from every angle is something to behold and I can say there is not one angle on this thing that looks bad. The rear end is questionsable but once you get near it, that all changes.

Now, the only problems I found are that the trunk got smaller, although the rear seats fold down. They still have a nubby antenna! I mean c'mon! Every other Ford has an integrated antenna in the glass so why not this?!?!? It would look much better without it. Then the rear seats lack all legroom, it's like 2 inches of rear legroom in my seating position and your head touches the rear window when you sit back there. (I'm 5' 9'' for reference) Now of course if you buy this you're not buying it to haul anything but ass and that is what it does. I mean screw the 2010 Camaro when you can already pick up a 2010 Mustang instead.

(sorry I didn't get any pictures)

[7mileshome]

34K.... come on man

[my3needsaname]

It's totally worth it. That 8 has been seriously woken up and the whole car is loads of fun!

[tunersteve]

Go price out a comparatively equipped Camaro or Challenger. The interior quality in both is nowhere near and the features are also second to none in the Mustang.

[Chibana]

Nah, I'm afraid that's a big "no" on the chassis statement. The chassis is the same as it's been since the 2005 Mustang, and it's no great shakes. The Mustang is not, and never has been about chassis sophistication. It's about crude, cheap horsepower and torque, and it delivers that well. I seriously considered the Mustang GT over my RX-8, but I went with the RX-8 because it's chassis, steering, and handling are worlds better than the Mustang GT. And I can make (and will be making) the RX-8 more powerful. But you're stuck with the chassis you get from the factory. I like the looks of the new Mustang GT, but the RX-8 is sexier, and has more of the sports car look, while the Mustang has the muscle car looks. But I just can't get past the live axle.

[tunersteve]

The live axle is a weak argument. It's been beat over and over, and even the auto news world has said that this iteration is the best yet for a SLA chassis.

There's a reason the Mustang lasted 45 years and the other two didn't.

[my3needsaname]

(werd) well said steve...on both posts.

I'm being dead honest though, that chassis is perfect. This salesguy that was demoing the car before I got to drive it pulled a right hander at 43 and there was no squeal, no nothing, just grip and go. It was superfluous and then he floored it...(laugh) I'd like to see a Mazda pull that maneuver. (not really)

Bottom line: If you're looking for a car in that category, get a Mustang. The Challenger is made by Dodge and the Camaro doesn't hit the streets for what? Another 6 months? And it isn't going to be anywhere near as awesome as the pony.

[Chibana]

The live axle is a weak argument. It's been beat over and over, and even the auto news world has said that this iteration is the best yet for a SLA chassis.

There's a reason the Mustang lasted 45 years and the other two didn't.

No, it isn't. Just because it's been beat to death doesn't mean it isn't valid. To say that the Mustang has a fantastic chassis is absurd. It's not what the car is about, nor was it ever about sophistication. The RX-8 is. The RX-8 chassis is better than the 370Z's new chassis. The only reason it doesn't still win the comparisons is due to the fact that it's not all that fast. The Mustang GT is great for what it is: inexpensive power and torque. If that's your thing, great. It sure tempted me, and I like the way the new Mustang GT looks. The changes they made, although subtle, completely change my opinion of the styling. But when I looked at the whole picture, I just couldn't get past the limitations of a fairly crude chassis with a big engine.

[tunersteve]

No, it isn't. Just because it's been beat to death doesn't mean it isn't valid. To say that the Mustang has a fantastic chassis is absurd. It's not what the car is about, nor was it ever about sophistication. The RX-8 is. The RX-8 chassis is better than the 370Z's new chassis. The only reason it doesn't still win the comparisons is due to the fact that it's not all that fast. The Mustang GT is great for what it is: inexpensive power and torque. If that's your thing, great. It sure tempted me, and I like the way the new Mustang GT looks. The changes they made, although subtle, completely change my opinion of the styling. But when I looked at the whole picture, I just couldn't get past the limitations of a fairly crude chassis with a big engine.

I'm not saying that it's an amazing chassis, what I am saying is that they've really refined it to a level that people thought couldn't be done. It's proven its worth on the Koni Challenge circuit and held its own against more expensive IRS equipped vehicles.

Honestly, go drive a 2010 GT with the track pack, and see how you feel about it. It's nothing like the 05-09 car, and still a ways above the Bullitt.

[my3needsaname]

It's not absurd in any means, the car is much better the way it stands as a 2010 over the way it stood as a 2009. The chassis and suspension is much more refined than it was and that gives it teh ability to compete with a larger group and win, like I have felt it do. I don't think it is inexpensive power...I mean the sticker on the one I drove was $34K. But nonetheless, the chassis is far from crude and it handles everything it gets now. Teh last model needed a lot of improvements as long as it wasn't a Bullitt and Ford made them and added them to the 2010 Mustang.

