2011 Ford Focus rendered speculation

The face lifted Focus range has reinvigorated the popular hatch, headlined by the aggressive performance flagship RS model, although this merely preempts the arrival of the all-new Focus due in 2011

The new model will take Ford’s kinetic design to its limits, offering a truly global package with international style, highly-efficient powertrains and innovative green technologies.

These artists’ renderings provide a glimpse at what we may be able to expect from Ford, combining the current kinetic motif with the “Bold American” theme currently employed by the Fusion and Edge crossover SUV.

Under the “One Ford” product strategy devised by CEO Alan Mullaly, the next-generation Focus is being designed and engineered by Ford of Europe which has been assigned the role as the brand’s centre for global small-car development.

This strategy has been formulated with the aim of reducing initial costs and improving manufacturing economies of scale by employing a single design for all markets rather than introducing separate designs for specific regions.

The car will likely debut Ford’s new C3 architecture which has been built as a versatile platform to suit a wider range of vehicle types including compact-crossovers and people movers, along with eventually forming the underpinnings of sister models such as the Mazda3 and Volvo range.

The new Focus will be the make-or-break car for Ford as the economic slump will no doubt eventually take its toll on what has so far proved to be the most resilient US car maker.

247-hp 2012 Ford Focus ST set to go global

Earlier this year, Ford promised us a hotter version of the all-new Focus, and at this month's Paris Motor Show, the Blue Oval is sticking to its word.

The 2012 Ford Focus ST will be the brand's first high-performance model developed under the watchful eye of its global performance vehicle team, and while the hatch you see here is being billed as a "design study," make no mistake – this will form the basis of the ST coming to market in early 2012.

Power is provided by an EcoBoost 2.0-liter inline four churning out 247 turbocharged horsepower, and Ford promises that the ST's handling and aural delights will live up to the marque's performance heritage. FoMoCo also makes it clear that the ST is bound for "all global markets from early 2012" so those of us in the States should finally get a crack at what's traditionally been a Euro-only affair.

Joining the Focus ST in Paris will be the new Mondeo and C-Max, both powered by Ford's new range of fuel-efficient gasoline and diesel-powered drivetrains. Make the jump for the full details.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca

New Ford 5.0L and supercharged 5.4L V8s now available as crate engines

Thanks to an alert reader perusing the Ford Racing online parts catalog, we now know that both the new 5.0-liter "Coyote" V8 and the aluminum-block supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that power the 2011 Mustang GT and GT500 can be purchased in boxes.

The 412 horsepower, twin-cam 32-valve V8 comes fully dressed except for the air-conditioning compressor and alternator. That means it has compete fuel injection and ignition systems and all the manifolding and other bits. The other item that's not included is the wiring harness and powertrain control module which will set you back an extra $1,499 on top of the $6,999 for the engine.

For those with a hankering for even more grunt, the aluminum 5.4-liter also comes dressed for success with 550 hp and 510 pound-feet of torque. The cylinder bores of the new engine have been coated with a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc system to make them tougher than steel or iron with much lower weight. The blown engine is a good bit steeper – $20,999 – plus the harness and PCM. A tip of the hat to GT!

Roush Yates to supply Ford EcoBoost V6 for 2011 ALMS competition

Roush Yates Engines has announced that it will be offering up a race-prepared version of Ford's 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 for American Le Mans Series prototype competition in 2011. Roush Yates is developing the engines for use under the new 2011 LMP2 rules that require production-based engines. This will be the first competition application for Ford's twin-turbocharged and direct injected V6 that debuted in 2009.

The first chassis constructor to announce support for the Ford V6 is Lola, with installation kits available for both its open-top and closed coupe 2011 LMP2 cars. According to Roush Yates spokesperson Kenna Primm, the race engine will be reduced down to the 3.2-liter maximum allowed under ALMS rules compared to the 2.8-liter displacement of the twin-turbo V6 announced by Honda at Le Mans in June. Output will likely be somewhere around 400 horsepower.

