Ford Motor Company launched a new powertrain technology called EcoBoost earlier in 2010. EcoBoost will eventually be available on 90% of Ford's lineup in the USA. The first EcoBoost installations are in Ford's new D3 Platform vehicles - Ford Taurus SHO, Lincoln MKS, Lincoln MKT, and Ford Flex. EcoBoost's first installation is a 3.5L V6 with gasoline direct injection and twin turbochargers. Power output on the Taurus SHO is 365HP while on the MKS, MKT and Flex is 355. The EcoBoost 3.5L has 350lb-ft of torque. These technology advancements yield substantially better performance while achieving equivalent fuel economy as a vehicle equipped with a non-EcoBoost 3.5L (of course this is only on paper. EcoBoost is so fun to drive you'll be in it all the time - achieving equal fuel economy is just a dream).

EcoBoost a $5,000 Proposition Anyway, EcoBoost is not free. A Taurus SHO is almost $40,000 and the price increase for EcoBoost on the MKT, MKS and Flex comes out to about $5,000. That price includes all wheel drive which EcoBoost requires to handle the power and torque on the front wheel drive platform. So, with the power and price increase, how many is Ford selling?

EcoBoost Installations Running Ahead of Forecast According to George Pipas, Ford's spokesman for sales reporting and arcane numbers, the Taurus SHO now represents about 15% of the Taurus lineup. This is 5%-pts higher than Ford had estimated. Each Taurus SHO generates $10,000 more economic profit than an average Taurus. Installation rate on the Lincoln MKT is 47%. About 30% of Lincoln MKS gets EcoBoost (and 37% gets AWD). The Flex has about an 11% rate lowest of the four.

So, it appears that EcoBoost is well on its way to being a success even in these tough economic times. In each vehicle line, with the possible exception of Flex, the installation rate is healthy for a performance option. It will be interesting to see what the mix is of EcoBoost engines as Ford continues to roll the technology across its vehicle lines.

Posted by George Peterson at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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We recently spent a few days with a Lincoln MKS equipped with EcoBoost and its host of technology features. Not industry firsts, Lincoln's execution is impressive. From headlights that adjust high- or low-beam spread based on conditions to adaptive cruise control and parallel parking assist, these systems work smoothly and confidently. As systems like these tend to get better quickly after their first automotive application, Lincoln should still be commended for putting together a comprehensive and usable package.

If you're driving the MKS EcoBoost, you have a willing and comfortable partner in a stylish package (assuming you're a fan of the chrome-laden signature grille, of course); the 355HP powertrain moves the 4300-pound vehicle along briskly. Not only heavy, MKS is big, and feels it. Looking at its specs on paper tells you that, standing next to it tells you that, and driving it reminds you of it all the time. MKS is relatively nimble, but this is not one of those big-but-drives-small kind of cars, a trait perfectly appropriate for what is functionally a modern Town Car. The MKS driving dynamics seem pretty spot on. There's power, comfort, a compliant but not overly soft ride, and plenty of technology to make being in it as easy as possible. I can't say sporting. This is not a sports sedan, but offers grace and presence, with the muscle to back it up.

MKS is sized between an Audi A6 and A8, BMW 5-Series and 7-Series, and Mercedes E- and S-Classes, and slightly bigger than the Cadillac STS. Our EcoBoost could boast a nearly $57,000 price tag. While a healthy number, to be sure, in context of the amenities, style, and power offered, the price seems quite reasonable.

Continue reading "2010 Lincoln MKS: Technology Improves Driving" »

Posted by Stephanie Brinley at 3:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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"The Lincoln Town Car wins 2009 AutoPacific Motorist Choice Award in the Large Car segment. Owners rave about one of the last body-on-frame vehicles. From 5-star safety ratings to stuffing four golf bags into the trunk, owners appreciate their Town Car. It consistently scored at the top of its class." - AutoPacific

"The Town Car has low maintenance costs and was ranked first in the AutoPacific survey." - IntelliChoice

Owner Satisfaction Highlights
• Vehicle and Brand Reputation
• Winning scores for Durability and Longevity
• Feeling Safe While Driving
• Packaging elements, including Cargo Space/Capacity and Forward and Rearward Driver's Seat Visibility
• Vehicle's Ride