I'm still going with Steve here and say that you should go compare the two before you say the new refinement is crude. I mean they still have enough 09's left on the lots.

[tunersteve]

Forgot to mention that the Camaro is available now. Saw a yellow one without M-plates on it the other night at dinner. Still not overly thrilled with the design in certain aspects.

[Chibana]

I don't disagree that the 2010 is better, but chassis sophistication is not what it's about, nor has it ever been. All you have to do is read to see that is not the case. The numb steering alone is enough to turn me off.

[CantCMe]

I really like the look of the new SHO...makes me miss my '93 :(

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/jalopnik/2009/02/2010-Ford_Taurus_SHO.jpg

http://allworldcars.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/2010_ford_taurus_sho_3.jpg

http://www.egmcartech.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/2010_ford_taurus_sho_press_image_003.jpg

[my3needsaname]

*drooooool* I wish I could find a first generation SHO. That would be sick.



I don't disagree that the 2010 is better, but chassis sophistication is not what it's about, nor has it ever been. All you have to do is read to see that is not the case. The numb steering alone is enough to turn me off.
True but it was a prt of the car that really took me as I was cruising along.
Crap I forgot to add in my post that the steering is incredibly stiff. I mean it was sort of numb but mainly it was just really stiff. In some ways it was nice but for just cruising around you had to put some muscle into it to turn the thing.

Forgot to mention that the Camaro is available now. Saw a yellow one without M-plates on it the other night at dinner. Still not overly thrilled with the design in certain aspects.
No way! Huh...nobody even talks about it being available. Maybe it was shadowed by how poorly GM is doing. Maybe I'll have to go find one and compare. (laugh)

[coolmazda5]

In what has to be one of the least surprising developments related to the auto industry, a newly-released survey finds that Americans' favorable view of Ford Motor Company has increased substantially since it became the sole member of the Detroit Three to abstain from taking federal funds.

Before the Capitol Hill Bailout Bonanza got going in earnest late last year, just 41% of Americans held the Blue Oval in a positive light. Now, after billions of taxpayer dollars have been spent keeping now-bankrupt Chrysler and soon-to-be (in all likelihood) bankrupt General Motors in business, FoMoCo's positive number has jumped up to 63%, according to a survey conducted by the Aloft Group last week.

However, that's not to say that those surveyed believe Ford's out of the woods: a mere 24 percent of the respondents think Ford doesn't need Uncle Sam to come to the rescue. Still, Ford's decision to mortgage everything on its own in a bid to stay alive has been a big PR success, and you can bet that Alan Mulally will instruct staffers to burn all the office furniture in Dearborn this winter before he looks to Capitol Hill for a penny in bailout dollars. In Detroit right now, the Scarlet Letter is "B."

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/mulally-bailout-copy.jpg

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/survey-fords-image-gets-a-boost-by-nixing-federal-aid/

[tunersteve]

The new EPAS steering system is more responsive than the 05-09 models. I actually like the new steering system.

For those of you hating on that car, go drive it, then go drive an RT Challenger. Then go drive a Camaro. See which features you like the most of each car and compare the pros and cons.

[my3needsaname]

I mean I thought the steering was really stiff at first but overall it posed a greater handling experience where high speed you could turn at the same rate as low speed. It was nice.

Hopefully Ford will remain in the yellow area and go into the green. I wouldn't consider them in the green yet, they've still got the Flex and Focus to take care of...along with not killing the Expeditions.

[coolmazda5]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/85851168_opt.jpg

What's this? Somehow, the natural order of things in the automotive world has been upset to the point that Ford (129,898 total units) has outsold Toyota (126,540 total units) in the United States in the month of April. For those keeping track of such things, this is the first time in over a year that the Blue Oval (consisting of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury, but not including Volvo) has moved more machines than the mighty Toyota.

Normally, posting a 31% decline in sales compared to the same month a year earlier wouldn't be cause for celebration, but that drop is actually considerably smaller than at rival automakers, including Toyota, which saw sales fall by an almost unbelievable 42%. Not a single Toyota nameplate posted sales gains in April of '09.

Ford, on the other hand, found something to hang its hat on with the new 2010 Fusion. Ford moved 18,321 Fusions in April, which is a 21.7% improvement over last April and a record for any month. That success was offset somewhat by the 35.8% decline in F-Series truck sales, but a gain is a gain, and Ford will take anything it can get.

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/ford-sells-more-cars-in-april-than-toyota/

[my3needsaname]

I read that title and literally was like (rockon)(yippy)(wiggle)(headbang)(cabpatch)(shocke d)(headbang)(cool)(nana)(breakn) WOOT!
They deserve it. Great cars once again. Took them from '06 to '10 to get a set of really nice cars come out of the works.