In addition to the EcoBoost V6, Roush Yates is also evaluating a race version of the Mustang's
5.0-liter V8 for ALMS competition.

2010 Ford Mondeo

2010 Ford Mondeo



2010 Ford Mondeo


2010 Ford Mondeo


2010 Ford Mondeo

Concept cars highlight Ford-only day of RM's Monterey auction

The RM auction is always one of our favorite events during the Monterey classic car week, and this year's looks to be one of the best yet. In fact, there are so many vehicles up for grabs that RM has scheduled an additional auction day featuring just Fords. Some historically-important vehicles will cross the block, including a 1903 Ford Model A and a 1962 Lincoln Continental used by John F. Kennedy.

Ford Motor Company itself will auction off some vehicles itself, including eighteen concept cars built from 2000 to 2004. Among the notable vehicles on the list are the 2001 Lightning Rod Concept, the 2001 Forty Nine Concept, the 2003 Supercharged Thunderbird Concept and the 2004 Lincoln Mark X Concept. Our favorite? The Mustang GT-R Concept that made its debut at the 2004 New York Auto Show. Ford will donate the proceeds of the sale to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and The Children's Center.

You can read more about the Ford-only auction day in the press release after the jump, or head over to RM's website to see a full list of vehicles up for sale.

Ford Explorer teasers keep coming, model to debut July 26 in NYC

The agonizing 2011 Ford Explorer striptease continues, made somewhat less painful by the fact that we now have what appears to be a solid unveil date and location. While the company has rolled out two new detail shots of the reworked SUV-turned-crossover – including a look at the rear hatch and roof rails (oooh!) – the Blue Oval has also graced the world with news that "a new Ford vehicle" will get a complete unveil in New York City's Herald Square on Monday, July 26. Less we've missed our mark by a wide berth, odds are that the vehicle is the 2011 Explorer.

According to Ford, the whole gang will be in attendance for the event, including CEO Alan Mulally and spokesperson Mike Rowe. Who knows exactly what kind of high jinks the company has planned for the 26th, but given the substantial buzz Ford has tried to build for the new Expy, we would be surprised if it were just a stage and a silk sheet. Stay tuned.

2011 Ford Fiesta receives new accessories, body kits and graphics

Buyers of Ford’s 2011 Fiesta have a new range of aftermarket accessories to choose from. For the exterior, the following options are available: a spoiler, a four-piece body kit, which consists of a front air dam, side skirts and rear valance, ‘tattoo’ vinyl graphics, and side wraps with designs like bubbles, flames and ninja blades.

Interior options include an illuminated gear knob, which displays what gear is selected, illuminated door sills, LED cup holder lights, and an armrest.

The more adventurous car owners may opt for a kayak carrier, a bike carrier, and a roof rack. There are three packages being offered. First, there’s the Interior Protection Package, with all-weather floor mats and a rear cargo area protector.

Ford also offers the Exterior Protection Package, which has splash guards and a rear bumper protector. And lastly, there’s the Illuminated Interior Accessory Package which features sill plates and gear knob.

Sam De La Garza, Fiesta brand manager, said that customers have long been able to request for unique exterior colors and interior seating combinations, but with these accessory options, consumers can take Fiesta personalization to the next level and install an accessory or graphic that “matches their personality.”

Russian car sales soared 46 percent year-on-year in June

Ford Motor Co.’s board of directors is now comprised of 14 members, with the addition of the chairman of Sprint Nextel Corp. effective immediately.

Ford disclosed that 65-year-old James Hance Jr., a Carlyle Group senior adviser, will serve on the board’s audit committee, finance committee and nominating and governance committee. It was in 2005 that Hance retired from Bank of America Corp. after 18 years of holding various posts, including chief financial officer and vice chairman. In the same year, he started serving on the Sprint Nextel board. Hance also serves on the board of directors for Cousins Properties Inc., Morgan Stanley, and Duke Energy Corp.

