Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly naked]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/spy-shots-ford-edge-and-lincoln-mkx-redesigns-caught-nearly-nak/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/spy-shots-ford-edge-and-lincoln-mkx-redesigns-caught-nearly-nak/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/spy-shots-ford-edge-and-lincoln-mkx-redesigns-caught-nearly-nak/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge spy shots - Click above or below for high-res image galleries

Ford and Lincoln's crossover offerings are plentiful, but all attention is being paid nowadays to the boxy-yet-practical Flex and hit-by-the-ugly-stick MKT. What about the Edge and MKX? This duo was launched years before the automaker's polarizing pair of three-row CUVs arrived.

Well, their due for redesigns. Or at least, according to these spy shots, refreshenings of their front and rear ends. In the Edge's case, that means making the already handsome people mover look a bit more windswept, though it appears things will stay largely the same between the A- and D-pillars.

The changes look more substantial for the MKX, which launched before Lincoln debuted its increasingly ubiquitous doubled-winged grille design. That punum looks pretty okay on the MKS sedan and like a baleen whale on the oversized MKT. It looks just right on the MKX to us.

Ford and Lincoln may have other news about the Edge and MKX for us - powertrain and infotainment upgrades most likely - at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in early January, which is when we expect to see these new looks formally trotted out on stage.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Lincoln MKX


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Edge


[Images: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly naked originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> edgefordford edgeFordEdgelincolnlincoln mkxLincolnMkxmkxspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShots Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST <![CDATA[For Sale: Lincoln Town Car Limo/Hearse combo... in case your night on the town goes horribly wrong]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/for-sale-lincoln-town-car-limo-hearse-combo-in-case-your-nig/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/for-sale-lincoln-town-car-limo-hearse-combo-in-case-your-nig/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/for-sale-lincoln-town-car-limo-hearse-combo-in-case-your-nig/#comments Filed under: , , ,



It goes without saying that when you think you've seen everything, you ain't seen jack. We were reminded of this the other night while perusing the New York Post's online sports page for the skinny on the Hideki Matsui deal. Frankly, Godzilla's contract status seemed a lot less important once we spied this classified ad for a 2001 Lincoln Town Car combination hearse/limousine displayed on the page.

The description touts the strange Townie as essentially representing the zenith of funereal transportation innovation:
"YOU COULD COMPLETELY ELIMINATE HAVING TO HAVE TWO VEHICLES AT EVERY SERVICE, SO NOW YOU CAN TAKE THE ENTIRE FAMILY TO THE CEMETARY [sic] IN ONE CAR."
But something tells us that accompanying dearly departed Aunt Myrtle on her final ride just might not appeal to everyone.

In any case, for $18,900, some enterprising limo company is going to have itself the ultimate utility vehicle - capable of transporting six adults for a night of debauchery in plush, floaty comfort, and saving the county coroner's van a trip when things go a little bit too far...

[Source: New York Post]

For Sale: Lincoln Town Car Limo/Hearse combo... in case your night on the town goes horribly wrong originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2001 lincoln town car2001LincolnTownCarcombinationhearsehearse-limolimo-hearselimousinelimousine-hearse comboLimousine-hearseCombo Wed, 16 Dec 2009 06:30:00 EST <![CDATA[New features from Ford: Remote start and heated steering wheel]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/new-features-from-ford-remote-start-and-heated-steering-wheel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/new-features-from-ford-remote-start-and-heated-steering-wheel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/new-features-from-ford-remote-start-and-heated-steering-wheel/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Good news, Ford fans: The Blue Oval will be adding remote start and heated steering wheels to its line of cars and trucks. The remote start option will make its first appearance on the 2011 F-Series Super Duty pickup truck while the heated tiller will initially be fitted to the 2011 Lincoln MKX.

Following those two launches, the automaker promises that both items will infiltrate the rest of its Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineups in a jiffy. While it's been possible to have an aftermarket remote start system installed on any new car or truck for quite some time (including a dealer-installed option from Ford), JD Power reports that 90 percent of all purchasers would prefer a factory option, which makes perfect sense to us, particularly since Ford's system will be integrated with the heating and cooling systems to bring the cabin to a comfortable temperature regardless of the weather outside.

Ford predicts that the remote start system will help the vehicle's exhaust catalyst heat up more quickly, thereby reducing hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 75 percent. Further, the automaker suggests that a heated steering wheel will increase dexterity in the fingers and hands and reduce the need to wear gloves while driving in the winter. Want to know more? Use those nice and toasty digits to hit the jump for the press release.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading New features from Ford: Remote start and heated steering wheel

New features from Ford: Remote start and heated steering wheel originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordford heated steering wheelford remote startFordHeatedSteeringWheelFordRemoteStartheated steering wheelHeatedSteeringWheellincolnlincoln heated steering wheellincoln remote startLincolnHeatedSteeringWheelLincolnRemoteStartmercurymercury heated steering wheelmercury remote startMercuryHeatedSteeringWheelMercuryRemoteStartremote startRemoteStart Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Ford EcoBoost Engines see high take rate, customers see higher transaction prices]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/ford-ecoboost-engines-see-high-take-rate-customers-see-higher-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/ford-ecoboost-engines-see-high-take-rate-customers-see-higher-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/ford-ecoboost-engines-see-high-take-rate-customers-see-higher-t/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2010 Lincoln MKT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford has been pushing its EcoBoost engines hard since they came out of the gate, with almost as many commercials touting its twin-turbo technology as we've seen all other Blue Oval spots combined. And all that marketing mojo appears to be paying off, as the Ford Motor Company has told The Detroit News that EcoBoost has really taken off on the showroom floor.

