Truck of the Year
The 2008 F-150 was the best all-around truck on the road. Now, the 2009 F-150 replaced it.
That's just the way Ford rolls.
It was a tough task to improve an already great truck. But Ford (please add an "s" if you're from Michigan) managed to improve the truck's towing capability and its payload capacity despite its big V-8 being the smallest among the competition. Ford also overhauled its good interior to make it great and created more room inside the cabin. It also added innovative practical features that will assist the people who use these machines on a daily basis. Some features, such as the tailgate step and integrated trailer braking, were taken directly from the Super Duty trucks, while others such as the box step is all new.
The suite of Ford Work Solutions seals the deal for the F-150 as truck of the year.
From the simple Master Lock bed lock to keep toolboxes safe to the RFID tag reader that can be mounted in the bed to let the driver know if every tool he took to the site goes home is something that many people who need trucks will relish.
The Dodge Ram 1500 was the other true truck to make the final list. Dodge gambled and used coil springs in the rear suspension to vastly improve the truck's ride, and the interior overhaul is equally impressive.
Dodge added a true Crew Cab to its 2009 model lineup, and the RamBox is another innovation that provides lockable storage in a space that was just a fender before.
The all-new Ford Flex may be late to the large crossover party, but it's a vehicle that stands out for all of the right reasons. The polarizing boxy design wins some people over right away, while others shun it.
It seats six or seven comfortably and offers an excellent ride. Its 3.5-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic transmission also help it reach 24 mpg on the highway.
The Volkswagen Tiguan was one of the most welcome surprises in 2008. The compact SUV provides plenty of pep with its 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an excellent ride.
The last of the finalists was the Infiniti EX35, a small luxury crossover with more punch than Hector Macho Camacho.
Infiniti has managed to combine sporty performance with an array of technology, including the single best backup camera ever made: the around view monitor.
Something for everyone
Finding the best of the best in 2008 was a daunting task, in part because of the continued improved quality and fragmentation of the market. There's a lot to choose from nowadays. Luxury and compact now go together as well as turbochargers and four-cylinders. Cars and trucks offer more creature comforts than many homes, and there's little these vehicles cannot do.
There seems to be a car or truck or crossover for nearly everyone. No matter what you want, or what you need.
Scott Burgess can be reached at (313) 223-3217 or sburgess@detnews.com.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Monday, November 10, 2008
Hyundai Sees Higher Than Expected V-8 Demand for Genesis
Hyundai Sees Higher Than Expected V-8 Demand for Genesis
By Tom Murphy
WardsAuto.com, Nov 5, 2008 11:22 AM
LAS VEGAS – With gasoline prices topping $4 a gallon in many parts of the country this summer, seemingly the last thing America needed was another V-8.
But Hyundai Motor America bucked the trend by launching its first V-8 in its first near-luxury rear-wheel-drive car, the Genesis sedan, in September, three months after the vehicle arrived first with a 3.8L V-6.
The gamble appears to have paid off, as John Krafcik, vice president-product development and strategic planning, tells Ward’s that demand for Genesis V-8s “has been 'eye-poppingly’ surprising.”
Hyundai anticipated a 20% V-8 sales mix, “but indications from free-market demand seem to be more like 30% to 40% V-8. That’s where the interest is now,” Krafcik says in an interview here at the Specialty Equipment Market Assn. show.
When a new product launches, the buzz tends to spark a sales mix that is richer than the long-term, “steady-state mix,” Krafcik says, adding that many dealers still have yet to receive their first V-8 Genesis. “It’s early. We have to figure out how much of this is typical.”
But the early adopters appear to want the Genesis with all the bells and whistles.
“A lot of people were waiting for the V-8, because that’s what a lot of buff magazines have been driving and there has been a lot of positive coverage on the V-8,” Krafcik says. “People seem to want the most fully equipped car.”
Cylinder deactivation employed on supercharged V-8 in Hyundai’s RK Sport Genesis sedan concept at SEMA show.
So far, the V-8 “tech package” carries the highest mix, between 30% and 40%, based on how consumers are ordering their vehicles. “That’s a $42,000 car – the most-expensive Hyundai,” he says.
The V-8 carries a $2,000 premium over a comparably equipped V-6, and that package includes beefier brakes, better leather and other trim upgrades.
Hyundai has sold more than 4,000 Genesis sedans since June, and the auto maker should hit its target of about 6,000 deliveries this year, Krafcik says.
The Genesis coupe, offering a V-6 and turbocharged 4-cyl., arrives in March or April. Hyundai still hopes to sell about 20,000 Genesis sedans and 20,000 Genesis coupes in 2009.
The Tau 4.6L DOHC V-8 produces 375 hp and is reasonably economical, rated at 17/25 mpg (13.8-9.4 L/100 km) in city/highway driving.
That engine might become more efficient in the coming years as Hyundai considers adding cylinder deactivation and direct gasoline injection, Krafcik says.
Here at SEMA, Hyundai unveils the RKSport Genesis sedan concept, powered by a supercharged version of the Tau that produces 460 hp and employs cylinder deactivation.
Despite the prodigious thrust, Hyundai says the boosted V-8 in the concept achieves 18/27 mpg (13-8.7 L/100 km), which is identical to the normally aspirated 3.8L V-6 in the Genesis.
It’s too early to say when this cylinder-deactivation technology will find its way onto the production Tau V-8, says John Juriga, director-powertrain at the Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center in Superior Township, MI.
But when it arrives, Juriga suggests the production engine also could employ DGI and will achieve the same 18/27 mpg as the concept.
“We have direct-injection development work ongoing right now and cylinder-deactivation work ongoing right now,” he says. “Whether they’re coming together or not, we’re not saying. But the potential is definitely there.”
Hyundai’s system has a clutch that allows the supercharger to be deactivated at idle and during steady-state driving in 4-cyl. mode, further enhancing fuel economy. Juriga says the supercharger would be activated at about 1,200 rpm, up until about 3,000 rpm.
His preference is for cylinder deactivation and DGI to be standard on the Tau, rather than a special version of the engine, to streamline manufacturing.
As for a supercharged version of the Tau in production form, Juriga is less committal, particularly with wildly fluctuating fuel prices. “Right now the cost of fuel has dropped, but it’s expected to go back up,” he says. “Will we do it? It’s not going to be my call.”
Krafcik also says cylinder deactivation could be a possible addition to the V-6 in the future.
Advanced powertrains figure prominently in Hyundai’s plans to meet the U.S. corporate average fuel economy mandate of 35 mpg (6.7 L/100 km) in 2015 – five years earlier than required.
Even if V-8 Genesis sales remain strong, Krafcik says he is confident Hyundai’s CAFE average will not be negatively impacted, meaning the auto maker still should be able to hit the target by 2015.
“Our powertrain plan to 2015 and beyond is an amazing thing, with a much higher mix of 4-cyl. engines,” he says.
Some of those launches next fall include a face-lifted Santa Fe cross/utility vehicle, in which a 4-cyl. engine replaces the current V-6 as standard, and next-generation Tucson CUV, which will be available only with 4-cyl. power after offering an optional V-6 in the current model, Krafcik says.
Also on the horizon within three years is a new 1.6L I-4 in a front-wheel-drive sporty coupe that slots in below the Genesis 2-door, he says, adding that a turbocharged variant and DGI are possible additions for the diminutive engine.
In addition to the RK Sport Genesis concept, Hyundai unveils at SEMA its Rhys Millen Racing version of the Genesis Coupe, powered by a turbocharged 2.0L I-4 and sporting numerous upgrades, such as an 8-point roll cage and carbon-fiber body kit and wing.
tmurphy@wardsauto.com
By Tom Murphy
WardsAuto.com, Nov 5, 2008 11:22 AM
LAS VEGAS – With gasoline prices topping $4 a gallon in many parts of the country this summer, seemingly the last thing America needed was another V-8.
But Hyundai Motor America bucked the trend by launching its first V-8 in its first near-luxury rear-wheel-drive car, the Genesis sedan, in September, three months after the vehicle arrived first with a 3.8L V-6.
The gamble appears to have paid off, as John Krafcik, vice president-product development and strategic planning, tells Ward’s that demand for Genesis V-8s “has been 'eye-poppingly’ surprising.”
Hyundai anticipated a 20% V-8 sales mix, “but indications from free-market demand seem to be more like 30% to 40% V-8. That’s where the interest is now,” Krafcik says in an interview here at the Specialty Equipment Market Assn. show.
When a new product launches, the buzz tends to spark a sales mix that is richer than the long-term, “steady-state mix,” Krafcik says, adding that many dealers still have yet to receive their first V-8 Genesis. “It’s early. We have to figure out how much of this is typical.”
But the early adopters appear to want the Genesis with all the bells and whistles.
“A lot of people were waiting for the V-8, because that’s what a lot of buff magazines have been driving and there has been a lot of positive coverage on the V-8,” Krafcik says. “People seem to want the most fully equipped car.”
Cylinder deactivation employed on supercharged V-8 in Hyundai’s RK Sport Genesis sedan concept at SEMA show.
So far, the V-8 “tech package” carries the highest mix, between 30% and 40%, based on how consumers are ordering their vehicles. “That’s a $42,000 car – the most-expensive Hyundai,” he says.
The V-8 carries a $2,000 premium over a comparably equipped V-6, and that package includes beefier brakes, better leather and other trim upgrades.
Hyundai has sold more than 4,000 Genesis sedans since June, and the auto maker should hit its target of about 6,000 deliveries this year, Krafcik says.
The Genesis coupe, offering a V-6 and turbocharged 4-cyl., arrives in March or April. Hyundai still hopes to sell about 20,000 Genesis sedans and 20,000 Genesis coupes in 2009.
The Tau 4.6L DOHC V-8 produces 375 hp and is reasonably economical, rated at 17/25 mpg (13.8-9.4 L/100 km) in city/highway driving.
That engine might become more efficient in the coming years as Hyundai considers adding cylinder deactivation and direct gasoline injection, Krafcik says.
Here at SEMA, Hyundai unveils the RKSport Genesis sedan concept, powered by a supercharged version of the Tau that produces 460 hp and employs cylinder deactivation.
Despite the prodigious thrust, Hyundai says the boosted V-8 in the concept achieves 18/27 mpg (13-8.7 L/100 km), which is identical to the normally aspirated 3.8L V-6 in the Genesis.
It’s too early to say when this cylinder-deactivation technology will find its way onto the production Tau V-8, says John Juriga, director-powertrain at the Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center in Superior Township, MI.
But when it arrives, Juriga suggests the production engine also could employ DGI and will achieve the same 18/27 mpg as the concept.
“We have direct-injection development work ongoing right now and cylinder-deactivation work ongoing right now,” he says. “Whether they’re coming together or not, we’re not saying. But the potential is definitely there.”