Cost-of-Ownership Strengths
• Low Maintenance Costs
• Better-than-expected Insurance Costs

Posted by Stephanie Brinley at 7:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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"Lincoln started the Luxury Sport Utility category in 1997 with the launch of the first-generation Navigator. The current Navigator's 2009 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Award win shows that Lincoln has continued to learn what their buyers want and are delivering it," said George Peterson, president of AutoPacific, Inc. "In a product segment where buyers value size, glitz and function, Navigator excels." Areas in which the Navigator scored particularly well include:
* Ease of entry/egress
* Handling
* Exterior styling

Posted by Stephanie Brinley at 8:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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In the Large Car segment the Lincoln Town Car took top honors. Capturing 29 out of the 48 measurements for satisfaction, owners of this American icon appreciate the generous dimensions and loads of standard features. Town Car excels in areas that lead to a comfortable environment, allowing this stately sedan to age gracefully. Among the areas Town Car earned top scores are:
* Vehicle's reputation with winning scores for durability and longevity
* Feeling safe while driving
* Several package related characteristics, including cargo space/capacity and both forward and rearward driver's seat visibility
* Vehicle's ride

Posted by Stephanie Brinley at 7:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has announced the winners of its 2009 Top Safety Picks. There are 72 winners in 2009; more than double in 2008 and more than 3 times as many as in 2007. Some key factors leading to winning results are better structure to protect from side impacts and increased application of electronic stability control which helps maintain control and minimize rollovers. Additionally, improved headrests are doing a better job protecting against whiplash.

IIHS works for auto insurers and publishes the results of its Top Safety Picks to help consumers select the safest cars and light trucks when they are in the market. AutoPacific's research shows that safety features and feeling safe while driving are very important when a person selects their vehicle.

Ford Wins 16 Top Safety Picks - almost 25% of Those Awarded

A major result of the 2009 Top Picks was that Ford Motor Company (including Volvo) had 16 of the 72 Top Picks. Several years ago, after Ford acquired Volvo, Ford began adopting Volvo safety strategies in its designs. Several Ford vehicles are derived from the Volvo S80 platform - Lincoln MKS, Ford Taurus, Ford Taurus X, Mercury Sable, Ford Flex, Volvo S80. Using Volvo's vaunted SIPS (Side Impact Protection System), Ford has been able to make its larger vehicles able to withstand significant blows from the side.

The Ford Fusion with ESC and Mercury Milan with ESC, Lincoln MKZ, Volvo C70, Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX, Volvo XC90, Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, Ford F-150 also won IIHS Top Safety Picks for 2009.

Honda Comes In Second - Close Behind Ford

Coming in close behind Ford Motor Company products was another company that set an objective to become a safety leader several years ago. American Honda has Top Safety Picks for Acura RL, Acura TL, Acura TSX, Acura MDX, Acura RDX, Honda Accord 4-doors, Honda Civic 4-doors with ESC, Honda Fit, Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, Honda CRV, Honda Element and Honda Ridgeline. The Honda Fit is the first Economy (Mini) Car to achieve an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The IIHS Press Release Is shown below the fold.

Continue reading "Top Safety Picks by Insurance Institute of Highway Safety" »

Posted by George Peterson at 3:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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And turn that radio down!
Today's teens have grown up in a world of fluid and ever-expanding technology, with their parents using everything from V-chips to internet blockers to teddy-bear babysitting cams to GPS trackers to keep better track of them. For many, it is simply part of their world. Parents and kids have the same trust issues to sort through, just the same as when I was a kid and didn't think my mom had any right to go through MY dresser, but parents have more direct tools at their disposal now.

Add one more to the arsenal. Ford is introducing the latest electronic nanny next year (2010MY) across several model lines, including the Focus. The system will be a no-cost option or standard equipment, depending on model. It turns out to be an inexpensive way to help teens stay focused in early driving years, when they are the least experienced, and for parents to feel better about teens driving.

Continue reading "Ford's MyKey: Who Says Parents Can't Control Your Speed?" »

Posted by Stephanie Brinley at 3:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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On August 3, I finally returned to one of my favorite summer events, the annual Meadow Brook Concours d' Elegance. Held the first weekend of August every year since 1979, this Concours is one of the premier events of its type. Not quite as prestigious as the Pebble Beach Concours happening the weekend of August 16 (yes, the same weekend as Detroit's Woodward Dream Cruise), Meadow Brook has earned a strong reputation. For me, it's simply a chance to wander among cars from storied brands of today and yesterday. Delahaye, Packard, Auburn, Duesenburg, Pierce-Arrow, Studebaker, Peugeot, Ferrari, Cadillac, Lincoln, Chrysler, Rolls-Royce, the list goes on and on.

