Ford Engines Get Smaller As MPG Grows

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Ford engineers have been creating a new generation of engines that utilize advanced technology. As a result, engines are becoming smaller, more fuel-efficient, yet they’re more powerful than ever before.

As fuel-efficiency and emissions become a major concern world-wide, all automakers are working to transform automobile engines, without boosting costs. Ford is leading the way with its EcoBoost engine, featuring twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) and direct injection to maximize efficiency and power.

“From Fiesta to Super Duty, Ford has invested a record amount in new engines, transmissions and cutting-edge technologies to meet our commitment to lead or be among the leaders in fuel economy in every segment in which we compete,” said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president of powertrain engineering.

Ford Fiesta: Best Subcompact For The Money

Delivering big value in a small package, the all-new Ford Fiesta has been named the Best Subcompact Car for the Money 2011 by the editors of U.S. News & World Report. It’s a notable recognition of how the Fiesta not only offers a strong value at the time of purchase, but also keeps that value for the life of the car. The honor is based on an evaluation of the vehicle’s reliability and safety data, as well as U.S. News analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Fiesta from the country’s leading auto resources.

In fact, the publication points out that “Reviewers are nearly unanimous in saying that the 2011 Ford Fiesta sets new benchmarks for the affordable small car class,” while also complimenting it for:

• Being fun to drive
• Having high build quality
• Showcasing a comfortable, upscale cabin for the price
• Posting hybrid-like fuel economy

Contact Mooresville Ford to scheduale a test drive.

PowerShift Automatic: Ford’s Secret Weapon For High MPG

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Ford’s new PowerShift transmission blends the sporty feel of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic. But it has also been an important factor in helping the Fiesta achieve its class-leading fuel economy.

The PowerShift weighs nearly 30 pounds less than the four-speed automatic transmission in the current 2011 Focus. Less weight ultimately helps improve fuel economy. Additionally, the PowerShift is also the most sophisticated transmission ever offered by the Blue Oval, and it helps the Fiesta and the all-new 2012 Focus get as much as 40 miles per gallon on the highway.

“The Ford PowerShift transmission is a technological leap over the competition,” said Piero Aversa, PowerShift engineering manager. “Now that it’s available in the new Focus as well as Fiesta, PowerShift gives us two great small cars that not only lead in fuel economy, but are more fun to drive as well.”

Contact Mooresville Ford for more information.

Ford’s SYNC infotainment system has been a popular feature among car buyers. That’s why Ford its eager to bring the system to other markets around the world. New languages will be available first in Europe in 2012 with introduction in the Ford Focus. In total, SYNC will offer 19 languages.When SYNC was launched in 2007, the system offered just three languages. Today, Ford will offer voice recognition capability, powered by Nuance Communications, in more languages than any other automaker offering voice control.“We are pleased to announce that SYNC will soon be available to customers around the world,” said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. “It is a smart and simple way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives.”

“Ford is committed to making voice recognition the primary user interface inside the car throughout the world, helping all drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel,” said Jim Buczkowski, a Henry Ford Technical Fellow and director of Electrical and Electronics Systems for Ford Research and Advanced Engineering. “This expansion of SYNC language capabilities is a huge step forward in bringing voice technology to every market Ford serves.”

2011 Ford F-150 at Mooresville Ford

With a range of all-new engines, reviewers say the 2011 Ford F-150 deserves to continue its reign as America’s best-selling pickup.

The 2011 Ford F-150 is available in 11 different trims, not including the different cab configurations (regular, extended or crew), bed lengths (5.5 feet, 6.5 feet, or 8 feet), or engine choices (two V6’s and two V8’s).

For 2011 the F-150 comes with a slew of new engines. A base 3.7-liter V6 produces 302-horsepower and a 5.0-liter V8 with 360-horsepower are the two bottom rung engines. Surprisingly positioned above the 5.0-liter V8, Ford is introducing a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 365 horsepower. F-150s equipped with the twin-turbo mill are capable of towing 11,300 pounds, just as much as the top line 411-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. Off-road oriented SVT Raptor, luxurious Lariat Limited and special Harley-Davidson edition F-150s come standard with the 6.2-liter V8. All models receive a six-speed automatic transmission.

Other changes include a 4.2-inch LCD display in the gauge cluster that displays information about fuel economy, towing and off-roading. A new three-point safety belt now rests in the middle passenger position of bench-seat equipped F-150’s. Driver’s also benefit from integrated spotters mirrors in the side mirrors.

Visit Mooresville Ford for more information.

2011 Ford Explorer Named 2011 North American Truck Of The Year

When the all-new Ford Explorer was named 2011 North American Truck of the Year just prior to the opening of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, it marked the third straight time that a Ford product had taken home the honor.