Hyundai’s system has a clutch that allows the supercharger to be deactivated at idle and during steady-state driving in 4-cyl. mode, further enhancing fuel economy. Juriga says the supercharger would be activated at about 1,200 rpm, up until about 3,000 rpm.
His preference is for cylinder deactivation and DGI to be standard on the Tau, rather than a special version of the engine, to streamline manufacturing.
As for a supercharged version of the Tau in production form, Juriga is less committal, particularly with wildly fluctuating fuel prices. “Right now the cost of fuel has dropped, but it’s expected to go back up,” he says. “Will we do it? It’s not going to be my call.”
Krafcik also says cylinder deactivation could be a possible addition to the V-6 in the future.
Advanced powertrains figure prominently in Hyundai’s plans to meet the U.S. corporate average fuel economy mandate of 35 mpg (6.7 L/100 km) in 2015 – five years earlier than required.
Even if V-8 Genesis sales remain strong, Krafcik says he is confident Hyundai’s CAFE average will not be negatively impacted, meaning the auto maker still should be able to hit the target by 2015.
“Our powertrain plan to 2015 and beyond is an amazing thing, with a much higher mix of 4-cyl. engines,” he says.
Some of those launches next fall include a face-lifted Santa Fe cross/utility vehicle, in which a 4-cyl. engine replaces the current V-6 as standard, and next-generation Tucson CUV, which will be available only with 4-cyl. power after offering an optional V-6 in the current model, Krafcik says.
Also on the horizon within three years is a new 1.6L I-4 in a front-wheel-drive sporty coupe that slots in below the Genesis 2-door, he says, adding that a turbocharged variant and DGI are possible additions for the diminutive engine.
In addition to the RK Sport Genesis concept, Hyundai unveils at SEMA its Rhys Millen Racing version of the Genesis Coupe, powered by a turbocharged 2.0L I-4 and sporting numerous upgrades, such as an 8-point roll cage and carbon-fiber body kit and wing.
tmurphy@wardsauto.com
Friday, October 24, 2008
Colorado River Ford Receives 2008 Best of Kingman Award
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Colorado River Ford Lincoln Mercury Of Kingman Receives 2008 Best of Kingman Award
U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON D.C., October 24, 2008 -- Colorado River Ford Lincoln Mercury Of Kingman has been selected for the 2008 Best of Kingman Award in the Auto Repair category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).
The USLBA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)
U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
SOURCE: U.S. Local Business Association
CONTACT:
U.S. Local Business Association
Email: PublicRelations@USLBA.net
URL: http://www.USLBA.net
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Colorado River Ford Lincoln Mercury Of Kingman Receives 2008 Best of Kingman Award
U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON D.C., October 24, 2008 -- Colorado River Ford Lincoln Mercury Of Kingman has been selected for the 2008 Best of Kingman Award in the Auto Repair category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).
The USLBA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)
U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
SOURCE: U.S. Local Business Association
CONTACT:
U.S. Local Business Association
Email: PublicRelations@USLBA.net
URL: http://www.USLBA.net
###
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
2009 Ford F-150 Pickup Truck
First Drive: 2009 Ford F-150 Pickup Truck
Monday October 20, 2008
I headed north last week to spend a couple of days driving the new F-150 at Ford's Michigan Proving Ground, not too far from Detroit. Ford set up four varied courses, and each was designed to test different systems and components. And it wasn't all F-150's -- Tundra trucks, Silverados and Rams were put into the mix for one-on-one comparisons. Ford designed the routes, so it won't be a surprise to hear that the F-150 did well in every category, but the tests were fair, and a few of the other trucks had issues that surprised me.
My first drive in the newly designed F-150 truck took place during a couple of days at Ford's Michigan Proving Ground, a test facility with over 100 miles of road spread out on about 3,880 acres.
Ford set up four different tracks to test the F-150's capabilities, and brought in 2009 Silverado, Tundra and Ram trucks for drive comparisons.
A few of the test courses simulate exaggerated conditions that probably do not represent roads you'll encounter every day.
Tests with a 700 Pound Load
The load course was set up with orange cones that took drivers through curves, straightaways, a short slalum and a quick lane-change maneuver -- all designed to let us experience what it might be like to handle a loaded truck in a panic situation.
The F-150 handled the course better than the other brands, with minimal body roll and less push in the corners. Don't get me wrong, you could make it push by driving at higher speeds, but the object was to compare all of the trucks under similar conditions, and the F-150 excelled.
The Ram displayed a lot of body roll during the drive, and on quick direction changes it felt loose and unstable. It took excessive steering corrections to maneuver the truck, taking away any confidence I had of of being in control.
Body roll was an issue with the Tundra, too, but the Silverado performed well in that department.
The Tundra and Silverado both had a tendency to slide on faster tight turns. Excessive slide wasn't an issue with the Ram.
All of the trucks were available with each model's standard tires and with optional (18" or 20") tires -- they all performed better when equipped with the tire upgrade.
Suspension and Vibration
A section of road with large, rock-like bumps of various heights gave suspension systems a workout. A washboard segment (similar to the strips you hit if you wander off the pavement of some roads) revealed vibrations (and how those vibrations affect noise levels).
Remember that when vibrations are strong enough to pass into the cab cause squeaks and rattles and will eventually create fatigue in bushings and frame joints.
· The F-150 truck crossed the bumps with a good bit of bounce and shake, but stayed straight on the road. The washboard area created rattles in the dash and other components, but the noise wasn't excessive.
· The Silverado stayed straight over the bumps, but with harsh jarring. The cab was noisy and a rear door rattled. Cab noise increased during the washboard test, and was accompanied by a great deal of dash vibration.
· The Dodge Ram's rear end bounced and moved sideways. The washboard track produced minimal noise and interior vibrations.
· The Tundra traveled in a straight path, but was the only vehicle that transmitted bounce through the steering and the rear of the truck. The washboard drive produced a lot of vibration and noise inside the truck, and the hood shook.
Frame Differences
· The Ram and Tundra frames are C-shaped, (when viewed from the rear) a setup that allows more flex.
· The F-150 and Silverado have rigid frames that are fully boxed to the rear of the truck.
A suspension system works best when the frame is rigid enough to hold the components in place. The Ram and Tundra's frame-flex kept their suspension systems from compressing to absorb the bumps. Driving behind them on the track, I watched both trucks bounce off the road, their beds and rear frames shaking violently.
Ford designed the F-150 with a stiff frame to provide support, but its suspension is flexible enough to absorb most bumps, even when the truck isn't carrying cargo to help hold down its rear end.
Towing Abilities
For this test, the trucks were hooked to trailers that weighed 7,000 pounds (the Ram's limit is 7,300 pounds). Curves and uphill/downhill grades provided a good feel for each truck's power, handling and transmission performance.
The F-150's tow-package comes with a built-in trailer brake control (integrated into the truck's stability control system), 7-pin trailer wiring plug, transmission tow mode, a rear vision camera and tow mirrors.
Going uphill, the F-150's 6-speed transmission and tow-mode setting let the truck pull the trailer up a long grade without excessive gear shifts. The 4.6L engine had more than enough power to handle the trailer.
On a downhill grade, lightly applying the brake downshifted the transmission, slowing the truck without excessive brake use. Below about 2,800 rpm, another touch of the brakes shifted it down one more gear.
The F-150's stability control system kept the trailer from pushing the truck when it entered a curve.
This demo was definitely designed to showcase the F-150's towing abilities. The Tundra and Silverado performed well, but the wide spacing of the gear ratios in the Ram's 5-speed automatic hurt its chances of competing with the other trucks. The Silverado had a 4-speed automatic -- a 6-speed would have been better matched to the group.
Off-Road Driving
Ford trucks were alone on the off-road track; all were equipped with shift-on-the-fly 4WD HI range.
· In LO range (a lower gear ratio than most 4WD trucks), shift the transmission into first gear and you enter what Ford calls a crawl speed, where the truck uses the engine and gearing to hold itself back in a similar way as hill descent on other vehicles (but without using the anti-lock brake system).
· Pull out on the transfer cases shift knob to electronically lock the rear differential (can be done while moving).
· A button on the dash turns off traction control; hold the button down to turn off the stability control system for more versatility off-road (it turns itself back on if you exceed 35mph).
I had a chance to test all of the systems -- they worked flawlessly. I got stuck in a mud pit at one point, but that was my fault, not the truck's.
Bottom Line
I always try to look carefully at comparison set-ups, to determine if they are weighted towards a particular brand. And while Ford wanted its trucks to excel, the tests in Michigan seemed pretty level, with (mostly) evenly matched equipment.
The F-150's enhanced abilities are a good indication that Ford is intent on keeping its best selling truck ranking.
http://trucks.about.com/od/2007fordtrucks/a/2009_ford_f50.htm?nl=1
Monday October 20, 2008
I headed north last week to spend a couple of days driving the new F-150 at Ford's Michigan Proving Ground, not too far from Detroit. Ford set up four varied courses, and each was designed to test different systems and components. And it wasn't all F-150's -- Tundra trucks, Silverados and Rams were put into the mix for one-on-one comparisons. Ford designed the routes, so it won't be a surprise to hear that the F-150 did well in every category, but the tests were fair, and a few of the other trucks had issues that surprised me.
My first drive in the newly designed F-150 truck took place during a couple of days at Ford's Michigan Proving Ground, a test facility with over 100 miles of road spread out on about 3,880 acres.
Ford set up four different tracks to test the F-150's capabilities, and brought in 2009 Silverado, Tundra and Ram trucks for drive comparisons.
A few of the test courses simulate exaggerated conditions that probably do not represent roads you'll encounter every day.
Tests with a 700 Pound Load
The load course was set up with orange cones that took drivers through curves, straightaways, a short slalum and a quick lane-change maneuver -- all designed to let us experience what it might be like to handle a loaded truck in a panic situation.
The F-150 handled the course better than the other brands, with minimal body roll and less push in the corners. Don't get me wrong, you could make it push by driving at higher speeds, but the object was to compare all of the trucks under similar conditions, and the F-150 excelled.
The Ram displayed a lot of body roll during the drive, and on quick direction changes it felt loose and unstable. It took excessive steering corrections to maneuver the truck, taking away any confidence I had of of being in control.
Body roll was an issue with the Tundra, too, but the Silverado performed well in that department.
The Tundra and Silverado both had a tendency to slide on faster tight turns. Excessive slide wasn't an issue with the Ram.
All of the trucks were available with each model's standard tires and with optional (18" or 20") tires -- they all performed better when equipped with the tire upgrade.
Suspension and Vibration
A section of road with large, rock-like bumps of various heights gave suspension systems a workout. A washboard segment (similar to the strips you hit if you wander off the pavement of some roads) revealed vibrations (and how those vibrations affect noise levels).
Remember that when vibrations are strong enough to pass into the cab cause squeaks and rattles and will eventually create fatigue in bushings and frame joints.
· The F-150 truck crossed the bumps with a good bit of bounce and shake, but stayed straight on the road. The washboard area created rattles in the dash and other components, but the noise wasn't excessive.