2011 FORD MONDEO

Ford of Europe will debut its stylish and technologically advanced new Ford Mondeo at the 2010 Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 25, 2010. The new model will go on sale later this year and features a restyled exterior and uprated interior, new high-efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol and TDCi diesel powertrains plus a host of new driver comfort and convenience features and safety technologies.

The first official preview images issued today show that, following similar updates to the Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models earlier this year, the new Mondeo is the latest Ford car to benefit from the continuing evolution of Ford kinetic design.

While the Ford Mondeo is renowned as being stylish and versatile, offering high levels of driving enjoyment and comfort to its occupants, the new model is set to build on this reputation with its fresh new look for all three body styles - 4-door, 5-door and wagon.

"The Ford Mondeo is already a very strong package and, with the significant design changes and in particular the comprehensive array of new technologies we are introducing, we have no doubt that the new model will strengthen Mondeo's position as the flagship Ford model in our European line-up," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO. "This is the smartest, safest, most environmentally friendly and best quality Ford Mondeo we have ever launched, and it completes the regeneration of our CD segment range in 2010."

Smart Design, Enhanced Quality

Key changes include distinctive new grilles featuring a bolder lower trapezoid and a slim, stylish opening above, plus an enhanced bonnet profile. New front bumpers include LED daytime running lights, and re-designed rear lights also employ LED technology. Additionally a new rear deck lid treatment matches the revised rear light profile.

The interior is also revised and features a new flow-through centre console design, revised door treatment featuring flush and integrated door release handles, and a new central overhead console featuring ambient lighting. New trim materials across the range have been selected carefully to enhance the premium interior feel of the new Ford Mondeo.

New Mondeo's interior also benefits from a range of new features, including the introduction of LED interior lights and a new Satellite Navigation system, while music lovers will be able to enjoy the new Premium Sound System option which incorporates a 265-watt, eight-channel amplifier unit, all-new speaker system and large, 17-litre subwoofer.

Higher Performance, More Technology

The launch of the new Ford Mondeo will see the first application of a higher performance 240 PS version of the efficient 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine. This will be complemented by the existing 203 PS version of this engine launched in Ford Mondeo, new S-MAX and new Galaxy earlier this year.

While the new 240 PS engine provides extra performance, average CO2 emissions are targeted to be just 179 g/km, the same as the 203 PS unit, regardless of bodystyle. Ford EcoBoost technology also provides fuel consumption and emissions reductions of up to 20 per cent compared to traditional petrol engines of a similar capacity.

Another first for the new Ford Mondeo is the introduction of the comprehensively revised 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi engine, which boasts a 12 per cent power increase to 200 PS, making it the most powerful Duratorq diesel engine to date. The Ford Mondeo TDCi line-up sees this new engine joined by a significantly improved 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel that has already been introduced to the Ford Mondeo range in 2010. This engine is available with 115, 140 or 163 PS power ratings, with all of them delivering an average CO2 emission of just 139 g/km with a 6-speed manual transmission, regardless of bodystyles.

To make the powertrain offering for the new Ford Mondeo even more efficient, a number of new Ford ECOnetic Technologies are now made available, including Smart Regenerative Charging, Ford Eco Mode and - a Ford first - an Active Grille Shutter system. This electronically controlled device regulates the airflow through the radiator and engine compartment to reduce aerodynamic drag, but also offers benefits to the engine heating characteristics to improve the fuel economy and warm-up performance in cold climates.

Powertrain advances in the new Mondeo also extend to the transmission; the latest six-speed Ford PowerShift double wet-clutch transmission system comes as standard for Ford EcoBoost petrol engines, and will be available as an option for the 140 PS and 163 PS versions of the 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi.

The new Ford Mondeo range will include a comprehensive array of driver assistance features, many of which are appearing for the first time in a Ford model, including Lane Departure Warning, Driver Alert and Auto High Beam. New features already introduced in the latest S-MAX and Galaxy models are now extended to the Ford Mondeo range, including the Blind Spot Information System, Speed Limiter, Rear Door Power Child Locks and Rear View Camera. LED lighting technology is also used for the daytime running lights and rear tail and brake lamps.