Ford just started offering EcoBoost in July, but the early returns show that customers are very interested in Ford's promise of V8 performance with V6 fuel economy. Lincoln MKS sales have been 30 percent EcoBoost, while the Taurus SHO is currently accounting for 20 percent off all sales of Ford's new large sedan. The MKT has only been on the market for a month, but early returns show that over 40 percent of customers want 355 horsepower in their giant crossover. The Ford Flex is seeing a 13 percent EcoBoost take rate, nearly double the expected 8 percent figure.

In fact, Ford says all four EcoBoost-equipped vehicles are exceeding expectations to date, and the engine tech also appears to be bringing in conquest customers at an accelerated rate. For example, an impressive 44 percent of Taurus buyers come from another OEM, while the number jumps to 54 percent with the EcoBoost-equipped Taurus SHO. The MKT has a similar 10 percent conquest boost courtesy of turbo power. And those conquest wins at the dealership also add to Ford's bottom line, as EcoBoost-equipped vehicles carry a $5,000 to $10,000 MSRP bump versus their naturally aspirated counterparts.

While the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine looks like an early success, the real turbo test comes when other, higher volume EcoBoost engines hit the market. Some future boosted Ford engines will come in 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter displacements, and the DetNews is reporting that a much smaller, 1.0-liter three-cylinder version is on the way for applications like the new Fiesta and Focus. Engines as small as 1.0-liter are sure to be an efficiency boon for the Blue Oval, with potential paybacks in the high 40 MPG range in the EPA highway cycle.

The next vehicles to receive EcoBoost will reportedly be the F-150 and Ford Explorer toward the end of next year. Ford is hoping to push the engine tech on 90 percent of its models within the next few years, with up to 1.3M global EcoBoost sales.

[Source: Detroit News]

Ford EcoBoost Engines see high take rate, customers see higher transaction prices originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 ford flex2010 taurus sho2010FordFlex2010TaurusShodirect-injectionecoboostecoboost salesEcoboostSalesford taurusFordTauruslincoln mkslincoln mktLincolnMksLincolnMktturboturbochargingtwin-turbo Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealers being scaled out of existence]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-stand-alone-lincoln-mercury-dealers-dying-off/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-stand-alone-lincoln-mercury-dealers-dying-off/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-stand-alone-lincoln-mercury-dealers-dying-off/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



In 2006, Ford began to shrink its dealership network in order to more efficiently align its distribution network. Three years later, it appears that the hardest hit are the company's stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealerships. While there were 619 Lincoln-Mercury dealerships nationwide just a few years ago, the number had dwindled down to just 357 at the beginning of 2009.

Automotive News recently spoke with Ford CEO Alan Mulally about the future of the Lincoln brand and its stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury stores. While Ford's current strategy is pushing combo Ford-Lincoln-Mercury retailers, Mulally would not confirm that eliminating the stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealerships was the desired end result. When pushed on the question, Mulally reiterated that Ford was focusing on building a distribution network which allowed sales volume, product breadth, and profitability... qualities that are apparently better served by the Ford-Lincoln-Mercury store.

Mulally added that although these combo dealerships will be selling the Lincoln MKS on the same lot as the Ford Taurus (both vehicles share platforms and mechanicals), retailers will learn how to deliver the sales experience that fits the vehicle and differentiates the brand. Whether this concept works or whether car salesmen simply take the easy route and sell the less expensive Ford remains to be seen.

Either way, it has to be asked - is peeling away at the automaker's stand-alone LM dealers part of a larger plan to do away with Mercury altogether? Inquiring minds want to know...

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Stephen Brashear/Getty]

REPORT: Stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealers being scaled out of existence originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alan mulallyAlanMulallycar dealercar dealerscar showroomCarDealerCarDealersCarShowroomCombinationConsolidationDealershipsDualFordFord dealershipsford mercuryFord-Lincoln-MercuryFordDealershipsFordMercurylincolnLincoln-Mercurlincoln-mercuryMercurymulallyMullallyshowroom Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of <i> Car and Driver </i>]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/autoblog-podcast-151-with-eddie-alterman-of-car-and-driver/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/autoblog-podcast-151-with-eddie-alterman-of-car-and-driver/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/autoblog-podcast-151-with-eddie-alterman-of-car-and-driver/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Abuelsamid, Lieberman, Roth and Shunk. Sounds like a law firm, but it's this week's podcast crew. Car and Driver editor-in-chief Eddie Alterman bravely wades into the pool and joins us for Episode #151 of the Autoblog Podcast, as well.