Meadow Brook is home to a mansion of the same name built by the widow of John Dodge, one of the two Dodge brothers that helped establish the automotive industry we know today. The home and its property now belongs to Oakland University. Aside from the sheer joy and pleasure of celebrating the automobile as an art from, the event's purpose is to raise funds for upkeep of the 88,000-square-foot mansion and its grounds. Seems a fitting choice of fundraising event.

Continue reading "2008 Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance" »

Posted by Stephanie Brinley at 11:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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An iconic SUV since it hit the market in 1998, the Lincoln Navigator proves itself once again as it wins the 2008 Ideal Vehicle Award in the Luxury Sport Utility segment with room to spare. The Navigator scored well in all fifteen categories. From exterior size, passenger room and cargo space to unparalleled ride, safety and wheels and tires, the Lincoln Navigator still satisfies its owners.

Posted by Katrina Ohlemacher at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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AutoPacific and VehicleVoice just drove the all new Lincoln MKS in Washington DC and rural Virginia. We were the third of three waves of journalists and analysts to evaluate the MKS, but our wave had the added advantage of driving through a microburst of wind, thunder and lightning that tested the car's systems from its all wheel drive, rain-sensing windshield wipers and latest generation SIRIUS Travel Link system. So the first two waves drove the cars in perfect weather and we got the best of it - a challenge.

Competes With Executive Luxury Products

The Lincoln MKS is a contemporary luxury car positioned against the Cadillac STS V6 and Lexus GS350. Other competitors Lincoln identifies are the Acura RL, Infiniti M35, and up-level Cadillac CTS. There was even mention of Nissan Maxima and Hyundai Genesis. The MKS is actually longer than the BMW 750Li and competes well in interior spaciousness even with the long wheelbase competition (BMW 750Li and Lexus LS460 L). Lincoln won't have to apologize for the car being a "little Lincoln"... it is full sized.

Against its STS and GS competition, Lincoln has a good value story being base-priced thousands less and including gobs of standard equipment. In fact, loading up an MKS to the specs I would personally choose yields a price point of about $43,000 for the AWD version.

New Lincoln Design Cues Begin Appearing on MKS

Styling is not particularly head-turning, but Ford's stylists were able to push the design envelope a bit further than when the MKS was first seen at auto shows about 18-months ago. Since then, Ford Design has developed a palette of Lincoln DNA design cues that were rushed into production on the MKS. The result is an MKS style that incorporates Lincoln's new bow wave grille, simple bodyside sculpturing and a kickup over the rear wheels in the rear quarter panel. There is a large Lincoln star placed on the rear surface of the front fender - a cue we will be seeing on future Lincolns. The rear end has LED taillamps distinguished by hockeystick shaped backup lamps on the inboard surface. A cue we particularly like - borrowed from the BMW 750Li and Infiniti M are the fore-to-aft bright inserts in the roof panel. Nice touch. The MKS can be had with large 20-inch tires and wheels that really fill the wheel openings but don't deteriorate ride quality.

Continue reading "Lincoln MKS - New Lincoln Flagship" »

Posted by George Peterson at 8:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Mark LT owners are happy with Lincoln’s luxury interpretation of the Ford F-150. Mark LT owners appreciate the vehicle’s blend of utility and style. Top ranking was secured with a Comfortable Ride, great Driver Visibility and a Feeling of Safety When Driving.

Posted by Katrina Ohlemacher at 12:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Best of Show

You always go to an autoshow with the hope that there will be a truly outstanding example there. VehicleVoice and AutoPacific's eight staffers at the 2008 North American International Auto Show were extremely impressed with the Lincoln MKT concept vehicle.

A vehicle we will call a Crossover SUV, the MKT is in many ways similar to General Motors Lambda Crossover SUVs and especially the Buick Enclave. The thing that makes MKT special is its exterior styling which uses all six Lincoln design cues (although they say seven at the show, Peter Horbury, Ford's head designer in North America says he only really uses six) which are critical to the definition of a Lincoln design. Wow, this thing is beautiful. From the bow wave grille to the relatively fast rear end treatment, MKT comes across as a premium, substantial vehicle worthy of carrying the Lincoln badge.