“It’s a proud moment for Ford, our employees and our customers to have Explorer named North American Truck of the Year,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “Winning this honor for the third consecutive year confirms our One Ford plan is working to deliver vehicles people truly want and value, with industry-leading quality, fuel efficiency, safety and smart technology.”

It’s also a direct reflection on Ford’s leadership role in powertrain innovation—a key driver of the Explorer’s success. The standard engine in Ford’s SUV is an advanced 3.5-liter V6 that leverages technologies like twin independent variable camshaft timing to give the Explorer both the best highway fuel economy in its class (a full 25 mpg, to go with a notable mark of 17 mpg city) as well as a robust 290 hp. Also notable: Later this year, the Explorer will be available with one of Ford’s innovative 2.0-liter Ecoboost I4 engines for even better fuel efficiency.

Visit or call Mooresville Ford

Ford Fiesta Earns Top Safety Ratings Worldwide

The Ford Fiesta has officially become the first car in its segment to achieve top safety ratings in Europe, China, and the United States.

Thanks to an extensive use of ultra-high-strength steel, along with a slew of standard and available safety features, the Fiesta continues to win praise by safety testing agencies worldwide.

“Ford is committed to safety and to delivering top crash test ratings that customers look to when choosing new vehicles,” said Sue Cischke, Group Vice President of Sustainability, Environment and Safety. “Fiesta is the latest example of that safety commitment, and it shows that a small, fuel-efficient car can deliver top-level safety.”

Ford Fiesta at Mooresville Ford

Mooresville Ford Drive One 4UR School Event!

Mooresville Ford will be holding a Drive One 4UR School event on March 12, 2011 with the Mooresville Graded School District!

MOORESVILLE FORD

139-151 East Plaza Dr. • Mooresville, NC 28115
(888) 862-5475 


www.mooresvilleford.com

What's New for the 2011 Ford Escape?

Since its introduction, the Ford Escape has been one of America's best-selling small SUVs. 

With the Escape, Ford successfully combined the styling and four-wheel-drive capability of a traditional SUV with the size, practicality and driving characteristics of a midsize car. For the urban dweller in need of something comfortable, versatile, fun to drive and capable of doing some light-duty off-roading or towing, it fit the bill perfectly. Of course, the Escape's low price certainly boosted its appeal as well. We've found the Escape stands out thanks to its collection of high-tech features and peppy performance. 
Ford has added HD Radio this year and this feature compliments the much loved SYNC entertainment system, programmable MyKey and active park assist, a system which allows the Escape to parallel park itself with very little driver involvement.

"Ford's compact crossover has its strengths, including an excellent six-speed automatic transmission, comfortable passenger accommodations, and the availability of a gas/electric hybrid model," says Consumer Guide.

Standard safety features for all 2011 Escapes include stability control, traction control, antilock brakes (ABS), front-seat side airbags and full-length curtain-type airbags.

And the Escape excelled in government crash testing, scoring a perfect five out of five stars in every front-impact and side-impact category for occupant protection.

For more information visit us at Mooresville Ford Escape 

Ford Mustang Scores AUTOMOBILE All-Star Honors

The award-winning 2011 Ford Mustang added to its trophy case once again recently, earning recognition as one of this year’s Automobile Magazine All-Stars.

A trio of Mustang models was called out for their All-Star attributes, including the “very capable, very impressive” Mustang V6. The first car in the industry to top both 300 hp and 30 mpg highway—it delivers 305 hp and 31 mpg, to be exact—this Mustang also showcases a high-value base MSRP of just $22,145. The eye-popping performance of the Mustang GT and Shelby GT500 got plenty of notice, too, and again it was courtesy of Ford’s new powertrains. [click to continue…]

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

What happens when you pit the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew against the best of its “competition” in a grueling 1,000-mile battle through mountain trails, desert sand dunes, stream crossings and interstate highways? Pretty much the same thing that’s already happened numerous times before: The Raptor came out on top and took home another prestigious award, this time earning “Pickup Truck of the Year” honors from Four Wheeler magazine.

“Raptor is every four-wheel-drive enthusiast’s dream of what a factory pickup truck should be,” said Douglas McColloch, Four Wheeler editor. “Straight off the showroom floor, Raptor comes equipped with all manner of premium performance parts that are designed for extreme off-pavement forays—be it rock crawling, mud bogging or desert racing. The Raptor undertakes these tasks without compromising the F-150 platform’s class-leading ride and handling characteristics on pavement. It inspires confidence in the dirt and delivers serenity on the street.” [click to continue…]

Ford F-150 at Mooresville Ford

The facts are clear: The Ford F-150 can haul more cargo and tow a heavier trailer than any of its competitors. And F-150 has a fully boxed frame that's the strongest in its class.* Engineered and tested to withstand more punishment than your most difficult tasks can subject it to, the F-150 is Built Ford Tough to come through with the dependability you expect in this full-size pickup. And this, at the end of the day, is what capability is all about.