We spend a goodly amount of time going over what's in all five garages this week, before picking up actual topics. Once into news, we move through the Honda Accord Crosstour's pricing and impending launch, Ford's profitable quarter and union dealings, Edmunds' dust-up with the White House, and wrap with what might be cool at the crazy automotive cavalcade that is SEMA. It's an hour and twenty minutes of rollicking good times, so let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of Car and Driver

Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of Car and Driver originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastcar and drivercar driverCarAndDriverCarDrivercash for clunkersCashForClunkerseddie altermanEddieAltermanedmundsedmunds white houseEdmundsWhiteHouseFord salesford sales gainFord sales resultsford uawFordSalesFordSalesGainFordSalesResultsFordUawpodcastSEMAsema 2009Sema2009 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #151Autoblog1:20:42autoblog podcast, eddie alterman, car & driver, alterman, sema, uaw, ford, ford uaw, edmunds, cash for clunkers <![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost has soul of a sports sedan, controversial looks]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/2010-lincoln-mkt-ecoboost-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , ,


2010 Lincoln MKT - Click above for high-res image gallery

In 1998, Lincoln's overall sales made it the number one luxury brand in America. The Navigator, Continental and Town Car weren't exactly world beaters - let alone an enthusiast's cup of Darjeeling, but the typical Lincoln buyer was getting precisely what he or she expected: soft, cozy, squishy cruisers for soft, squishy old people. In the decade that followed, Ford's U.S. luxury arm has seen about as much success as a modern day typewriter salesman. Mistakes have been made. The Blackwood. The Aviator. The LS. All big-time blunders - tragically so with the Romulan cloak-inspired design of the LS, as it was a pretty good car under that anonymous sheetmetal - and all consigned to history.

It's easier than ever to tell a Lincoln from 100 yards out.
Fast forward to 2009, and yesterday's gaffes have been replaced with a group of indecipherably-named vehicles that don't seem to be catching the eye of the car-buying public. The MKS, MKZ and MKX are nice enough, with tons of tech and luxury amenities, but America's buying public doesn't seem impressed.

Admittedly, the biggest reason Lincoln was kicking ass on the luxury sales charts last decade was the Navigator. It was big, it could haul heavy loads and it had an over-the-top style that affluent Americans were looking for at the time. Today's Lincoln lineup continues to feature the Navi, but the hefty SUV is no long the toast of the town and its massive girth and lousy fuel economy are borderline synonymous with PR losers like global warming and dependence on foreign oil. The 2010 Lincoln MKT is sized to replace the Navigator, but with the improved packaging, comfort and efficiency of a car-based crossover. We exercised a pair of EcoBoost-powered luxury barges through the twists and turns of Ann Arbor, Michigan to answer one simple question: does the 2010 Lincoln MKT have what it takes to become the spiritual successor to the Navigator and help shake the Lincoln brand of its decade-long sales slump? Hit the jump to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost has soul of a sports sedan, controversial looks

First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost has soul of a sports sedan, controversial looks originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 lincoln mkt2010 mkt2010LincolnMkt2010Mktfeaturedfirst drivefirst drive lincoln mktFirstDriveFirstDriveLincolnMktfordford motor companyFordMotorCompanylincolnlincoln first drivelincoln mktLincolnFirstDriveLincolnMktluxury crossoverLuxuryCrossovermktmkt crossoverMktCrossover Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA Preview: The rest of the best from Ford and Lincoln]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/sema-preview-the-rest-of-the-best-from-ford-and-lincoln/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/sema-preview-the-rest-of-the-best-from-ford-and-lincoln/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/sema-preview-the-rest-of-the-best-from-ford-and-lincoln/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

2009 Ford SEMA vehicles - Click above for image gallery

In addition to the slew of Mustangs that will be at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas next week, Ford has well over a dozen more vehicles represented including perennial favorites like the Focus, Fusion, Flex and F-150, as well as newcomers like the Taurus SHO, Transit Connect and MKS.

Our personal faves include the Taurus "Best of SHO" by MRT-Direct that improves on the stock SHO with a subtle ground effects kit and vented hood, as well as adds performance improvements through tweaks of EcoBoost engine's turbocharging system and exhaust. Another cool newbie is the Transit Connect by Azentek and Grant Products that features a road-hugging body kit on the outside and a pull-out kitchen and upper bunk bed on the inside.

Our two favorites F-150s that will be on display at SEMA are the "Freedom Truck" that pays tribute to all those who have served in the U.S. armed forces with a patriotic paint job and the Super Duty DeWALT Contractor "Concept", the latter of which looks like a contractor's dream come true.

You can check out all the remaining SEMA vehicles from FoMoCo in the gallery below, complete with descriptions attached for each model.