The new Ford Mondeo range will start to go on sale across Europe from September 2010. Further information and technical details of the new Mondeo range will be released closer to launch and its debut at the 2010 Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 25, 2010.

FORD EXPEDITION (2011)

- Standard Trailer Sway Control works with AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™) to aid confidence while towing
- SYNC® adds Traffic, Directions & Information, while the available voice-activated navigation system includes HD Radio® and SIRIUS Travel Link™, offering Expedition customers a wealth of choices in information and entertainment
- Six-speed automatic transmission offers exceptional shift quality and fuel economy

Ford

Expedition and Expedition EL blend bold Ford Truck design, functionality and toughness with interior refinement, giving customers the flexibility only a full-size Ford SUV can provide. For the 2011 model year, the Expedition lineup offers newly available interior technology to help occupants stay connected and entertained.

Long journeys, already made easier by the spacious, comfortable accommodations found within Expedition, are aided by a new available headrest-mounted rear DVD system. With two individual screens and two sets of wireless headphones, the system allows rear seat passengers to enjoy individual A/V options without disturbing front seat passengers or each other.

For safety on journeys of any length, Expedition is aided by Ford-exclusive AdvanceTrac with RSC, including standard Trailer Sway Control. Trailer Sway Control works in conjunction with AdvanceTrac with RSC to detect trailer sway through the motions of the vehicle and take measures – such as applying precise braking and reducing engine torque – to bring both vehicle and trailer under control.

AdvanceTrac with RSC delivers a level of performance that competitive stability control systems can’t match. Unlike competitor systems, AdvanceTrac with RSC uses a second gyroscopic roll-rate sensor to determine the vehicle’s body roll angle and roll rate.

If the unique roll-rate sensor detects a significant roll angle, the system applies additional countermeasures – such as applying brakes to one or more wheels or reducing engine power – to enhance vehicle rollover resistance.

In the event of an accident, Expedition is equipped with the SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, where the horn and emergency flashers are activated should airbags deploy. Other safety features include Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags, a rollover detection system and dual-stage front airbags that deploy with varying power based on crash severity, the driver’s seat position and seat belt usage. Front seat side airbags provide extra protection in the event of a side impact.

The 2000 Expedition was the first full-size SUV to earn five-star front safety NCAP ratings for the driver and passenger from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a recognition it has maintained every year since 2000. This 10-year run on five-star ratings sets Expedition apart as best in its class. The Expedition is designed to meet all known future government crash standards.

More choices, more convenience

Expedition provides customers with the convenience and luxury options full-size SUV buyers demand. The 2011 Expedition is available in XL, XLT, Limited and King Ranch series; an EL version of each is also available.

A wealth of standard convenience options gives Expedition a luxurious feel. The Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler System eliminates the inconvenience of forgetting to put the gas cap back on after fueling, and can also help prevent evaporative emissions from escaping. Standard center console, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel and six-speaker audio system with CD and MP3 capability are also found on Expedition.

Expedition features Ford’s MyKey™ system. Parents simply program the key through the vehicle message center to incorporate restrictions such as:

Persistent Belt-Minder® chime
Limited top speed of 80 mph
Traction control system that limits tire spin cannot be deactivated
Audio system volume limited to 44 percent of maximum volume
A speed alert chime at 45, 55 or 65 mph
Technology also helps keep Expedition customers connected. SIRIUS® satellite radio capability and SYNC, the industry-first, voice-activated hands-free communications and entertainment system, are both standard features on XLT, Limited and King Ranch trim levels.

SYNC with Traffic, Directions & Information leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth®-capable mobile phone. SYNC’s new applications provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions, and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.