· The Silverado stayed straight over the bumps, but with harsh jarring. The cab was noisy and a rear door rattled. Cab noise increased during the washboard test, and was accompanied by a great deal of dash vibration.
· The Dodge Ram's rear end bounced and moved sideways. The washboard track produced minimal noise and interior vibrations.
· The Tundra traveled in a straight path, but was the only vehicle that transmitted bounce through the steering and the rear of the truck. The washboard drive produced a lot of vibration and noise inside the truck, and the hood shook.
Frame Differences
· The Ram and Tundra frames are C-shaped, (when viewed from the rear) a setup that allows more flex.
· The F-150 and Silverado have rigid frames that are fully boxed to the rear of the truck.
A suspension system works best when the frame is rigid enough to hold the components in place. The Ram and Tundra's frame-flex kept their suspension systems from compressing to absorb the bumps. Driving behind them on the track, I watched both trucks bounce off the road, their beds and rear frames shaking violently.
Ford designed the F-150 with a stiff frame to provide support, but its suspension is flexible enough to absorb most bumps, even when the truck isn't carrying cargo to help hold down its rear end.
Towing Abilities
For this test, the trucks were hooked to trailers that weighed 7,000 pounds (the Ram's limit is 7,300 pounds). Curves and uphill/downhill grades provided a good feel for each truck's power, handling and transmission performance.
The F-150's tow-package comes with a built-in trailer brake control (integrated into the truck's stability control system), 7-pin trailer wiring plug, transmission tow mode, a rear vision camera and tow mirrors.
Going uphill, the F-150's 6-speed transmission and tow-mode setting let the truck pull the trailer up a long grade without excessive gear shifts. The 4.6L engine had more than enough power to handle the trailer.
On a downhill grade, lightly applying the brake downshifted the transmission, slowing the truck without excessive brake use. Below about 2,800 rpm, another touch of the brakes shifted it down one more gear.
The F-150's stability control system kept the trailer from pushing the truck when it entered a curve.
This demo was definitely designed to showcase the F-150's towing abilities. The Tundra and Silverado performed well, but the wide spacing of the gear ratios in the Ram's 5-speed automatic hurt its chances of competing with the other trucks. The Silverado had a 4-speed automatic -- a 6-speed would have been better matched to the group.
Off-Road Driving
Ford trucks were alone on the off-road track; all were equipped with shift-on-the-fly 4WD HI range.
· In LO range (a lower gear ratio than most 4WD trucks), shift the transmission into first gear and you enter what Ford calls a crawl speed, where the truck uses the engine and gearing to hold itself back in a similar way as hill descent on other vehicles (but without using the anti-lock brake system).
· Pull out on the transfer cases shift knob to electronically lock the rear differential (can be done while moving).
· A button on the dash turns off traction control; hold the button down to turn off the stability control system for more versatility off-road (it turns itself back on if you exceed 35mph).
I had a chance to test all of the systems -- they worked flawlessly. I got stuck in a mud pit at one point, but that was my fault, not the truck's.
Bottom Line
I always try to look carefully at comparison set-ups, to determine if they are weighted towards a particular brand. And while Ford wanted its trucks to excel, the tests in Michigan seemed pretty level, with (mostly) evenly matched equipment.
The F-150's enhanced abilities are a good indication that Ford is intent on keeping its best selling truck ranking.
http://trucks.about.com/od/2007fordtrucks/a/2009_ford_f50.htm?nl=1
Monday, October 20, 2008
Ford's Domestic Brand Quality = Toyota and Honda
In the News…
FORD’S DOMESTIC BRAND QUALITY IN STATISTICAL DEAD HEAT WITH TOYOTA AND HONDA FOR 2008 MODEL YEAR
Ford Motor Company’s surging domestic quality is now equal to the best in the industry for the 2008 model year, according to the latest U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study.
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles collectively reduced “things gone wrong” (TGW) by 7.7 percent compared to last year and are now statistically equivalent with Honda (including Acura) and Toyota (including Lexus and Scion) atop the list of seven major automakers in the survey.
From 2004 to 2008, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle quality, as measured by a reduction in TGW, has improved by 33 percent.
”This is One Ford at its best. It's taken thousands of people continuously working together with laser-like focus every day to boost vehicle quality for our customers to the top of the pack,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president, Global Quality. “But this is a never-ending journey. The goal now is to distance ourselves from our top competitors. We want to be the sole quality leader."
The 2008-launched Ford F-Series Super Duty and the Lincoln Mark LT ranked first in their respective segments in both TGW and customer satisfaction. Ford Mustang GT 500 topped the sports car category in TGW.
Overall, 18 of 24 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles recorded TGW improvements. Ford's newly launched Focus improved significantly in TGW and customer satisfaction, now equaling the Toyota Corolla in both categories. The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are significantly better in TGW than the Toyota Camry, which they tied in customer satisfaction.
"We are consistently delivering improved quality by following standardized, disciplined processes throughout Ford," said Fowler. "This is particularly impressive considering the difficult challenges we've had to overcome."
Ford also ranked best in class for TGW performance in the functional areas of Vehicle Engineering and Electrical among major manufacturers. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles averaged 1,287 TGW per 1,000 vehicles, a reduction of 108 versus a year ago. Customer satisfaction with the company's vehicles reached its highest level ever, improving one point to 77 percent.
The 2008 model-year GQRS survey, conducted for Ford by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., solicits feedback on vehicle trouble and customer satisfaction from owners of all major makes and models after three months in service.
FORD’S DOMESTIC BRAND QUALITY IN STATISTICAL DEAD HEAT WITH TOYOTA AND HONDA FOR 2008 MODEL YEAR
Ford Motor Company’s surging domestic quality is now equal to the best in the industry for the 2008 model year, according to the latest U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study.
Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles collectively reduced “things gone wrong” (TGW) by 7.7 percent compared to last year and are now statistically equivalent with Honda (including Acura) and Toyota (including Lexus and Scion) atop the list of seven major automakers in the survey.
From 2004 to 2008, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle quality, as measured by a reduction in TGW, has improved by 33 percent.
”This is One Ford at its best. It's taken thousands of people continuously working together with laser-like focus every day to boost vehicle quality for our customers to the top of the pack,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president, Global Quality. “But this is a never-ending journey. The goal now is to distance ourselves from our top competitors. We want to be the sole quality leader."
The 2008-launched Ford F-Series Super Duty and the Lincoln Mark LT ranked first in their respective segments in both TGW and customer satisfaction. Ford Mustang GT 500 topped the sports car category in TGW.
Overall, 18 of 24 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles recorded TGW improvements. Ford's newly launched Focus improved significantly in TGW and customer satisfaction, now equaling the Toyota Corolla in both categories. The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan are significantly better in TGW than the Toyota Camry, which they tied in customer satisfaction.
"We are consistently delivering improved quality by following standardized, disciplined processes throughout Ford," said Fowler. "This is particularly impressive considering the difficult challenges we've had to overcome."
Ford also ranked best in class for TGW performance in the functional areas of Vehicle Engineering and Electrical among major manufacturers. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles averaged 1,287 TGW per 1,000 vehicles, a reduction of 108 versus a year ago. Customer satisfaction with the company's vehicles reached its highest level ever, improving one point to 77 percent.
The 2008 model-year GQRS survey, conducted for Ford by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., solicits feedback on vehicle trouble and customer satisfaction from owners of all major makes and models after three months in service.
F-150 Named One and only Truck of Texas
F-150 NAMED ONE AND ONLY TRUCK OF TEXAS
The new 2009 F-150 has been recognized as the one and only “Truck of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) – the sixth consecutive year a Ford truck has won top honors.
Ford’s lineup of trucks also was named Truck Line of Texas, while the Ford Flex and Expedition King Ranch received top honors as CUV and SUV of Texas, respectively. Sweeping all four vehicle-centered top honors, Ford emerged the clear winner at this year’s TAWA Texas Truck Rodeo.
Other Ford Motor Company vehicles winning top honors in their categories at the TAWA Rodeo include:
Best Luxury Pickup: 2009 Ford F-150 King Ranch
Best Full-Size CUV: 2009 Ford Flex
Best Mid-Size CUV: 2009 Mazda CX9
Best Luxury CUV: 2009 Lincoln MKX
Best Mid-Size SUV: 2009 Ford Explorer
Best Heavy Duty Pickup: 2009 Ford F-350 Super Duty Cabela’s Edition
The new 2009 F-150 has been recognized as the one and only “Truck of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) – the sixth consecutive year a Ford truck has won top honors.
Ford’s lineup of trucks also was named Truck Line of Texas, while the Ford Flex and Expedition King Ranch received top honors as CUV and SUV of Texas, respectively. Sweeping all four vehicle-centered top honors, Ford emerged the clear winner at this year’s TAWA Texas Truck Rodeo.
Other Ford Motor Company vehicles winning top honors in their categories at the TAWA Rodeo include:
Best Luxury Pickup: 2009 Ford F-150 King Ranch
Best Full-Size CUV: 2009 Ford Flex
Best Mid-Size CUV: 2009 Mazda CX9
Best Luxury CUV: 2009 Lincoln MKX
Best Mid-Size SUV: 2009 Ford Explorer
Best Heavy Duty Pickup: 2009 Ford F-350 Super Duty Cabela’s Edition
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
2009 Cadillac CTS Vehicle Overview
Introduction
Much like a ruffian attending a ritzy summer camp, the original Cadillac CTS found itself in an awkward situation. Sure, this Caddy won respect, thanks to its decent athletic ability, but it lacked refinement -- a droopy-jeaned, scruffy-bearded interloper among the Polo-outfitted, impeccably groomed class.
Being larger than the typical entry-level luxury sport sedan, that first CTS offered more cabin space than its rivals and wrapped it all up in edgy styling. The latter, however, was considered too busy by some critics due to its excessive number of character lines and oversized lights. But it was the cabin that hurt this "upscale" model the most, as its style and materials quality were far behind those found in Audi's A4 or BMW's 3 Series.
Last year's rebirth saw a determined effort to bring the CTS into the Polo-wearing crowd of guys named Chip. Not only is this one Caddy that actually zigs -- to pinch an old tag line -- by adding more power and improved driving dynamics, it also dons a new set of clothes via neatly tailored sheet metal and a much-improved cabin. The latter was not merely a leap over its predecessor but a complete moon shot, with a handsome design, state-of-the-art technology and top-notch materials fitted throughout. In the span of one generation, Cadillac has gone from a segment also-ran in this regard to arguably class-leading. Wisely, the company left the 2009 Cadillac CTS well enough alone, adding only Bluetooth connectivity to the car's impressive list of features.
In this case, "well enough" means a tuned suspension that graduated with honors from the Nürburging school of handling etiquette. It also means a pair of willing V6s -- the base 258-horsepower engine as well as the optional high-output version that features direct-fuel-injection technology and makes an impressive 304 hp. Furthering its appeal, the CTS can also be had with all-wheel drive.