Not only is the exterior stunning, the interior carries on new Lincoln cues which are very upscale, contemporary and modern. A four passenger concept with no pretense at transporting seven passengers, the MKT is decked out like a luxury business jet.

Only Thing Wrong... The Name

A few years back, Ford made the unfortunate error of renaming Lincoln vehicles with alphanumeric names - MKZ (Zephyr), MKX (Aviator), MKS (Continental), and now MKT. Another great concept is the MKR flagship sedan. Better with a real name. Only the Navigator and Town Car have not succumbed to this folly. I guess MKT means Lincoln "Truck". No, it's really "Touring"... guess that fits better. Well, MKT certainly ain't no truck. It's really special and deserves better... a name.

[Even Mark Fields, Ford's President of North American Operations, botched up the name of the MKS when he introduced it at the Los Angeles Auto Show. He first said "MKX". If Ford's biggies can't keep 'em straight, think about salespeople at Lincoln dealerships and prospective buyers].

2009 Ford Flex Crossover SUV is Base for MKT

Based on Ford Flex (Ford Crossover SUV to be launched in mid-2008) underpinnings, MKT is powered by Ford's 3.5L Twin Turbo GDI EcoBoost V6. This should give it enough punch to qualify as a high performance Crossover. In the MKT the 3.5L V6 has 415-horsepower and 400 pound feet of torque.

Only A Concept - Get them to Build It

In discussions with Ford design management, there was no confirmation that the MKT - codenamed D472 - has been approved for production. In fact, the designers contend that the MKT design has not even been proven feasible. The front fenders and rear quarters have a very crisp blade on the upper surface that would be practically impossible to stamp out of metal. MKT uses plastic to get around that particular problem.

In any event, write, email, telephone Ford to convince them to produce the MKT. If they give the vehicle the go ahead, we could expect to see it in 2010 as a 2011 model year vehicle.

Ford's press release on the Lincoln MKT Concept is below the fold.

Continue reading "Lincoln MKT - VehicleVoice Best of Show" »

Posted by George Peterson at 7:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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In past discussions with Derrick Kuzak, Ford's product development czar, he has stressed that Ford would be making their cars and trucks much more efficient by reducing their weight and using higher technology engines. One of the first examples of that strategy was when Ford dropped the V8 engine from the powertrain plan for the upcoming Lincoln MKS sedan and will use a twin turbo V6 as its high performance powerplant.

While we can't fathom a Lincoln flagship without a V8, the proof is in how it drives and what the durability and reliability of a turbo powertrain turns out to be. In AutoPacific and VehicleVoice Internet research car buyers generally opt for displacement (larger) and less engine technology (non-turbo, for instance). The old adage that "there is no replacement for displacement" generally holds true. But we can't ignore the issues of Global Warming (if it exists) or higher gas prices or impending CAFE rules that force new technology.

Ford has laid out its powertrain philosophy in an early January press release shown below the fold...

Continue reading "Ford Announces EcoBoost Powertrains" »

Posted by George Peterson at 10:16 AM | Permalink

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On Monday, November 6 Ford gave Detroit-area journalists a glimpse of the 2009 Lincoln MKS Mid-Luxury Car. We had reviewed the concept of the MKS previously in VehicleVoice and found the car lacking. In its first incarnation, the MKS came across as a JapoEuro design exercise without much American flair. It was bigger than it looked and that is not necessarily a good thing. Given the somewhat lukewarm reception that the MKS concept received, especially in light of the very positive reception of the MKR Concept at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, Ford's product development team went to work on upgrading the MKS in subtle ways.

Production MKS Execution Now Has Presence

The production MKS now has the presence and ambiance that it should have had all along. The former blandonymous grille has been replaced by Lincoln's new double wing face grille. There is a Lincoln logo mounted in the space between the grille wings. Character lines are crisper. The taillights are reminiscent of Maserati European taillights of a few years ago... with backup lights mimicking the boomerang effect of the Maserati pieces.