Also available is a voice-activated navigation system with SIRIUS Travel LinkTM that lets customers access up-to-the-minute information and entertainment content through the vehicle’s navigation system. The information includes current gas prices from an estimated 120,000 filling stations, up-to-the-minute traffic information for 78 markets, weather conditions, sports scores and movie listings in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia.

Music lovers will enjoy the addition of HD Radio technology, included with the voice-activated navigation system. HD Radio enables more listening options and digital sound quality. No additional equipment or cost is involved. To use HD Radio, listeners simply tune in their favorite station. If the station is broadcasting with HD Radio technology, the system automatically picks up the signal and will transition to digital audio once decoded.

A Ford truck at heart

Expedition is powered by a tough truck-proven 5.4-liter flex fuel V-8 engine. Flex fuel gives consumers more options at the pump, allowing refueling with E85 ethanol fuel blends.

With three valves per cylinder and variable camshaft timing, the 5.4-liter engine delivers a satisfying balance of refinement and muscle. Rated at 310 horsepower and 365 ft.-lb. of torque, Expedition can tow up to 9,200 pounds, for the best tow rating in its class.

With a wider gear ratio, Expedition’s six-speed transmission has smaller steps between gears than a typical four-speed automatic and offers improved shift quality, faster acceleration and improved fuel economy.

Expedition safety technologies

Standard and available 2011 Ford Expedition safety features include:

AdvanceTrac traction control with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and Trailer Sway Control
Safety Canopy™, a side air curtain technology offering protection for all seating rows
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Dual-stage front airbags for the driver and front seat passenger, side airbags and a front passenger sensor system
MyKey programmable vehicle key
SOS Post-Crash Alert System
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Expedition technology and connectivity features
Standard and available 2011 Ford Expedition technology features include:

AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with audio input jack
SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system with Traffic, Directions & Information
Voice-activated navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link and HD Radio, including iTunes song-tagging ability
Keyless Entry – Remote and SecuriCode™ (Keypad)
Lighting – Illuminated Entry with Approach Lamps
Perimeter Alarm
SIRIUS satellite radio with a complimentary six-month subscription
Dual headrest-mounted rear seat DVD system
SecuriLock® passive anti-theft system
Power adjustable pedals

All Expedition models are built in Louisville, Ky.

Ford Focus RS rolls off this mortal coil with WRC-style white wheels

Alas, poor Focus RS, we knew ye not at all. We're not sure which is the biggest tragedy – the fact that Ford never graced the U.S. with the joy that is the company's wild hatchback or that the three-door is already being sent out to pasture. Either way, buyers in the UK can now equip their new RS models with a set of slick rally-inspired wheels. For the low cost of just $741 at current conversion rates and including the Britain's notorious Value Added Tax, Ford will be happy to install a set of white, 19-inch WRC-style wheels. Of course, that's according to the press release. Something tells us the final price tag could be well north of that figure by the time the dealership gets through with you.

Ford's UK dealers have sold the company's entire allotment of RS 500 hatches, but a handful of the standard RS models are still hanging around. While the white rollers wouldn't completely make up for missing out on the 305 horsepower monster that is the hottest of the hot, they will certainly be a collectors item in a few years. Click past the jump for the press release.

MUSTANG RTR PACKAGE DELIVERS PERFORMANCE

Mustang RTR, a new dealer-installed package for the 2011 Ford Mustang, delivers performance and appearance upgrades for spirited driving. The package was introduced by Vaughn Gittin Jr., driver of the Monster Energy/Falken Tire 2011 Mustang GT in the Formula Drift series. The RTR package comes complete with Ford Racing Falken FK-452 tires, unique 19-inch wheels

, and RTR-exclusive interior details and striping scheme, and is available at select dealerships.