Now, with a legitimate player in the sport sedan game, Cadillac's boastful old tagline "The Standard of the World" might actually be believable by those who don't have firsthand knowledge of the Eisenhower years. Certainly, the 2009 Cadillac CTS, with its dashing style, fine road manners and classy cabin, can more than hold its own against rivals from Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. If you're shopping for an entry-level luxury sport sedan, the CTS is worthy of serious consideration.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Cadillac CTS is a midsize luxury sport sedan. Two trim levels are offered, which differ chiefly in the engine fitted. Both come with 17-inch wheels, leatherette seating, an eight-way power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar and a CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.
There are plenty of additional luxury features available, either stand-alone or grouped in packages. The Luxury Collection adds rain-sensing wipers, different alloy wheels, leather trim, upgraded power/heated front seats and a Bose audio system with CD changer. The oddly named Performance Luxury Package does without the leather but adds a split-folding rear seat, keyless entry/ignition, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and rear parking assist.
The Performance Collection features adaptive xenon headlights, foglights, a sport-tuned suspension (with 18-inch high-performance tires), a limited-slip rear differential, leather seating, heated front seats (with power passenger and lumbar adjustments) and driver memory settings. The Premium Luxury Collection includes pretty much all the previous plus a 40GB hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic, a premium Bose surround-sound audio system with iPod integration, a large sunroof and additional wood trim.
The navigation and surround-sound systems can be added individually on top of the other packages. Bluetooth connectivity is also included when you order one of the major packages.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2009 Cadillac CTS is available with one of two V6 engines. Standard power comes from a 3.6-liter V6 generating 258 hp and 252 pound-feet of torque, while the available 3.6-liter direct-injection (DI) V6 puts out 304 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the base engine, and a six-speed automatic is available. The DI engine has the automatic as standard and the manual as optional. A V6 DI CTS with the automatic that we tested accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
The CTS is offered in both rear-wheel-drive and AWD configurations. The latter is only available with the six-speed automatic. Both engines get virtually the same gas mileage, with 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined for the base engine and 17/26/20 mpg for the DI engine.
Safety
The CTS's standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and GM's OnStar emergency communications system.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, the CTS earned scores of "Good" (the highest possible) for both frontal-offset and side-impact tests. In government crash testing, the CTS earned four out of five stars for driver protection in head-on collisions. Front passengers received five-star protection. The CTS also received five stars for the side-impact protection of front and rear passengers.
Interior Design and Special Features
The cabin of the Cadillac CTS is impressive both in design and in the quality of materials used. A pleasing mix of available wood accents, tasteful alloy trim and stitched soft-touch dash make the CTS interior one of the most elegant designs in its class. A telescoping steering column gives the driver a bit more space, while those in back enjoy a roomy backseat.
The screen of the optional navigation system retracts into the dash, but leaves the top inch visible as the touchscreen display for the audio system -- a slick touch. Another is the 40GB hard drive included with the premium Bose surround-sound audio system (which stores digital music) that also includes a well-designed iPod integration interface. With this setup, AM/FM and satellite radio can also be rewound, paused and resumed. TiVo junkies, rejoice. There are a few quibbles, however. Rear-seat entry and exit can be a bit tricky due to a low rear roof line, outward visibility to the rear is very poor and loading bulky items into the 13.6-cubic-foot trunk is hampered by a very short deck. Also, some have found the front seatbacks to be on the hard side, and several CTS test cars have all featured a driver seat bottom that squeaked in turns.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the 2009 Cadillac CTS is very stable and copes well with quick directional changes and weight transfer. The steering is still a bit too light for a sport sedan, but it's pleasingly precise. Overall, this Cadillac offers an excellent ride and handling balance that gives the Europeans a run for their money, especially when equipped with the sport-tuned suspension. That said, the CTS is larger than its like-priced competitors, and with a curb weight of almost 4,000 pounds, lacks the nimbleness of cars like the BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G35.
The new 304-hp direct-injection V6 certainly feels strong, but thanks to that hefty mass, acceleration isn't quite as quick as other 300-plus-hp cars in its class. The 258-hp base V6 and automatic transmission should still be very adequate for most consumers. The automatic is quick-shifting and can be manually controlled with a console-mounted shifter. The standard sport mode automatically holds onto revs longer during spirited driving and will downshift while braking. A major enhancement to the CTS lineup is its AWD option, which makes this Cadillac a viable option even in places with plenty of rain and snow.
Much like a ruffian attending a ritzy summer camp, the original Cadillac CTS found itself in an awkward situation. Sure, this Caddy won respect, thanks to its decent athletic ability, but it lacked refinement -- a droopy-jeaned, scruffy-bearded interloper among the Polo-outfitted, impeccably groomed class.
Being larger than the typical entry-level luxury sport sedan, that first CTS offered more cabin space than its rivals and wrapped it all up in edgy styling. The latter, however, was considered too busy by some critics due to its excessive number of character lines and oversized lights. But it was the cabin that hurt this "upscale" model the most, as its style and materials quality were far behind those found in Audi's A4 or BMW's 3 Series.
Last year's rebirth saw a determined effort to bring the CTS into the Polo-wearing crowd of guys named Chip. Not only is this one Caddy that actually zigs -- to pinch an old tag line -- by adding more power and improved driving dynamics, it also dons a new set of clothes via neatly tailored sheet metal and a much-improved cabin. The latter was not merely a leap over its predecessor but a complete moon shot, with a handsome design, state-of-the-art technology and top-notch materials fitted throughout. In the span of one generation, Cadillac has gone from a segment also-ran in this regard to arguably class-leading. Wisely, the company left the 2009 Cadillac CTS well enough alone, adding only Bluetooth connectivity to the car's impressive list of features.
In this case, "well enough" means a tuned suspension that graduated with honors from the Nürburging school of handling etiquette. It also means a pair of willing V6s -- the base 258-horsepower engine as well as the optional high-output version that features direct-fuel-injection technology and makes an impressive 304 hp. Furthering its appeal, the CTS can also be had with all-wheel drive.
Now, with a legitimate player in the sport sedan game, Cadillac's boastful old tagline "The Standard of the World" might actually be believable by those who don't have firsthand knowledge of the Eisenhower years. Certainly, the 2009 Cadillac CTS, with its dashing style, fine road manners and classy cabin, can more than hold its own against rivals from Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. If you're shopping for an entry-level luxury sport sedan, the CTS is worthy of serious consideration.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Cadillac CTS is a midsize luxury sport sedan. Two trim levels are offered, which differ chiefly in the engine fitted. Both come with 17-inch wheels, leatherette seating, an eight-way power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar and a CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.
There are plenty of additional luxury features available, either stand-alone or grouped in packages. The Luxury Collection adds rain-sensing wipers, different alloy wheels, leather trim, upgraded power/heated front seats and a Bose audio system with CD changer. The oddly named Performance Luxury Package does without the leather but adds a split-folding rear seat, keyless entry/ignition, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and rear parking assist.
The Performance Collection features adaptive xenon headlights, foglights, a sport-tuned suspension (with 18-inch high-performance tires), a limited-slip rear differential, leather seating, heated front seats (with power passenger and lumbar adjustments) and driver memory settings. The Premium Luxury Collection includes pretty much all the previous plus a 40GB hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic, a premium Bose surround-sound audio system with iPod integration, a large sunroof and additional wood trim.
The navigation and surround-sound systems can be added individually on top of the other packages. Bluetooth connectivity is also included when you order one of the major packages.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2009 Cadillac CTS is available with one of two V6 engines. Standard power comes from a 3.6-liter V6 generating 258 hp and 252 pound-feet of torque, while the available 3.6-liter direct-injection (DI) V6 puts out 304 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the base engine, and a six-speed automatic is available. The DI engine has the automatic as standard and the manual as optional. A V6 DI CTS with the automatic that we tested accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
The CTS is offered in both rear-wheel-drive and AWD configurations. The latter is only available with the six-speed automatic. Both engines get virtually the same gas mileage, with 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined for the base engine and 17/26/20 mpg for the DI engine.
Safety
The CTS's standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and GM's OnStar emergency communications system.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, the CTS earned scores of "Good" (the highest possible) for both frontal-offset and side-impact tests. In government crash testing, the CTS earned four out of five stars for driver protection in head-on collisions. Front passengers received five-star protection. The CTS also received five stars for the side-impact protection of front and rear passengers.
Interior Design and Special Features
The cabin of the Cadillac CTS is impressive both in design and in the quality of materials used. A pleasing mix of available wood accents, tasteful alloy trim and stitched soft-touch dash make the CTS interior one of the most elegant designs in its class. A telescoping steering column gives the driver a bit more space, while those in back enjoy a roomy backseat.
The screen of the optional navigation system retracts into the dash, but leaves the top inch visible as the touchscreen display for the audio system -- a slick touch. Another is the 40GB hard drive included with the premium Bose surround-sound audio system (which stores digital music) that also includes a well-designed iPod integration interface. With this setup, AM/FM and satellite radio can also be rewound, paused and resumed. TiVo junkies, rejoice. There are a few quibbles, however. Rear-seat entry and exit can be a bit tricky due to a low rear roof line, outward visibility to the rear is very poor and loading bulky items into the 13.6-cubic-foot trunk is hampered by a very short deck. Also, some have found the front seatbacks to be on the hard side, and several CTS test cars have all featured a driver seat bottom that squeaked in turns.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the 2009 Cadillac CTS is very stable and copes well with quick directional changes and weight transfer. The steering is still a bit too light for a sport sedan, but it's pleasingly precise. Overall, this Cadillac offers an excellent ride and handling balance that gives the Europeans a run for their money, especially when equipped with the sport-tuned suspension. That said, the CTS is larger than its like-priced competitors, and with a curb weight of almost 4,000 pounds, lacks the nimbleness of cars like the BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G35.
The new 304-hp direct-injection V6 certainly feels strong, but thanks to that hefty mass, acceleration isn't quite as quick as other 300-plus-hp cars in its class. The 258-hp base V6 and automatic transmission should still be very adequate for most consumers. The automatic is quick-shifting and can be manually controlled with a console-mounted shifter. The standard sport mode automatically holds onto revs longer during spirited driving and will downshift while braking. A major enhancement to the CTS lineup is its AWD option, which makes this Cadillac a viable option even in places with plenty of rain and snow.
2009 Lincoln MKS’s
Experts from TheCarConnection.com were among the first journalists to drive the Lincoln MKS. These experiences, plus our reviews of other trusted opinions from the Web, enable TheCarConnection.com team to offer you a definitive opinion on this luxurious sedan from Detroit. This review also compares the 2009 Lincoln MKS with other vehicles in its class in order to give you the best advice, even when other reviews present conflicting opinions.