The interior is very upscale and continues Lincoln's interior themes first seen on the Navigator, MKX and MKZ. Ergonomics appear to be excellent, but this is characteristic of Ford's large entries produced at their Chicago Assembly Plant (Taurus/Five Hundred, Taurus X/Freestyle, Sable/Montego).

But... a "Flagship" It's Not - Four Reasons

Reason One: Ford describes the MKS as its "Flagship". While it will be its newest passenger car entry, the venerable Town Car is Lincoln's Flagship until Ford simply cannot justify continuing the Panther lineup (Crown Victoria - now fleet only, Grand Marquis, Town Car) produced at Ford's St. Thomas, Ontario assembly plant. But, with such a high percentage of Town Car sales to the fleet and executive car business, maybe Ford is not counting Town Car any more.

Reason Two: Another reason we don't buy into MKS as a flagship is the MKR concept shown at last year's Detroit show. A wow piece if ever there was one, the MKR showcased all of the Lincoln design cues in one place. A stunning piece of work! Now, if they would produce the MKR on a RWD V8 platform, I'd buy it.

Reason Three: The MKS is V6 only. In the beginning, the MKS program included the 4.4L V8 found in the Volvo XC90 and S80. This Yamaha-built unit is terrifically expensive and I guess Ford decided not to pony up to add it to the MKS. Mistake.

VehicleVoice and AutoPacific have conducted several research projects on what makes an ideal $50,000 luxury car and the evidence is very clear that a V8 engine in the lineup is the price of entry for a car in this class. The V8 does not have to be standard, but it needs to be offered. Sure it may be a low installation rate - especially with $3.00 per gallon gasoline, but the image halo of a V8 is indisputable. Having a twin turbo direct injection V6 gives MKS some performance panache, but there is no replacement for numbers of cylinders and displacement.

Reason Four: You will be able to get into a base MKS for less than $38,000. This is not flagship pricing. Clearly, Ford is leaving room at the top of the heap for a premium priced flagship with the specifications necessary to really command price points over $50,000.

Let's not forget Reason Five: Nomenclature. Hopefully, once Jim Farley gets his feet on the ground he will review Lincoln's present nomenclature plan and scrap it. Not clean or easy, but having Lincoln's with alphanumeric nomenclature is folly. Go back to names!

Ford's press release for the MKS is shown below the fold.

Continue reading "2009 Lincoln MKS - LA Auto Show" »

Posted by George Peterson at 9:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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The timeless Mercury Grand Marquis is the Ideal Large Luxury Car for 2007. Grand Marquis scored particularly well in its segment for cargo space and ease of getting in and out. These are attributes that are extremely important to its buyers. There was no area where Grand Marquis was rated significantly lower than the segment average.

Posted by Keagan Patrick at 11:57 PM | Permalink

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The all-new Lincoln MKZ is a clear winner among its Luxury Mid-Size Car competition. The MKZ proves that Lincoln’s new cars (and trucks) are on target, meeting the requirements of Lincoln’s buyers. In fact, all of the vehicles derived from this Ford platform did very well in the IVA ratings in their respective classes – Lincoln MKZ, Lincoln MKX, Ford Fusion, Ford Edge and Mercury Milan. The MKZ beat the segment average in 14 out of 15 categories, winning every measure other than ease of getting in and out. The MKZ rated particularly well with respect to interior lighting.

Posted by Keagan Patrick at 11:55 PM | Permalink

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Showing that Ford Motor Company planners, designers and engineers not only know the traditional SUV market better than most with Ideal Vehicle Award wins by the Ford Expedition and Ford Explorer, Ford’s all new crossover SUVs win in their categories as well. The all-new Lincoln MKX wins as the Most Ideal Luxury Crossover SUV. MKX is highly rated for exterior style, passenger room, visibility, and level of technology. In fact MKX owners are more likely than segment average buyers to prefer the same level for all attributes tested except for power and acceleration (where they want more, of course).

Posted by Keagan Patrick at 11:25 PM | Permalink

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Just Drove a Lincoln Mark LT

I currently have three pickups. Have had pickups of one kind or another for about 30 years. I thought of myself as frugal, practical, not much interested in image, one way or the other.

Maybe I was all wrong!

I just spent some time with a Lincoln Mark LT. The fully loaded $50,000 version, with all bells and whistles. You know, the Mark LT is the Lincoln version of the Ford F-150 SuperCrew.