Gallery: Ford and Lincoln at SEMA 2009

2010 Ford Taurus by Tommy Z Design2010 Ford Taurus SHO by Mobsteel2010 Ford Taurus ?Best of SHO? by MRT-Direct2010 Ford Fusion Sport by Aaron Vaccar Signature Series2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid by M&J Enterprises

[Source: Ford]

SEMA Preview: The rest of the best from Ford and Lincoln originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> f-150f-150 semaF-150Semaford semaFordSemalincoln semaLincolnSemasemasema 2009sema showSema2009SemaShowtaurustaurus shotaurus sho semaTaurusShoTaurusShoSematransit connecttransit connect semaTransitConnectTransitConnectSema Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Labor unrest in India to cause Ford to idle key NA crossover plant]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-labor-unrest-in-india-to-cause-ford-to-idle-key-na-cross/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-labor-unrest-in-india-to-cause-ford-to-idle-key-na-cross/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-labor-unrest-in-india-to-cause-ford-to-idle-key-na-cross/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Rico Auto Industries in India makes transmission parts for Ford's Flex and Edge, along with its upscale Lincoln MKT and MKX twins. Unfortunately for the Blue Oval, Automotive News is reporting that Rico's operations are in flux because of persistent troubles between labor and management. A few weeks ago, some of the supplier's workers went on strike after members were suspended and fired by management. On October 18, the striking workers marched to the factory and got involved in an altercation with "unidentified men" supposedly "acting at the behest of Rico Auto's management." During the brawl, a 26-year-old worker was killed.

In the meantime, Ford reportedly hasn't got the parts it needs to build the crossovers it makes at its Oakville, Ontario plant and will be forced to idle the key facility next week. Ford is watching the situation in India closely - if production isn't restored soon, the lack of parts could impact other plants in addition to Ontario and its 3,000 workers.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd. | Image: Simon Hayter/Getty]

REPORT: Labor unrest in India to cause Ford to idle key NA crossover plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Edgeflexfordford edgeford flexford indiaFordEdgeFordFlexFordIndiaindiaindian laborIndianLaborlabor disputelabor disturbancelabor unrestLaborDisputeLaborDisturbanceLaborUnrestlincolnlincoln mktlincoln mkxLincolnMktLincolnMkxmanufacturingMKTMKXplantsRico autorico auto industriesRicoAutoRicoAutoIndustries Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:47:00 EST <![CDATA[AB stops at the 27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/ab-stops-at-the-27th-concours-delegance-at-the-st-regis-monarc/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/ab-stops-at-the-27th-concours-delegance-at-the-st-regis-monarc/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/ab-stops-at-the-27th-concours-delegance-at-the-st-regis-monarc/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis, Dana Point - Click above for high-res image gallery

For its 27th iteration, Orange County's most prestigious classic car show returned to the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, and finally dropped the "Newport Beach" from its name. No longer would it be known as the Newport Beach Concours d'Elegance, instead adopting the Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis moniker. The title may have changed, but the quality of the entrants hasn't. Still benefiting the Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center at Hoag Hospital and the CSP Assessment and Treatment Services Center, the field of classic cars at this concours was once again stunning.

This year's featured marque was Mercedes-Benz, and the automaker was represented by some truly spectacular models, aided in no small part by the show's proximity to the Mercedes Classic Car Center, the factory-backed restoration shop for vintage Mercedes vehicles. Besides the beautiful Benzes, the roughly 3,000 attendees got to see about 300 other classic and exotic vehicles spread out around the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort and the adjacent Dana Point Sea Terrace Park. Read on to learn what else we found during our day in Dana Point and don't forget to check out the huge gallery below.


Gallery: 27th Annual Concours d'Elegance at The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort


All photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading AB stops at the 27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort

AB stops at the 27th Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> classic carclassic carsClassicCarClassicCarsConcoursConcours dEleganceConcours dElegance at the St. RegisConcoursDeleganceConcoursDeleganceAtTheSt.Regisdana pointDanaPointmonarch beachMonarchBeachNewport Beach Concours dEleganceNewportBeachConcoursDeleganceSt. Regis ConcoursSt. Regis Monarch BeachSt.RegisConcoursSt.RegisMonarchBeachsupercarsupercars Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Lincoln MKS EcoBoost earns second place in 6versus8.com showdown, should we care?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/lincoln-mks-ecoboost-earns-second-place-in-6versus8-com-showdown/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/lincoln-mks-ecoboost-earns-second-place-in-6versus8-com-showdown/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/lincoln-mks-ecoboost-earns-second-place-in-6versus8-com-showdown/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Click above to watch videos after the jump

Car magazines do crazy things for money these days. Case in point: Automobile Magazine (and co-testers from sister mag Motor Trend) got roped into an interesting comparison test that you will not be reading in the latest issue. Why? The whole thing lives at 6versus8.com, a domain set up just to host this single comparison test that highlights the result of Lincoln's bet that its V6-powered MKS EcoBoost can beat some of the best naturally aspirated V8-powered sedans from Europe.