The 2009 Lincoln MKS is new for Ford’s upscale brand, though its basic running gear links it to a large family of Ford products, including the new Volvo S80, as well as the current Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Volvo XC90.
The 2009 Lincoln MKS's distinctive styling sets it apart from its close kin. The MKS is the first production Lincoln to use the division's new grille design, which the company previewed on the MKS and MKT auto show concept vehicles. The winged design reaches back to Edsel Ford's 1941 Continental and gives the newest Lincoln a welcome bit of character that's grounded in something other than a designer's imagination. Inside, the MKS’s combination of clean lines, luxurious materials, and lighter trim colors plants it squarely in the Lexus idiom of luxury, instead of the darker, more somber German sphere.
A new 275-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 powers the MKS. The engine performs adequately, with a high degree of smoothness and little noise or fuss. While premium fuel is required to hit the 275-hp mark, using regular fuel delivers a still healthy helping of horsepower with no change in fuel economy (17/24 mpg for front-wheel drive and 16/23 mpg for all-wheel drive).
The new Lincoln's six-speed automatic is seen in other Ford products such as the Edge, but has been thoroughly recalibrated for this upscale installation. In the MKS, the transmission includes a sport mode as well as manual shift capabilities. Throughout the hills of Virginia just outside of Washington, D.C., with the transmission in the sport setting, the gearbox shifted aggressively. Its performance was close to anticipatory and did an excellent job of keeping the Lincoln in the right gear at the right time—just what an automatic transmission should do.
Another bright spot for the 2009 MKS is its chassis. The MKS features a totally new multilink rear suspension (not shared with the Ford Taurus or any Volvo) with coil-over shocks and a retuned front strut suspension, then bolts them both to a reinforced chassis that is 35 percent stiffer than that of the current Taurus. The resulting ride is Goldilocks taut: not too soft and not too hard, even with the optional 20-inch wheels. Steering response is quick, and when driving at street speeds, the understeer one expects from a largish front-wheel-drive sedan is totally absent. The MKS is also available with all-wheel drive.
The safety equipment you'd expect to see in a car of this caliber is all present and accounted for: multiple airbags, stability control, and so on. While the 2009 Lincoln MKS has not been tested, the related Ford Taurus scored very well in government crash testing.
Pricing starts at around $38,000 for a front-wheel-drive MKS without any fancy options—but including standard features as heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, Ford’s SYNC entertainment system, and HID headlamps—and runs up to $46,000 for a decked-out, all-wheel-drive edition.
The Lexus GS was the bogie for Lincoln, and the 2009 Lincoln MKS certainly hits the mark in terms of quietness. Lincoln claims to be even quieter than the Lexus in certain important frequency ranges. The Lincoln MKS is also on the mark in terms of performance. Like the Lexus GS and the Acura RL, the MKS is powered by a six-cylinder (in addition, Lexus offers a V-8 and a hybrid). The car targets a more luxury- and technology-minded audience with its myriad of features. The rear-wheel-drive Cadillac CTS and STS have a more sporting demeanor, and you could shop either against the MKS, depending on how much room you're looking for. The Cadillac STS offers a V-8 for those who want more power.
The Bottom Line:
The 2009 Lincoln MKS’s smart performance, subdued good looks, and roomy interior put the brand back in full-size, luxury-sedan territory.
The 2009 Lincoln MKS is new for Ford’s upscale brand, though its basic running gear links it to a large family of Ford products, including the new Volvo S80, as well as the current Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Volvo XC90.
The 2009 Lincoln MKS's distinctive styling sets it apart from its close kin. The MKS is the first production Lincoln to use the division's new grille design, which the company previewed on the MKS and MKT auto show concept vehicles. The winged design reaches back to Edsel Ford's 1941 Continental and gives the newest Lincoln a welcome bit of character that's grounded in something other than a designer's imagination. Inside, the MKS’s combination of clean lines, luxurious materials, and lighter trim colors plants it squarely in the Lexus idiom of luxury, instead of the darker, more somber German sphere.
A new 275-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 powers the MKS. The engine performs adequately, with a high degree of smoothness and little noise or fuss. While premium fuel is required to hit the 275-hp mark, using regular fuel delivers a still healthy helping of horsepower with no change in fuel economy (17/24 mpg for front-wheel drive and 16/23 mpg for all-wheel drive).
The new Lincoln's six-speed automatic is seen in other Ford products such as the Edge, but has been thoroughly recalibrated for this upscale installation. In the MKS, the transmission includes a sport mode as well as manual shift capabilities. Throughout the hills of Virginia just outside of Washington, D.C., with the transmission in the sport setting, the gearbox shifted aggressively. Its performance was close to anticipatory and did an excellent job of keeping the Lincoln in the right gear at the right time—just what an automatic transmission should do.
Another bright spot for the 2009 MKS is its chassis. The MKS features a totally new multilink rear suspension (not shared with the Ford Taurus or any Volvo) with coil-over shocks and a retuned front strut suspension, then bolts them both to a reinforced chassis that is 35 percent stiffer than that of the current Taurus. The resulting ride is Goldilocks taut: not too soft and not too hard, even with the optional 20-inch wheels. Steering response is quick, and when driving at street speeds, the understeer one expects from a largish front-wheel-drive sedan is totally absent. The MKS is also available with all-wheel drive.
The safety equipment you'd expect to see in a car of this caliber is all present and accounted for: multiple airbags, stability control, and so on. While the 2009 Lincoln MKS has not been tested, the related Ford Taurus scored very well in government crash testing.
Pricing starts at around $38,000 for a front-wheel-drive MKS without any fancy options—but including standard features as heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, Ford’s SYNC entertainment system, and HID headlamps—and runs up to $46,000 for a decked-out, all-wheel-drive edition.
The Lexus GS was the bogie for Lincoln, and the 2009 Lincoln MKS certainly hits the mark in terms of quietness. Lincoln claims to be even quieter than the Lexus in certain important frequency ranges. The Lincoln MKS is also on the mark in terms of performance. Like the Lexus GS and the Acura RL, the MKS is powered by a six-cylinder (in addition, Lexus offers a V-8 and a hybrid). The car targets a more luxury- and technology-minded audience with its myriad of features. The rear-wheel-drive Cadillac CTS and STS have a more sporting demeanor, and you could shop either against the MKS, depending on how much room you're looking for. The Cadillac STS offers a V-8 for those who want more power.
The Bottom Line:
The 2009 Lincoln MKS’s smart performance, subdued good looks, and roomy interior put the brand back in full-size, luxury-sedan territory.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Hyundai Genesis
You have to check out the beautiful 2009 Hyundai Genesis at www.hyundaigenesis.com. Then please come to our website http://www.whmps.com and schedule your test drive.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Hyundai vs. Lexus
It's almost hard to write: Lexus vs. Hyundai. That's the New York Yankees taking on the Albuquerque Isotopes — same game, different leagues. It's pitting an exalted brand name to which millions aspire, up against the bargain brand millions settle for. And yet despite that, putting the 2008 Lexus GS 350 up against Hyundai's audacious new 2009 Genesis 4.6 in a luxury sedan throw-down has resulted in one of the closest finishes ever in an Inside Line heads-up comparison test.
Yes, the Hyundai Genesis holds its own quite well against the Lexus GS 350 — without all that pesky prestige.
Directly Incomparable
Hyundai isn't shy about its targets for the Genesis. "While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Lexus ES, Chrysler 300 and Cadillac CTS," the company stated in a press release about the car's pricing, "Genesis' performance capabilities and luxury features are comparable to sedans costing tens of thousands of dollars more." In other words, Hyundai's strategy for hitting the luxury market target is to hit the competition where it ain't.
So the Genesis is a large, rear-drive luxury sedan that's priced like a smaller front-drive one — at 195.6 inches long it's just 2.4 inches shorter overall than Lexus' flagship LS 460, but the $33,000 base price for the V6-powered Genesis is more than a grand cheaper than the base price of the entry-level ES 350. There isn't really anything directly comparable to the Genesis at Lexus or, for that matter, at any other manufacturer.
So the GS 350 winds up in this test for being the closest thing Lexus has to the Genesis in price, mission, character and specification. Still, the rear-drive V6-powered GS 350 is somewhat smaller than the V8-powered Genesis 4.6 and it costs more. Way more. The Genesis 4.6 carries a base price of $37,000, while the Lexus starts just under $44,000. And if we had opted for a V8-powered GS 460 as Lexus' contender, the price chasm would have grown to more than $12,000.
As tested, the GS 350 came fully equipped at $49,670. The Genesis showed up with a $4,000 Technology package and a $42,000 sticker. That's a thick $7,670 price difference, in case you haven't already made the calculation yourself. Yet the Genesis essentially matched the Lexus luxury for luxury, gizmo for gizmo.
Quality Issues
Approach the Genesis and you're immediately impressed with how substantial it seems. The body panels are perfectly formed, the paint has a lustrously deep sheen and all the parts that are supposed to be shiny, shine blindingly. The styling is strictly conservative — it sort of looks like a previous-generation Mercedes S-Class — but the oversized lemon zester grille, large tires and sizable chrome dual exhaust pipes successfully give it presence.
Still, the lack of any brand identification anywhere on the car except its tail will leave some buyers thinking it looks a bit, well, generic. You know, like those cars in gasoline commercials where all the logos have been removed.
Beautiful? Not quite, but it does look sportier, and by design. The GS, along with the smaller IS, are the sporty fare at Toyota's luxury division, while the ES and the LS sedans are for those who would hire a driver if they could.
One thing's for sure; the GS 350 is built exactly as everyone expects a Lexus to be built. This car is a study in high quality.
And it is comfortable. Although we prefer the seats in the GS, the front seats in the Genesis are very well-shaped, padded and upholstered. And they come with fractionally better legroom.
Hyundai has also done a fine job of getting the details right. The Genesis' shifter, for instance, has just the right heft and shape. It feels like it belongs in a car that wears an established luxury badge. So do its visors, cupholders and other seat controls.
Space and Luxury
Large rear door openings and more generous proportions, thanks to its longer wheelbase, make the Genesis' rear seat the better of the two. Not that it's very hard to get in and out of the Lexus' rear seat; it's just not quite as ample as the Hyundai. The Genesis has a huge trunk with 15.9 cubic feet of space, 3 cubic feet more than the trunk in the Lexus.
Both also have lots and lots of very smart airbags and standard stability control.
On the other hand, only the Genesis offers iPod integration. Frankly, it's a slow, clumsy integration that seems to spend more time hunting for tracks than actually playing them, but it's more useful than the cassette deck in the Lexus.
Engineered Like Other Cars in the World
Both the GS and Genesis are built around hefty steel unibody structures. Both have sophisticated multilink all-independent suspension systems both front and rear. And both cars showed up wearing 18-inch wheels and very similar tires.