The introduction of Mustang RTR also plays off the success Gittin is enjoying on the Formula Drift circuit. Winner of the season-opening Long Beach event and runner-up in Atlanta, he has a significant points lead in this year’s Formula Drift championship

CONTEXT / BACKGROUND

Professional driver Vaughn Gittin Jr. knows what Mustangs can do – and he wanted to share that knowledge with Mustang enthusiasts who appreciate the car’s power and capability. Mustang RTR is Gittin Jr.’s vision for introducing a new generation of owners to Mustang, while catering to traditional Mustang enthusiasts. He helped develop the RTR package, which provides performance and appearance upgrades, to allow pony car lovers to make the most of their driving experience.

DETAILS

The 2011 Ford Mustang is known for its incredible performance and impressive looks, and now there’s a new package that takes those qualities one step further – Mustang RTR. The dealer-installed package from Vaughn Gittin Jr., driver of the Monster Energy/Falken Tire 2011 Mustang GT in Formula Drift, and Ford Racing Performance Parts, is aimed toward a new generation of Mustang owners.

The performance upgrade comes with Ford Racing calibration with a high-flow filter and high-performance Falken FK-452 tires, which offer precise handling from five linear ribs and three-dimensional rounded blocks. Stiffer, wide steel belts offer greater tread rigidity, superior grip and high-speed stability, and high-tension carcass and high turn-up construction increase handling response and high-speed stability.

Other performance upgrades include:

Unique Mustang RTR 19x9.5-inch wheels
Ford Racing mufflers
Ford Racing handling pack (performance-tuned dampers and springs)

Mustang RTR commands attention with unique styling that is highlighted by a chin spoiler with splitter and supports, rocker splitters, a rear diffuser and aluminum rear spoiler. A distinctive Mustang RTR stripe scheme adds more distinction. The interior showcases RTR-exclusive floor mats, shifter knob and emblems.

The package was designed and manufactured in partnership with Michigan-based Classic Design Concepts, which has a reputation for quality and style. The Mustang RTR package is available at select dealerships for the 2011 Mustang GT. A Mustang V-6 package will be available in late 2010. For more information on the Mustang RTR package, visit www.mustangrtr.com.

Taking the lead

The introduction of Mustang RTR also plays off the success Gittin is enjoying in Formula Drift, with a significant lead in the championship point standings. Driving the Monster Energy/ Falken Tire 2011 Ford Mustang GT, Gittin took first place at the opening competition in Long Beach, Calif., and most recently placed second at Road Atlanta.

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“Vaughn’s goal was to introduce an exciting new package to the Mustang world that resonates with both the younger audience and with traditional muscle car enthusiasts as well. By partnering with Ford Racing to develop the Mustang RTR, he has achieved that goal with ease and illustrates how universal Mustang’s appeal is.”

– Mickey Matus, Ford Performance Group marketing manager

Ford Escape Hybrid, 2008

Ford Escape Hybrid, 2008

The Ford Escape, America's best-selling compact utility vehicle, has a completely new look inside and out for 2008. Escape now makes a powerful statement with a bolder, rugged exterior design that bears a stronger family resemblance to the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition. The all-new interior resets the bar for small utility vehicles, with more upscale appointments, new innovative storage options, and improved comfort and quietness. In addition, chassis refinements deliver impressive fuel economy and agile driving dynamics that belie the Escape's rugged exterior.

The combination of traditional SUV capability and crossover construction made the original Escape an instant success. More than one million Escapes have been sold since its introduction as a 2001 model - more than any other small utility vehicle or crossover of any size. Six years later, Escape remains the sales leader of the small-utility segment, a remarkable feat considering the segment has almost doubled, from 800,000 sales in 2000 to a projected 1.5 million in 2006.

Bolder, Tougher Exterior Design
The high beltline is further emphasized by the new blacked-out B-pillars, integrated running boards, available 17-inch wheels, and the deletion of the original Escape's molded-in color fascias and lower bodyside molding.

To integrate the higher beltline, the hood has also been raised and now features a unique "reverse crease" design that draws the eye to the detailed surface. The new front fascia has headlamps that sweep up toward the front corners of the vehicle to short side marker lamps. The new headlights bracket the dramatic new grille.