The vehicle itself worked just fine. Just as I expected an F-150 SuperCrew to perform. No troubles at all. I might have preferred a more contemporary 6-speed auto, but frankly the old 4-speed was perfectly adequate, and the bed is a little deep for my taste. But generally, no complaints.

But, there was a problem! A serious problem. I was embarrassed to drive it! You see, I live in a very rural area... an area where the most popular vehicle is a Ford Super Duty. And the Mark LT just doesn't fit in, especially not in pearlescent White Chocolate and with those 20" chrome wheels. The Mark LT is just too, well, "nice". Maybe it would be more appropriate in Newport Beach? Maybe if I wore Gucci loafers rather than Tony Lamas?

Different strokes for different folks, I guess. The Mark LT seems to sell to about 9,000 people per year, just a few more than the Cadillac Escalade EXT, but far less than Ford's 300,000+ Super Duties. Nothing wrong with the truck itself, but I sure wouldn't want to claim it in the parking lot outside the bar. Maybe I'm more image conscious than I thought!

Posted by Jim Hossack at 4:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Lincoln MKX Wins AutoPacific 2007 Vehicle Satisfaction Award for Luxury Crossover SUV:

“A new entry in a new segment, the Lincoln MKX scored well. Very well. It fact it was the highest scoring truck in the industry," says AutoPacific president George Peterson. "MKX strengths include high ratings for Value, a Flexible/Changeable Interior, Vehicle and Audio Controls, Cupholders, Wheels/Tire Size and Appearance, and Quietness. The Dealership Experience also received a high rating. Looks like a good start for the new Lincoln Crossover. The Ford Division companion Crossover SUV to the Lincoln MKX also won its class. Clearly, Ford successfully designed for their target buyers”.

Posted by Keagan Patrick at 9:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

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Lincoln Navigator Wins AutoPacific 2007 Vehicle Satisfaction Award for Luxury Sport Utility:

"The Lincoln Navigator received a major styling update for 2007 where it competes with the Cadillac Escalade to be the 'King of Bling'. The changes to the Navigator, or maybe the addition of tons of chrome, were enough to yield the highest satisfaction ratings in the Luxury SUV class," says AutoPacific president George Peterson. "Overall winner in the 2006 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards, once again the Navigator is an AutoPacific VSA award winner. There is some tough competition in this segment, but the Navigator was favorably rated for several attributes, including Quietness, and Wheel and Tire Size and Appearance.”

Posted by Keagan Patrick at 9:00 PM | Permalink

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When VehicleVoice correspondent David Barrett and AutoPacific's Dan Hall take a walk through a major auto show, don't expect to see them anytime soon. They can talk each other hoarse about cars, and they never get tired of looking at the latest the industry has to offer.

At the North American International Auto Show in Detroit earlier this winter, Dan and David spent some time in the Lincoln booth trying to make sense of all the MK-ness everywhere. They checked out Lincoln's version of the Ford Edge, called the MKX, a crossover with some nice Lincoln styling and a hot concept on the show floor called the MKR. The MKR is a big, powerful American sedan, and David and Dan were in a crowd of admirers. Was it the 415 horsepower, twin-turbocharged V6 or the over-the-top styling?

In the Chevy booth, David and Dan reminisced about their high school days when they stepped in front of the new Camaro Convertible Concept. Seems both of them are surprised they're alive today after their exposure to the original Camaro. The new version promises to be the stuff of legends as well.

New Vehicles and Concepts -
2007 Lincoln MKX
Lincoln MKR Concept
Chevy Camaro Convertible Concept

Show Runtime - 11:48

Posted by Cameron at 4:41 PM | Permalink

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In early December, Ford hosted an event that allowed VehicleVoice and AutoPacific staffers to peek into the future for Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. One of the more intriguing presentations had to do with the future design direction of their Lincoln brand.

Peter Horbury, a Brit credited with launching Volvo's distinctive styling and now Ford's North American styling chief, discussed the results of a design analysis of Lincoln's heritage design cues. After evaluating coveted Lincolns from the past, the Lincoln design language was distilled into seven distinctive cues. The Lincoln MKR Concept Car seen at the 2007 North American Auto Show is the first vehicle to use all seven of the cues. In the future, every new Lincoln will incorporate at least three of these seven cues.