However, there are major differences in their engine bays. The GS 350 is powered by Toyota's ubiquitous 3.5-liter, 24-valve V6 which, thanks to variable valve timing, is rated at a healthy 303 horsepower in this application. In contrast the Genesis has a big, honkin' V8 under its hood — packing 4.6 liters and 32 variably controlled valves — making a claimed 375 hp (when running on premium fuel). Both are backed by six-speed automatic transmissions that can be shifted manually.
According to our scales, the GS 350 weighs in 320 pounds less than the Genesis and that helped it score a 5.7-second 0-60-mph time and run through the quarter-mile in 14.0 seconds at 99.5 mph. The Genesis, despite its larger, more powerful V8, was slower, completing those same feats in 5.9 seconds and 14.1 seconds at 101 mph.
A Matter of Degrees
But ultimate speed isn't what these sedans are all about. These aren't sport sedans like the BMW 5 Series or Infiniti M that engage the road and then go about the business of filleting it. They're luxury machines first, with just enough feedback through their controls to keep the driver from nodding off.
And they drive like the isolation chambers they're meant to be. These cars are quiet and smooth. Almost equally so. They both waft over road divots that would bounce other cars up and over two lanes, and their engines whirr along so smoothly that actually seem to smooth out any vibration in the earth's rotation.
In short, Hyundai obviously had Lexus in mind when it went about creating the Genesis. And the Genesis drives pretty much like a Lexus (outliers like the current IS F notwithstanding).
The Same, Only Different
Still, there are differences. Remarkably slight differences. On the road, the Lexus' body rolls more through corners, but its steering is more precise than the Hyundai's and provides better feedback. Blitzing in the Genesis, however, is helped by an easygoing ability to maintain super-legal speeds without ever losing composure, and a tremendous highway ride that's slightly better controlled than the GS 350's.
Luxury might come before sport with both these cars, but both are exceptionally stable on the road and capable of higher cornering limits than their comfort levels may suggest. And on our test track, it was all but a tie. The Hyundai stuck a bit better on the skid pad (0.83 vs. 0.81g), while the Lexus was a bit quicker through the slalom (65.2 vs. 62.6 mph).
Their brakes perform about the same, too. The Genesis stopped from 60 mph a foot shorter than the GS 350 (114 vs. 113 feet), but the Lexus' brakes were more resistant to fade.
Degrees That Matter
Helped greatly by its huge price advantage, the Hyundai Genesis edges out the Lexus GS 350 by a cumulative score of 68.5 to 66.3. It just doesn't get closer than that.
But remember, Inside Line's algorithms and criteria don't control for the intangible of prestige. And it could well be that in this status-conscious market segment, paying extra money for that Lexus badge may be worth it to a lot of buyers. After all, they didn't work hard all their lives to retire, take out a reverse mortgage and drive a Hyundai.
Though some of them may be shocked to know that now Hyundai can be mentioned in the same breath as Lexus without convulsive laughter soon following.
The manufacturers provided Edmunds these vehicles for the purposes of evaluation
Yes, the Hyundai Genesis holds its own quite well against the Lexus GS 350 — without all that pesky prestige.
Directly Incomparable
Hyundai isn't shy about its targets for the Genesis. "While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Lexus ES, Chrysler 300 and Cadillac CTS," the company stated in a press release about the car's pricing, "Genesis' performance capabilities and luxury features are comparable to sedans costing tens of thousands of dollars more." In other words, Hyundai's strategy for hitting the luxury market target is to hit the competition where it ain't.
So the Genesis is a large, rear-drive luxury sedan that's priced like a smaller front-drive one — at 195.6 inches long it's just 2.4 inches shorter overall than Lexus' flagship LS 460, but the $33,000 base price for the V6-powered Genesis is more than a grand cheaper than the base price of the entry-level ES 350. There isn't really anything directly comparable to the Genesis at Lexus or, for that matter, at any other manufacturer.
So the GS 350 winds up in this test for being the closest thing Lexus has to the Genesis in price, mission, character and specification. Still, the rear-drive V6-powered GS 350 is somewhat smaller than the V8-powered Genesis 4.6 and it costs more. Way more. The Genesis 4.6 carries a base price of $37,000, while the Lexus starts just under $44,000. And if we had opted for a V8-powered GS 460 as Lexus' contender, the price chasm would have grown to more than $12,000.
As tested, the GS 350 came fully equipped at $49,670. The Genesis showed up with a $4,000 Technology package and a $42,000 sticker. That's a thick $7,670 price difference, in case you haven't already made the calculation yourself. Yet the Genesis essentially matched the Lexus luxury for luxury, gizmo for gizmo.
Quality Issues
Approach the Genesis and you're immediately impressed with how substantial it seems. The body panels are perfectly formed, the paint has a lustrously deep sheen and all the parts that are supposed to be shiny, shine blindingly. The styling is strictly conservative — it sort of looks like a previous-generation Mercedes S-Class — but the oversized lemon zester grille, large tires and sizable chrome dual exhaust pipes successfully give it presence.
Still, the lack of any brand identification anywhere on the car except its tail will leave some buyers thinking it looks a bit, well, generic. You know, like those cars in gasoline commercials where all the logos have been removed.
Beautiful? Not quite, but it does look sportier, and by design. The GS, along with the smaller IS, are the sporty fare at Toyota's luxury division, while the ES and the LS sedans are for those who would hire a driver if they could.
One thing's for sure; the GS 350 is built exactly as everyone expects a Lexus to be built. This car is a study in high quality.
And it is comfortable. Although we prefer the seats in the GS, the front seats in the Genesis are very well-shaped, padded and upholstered. And they come with fractionally better legroom.
Hyundai has also done a fine job of getting the details right. The Genesis' shifter, for instance, has just the right heft and shape. It feels like it belongs in a car that wears an established luxury badge. So do its visors, cupholders and other seat controls.
Space and Luxury
Large rear door openings and more generous proportions, thanks to its longer wheelbase, make the Genesis' rear seat the better of the two. Not that it's very hard to get in and out of the Lexus' rear seat; it's just not quite as ample as the Hyundai. The Genesis has a huge trunk with 15.9 cubic feet of space, 3 cubic feet more than the trunk in the Lexus.
Both also have lots and lots of very smart airbags and standard stability control.
On the other hand, only the Genesis offers iPod integration. Frankly, it's a slow, clumsy integration that seems to spend more time hunting for tracks than actually playing them, but it's more useful than the cassette deck in the Lexus.
Engineered Like Other Cars in the World
Both the GS and Genesis are built around hefty steel unibody structures. Both have sophisticated multilink all-independent suspension systems both front and rear. And both cars showed up wearing 18-inch wheels and very similar tires.
However, there are major differences in their engine bays. The GS 350 is powered by Toyota's ubiquitous 3.5-liter, 24-valve V6 which, thanks to variable valve timing, is rated at a healthy 303 horsepower in this application. In contrast the Genesis has a big, honkin' V8 under its hood — packing 4.6 liters and 32 variably controlled valves — making a claimed 375 hp (when running on premium fuel). Both are backed by six-speed automatic transmissions that can be shifted manually.
According to our scales, the GS 350 weighs in 320 pounds less than the Genesis and that helped it score a 5.7-second 0-60-mph time and run through the quarter-mile in 14.0 seconds at 99.5 mph. The Genesis, despite its larger, more powerful V8, was slower, completing those same feats in 5.9 seconds and 14.1 seconds at 101 mph.
A Matter of Degrees
But ultimate speed isn't what these sedans are all about. These aren't sport sedans like the BMW 5 Series or Infiniti M that engage the road and then go about the business of filleting it. They're luxury machines first, with just enough feedback through their controls to keep the driver from nodding off.
And they drive like the isolation chambers they're meant to be. These cars are quiet and smooth. Almost equally so. They both waft over road divots that would bounce other cars up and over two lanes, and their engines whirr along so smoothly that actually seem to smooth out any vibration in the earth's rotation.
In short, Hyundai obviously had Lexus in mind when it went about creating the Genesis. And the Genesis drives pretty much like a Lexus (outliers like the current IS F notwithstanding).
The Same, Only Different
Still, there are differences. Remarkably slight differences. On the road, the Lexus' body rolls more through corners, but its steering is more precise than the Hyundai's and provides better feedback. Blitzing in the Genesis, however, is helped by an easygoing ability to maintain super-legal speeds without ever losing composure, and a tremendous highway ride that's slightly better controlled than the GS 350's.
Luxury might come before sport with both these cars, but both are exceptionally stable on the road and capable of higher cornering limits than their comfort levels may suggest. And on our test track, it was all but a tie. The Hyundai stuck a bit better on the skid pad (0.83 vs. 0.81g), while the Lexus was a bit quicker through the slalom (65.2 vs. 62.6 mph).
Their brakes perform about the same, too. The Genesis stopped from 60 mph a foot shorter than the GS 350 (114 vs. 113 feet), but the Lexus' brakes were more resistant to fade.
Degrees That Matter
Helped greatly by its huge price advantage, the Hyundai Genesis edges out the Lexus GS 350 by a cumulative score of 68.5 to 66.3. It just doesn't get closer than that.
But remember, Inside Line's algorithms and criteria don't control for the intangible of prestige. And it could well be that in this status-conscious market segment, paying extra money for that Lexus badge may be worth it to a lot of buyers. After all, they didn't work hard all their lives to retire, take out a reverse mortgage and drive a Hyundai.
Though some of them may be shocked to know that now Hyundai can be mentioned in the same breath as Lexus without convulsive laughter soon following.
The manufacturers provided Edmunds these vehicles for the purposes of evaluation
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Mitsibuhi Lancer 1 of Top 10 "Coolest"
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Named One Of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 By Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com
04/29/2008
The Mitsubishi Lancer has been named a 2008 Coolest New Car Under $18,000 by the expert editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. With versatility and technology becoming growing trends in the under-$18,000 segment, the next-generation 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer offers consumers an economic entry-level package that combines rally-inspired performance and handling features with cutting-edge in-car technology.
In choosing the 2008 list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, the kbb.com editors used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly subjective "cool" factor. Kbb.com's editorial staff commented:
"The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish spoiler."
The Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics - DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS - starting at a price of $13,990. For the 2009 model year, the GTS is equipped with a new 2.4-liter 168-hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine. For more information about the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, visit www.kbb.com/coolcars08.
04/29/2008
The Mitsubishi Lancer has been named a 2008 Coolest New Car Under $18,000 by the expert editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. With versatility and technology becoming growing trends in the under-$18,000 segment, the next-generation 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer offers consumers an economic entry-level package that combines rally-inspired performance and handling features with cutting-edge in-car technology.
In choosing the 2008 list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, the kbb.com editors used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly subjective "cool" factor. Kbb.com's editorial staff commented:
"The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish spoiler."