The test pits the 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost against the Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E550, BMW 550i and Maserati Quattroporte. As you might imagine, the test has to be un-leveled a bit for the MKS EcoBoost to stand a chance. The challenge is a 3.76-mile hill climb up Colorado's Loveland Pass... at 11,900 feet above sea level. Ah, there it is. The MKS EcoBoost makes the least horsepower and is the second heaviest car in this group, but at these elevations, the twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 will maintain its power level while the naturally aspirated V8 engines gasp for breath.

Pike's Peak champion Rod Millen was hired to drive, the Colorado State Patrol closed off Route 6 in 30-minute intervals for each car's run and a top notch film crew with a helicopter was hired to document the proceedings. Long story short, the grand production produced five videos (you can view them at 6versus8.com or after the jump) in which we see the Lincoln MKS EcoBoost claim second place behind the BMW 550i, though it did nab honors for the highest top speed during the hill climb.

So... back to the original point we were making. It seems to us that this is less editorial than advertorial. Automobile and Motor Trend say they rented the other vehicles for this test because, honestly, would you loan your sedan for a comparison test that was clearly tilted in your opponent's favor? And what did the magazines get in return? From what we can see, two double-page spreads in the current issue of Automobile (and perhaps MT) that we're guessing cost more than enough to cover the price of producing this elaborate "comparison test". And why does it not appear in the magazine itself? Probably because Automobile and Motor Trend don't think it's editorial either.

Follow the jump to watch all five videos for yourself and let us know what you think in the comments.

[Source: 6versus8.com]

Continue reading Lincoln MKS EcoBoost earns second place in 6versus8.com showdown, should we care?

Lincoln MKS EcoBoost earns second place in 6versus8.com showdown, should we care? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 lincoln mks ecoboost2010LincolnMksEcoboostadvertorialautomobile magautomobile magazineAutomobileMagAutomobileMagazinelincolnlincoln advertoriallincoln mks ecoboostLincolnAdvertorialLincolnMksEcoboostmksmks advertorialmks ecoboostMksAdvertorialMksEcoboostmotor trendMotorTrend Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:58:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 North American Car of the Year nominees announced]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/2010-north-american-car-of-the-year-nominees-announced/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/2010-north-american-car-of-the-year-nominees-announced/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/2010-north-american-car-of-the-year-nominees-announced/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Here in the car journalism biz, this is that time of year when everyone is evaluating all the recently introduced cars to determine which ones truly stand out. Here in town, the crew from Car and Driver are doing their 10 Best testing this week. Elsewhere other magazines are doing their own evaluations.

The organizers of the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards have just released the short list of vehicles that they have deemed worthy of consideration for this year's awards. The winning vehicles will be announced in January at the North American International Auto Show. For now, the jury has to evaluate a list of 15 cars that includes the new MK VI Volkswagen Golf, Ford's Fusion and Taurus, and a dozen others. The list includes three cars with hybrid powertrains, two that offer diesels and everything from the Kia Soul to the Porsche Panamera.

On the truck side -which also includes crossovers and tall wagons like the new Honda Accord Crosstour, Acura ZDX and Subaru Outback - there are only 10 nominees. Check out the nominees in our galleries below - who will pick up the mantle after 2009's Ford F-150 and Hyundai Genesis?


Gallery: 2010 North American Car of the Year short list

2010 Volkswagen Golf2010 Toyota Prius2010 Subaru Legacy2010 Porsche Panamera2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Gallery: 2010 North American Truck of the Year nominees

2010 Subaru Outback2010 Lincoln MKT2010 Land Rover LR42010 Honda Accord Crosstour2010 Ford Transit Connect

2010 North American Car of the Year nominees announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 north american car and truck of the year2010 north american car of the year2010 north american truck of the year2010NorthAmericanCarAndTruckOfTheYear2010NorthAmericanCarOfTheYear2010NorthAmericanTruckOfTheYearfalse Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:28:00 EST <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Gorgeous 1964 Lincoln Continental has a 723-hp secret]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-gorgeous-1964-lincoln-continental-has-a-72/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-gorgeous-1964-lincoln-continental-has-a-72/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/ebay-find-of-the-day-gorgeous-1964-lincoln-continental-has-a-72/#comments Filed under: , ,

723-horsepower 1964 Lincoln Continental - Click above for image gallery

The Elwood Engel Continentals are so instantly recognizable that Lincoln borrowed some of their design cues when creating modern vehicles like the MKX crossover. These big hunks of awesome from the Sixties are still even relatively affordable, too. The seller of this gem claims that there's more than $120,000 invested in this much modified example, which is admittedly a whole lot more than we'd expect to pay for even this gobsmackingly nifty thing, so it's possibly a case of overdoing it. You've got a day, and as it stands now, the reserve has not been met by a $30,000 bid.

Lower than a dead man's blood pressure, this Lincoln has been expensively redone in a stunning shade of PPG Cherry Black. Underneath, chassis mods have been carried out to add an Air Ride Technologies suspension that gives you the slammed stance for going low and slow, but it also pumps up to regular height for motorvatin'. Underhood yields the biggest surprise, as if the beautifully straight bodywork, sumptuous leather interior and high standard of work weren't enough.