Based on the styling of the MKR, if Ford does indeed launch Lincolns using these design cues, they may have real winners on their hands. Now, can Alan Mulally find the money to bring these vehicles to market as quickly as they are needed?

Cue 7: Grille - Lincoln cars will have a distinctive split grille opening. There are several variations on this theme, each with a different grille texture. But Lincoln designers have evolved a face that at-a-glance will be identifiable as a Lincoln.

Cue 6: Cantrail - OK, we had never heard this term before either (it appears to be a terms used in railway car design), but this is the intersection point between the A-Pillar and the Roof. To convey an impression of strength, Lincolns will have a strong Cantrail.

Cue 5: Bodyside - Taking a cue from the famous Lincolns of the '60s, '70s and early '80s, Lincolns will have a clean, uncluttered bodyside. This not the vertical slab sides seen on these earlier Lincolns, but can have some curvature in it.

Cue 4: Beltline - Lincolns of old had relatively straight beltlines sometimes with a slight hop-up over the rear fender. This strong beltline often was topped with a chrome molding. Lincoln's modern interpretation shows a more muscular haunch than on previous Lincolns.

Cue 3: Chamfer - Adding to the strong beltline is a break-line in the beltline surface aft of the front doors. This contributes to the muscular haunch idea.

Cue 2: C-Pillar - Lincolns have had a wide C-Pillar that projects a very strong, upscale image. This strong C-Pillar can be used in cars, crossovers or traditional SUVs.

Cue 1: Taillamps - A major identifying design cue for Lincoln is a distinctive taillamp design. Usually this has been a wall-to-wall design as seen on the Mark VIII.

More details on Lincoln's design cues can be seen below the fold.

Continue reading "Lincoln in the Future - Design Themes" »

Posted by George Peterson at 10:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Ford and GM Abandon Minivan Market - Backfill with Crossover SUVs - Lincoln Gets D472

Ford showed its Fairlane Crossover Concept at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It received rave reviews and is now scheduled for production in the 2008 calendar year - or 2009 model year. Before Fairlane arrives Ford will abandon the traditional minivan market surrendering to the competitive pressures from more advanced and popular minivans from Japanese makes and Chrysler. Ford is not alone. GM is pursuing a similar strategy. GM will abandon their unsuccessful minivan lineup and rely on their Lambda (Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook) Crossover SUVs to fill the minivan market positions.

Lincoln MKWhat?

But this story is not about Fairlane or about the demise of the Freestar minivan or the Mercury Monterey minivan (already dead). This is about the Lincoln D472 - the Lincoln derivative of the Ford Fairlane (D471). Ford North American design chief Peter Horbury admitted that they looked at a mild derivative of the Fairlane as the Lincoln, but thankfully this alternative was abandoned. Can you imagine what the new age Lincoln grille would look like on the slab-sided Fairlane.

Take a look at the above photo. This is NOT the Lincoln. It's the Ford. The Lincoln D472 is a complete reskin of the Fairlane concept. Retaining the basic hardpoints the Lincoln is has more curves - yep, going back to those seven Lincoln design elements Horbury has been selling. It has a relatively fast rear end that comes across as much more appropriate for the luxury end of the business.

Apparently, the D472 was to have been powered by the Yamaha 4.4L 32v V8 that is presently in the Volvo XC90 and S80, but Ford has found the Yamaha powerplant to be much too expensive and will instead have V6s as the initial D472 powerplants. By the time D472 gets out, Lincoln will have its own 3.7L V6 and high performance 3.5L twin turbo V6. With the styling differentiation and these unique-to-Lincoln engines, D472 will have enough content to pull itself away from the Fairlane.

And, of course, unless calmer heads prevail, the D472 will be the MKsomethingoranother.

Posted by George Peterson at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Build It, Build It NOW. The Lincoln MKR could save Ford's Lincoln brand.

Images of the Lincoln MKR concept car to be revealed at the North American International Auto Show in mid-January have leaked to the net. VehicleVoice and AutoPacific staffers have seen the car in person in Detroit and this is a car that Ford should approve immediately and get into production ASAP.

Ford's North American design boss, Peter Horbury, took us through the basic elements of Lincoln design. He contends that there are seven design elements that have defined Lincoln styling over the years and that each future Lincoln will have at least three of the seven cues. The MKR concept, however, has all seven and they work awfully well. The last time Lincoln showed a truly mind blowing concept was Gerry McGovern's 2002 Lincoln Continental Concept Car.