The Mitsubishi Lancer is available in three levels of trim and driving dynamics - DE, ES and the sport-tuned GTS - starting at a price of $13,990. For the 2009 model year, the GTS is equipped with a new 2.4-liter 168-hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine. For more information about the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, visit www.kbb.com/coolcars08.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Focus coupe to get sportier look in '09 model
Automotive News
May 15, 2008 - 12:01 am ET
Ford will tout the revamped 2009 coupe on Foxýs ýAmerican Idolý TV show Wednesday, May 14.
DETROIT -- After just eight months on the road, the Ford Focus coupe is undergoing a modest makeover for the 2009 model year.
Ford announced today that it is giving the Focus SE coupe a sportier appearance with changes to the front and rear fascia. The new, lower front fascia has a larger open area -- meant to evoke the European styling of the redesigned Ford Fiesta subcompact, which will arrive in the United States in 2010.
The high-end Focus SES model gets a new roofline spoiler and standard 17-inch aluminum wheels. Ford will tout the revamped 2009 coupe on Fox's ýAmerican Idolý TV show Wednesday, May 14.
The restyled and re-engineered Focus compact went on sale last fall as a 2008 model. The coupe was a new body style at that time.
While it's unusual for automakers to tweak exterior styling after less than a year, Ford said it is trying to make the Focus more attractive to young buyers.
ýWe've spent a lot of time talking with small-car customers and Focus enthusiasts,ý Sam De La Garza, Focus marketing manager, said in a statement. ýTheir overwhelming feedback was that a sportier exterior design could attract even more millennials, or those people born between 1980 and 1995 -- 11,000 of whom reach driving age every day in the U.S.ý
The 2009 Focus SE coupe will go on sale in August, starting at $16,615, including shipping. Pricing for the SES model will start at $18,035, including shipping.
DETROIT -- Ford Motor Co. plans to make a shift under the hood by 2012, equipping nearly all its vehicles with six-speed automatic transmissions that will improve fuel efficiency. Ford said it will more than double the number of North American vehicles with the transmissions, which boost fuel economy 4 to 6 percent.
The automaker's newest six--speed, the 6F35, will replace the current four--speed in the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner crossovers. According to a press release, Ford's Van Dyke transmission plant in suburban Detroit will double production of the 6F35 annually.
May 15, 2008 - 12:01 am ET
Ford will tout the revamped 2009 coupe on Foxýs ýAmerican Idolý TV show Wednesday, May 14.
DETROIT -- After just eight months on the road, the Ford Focus coupe is undergoing a modest makeover for the 2009 model year.
Ford announced today that it is giving the Focus SE coupe a sportier appearance with changes to the front and rear fascia. The new, lower front fascia has a larger open area -- meant to evoke the European styling of the redesigned Ford Fiesta subcompact, which will arrive in the United States in 2010.
The high-end Focus SES model gets a new roofline spoiler and standard 17-inch aluminum wheels. Ford will tout the revamped 2009 coupe on Fox's ýAmerican Idolý TV show Wednesday, May 14.
The restyled and re-engineered Focus compact went on sale last fall as a 2008 model. The coupe was a new body style at that time.
While it's unusual for automakers to tweak exterior styling after less than a year, Ford said it is trying to make the Focus more attractive to young buyers.
ýWe've spent a lot of time talking with small-car customers and Focus enthusiasts,ý Sam De La Garza, Focus marketing manager, said in a statement. ýTheir overwhelming feedback was that a sportier exterior design could attract even more millennials, or those people born between 1980 and 1995 -- 11,000 of whom reach driving age every day in the U.S.ý
The 2009 Focus SE coupe will go on sale in August, starting at $16,615, including shipping. Pricing for the SES model will start at $18,035, including shipping.
DETROIT -- Ford Motor Co. plans to make a shift under the hood by 2012, equipping nearly all its vehicles with six-speed automatic transmissions that will improve fuel efficiency. Ford said it will more than double the number of North American vehicles with the transmissions, which boost fuel economy 4 to 6 percent.
The automaker's newest six--speed, the 6F35, will replace the current four--speed in the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner crossovers. According to a press release, Ford's Van Dyke transmission plant in suburban Detroit will double production of the 6F35 annually.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Focus Recognized by KBB
FOCUS RECOGNIZED BY KELLEY BLUE BOOK’S KBB.COM AS ONE OF ‘TOP TEN COOLEST NEW CARS UNDER $18,000’ The 2008 Ford Focus was named one of the “Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000” by the editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.
Nearly 40 percent of the Focus units sold during the past five months included SYNC. SYNC-equipped vehicles sell nearly twice as fast as those without.
Ford is increasing Focus production for 2008 by nearly 30 percent to 245,000 units to meet customer demand
DEARBORN, Mich., April 29, 2008 – Editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com today named the 2008 Ford Focus one of the “Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.” It is the fourth consecutive year that a Ford has been recognized with the honor and the fourth year that the Focus has made the list.
“There is a combination of things that make the new Ford Focus sedan and coupe cool,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “The styling is cool. Focus is a good-looking car. The handling is cool. It handles more like a European car than many small cars we see here in the U.S. And, of course, we think the Ford SYNC™ technology is very cool.”
Sam De La Garza, Focus Brand Manager, says he was excited – but not surprised – to learn that Focus is among the “Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.”
“We are honored to be recognized by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com again this year and are thrilled that more people are discovering all the great things about the Focus,” he said. “People who drive a Focus, especially those who haven’t driven a Ford before, are impressed by its high quality, standard safety features and the smart technology available in the car.”
Nerad says more than 40 vehicles were considered for this year’s list based on pricing under $18,000 by Kelley Blue Book’s New Car Blue Book Values (what consumers are actually paying for the vehicle). The Focus came in at $14,942. The kbb.com editors used the same criteria that consumers draw on when buying a car – safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology and the fun-to-drive factor – to determine which vehicles rated a spot among the exclusive “Top Ten.”
“We use our combined knowledge of the industry, these individual vehicles and our own definitions of cool to whittle the list down to 10,” said Nerad. “Cool is one of those things that’s hard to define, but you know it when you see it.”
The newly redesigned Focus has been a hot seller since it first launched last October. Retail sales were up 35 percent in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period last year, and due to such strong consumer demand for the vehicle, Ford is increasing Focus production for 2008 by nearly 30 percent to 245,000 units
“I think we all underestimated just how well the car would do,” said George Pipas, Ford’s U.S. Sales Analysis Manager. “It’s far outpacing the growth in a growing small car market.”
According to Pipas, 30 percent of Focus sales so far are to customers between the ages of 16 and 35.
“These young car buyers are crucial to our future growth,” he said. “The small car market is where 50 percent of first-time buyers under the age of 30 go for their first car, so if you miss them – if they go to another franchise – the chances are those brands are going to keep those customers.”
In addition to delivering an impressive 35 miles per gallon, the all-new Focus is attracting younger buyers with a new look – both inside and out. The exterior design includes a new chrome two-bar grille, fog lamps, headlamps, tail lamps, hood, rear deck lid, fenders and doors, chrome fender appliqués and 16-inch wheel offerings.
The modern new interior includes ambient lighting that allows drivers to personalize the interior lighting of the car with seven colors to choose from, and SYNC, the hands-free voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment technology that integrates Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital music players.
According to Nerad, SYNC is a big draw for the younger set. “The kind of connectivity offered with SYNC is very important to the generation that grew up on the computer, with Apple iPods and other music devices,” he said.
The 2008 Focus also offers an impressive list of safety features, such as standard six air bags – including dual-stage driver and passenger front air bags, seat-deployed side air bags for driver and front passenger and roll-fold technology side curtain rollover airbags – ABS with traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system.
“We look at both passive and active safety features when we’re compiling our list of the ‘Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000,’ ” said Nerad. “From both sides of the safety coin, the Focus is a strong performer.”
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 245,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
Nearly 40 percent of the Focus units sold during the past five months included SYNC. SYNC-equipped vehicles sell nearly twice as fast as those without.
Ford is increasing Focus production for 2008 by nearly 30 percent to 245,000 units to meet customer demand
DEARBORN, Mich., April 29, 2008 – Editors of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com today named the 2008 Ford Focus one of the “Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.” It is the fourth consecutive year that a Ford has been recognized with the honor and the fourth year that the Focus has made the list.
“There is a combination of things that make the new Ford Focus sedan and coupe cool,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “The styling is cool. Focus is a good-looking car. The handling is cool. It handles more like a European car than many small cars we see here in the U.S. And, of course, we think the Ford SYNC™ technology is very cool.”
Sam De La Garza, Focus Brand Manager, says he was excited – but not surprised – to learn that Focus is among the “Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.”
“We are honored to be recognized by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com again this year and are thrilled that more people are discovering all the great things about the Focus,” he said. “People who drive a Focus, especially those who haven’t driven a Ford before, are impressed by its high quality, standard safety features and the smart technology available in the car.”
Nerad says more than 40 vehicles were considered for this year’s list based on pricing under $18,000 by Kelley Blue Book’s New Car Blue Book Values (what consumers are actually paying for the vehicle). The Focus came in at $14,942. The kbb.com editors used the same criteria that consumers draw on when buying a car – safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology and the fun-to-drive factor – to determine which vehicles rated a spot among the exclusive “Top Ten.”
“We use our combined knowledge of the industry, these individual vehicles and our own definitions of cool to whittle the list down to 10,” said Nerad. “Cool is one of those things that’s hard to define, but you know it when you see it.”
The newly redesigned Focus has been a hot seller since it first launched last October. Retail sales were up 35 percent in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period last year, and due to such strong consumer demand for the vehicle, Ford is increasing Focus production for 2008 by nearly 30 percent to 245,000 units
“I think we all underestimated just how well the car would do,” said George Pipas, Ford’s U.S. Sales Analysis Manager. “It’s far outpacing the growth in a growing small car market.”
According to Pipas, 30 percent of Focus sales so far are to customers between the ages of 16 and 35.
“These young car buyers are crucial to our future growth,” he said. “The small car market is where 50 percent of first-time buyers under the age of 30 go for their first car, so if you miss them – if they go to another franchise – the chances are those brands are going to keep those customers.”
In addition to delivering an impressive 35 miles per gallon, the all-new Focus is attracting younger buyers with a new look – both inside and out. The exterior design includes a new chrome two-bar grille, fog lamps, headlamps, tail lamps, hood, rear deck lid, fenders and doors, chrome fender appliqués and 16-inch wheel offerings.
The modern new interior includes ambient lighting that allows drivers to personalize the interior lighting of the car with seven colors to choose from, and SYNC, the hands-free voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment technology that integrates Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital music players.
According to Nerad, SYNC is a big draw for the younger set. “The kind of connectivity offered with SYNC is very important to the generation that grew up on the computer, with Apple iPods and other music devices,” he said.
The 2008 Focus also offers an impressive list of safety features, such as standard six air bags – including dual-stage driver and passenger front air bags, seat-deployed side air bags for driver and front passenger and roll-fold technology side curtain rollover airbags – ABS with traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system.