To learn more about the current promotions visit our website!

Ford Has Big Plans For Small Cars

The stars of the 2011 North American International Auto Show were fuel-efficient small cars. Ford in particular showcased 10 new C-segment cars in Detroit, all of which embodied Ford’s commitment to fuel-efficiency.

“It’s about giving consumers more options for fuel-efficient vehicles of this size and footprint and providing them the power of choice for electrified vehicles, as well,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “Today, a world-class, all-new Focus family joining the new Fiesta lineup is delivering more choice. Now, we’re bringing even more to customers with the versatility of the new C-MAX and three different alternatives for customers who want to save fuel by going electric, offering real choice and more products people really want.”

 [click to continue…]

Ford’s In-Vehicle Technology

Ford is working to improve its MyFord Touch system, which allows drivers use a touch screen or voice controls to operate control such things as temperature, music and cell phones.  Last week, Ford CEO Alan Mulally said that the technology will be adjusted to make it even safer than before.

“The position we took a few years ago was that we will be operating in a wired world,” Mulally said at the Detroit auto show. “The best value we could add was to enhance the driving experience and make us better drivers. The best way to do that is to have your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road and everything is voice activated.”

Ford’s in-vehicle technology has become very popular on Ford and Lincoln models. In fact, Ford says about 82 percent of Ford Edge crossovers ordered have the MyFord Touch option.

Ford Wins Three KBB.com “Best Resale Value” Awards

Each year, the experts at Kelley Blue Book crunch the numbers to help recognize automakers’ outstanding achievements in producing new vehicles that will best maintain their appeal after five years of ownership. And in this one particularly important measure of vehicle quality, it was three Fords that took home the highest honors.

Ford Taurus—Scoring the highest marks in the Full-Size Car category—for the second consecutive year—was the Ford Taurus, lauded for “an upscale interior worthy of a luxury sedan and spiced up with the inclusion of Ford’s unique SYNC infotainment system.” Editors also commended the Taurus’ available EcoBoost V6 engine “that combines efficiency with excitement.” [click to continue…]

Tattoos are not just body art anymore...

...customers will soon be able to express themselves with vehicle tattoos for the all-new 2012 Ford Focus with more than 200 unique vinyl wrap tattoos in an array of different colors and a variety of designs – from geometric patterns and racing stripes to whimsical imagery like splashes and swirls – the Custom Graphics offer the look of custom paint at half the cost

The popularity of tattoos has turned body art into a fashion statement – especially among Millennials – and Ford is taking the trend one step further by offering car buyers a quick and inexpensive way to express themselves with tattoos for the new 2012 Ford Focus.

From geometric patterns and racing stripes to whimsical imagery like splashes and swirls, customers will soon be able to choose from more than 200 unique vinyl wrap tattoos. 

Ford Custom Graphics are currently available for the Ford Mustang, Explorer F-150 and Fiesta

To find a design that reflects your personality visit www.fordcustomgraphics.com 

Ford MyKey® Technology

Just as parents block their teens from watching X-rated films or web videos, Ford Motor Company will introduce the world's first technology that will screen explicit radio content while youngsters are driving.

Ford Motor Company is preparing to debut a new version of its breakthrough MyKey® technology that – for the first time – will allow parents to block explicit satellite radio content in the vehicle, much like parents are able to prevent children from viewing certain types of television and Internet content.

The new feature will debut next year as standard equipment on the Ford Taurus and Ford Explorer, and will eventually be available across a variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles. MyKey – designed to help parents encourage safe teen driving habits – is an easily programmable key that can limit a vehicle’s top speed, limit radio volume and encourage safety-belt usage by muting the radio until front occupants buckle up.

The radio-blocking feature works by screening out more than a dozen channels labeled by Sirius® Satellite Radio as “explicit.” While similar technology is used for blocking inappropriate content on televisions and computers, never before has such an option been available for radio programming in vehicles.

Ford’s current MyKey system – standard on most North American vehicles after launching in summer 2009 – allows owners to program a key that can limit the vehicle’s top speed to 80 mph, with chimes sounding at 45, 55 and 65 mph. The upgraded MyKey technology will now allow parents to limit a vehicle’s top speed at any of four different settings – 65, 70, 75 or 80 mph.

“Ford wants to give parents peace of mind that their kids are following practical household rules in the car,” says Graydon Reitz, director, Ford Electrical and Electronic Systems Engineering.


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