The MKR concept rides on a platform derived from the present Mustang which, of course, was derived from Ford's DEW98 platform that underpinned the Lincoln LS and the present Jaguar S-Type. Adding the independent rear suspension forgone by Mustang, and voila we have a chassis for the MKR. But, apparently, this is not the final chassis for the car. That will be found in the platform being developed for the Ford of Australia Falcon.

MKR uses the upcoming Lincoln 3.5L V6 with twin turbos putting out about 415 horsepower. We'd rather have a V8 for the range topping Lincoln and that may come by the time the MKR gets on the road.

Gorgeous interior.

MKR is Not Perfect... Let's Play Product Planner

So, what would we change? Since this is the Lincoln range topper, we'd give it more interior room. The present roofline is beautiful, but MKR will suffer from the Mercedes CLS disease if they produce it in its four-door coupe form. Make it easier to get into and out of, make the rear seat more spacious, sacrifice a little style for a lot of function. Of course, we'd opt for a V8 as the standard powertrain and a V8 that puts out more horsepower than a Honda Odyssey (the present Town Car still lags Honda's minivan in the horsepower department). And, of course, we'd immediately abandon the alphanumeric "MKR" and return to a classic Lincoln name like Continental or Premier.

Posted by George Peterson at 9:41 AM | Permalink

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OK, on this one VehicleVoice is just the messenger. The Truth About Cars website has taken it on itself to identify the ten worst cars and trucks sold in the USA in 2006. Not really sure what their credentials are, but here is their press release... When we feel like commenting, see our notes following the press release writeup.

The Truth About Cars Website Names Its Ten Worst Automobiles for 2006

November 8, 2006 - PROVIDENCE, R.I.: The Truth About Cars website (TTAC) has revealed the ten winners of its first annual "Ten Worst Automobiles Today" awards. According to the site's readers, the very worst vehicles sold in America today are... GM's minivans.

For voting purposes, TTAC lumped all four of GM's virtually identical people movers together: the Chevrolet Uplander, Saturn Relay, Buick Terraza and Pontiac SV6.

In his description of the "winner," reviewer William C. Montgomery slated GM's minivans for their "antique engineering, woeful looks, cancerous effect on not one but four GM brands and their abject inability to hold a candle to their foreign-owned competition." In terms of dreadful driving dynamics, contemptible aesthetics and torturous ergonomics, no other vehicles sold in America can compete with these ridiculously-named 'Crossover Sport Vans.'"

The automotive website's readers voted the new Jeep Compass America's second worst vehicle: a lackluster vehicle that betrays its storied brand's heritage. According to TTAC's description, it's an "ugly, gangly, underpowered, mud-aversive half-breed" that "staggers into the light, turning all who see it-- or heaven forbid buy it-- into grotesque, bobble-headed morons." The Compass "stomps all over Jeep's reputation as America's purveyor of authentic off-road vehicles."

The rest of TTAC's Ten Worst are the Jeep Compass (2), Buick Rendezvous (3), Chrysler Aspen (4), Hummer H2 (5), Chevrolet Monte Carlo (6), Subaru B9 Tribeca (7), Saab 9-7x (8), Lincoln Mark LT (9) and Chevrolet Aveo (10). Capsule reviews are below.

To create the list, The Truth About Cars asked its 40k daily readers to nominate the worst vehicles for sale in the United States during the 2006 calendar year. A selection committee comprised of ten TTAC writers selected 20 finalists from the readers' nominations. Finalists were chosen for their crimes against aesthetics, engineering, ergonomics, driving dynamics and/or brand authenticity. The final ten "winners" were chosen by readers via an electronic poll.

Site publisher Robert Farago said his team created The Ten Worst awards as an antidote to the annual "love ins" provided by the mainstream automotive media. "The profusion of 'best of' automotive awards reflects the fact that the manufacturer-sponsored magazines and websites can't tell it like it is," Farago said. "TTAC is the home of take-no-prisoners automotive journalism. Our Ten Worst list says we're not afraid to tell the truth about cars."

Continue reading "Ten Worst Cars for 2006 - Truth About Cars" »

Posted by George Peterson at 5:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

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