Refined and Recycled Interior
The 2008 Escape is believed to be the first U.S. automotive application of seating surfaces made from 100 percent post-industrial materials, supplied by InterfaceFABRIC, Inc. InterfaceFABRIC estimates that Ford's use of post-industrial materials, rather than virgin fibers, could conserve an estimated 600,000 gallons of water, an estimated 1.8 million pounds of carbon dioxide equivalents, and the equivalent of more than 7 million kilowatt hours of electricity annually.

Escape also showcases Ford's first use of a "top of dash" display positioned at eye level on the dashboard, which shows ambient temperature, radio functions and climate-control readouts. This simple, efficient design puts much of the vehicle's information in one place at the top of the dashboard, making it easier to reference when driving.

Improving ease-of-use is the clean, uncluttered center console. Rather than the traditional "brick" design for the radio and temperature controls, Escape features dials and buttons that "poke-through" the center console. The instrument panel houses audio and climate controls, a standard MP3/iPod audio jack, and controls for the available heated seats and in-dash navigation system.

Escape's interior also features the first use of Ford's new, signature Ice Blue interior lighting. The cool blue lighting replaces the traditional green on the instrument cluster, the center console, the redundant controls on the steering wheel, and the door lock and window switches. Ice Blue presents a cool, crisp, easy-on-the-eyes light for night driving and enhances the overall feel of the interior.

Escape's center console is large enough to hold a laptop computer, and there are three levels of storage space. In addition, the center console features two removable bins with innovative dovetail mounting points, which allows the bins to be hung from the front passenger side and rear of the console for additional storage.

Refined, Quiet Interior
Engineers made a host of changes to the 2008 Escape to reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels inside the vehicle.

The 2008 Escape is one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to use speed-sensitive Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), a sophisticated system that helps correct for road irregularities and improves overall steering feel.

Conventional power steering systems use an engine-driven hydraulic gear, which saps power and efficiency from the engine. The 2008 Escape's new EPAS system uses an electric motor, rather than the engine's accessory drive. This new system helps improve fuel economy and eliminates the hydraulic noises typical of conventional hydraulic power-assisted steering systems.

New recessed channels in the vehicle's roof panel are designed to improve airflow over the top of the vehicle, while horizontal ribs in the roof also strengthen the body structure and help reduce boom noise in the cabin. A new acoustic laminate sandwiched between two glass panels in the windshield and an acoustic headliner also help decrease wind noise. New interior carpeting, which is up to 50 percent thicker, further improves the isolation from road and wind noise.

Compared with the previous model, the 2008 Escape is 12 percent quieter on the highway (30.8 sones to 27 sones at 80 mph in the wind tunnel) and 20 percent quieter in high velocity crosswinds.

Standard Safety Equipment and Fuel-efficient Powertrains
Under its skin, the 2008 Escape has one of the most advanced safety packages in the small SUV segment. Escape comes standard with Safety Canopy™ side air curtains, which provide head and neck protection for the first- and second-row passengers, as well as standard side-impact air bags that deploy out of the upper portion of the front seats to protect the upper and lower torso of the driver and passenger. In addition, I-4 and V-6 Escape models come standard with Ford's exclusive AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control).

The 2008 Escape's standard 2.3-liter, 16-valve Duratec 23 I-4 produces 153 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 152 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The available 3.0-liter, 24-valve V-6 Duratec 30 engine makes 200 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 193 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,850 rpm. With a four-speed automatic, the V-6 powered Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Ford Escape Hybrid continues to be a "full" hybrid. This means that, unlike other "mild" hybrid vehicles, Escape Hybrid can run on 100 percent electric power up to about 25 mph, maximizing in-city fuel economy.