“We look at both passive and active safety features when we’re compiling our list of the ‘Top Ten Coolest New Cars Under $18,000,’ ” said Nerad. “From both sides of the safety coin, the Focus is a strong performer.”
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 245,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
BRING ON THE IMPORTS!
New Quality Study Shows Ford is Second to None!
• Ford catches Honda in initial quality, putting it in statistical tie at the top with Toyota and Honda.
• Ford’s vehicle quality improved 8 percent versus last year.
• Every new car and truck, including the 2008 Ford Focus, launched with improved quality versus its predecessor.
DEARBORN, April 7, 2008 – When it comes to initial vehicle quality, no automaker performs better than Ford.
The quality of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brand vehicles soared to the top of the charts equaling that of Toyota and Honda, according to the first quarter 2008 U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study conducted by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
The study shows Ford’s domestic brands improved 8 percent versus last year with a combined average of 1,284 things-gone-wrong (TGW) per 1,000 vehicles during the first three months of ownership. This performance is statistically equivalent to the 1,250 TGW level of Honda and Toyota.
“Last year we tied with Toyota, and this year our quality performance is as good as industry-leading Honda’s too,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Our world-class quality is one of the most important aspects of our turnaround in North America. This consistently strong quality improvement should offer today’s customer renewed confidence, setting the stage for important new products like Ford Flex, which is launching this summer.”
Ford’s dramatically improved vehicle quality will be highlighted in a sweeping new marketing campaign called “Drive one” that officially debuts Tuesday. The campaign tells the story behind Ford’s rise to the top of the industry in initial vehicle quality as well as underscoring safety, smart technology and improved fuel efficiency.
The company earned best-in-class honors in two important engineering functions: interiors, which includes such areas as trim, seats and instrument panel appearance; and electrical, which includes entertainment systems. Ford tied for best-in-class in two other functions, paint and vehicle engineering, which includes such areas as ride and handling and cabin quietness.
Additionally, Ford’s domestic brands pushed customer satisfaction up one point to 77 percent.
“There is an unprecedented level of teamwork at Ford. Everyone from the top floor to the plant floor is working together to deliver the highest quality vehicles for our customers,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford’s group vice president of Global Quality. “We are extremely proud to be among the industry’s quality leaders. But that’s not why we’re in the game. We want sole possession of first place, and we will keep working to earn it.”
A total for 15 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury vehicles are ranked in the top three of their respective segments for either TGW performance, customer satisfaction or both.
The following models are segment leaders:
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 – TGW for sports car
Ford Taurus – customer satisfaction for large car
Ford Sport Trac – customer satisfaction for medium traditional utility
Mercury Milan – TGW for midsize car
Lincoln Navigator – TGW and customer satisfaction for large premium utility
The new 2008 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable both recorded quality levels that equate to less than one problem per vehicle, as did the Volvo S80 (947). The Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ were close, with 1,030 TGW and 1065 TGW, respectively.
The Taurus also led a string of impressive new vehicles launched in 2007. Taurus showed a 33 percent quality improvement compared with the product it replaced. The new Ford Escape improved 16 percent over the out-going model, and the new Ford Focus improved 13 percent.
In fact, 36 of 40 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda nameplates improved this year versus 2007.
The 2008 first quarter U.S. GQRS study, which RDA Group conducts for Ford, asks customers of all major makes and models to comment on troubles and rate their overall satisfaction with their three-month-old vehicles. The survey includes vehicles registered from September 2007 through November 2007.
For more information, visit us at www.wileyautogroup.com.
Sincerely,
Bo Wiley
Colorado River Ford
• Ford catches Honda in initial quality, putting it in statistical tie at the top with Toyota and Honda.
• Ford’s vehicle quality improved 8 percent versus last year.
• Every new car and truck, including the 2008 Ford Focus, launched with improved quality versus its predecessor.
DEARBORN, April 7, 2008 – When it comes to initial vehicle quality, no automaker performs better than Ford.
The quality of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brand vehicles soared to the top of the charts equaling that of Toyota and Honda, according to the first quarter 2008 U.S. Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study conducted by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
The study shows Ford’s domestic brands improved 8 percent versus last year with a combined average of 1,284 things-gone-wrong (TGW) per 1,000 vehicles during the first three months of ownership. This performance is statistically equivalent to the 1,250 TGW level of Honda and Toyota.
“Last year we tied with Toyota, and this year our quality performance is as good as industry-leading Honda’s too,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Our world-class quality is one of the most important aspects of our turnaround in North America. This consistently strong quality improvement should offer today’s customer renewed confidence, setting the stage for important new products like Ford Flex, which is launching this summer.”
Ford’s dramatically improved vehicle quality will be highlighted in a sweeping new marketing campaign called “Drive one” that officially debuts Tuesday. The campaign tells the story behind Ford’s rise to the top of the industry in initial vehicle quality as well as underscoring safety, smart technology and improved fuel efficiency.
The company earned best-in-class honors in two important engineering functions: interiors, which includes such areas as trim, seats and instrument panel appearance; and electrical, which includes entertainment systems. Ford tied for best-in-class in two other functions, paint and vehicle engineering, which includes such areas as ride and handling and cabin quietness.
Additionally, Ford’s domestic brands pushed customer satisfaction up one point to 77 percent.
“There is an unprecedented level of teamwork at Ford. Everyone from the top floor to the plant floor is working together to deliver the highest quality vehicles for our customers,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford’s group vice president of Global Quality. “We are extremely proud to be among the industry’s quality leaders. But that’s not why we’re in the game. We want sole possession of first place, and we will keep working to earn it.”
A total for 15 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury vehicles are ranked in the top three of their respective segments for either TGW performance, customer satisfaction or both.
The following models are segment leaders:
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 – TGW for sports car
Ford Taurus – customer satisfaction for large car
Ford Sport Trac – customer satisfaction for medium traditional utility
Mercury Milan – TGW for midsize car
Lincoln Navigator – TGW and customer satisfaction for large premium utility
The new 2008 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable both recorded quality levels that equate to less than one problem per vehicle, as did the Volvo S80 (947). The Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ were close, with 1,030 TGW and 1065 TGW, respectively.
The Taurus also led a string of impressive new vehicles launched in 2007. Taurus showed a 33 percent quality improvement compared with the product it replaced. The new Ford Escape improved 16 percent over the out-going model, and the new Ford Focus improved 13 percent.
In fact, 36 of 40 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda nameplates improved this year versus 2007.
The 2008 first quarter U.S. GQRS study, which RDA Group conducts for Ford, asks customers of all major makes and models to comment on troubles and rate their overall satisfaction with their three-month-old vehicles. The survey includes vehicles registered from September 2007 through November 2007.
For more information, visit us at www.wileyautogroup.com.
Sincerely,
Bo Wiley
Colorado River Ford
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Ford Drive One - Green Driving Safety Quality Technology
Ford Drive One
Quality, green driving, safety and smart technology are the four key attributes that drive consumer opinion about an automotive brand. Ford Drive One is your one stop location to learn everything you need to know what makes Ford unique in these important attributes.
We have a dynamic story to tell at Ford and we are counting on you to help tell it. At forddriveone.com you can learn the details around all of the amazing things that Ford is doing so that you can become a knowledgeable Ford advocate who shares these great stories with friends and neighbors.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Where to find Wiley Auto Group Stores
Saturday, April 12, 2008
2009 Ford F-150
Calling it Ford’s “most capable truck ever,” Alan Mulally, Ford Motor Company’s President and CEO, described the 2009 Ford F-150 as a proud example of Ford’s strategy of listening to its customers. “We talked to them, engineered a solution, and tested it to make sure it’s built Ford tough,” Mulally said.
Country music star Toby Keith, Professional Bull Rider Justin Mc Bride, NASCAR’s Rick Crawford and Monster Jam’s Linsey Weenk joined Mark Fields, Ford’s President, The Americas, onstage at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to announce the 2009 F150 series, touting its customizability and options. The F-150 has three cab styles, four box options, and seven unique trim levels, making 35 unique configurations to meet the widest range of customer needs. The F-150 is “new all around” and now includes Platinum series. The F-150 is one of six major launches in 2008 for Ford.
“The Ford F-150 is an American icon, said Fields, “Ford is the truck leader, and F-150 customers expect and demand the best truck on the market.” More than 1,000 Ford engineers, designers, and researchers worked together to develop the new 2009 F-150, drawing on feedback and research from Ford’s customer base. Ford did not announce the 2009 F-150’s towing or payload capacity, opening up the question to the journalists covering the Auto Show to guess it. The winner will be announced later this year. The prize: the first test drive.
The 2009 Ford F150 will be available in the fall of 2008.
See the videos on the F-150’s construction, engineering, and design.
Watch the full 25 minute Ford Press Conference.
Related Links:
Visit the 2009 F150 website Find out more about the F-150's design Find out more about the F-150's construction Find out more about the F-150's engineering
http://autoshows.ford.com/205/2008/01/13/ford-unveils-capable-truck-2009/
Country music star Toby Keith, Professional Bull Rider Justin Mc Bride, NASCAR’s Rick Crawford and Monster Jam’s Linsey Weenk joined Mark Fields, Ford’s President, The Americas, onstage at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to announce the 2009 F150 series, touting its customizability and options. The F-150 has three cab styles, four box options, and seven unique trim levels, making 35 unique configurations to meet the widest range of customer needs. The F-150 is “new all around” and now includes Platinum series. The F-150 is one of six major launches in 2008 for Ford.
“The Ford F-150 is an American icon, said Fields, “Ford is the truck leader, and F-150 customers expect and demand the best truck on the market.” More than 1,000 Ford engineers, designers, and researchers worked together to develop the new 2009 F-150, drawing on feedback and research from Ford’s customer base. Ford did not announce the 2009 F-150’s towing or payload capacity, opening up the question to the journalists covering the Auto Show to guess it. The winner will be announced later this year. The prize: the first test drive.
The 2009 Ford F150 will be available in the fall of 2008.
See the videos on the F-150’s construction, engineering, and design.
Watch the full 25 minute Ford Press Conference.
Related Links:
Visit the 2009 F150 website Find out more about the F-150's design Find out more about the F-150's construction Find out more about the F-150's engineering
http://autoshows.ford.com/205/2008/01/13/ford-unveils-capable-truck-2009/
Friday, March 14, 2008
Wiley Auto Group
Welcome to the Wiley Auto Group Blog. As the Web/Internet Director we surely welcome all of your feedback. Recognize that we continue to do our best to live up to our committment to customer service. This blog is monitored by Mr. Bo Wiley, owner of the Wiley Auto Group. Dealerships in Kingman and Bullhead City Arizona, along with Needles and Cathedral City California. With Ford, Chevrolet, Suzuki, Hyundai and Mitsubishi dealerships we welcome an opportunity to earn your business whether it be purchasing or servicing your vehicle or providing you parts. When you stop in our stores, please be sure to mention you've seen our blog and post any comments or questions here.
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