Pop that lid and where you'd expect to see an MEL or 385-series lies a 351 Windsor-based engine, now displacing 427 cubic inches and breathing heavily with a ProCharger iron lung and spinning an AOD transmission. A mid-century masterpiece powered by more than 700 horsepower done up tastefully sounds good to us.


Gallery: Custom eBay Lincoln Continental

linc_18linc_1linc_2linc_3linc_4

[Source: eBay]

eBay Find of the Day: Gorgeous 1964 Lincoln Continental has a 723-hp secret originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1964 lincoln continental1964LincolnContinentalcustom continentalcustom lincolnCustomContinentalCustomLincolnebayebay 1964 lincolnebay find of the dayebay lincoln continentalEbay1964LincolnEbayFindOfTheDayEbayLincolnContinentallincolnlincoln continentalLincolnContinental Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:57:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 Lincoln Mark LT debuts for our friends to the South]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/2010-lincoln-mark-lt-debuts-for-our-friends-to-the-south/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/2010-lincoln-mark-lt-debuts-for-our-friends-to-the-south/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/2010-lincoln-mark-lt-debuts-for-our-friends-to-the-south/#comments Filed under: , ,


2010 Lincoln Mark LT - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The Lincoln Mark LT was an unmitigated failure in the US market, but in Mexico it's been the marque's top-seller, with 6,000 units leaving dealers since 2005. So while the gussied-up F-150 was unceremoniously euthanized in the US, Ford's luxury brand had to whip up something with a star badge, a split grille and a work-over with el feo palo for our southern compadres.

The 2010 Lincoln Mark LT looks a lot like the Ford F-150 Platinum fitted with a new grille (Ford didn't even change the headlights) and some Lincoln badging, because essentially, that's what it is. The new LT shares all the mechanicals with Ford's top-selling pickup, including its 310 hp 5.4-liter V8 powerplant, a choice of 5.5- or 6.5-foot beds and a tow rating of 10,000 lbs.

We're guessing there won't be many American pickup truck buyers disappointed that the 2010 Lincoln Mark LT won't be available in the US market. Heck, most truck buyers didn't even know the original Mark LT even existed to begin with. Click on the gallery below to check out the 2010 Mark LT in all its frankentruck glory.


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln Mark LT

01-2010-lincoln-lt02-2010-lincoln-lt03-2010-lincoln-lt04-2010-lincoln-lt05-2010-lincoln-lt


[Source: Pickuptrucks]

2010 Lincoln Mark LT debuts for our friends to the South originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 lincoln mark lt2010LincolnMarkLtford f-150FordF-150lincoln pickup truckLincolnPickupTruckmexico Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Meadow Brook Concours 2009: Pre-WWII rides for the rich]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/meadow-brook-concours-2009-pre-wwii-rides-for-the-rich/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/meadow-brook-concours-2009-pre-wwii-rides-for-the-rich/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/meadow-brook-concours-2009-pre-wwii-rides-for-the-rich/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


Pre-WWII luxury at Meadow Brook Concours 2009 - click above for high-res image gallery

From the moment the world's first automobiles were built, the wealthy began demanding better transportation than the masses. Brands like Rolls-Royce, Lincoln Pierce-Arrow and Cadillac delivered big, beautiful vehicles with luxury appointments to coddle their occupants. Big, gaudy hood emblems and acres of shiny chrome and brass showed onlookers that big money was rolling by.

At Meadow Brook this weekend, there were over 100 exclusive vehicles from automakers from Packard to Peugeot, and most of them held very true to their original designs. Some cars from the early 20th century had tool boxes that resided on their running boards, and even these containers were decorated in rich-looking finishes. Wheels were made of wood, windshields were optional, and even a sixteen-cylinder Cadillac had less power than a typical four-banger of today. Designers and engineers collaborated to make some of the most beautiful and unique-looking vehicles of any time period, and we've got the pictures to prove it. Click on the gallery below to view the best of the pre-WWII vehicles from Meadow Brook.


Gallery: Meadow Brook 2009: The Pre WWII years

Meadow Brook Concours 2009: Pre-WWII rides for the rich originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> brass eraBrassEracadillacconcoursconcoursdelegancelincolnmeadow brook 2009meadowbrookMeadowBrook2009packardpierce-arrowpre-warrolls royceRollsRoyce Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:21:00 EST <![CDATA[The Streak Is Broken! Ford posts first sales gain in 19 months]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/the-streak-is-broken-ford-posts-first-sales-gain-in-19-months/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/the-streak-is-broken-ford-posts-first-sales-gain-in-19-months/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/the-streak-is-broken-ford-posts-first-sales-gain-in-19-months/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



We'll publish our By the Numbers feature detailing sales results for every brand and automaker in the U.S. later today, but we just had to tell you the news: Ford Motor Company has just reported a 2.3% sales gain for July 2009 versus the same month last year. Why is that a big deal? For one, FoMoCo, General Motors and Chrysler LLC have been on a streak of monthly sales losses going all the way back to January 2008 when GM posted a 2.1% gain. The last time Chrysler reported positive numbers was December 2007 with a meager 1.0% improvement. Ford has gone the longest - 19 months - without reporting a sales gain, its last one being razor thin at 0.4% all the way back in November 2007.