[Chibana]

I saw a new SHO at the Howell outlet mall in Michigan two weekends ago. It was stunning. I didn't get a closeup view, as it drove off before I had a chance to get close.

And for the record, I'm *not* a 2010 Mustang "hater." As I said, it was a serious contender for me. I had narrowed my top picks for recreational vehicle down to the RX-8, 370Z, and Mustang GT (although I would have likely waited for the 2011 Mustang). My only point was that to say that Mazda has no cars with a chassis that compares to the 2010 Mustang is silly and untrue. Here's a quote from Car & Driver:

"Mustang steering has always been numb, and the Track pack doesn’t force any more circulation into it. Don’t bring along a Miata, as we did, or you’ll just get depressed."

The 2010 Mustang is a very cool car, and I nearly went with it over the RX-8, but the RX-8 (and MX-5, being based on the RX-8 platform) does have a better chassis. That, combined with the sexy looks of the RX-8 (in my opinion, of course) are what swayed me to the RX-8, even though it's drastically underpowered compared to both the Z and the Mustang.

[tunersteve]

I'm still waiting for the 5.0 and a more fitting comparison between that and the Camaro.

I've seen several Tauruses in the southeast MI area lately, and they look great on the road.

For the record, the new F-250/350/450 will have the largest grille I've ever seen. I'm going to approximate it at about 6x15" in size.

[coolmazda5]

Here you go Taurus SHO lovers. It's still too big for my taste, but seems to be a worthy contender...

Our lucky compatriots at AOL Autos had the chance to get some passenger-seat time in the all-new 2010 Ford Taurus SHO, along with a glimpse into the inner-workings of FoMoCo's engineering team. The story centers around Ford's only female Vehicle Dynamics Development Engineer, Christina "Crissy" Rodriguez, who's "equal parts engineer, race driver and vehicle psychologist."

During her 12-year stint at Ford, Rodriguez has been instrumental in the development of a number of vehicles and has spent the last eight years tuning the chassis that underpins the new Taurus, along with its platform siblings, the Lincoln MKS and Ford Flex.

The final third of the article gets into the performance and dynamics of the SHO, where Rodriguez takes AOL Auto's Rex Roy for a spin around Ford's Dearborn proving grounds. While its not a comprehensive review of the hottest Taurus in over a decade, Roy reports that the six-speed automatic shifts smoothly and quickly, forward momentum is electric, the sonorous sounds from the engine are top-notch and, most telling, "the faster Rodriguez drove, the smaller the Taurus seemed to get..." Sounds like a winning combination so far

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/01-aol-autos-ford-taurus-sho-580op.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/07-aol-autos-ford-taurus-sho-250op.jpg

Source:
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/aol-autos-snags-ride-in-2010-taurus-sho-with-fords-only-female/

[coolmazda5]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/02-aol-autos-ford-taurus-sho.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/06-aol-autos-ford-taurus-sho.jpg

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/09-aol-autos-ford-taurus-sho.jpg

[Donas64]

I saw a new SHO at the Howell outlet mall in Michigan two weekends ago. It was stunning. I didn't get a closeup view, as it drove off before I had a chance to get close.

And for the record, I'm *not* a 2010 Mustang "hater." As I said, it was a serious contender for me. I had narrowed my top picks for recreational vehicle down to the RX-8, 370Z, and Mustang GT (although I would have likely waited for the 2011 Mustang). My only point was that to say that Mazda has no cars with a chassis that compares to the 2010 Mustang is silly and untrue. Here's a quote from Car & Driver:

"Mustang steering has always been numb, and the Track pack doesn’t force any more circulation into it. Don’t bring along a Miata, as we did, or you’ll just get depressed."

The 2010 Mustang is a very cool car, and I nearly went with it over the RX-8, but the RX-8 (and MX-5, being based on the RX-8 platform) does have a better chassis. That, combined with the sexy looks of the RX-8 (in my opinion, of course) are what swayed me to the RX-8, even though it's drastically underpowered compared to both the Z and the Mustang.

Mazda needs to address this in the worst way.

[Chibana]

I'm still waiting for the 5.0 and a more fitting comparison between that and the Camaro.

I've seen several Tauruses in the southeast MI area lately, and they look great on the road.

For the record, the new F-250/350/450 will have the largest grille I've ever seen. I'm going to approximate it at about 6x15" in size.

Yes, the 5.0 (last I read, due in the 2011 model) might just be enough to make me wonder if I should have waited and bought the Mustang, instead. I was also tempted by the Ford Racing supercharger kit for the 2010 Mustang, though. Factory warranty would have been nice. If I do much significant with the RX-8, which I do plan, I'll have to say good-bye to the 8 year/100,000 mile engine warranty.

The Taurus is also too big for me, but I do love it. I'm anxious to read the reviews in all the car magazines. I hope Ford nails it.