At low speeds, power is delivered by a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor, producing 70 kw @ 5,000 rpm and 330V maximum voltage. When additional power is required, the Escape Hybrid's 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine seamlessly engages, contributing 133 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 124 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm. The net result is 155 horsepower with 0-60 times comparable to a 200 horsepower V-6 engine and a boost in city-driving fuel economy of nearly 75 percent. Escape Hybrids are equipped with a smooth-shifting, electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

For 2008, Escape Hybrid engineers made revisions to software in the control system to improve transparency, or the transition between gasoline and electric operation. The transition from all-electric to gasoline power to a combination of the two is now even more seamless and virtually imperceptible to the driver.

Ford Explorer America Concept, 2008

Ford Explorer America Concept, 2008

The Ford Explorer America concept showcases a new kind of utility for the vehicle customers have known and loved for years: even better fuel efficiency.

Technologies and engineering innovations help Ford Explorer America concept deliver an approximately 20 to 30 percent fuel-economy improvement, depending on engine selection, while providing room for six and their gear as well as moderate towing and off-roading capabilities.

The smarter utility concept simplifies Ford Motor Company's systems approach for delivering sustainable vehicles, specifically demonstrating:

* A powertrain lineup that includes 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
* Migration from current body-on-frame to unibody construction, reducing weight and delivering superior driving dynamics
* A fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission with auto shift control, allowing the driver to select and hold a lower gear with just the turn of a dial when conditions warrant it
* A weight reduction of 150 pounds for the V-6 version thanks to its downsized - yet superior performing - engine, as well as more lightweight materials, suspension and chassis components
* Fuel-saving electric power assisted steering (EPAS) and other engine actions that deliver a fuel savings benefit of about 5 percent. Between 80 to 90 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will have EPAS by 2012

The Ford Explorer America concept addresses how the SUV market has changed in the past 15 years.

In the 1990s, customers were drawn by SUVs aligned with people's adventurous, more rugged lifestyles. Today's consumers are more discerning, demanding products that are capable and flexible - but more intelligently executed.

The Ford Explorer America concept looks the part, too, with a modern, muscular design language that belies its ability to harness today's active lifestyles. Its integrated three-bar grille, defined power dome hood, wrap-around rear glass panel window and sliding rear door give the appearance that this concept is ready for modern Lewis-and-Clark types to explore, from their own neighborhoods to the trail head.

The inside, intelligent features abound, including: single-touch stackable, sliding seats that allow for convenient access to the second row; a work table with seats deploy from the tailgate; and a three-dimensional compass and navigation unit with a topographical map built right into the instrument panel.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR 2009 Specification

we know that recently is 40th anniversary Edition Shelby GT500KR "King of the Road" Mustang, and it was sold in 1,000 units,wow it is great, now 

Ford and Shelby announced they will build 746 units more to be sold as 2009 Ford Shelby GT500KR. Out of those 571 units of the 2009 Ford Shelby GT500KR will be destined for the US market. The 2009 Ford Shelby GT500KR is powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine that features a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack and develops 540 hp.Shelby GT500KR “King of the Road” Mustangs, Ford and Shelby Automobiles announce that an additional 746 units will be built for the 2009 model year to help meet worldwide demand of the supercar. Of that total, 571 units will be available for U.S. customers thus equaling the 1,571-unit production run of the original Shelby GT500KR. The remainder of the units will be for countries that did not receive 2008 models.

Ford Edge Sport 2011

Ford Edge Sport 2011 adds more power, distinctive look and is powered by a 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 engine that produces 305 horsepower and is similar to the one added to the 2011 Ford Mustang. The 2011 Edge Sport includes all of the content found on Edge SEL as well as a specially tuned suspension, paddle shift transmission and its own unique style.

Ford Edge 2011

The 2011 Ford Edge now aims to redefine the segment with a wide-ranging scope of improvements. “The new Edge demonstrates how a refresh at Ford has become more than just a few design and interior tweaks,” explains Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. “We have taken every element of the Edge and completely reworked it, including three new powertrains, two new transmissions, a bold new exterior design

Ford Escape

Ford Escape

Ford Escape Exterior

Ford Escape Interior

Ford Escape Wallpaper