And to what can we attribute Ford's positive performance in July 2009? A number of things, including a fresh lineup of vehicles, new hybrids, positive press and, of course, a little bit of help from the Cash for Clunkers program. Not all can be credited to CFC just yet, though, as dealers only actively started accepting trade-ins at the end of the month. Nevertheless, Ford's entire portfolio of brands reported gains except for Lincoln, which was down 24.3%. The Ford brand was up 2.9%, Mercury gained 6.6% and even Volvo erupted with a 25.7% sales gain.

Of individual models, the 2010 Escape made the biggest sales gain selling 20,241 units, a 94.2% improvement versus July 2008. The new 2010 Fusion also did well, selling 17,610 units for a 66.0% jump in sales. Even the Focus improved selling 21,830 units for a 43.6% gain.

Click here (PDF download) to view Ford Motor Company's complete sales performance for July 2009, and keep your eyes open for our industry-wide By the Numbers report later today.

[Source: Ford | Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images]

Continue reading The Streak Is Broken! Ford posts first sales gain in 19 months

The Streak Is Broken! Ford posts first sales gain in 19 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> breakingfordford july 2009ford july salesford sales gainFordJuly2009FordJulySalesFordSalesGainjuly 2009 salesjuly salesJuly2009SalesJulySales Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Ay Dios Mio! 2011 Lincoln Mark LT spotted south of the border]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/ay-dios-mio-2011-lincoln-mark-lt-spotted-south-of-the-border/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/ay-dios-mio-2011-lincoln-mark-lt-spotted-south-of-the-border/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/ay-dios-mio-2011-lincoln-mark-lt-spotted-south-of-the-border/#comments Filed under: , , ,



The Lincoln Mark LT never really worked out according to plan. The thinking was that trucks and SUVs were so hot, all you had to do was rebadge 'em and then roll around in all the easy money. And while that worked wonders for Cadillac via the Las Vegas-a-riffic Escalade EXT, Lincolns with beds just never got any play. In fairness to the LT, the stage for failure was set by the Blackwood, a truck only intended to appeal to polo players (the bed was carpeted). The LT, on the other hand, was essentially a fully-dressed F-150 with Lincoln badges. Lincoln Mark LT production stopped in late 2008 and no one cared. Except, apparently, Mexicans.

Despite all that, last March brought us some spy shots of a 2011 Lincoln Mark LT running around the Detroit metro area. Huh? Well here's the thing: These trucks are headed down south -- way down south. Turns out that the Lincoln brand still has a certain cachet in Mexico, and our neighbors to the south see no problem in shelling out a little extra for the honor of the badge. Don't laugh, there are plenty Americans who routinely shell out around $50,000 for the same truck with a Ford badge (the Lincoln Mark LT is essentially the Ford F-150 Platinum).

Anyhow, here's a pre-production 2011 Lincoln Mark LT running wild somewhere in Mexico. We thought maybe we'd be able to tell from the license plate, but that's definitely a 2002-2007 Distrito Federal plate. Frankly, this truck could be anywhere. But seeing as how most of us don't know our Aguascalientes from our Hidalgo, what's it matter where? The larger point is that in a few years time if someone asks you to bring them the head of Alfredo Garcia Jr. and you want to do so in high style, has Lincoln got the lux-truck for you.

[Source: Auto Cosmos]

Ay Dios Mio! 2011 Lincoln Mark LT spotted south of the border originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Aug 2009 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Cadillac EscaladeCadillac Escalade EXTCadillacEscaladeCadillacEscaladeExtEscalade EXTEscaladeExtF150FordFord F150Ford F150 PlatinumFordF150FordF150PlatinumLincolnLincoln BlackwoodLincoln LTLincolnBlackwoodLincolnLt Sun, 02 Aug 2009 09:02:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Lincoln and Mercury's new direction involves downsizing]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-lincoln-and-mercurys-new-direction-involves-downsizing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-lincoln-and-mercurys-new-direction-involves-downsizing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/report-lincoln-and-mercurys-new-direction-involves-downsizing/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Lincoln Concept C - Click above for high-res image gallery

If The Blue Oval boys intend to keep buyers filing into Lincoln and Mercury showrooms over the next few years, each brand's product portfolios are going to need a bit more than a simple nick-and-tuck to compete with the best from around the world. To that end, expect Lincoln to continue making the switch from large, rear-wheel drive SUVs and old-tech luxury barges to smaller, more nimble premium models akin to the next-gen Focus-based compact Concept C that was introduced earlier this year at the Detroit Auto Show. Around the same time, the very last Lincoln Town Car will roll ingloriously down the assembly line, replaced as it's already been in most buyer's minds by the newer MKS.

Don't expect to see a replacement for the aging Lincoln Navigator SUV any time soon, but joining the MKX and MKT mid-size crossovers may well be a new compact 'ute based on the underpinnings of the next-gen Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner and Ford Kuga (for Europe, at least). Speaking of Ford's interplanetary brand, it's reportedly finally confirmed Mercury has a future products in the pipeline. Starting small - which seems to be a definite theme for Mercury and Lincoln - Mercury should get its own version of the next Focus, probably as a 2012 model.

A year later in 2013, the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ are all scheduled to get a new front-drive mid-size platform that will thankfully share its guts with the European Ford Mondeo. The Mercury Mariner and Ford Escape twins along with the expected Lincoln crossover should show up late in 2011. Finally, the body-on-frame Grand Marquis and Mountaineer will make the long, cold walk to the automotive graveyard within the next few years. Somehow, we doubt many will miss their absence.


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Lincoln C Concept Live


Gallery: Lincoln Concept C


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Lincoln and Mercury's new direction involves downsizing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 lincoln mks2010 lincoln mkt2010 lincoln mkx2010 lincoln mkz2010LincolnMks2010LincolnMkt2010LincolnMkx2010LincolnMkzlincoln clincoln compactlincoln concept clincoln mkslincoln mktlincoln mkxlincoln mkzLincolnCLincolnCompactLincolnConceptCLincolnMksLincolnMktLincolnMkxLincolnMkzmercury compactmercury marinermercury milanMercuryCompactMercuryMarinerMercuryMilan Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost offers big American luxury with straight line speed]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/review-2010-lincoln-mks-ecoboost-big-american-luxury-with-a-d/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/review-2010-lincoln-mks-ecoboost-big-american-luxury-with-a-d/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/review-2010-lincoln-mks-ecoboost-big-american-luxury-with-a-d/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


2009 Lincoln MKS Ecoboost - Click above for high-res image gallery

For more years than we care to remember, Lincoln has soldiered on without a competitive large car. Ford's luxury marque finally gave its high-end roster some love for the 2009 model year with the large-and-in-charge MKS. At 204 inches long, the MKS is a Reese's Cup shy of a Navigator, and at 4,305 pounds, our all-wheel drive tester is only 166-pounds lighter than the super-sized Ford Flex.

When we tested the MKS last year, the relatively modest 3.7-liter V6 left us eagerly anticipating the long-promised twin-turbo EcoBoost variant. The first press samples of the MKS EcoBoost came in the spring, and our brief time with the 355 horsepower sedan at Milan Raceway gave us a newfound appreciation for the big Lincoln. But only a few hours behind the wheel wasn't nearly enough time to fully take in the EcoBoost experience, so we spent a week with Lincoln's Big Easy to see if 355 force-fed ponies catapults the MKS into the realm of the luxury elite. Hit the jump to find out how this latter-day Hot Rod Lincoln fared.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS Ecoboost

Continue reading Review: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost offers big American luxury with straight line speed

Review: 2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost offers big American luxury with straight line speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20010 Lincoln MKS20010LincolnMks2010 Ecoboost MKS2010EcoboostMksEcoboost MKSEcoboost MKS reviewEcoboostMksEcoboostMksReviewfeaturedFordlincolnlincoln mkslincoln mks ecoboostLincolnMksLincolnMksEcoboostmksmks ecoboostmks reviewMksEcoboostMksReviewreviewreviewsturbo chargingTurboCharging Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST <![CDATA[Spy Shot: Redesigned Lincoln MKX gains corporate face]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-shot-redesigned-lincoln-mkx-gains-corporate-face/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-shot-redesigned-lincoln-mkx-gains-corporate-face/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-shot-redesigned-lincoln-mkx-gains-corporate-face/#comments Filed under: , ,


Redesigned Lincoln MKX spy shot - Click above to enlarge

Lincoln's new corporate grille is comprised of a split-wing design that flows up into a pair of swept back headlamps. It debuted on the MKS, has migrated to the MKZ and was expanded for the MKT three-row crossover, and now it's set to appear on the redesigned MKX crossover.

The MKX crossover has always been the odd-man-out in terms of styling when compared to the rest of the Lincoln lineup. Even before the split-wing grille came into being, the MKX debuted with a front fascia that didn't match any of the brand's other models because it was based on the 2005 Lincoln Aviator concept. All that will change as this spy shot reveals.

Whereas the split-wing grille looks over-the-top on the much larger MKT crossover, this most important of Lincoln design cues seems right at home on the smaller MKX. Click the image above for an enlarged view and let us (and Lincoln) know what you think in the comments. Specifically, how do you think the new MKX design compares to its cross-town rival, the 2010 Cadillac SRX?

Spy Shot: Redesigned Lincoln MKX gains corporate face originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> lincolnlincoln mkxLincolnMkxmkxredesigned lincoln mkxRedesignedLincolnMkxspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShots Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST