Lincoln Blog
Hennessey MaxBoost 435 for the MKS makes beautiful nonsense [w/video]Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Performance, Lincoln 
Hennessey MaxBoost 435 Lincoln MKS - Click above for high-res image gallery
Talk about a sleeper. The folks at Hennessey Performance have gotten their hands on a Lincoln MKS fitted with Ford's new EcoBoost V6 engine, and the end result is pretty darn cool.
In its standard form, the twin-turbocharged MKS produces 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, but by adding Hennessey's MaxBoost 435 upgrade kit, that very same engine now cranks out a whopping 435 hp and 405 lb-ft. That means the Hennessey MKS is capable of putting down 0-60 times of only 4.5 seconds (that's as quick as a BMW M5) and will run the quarter mile in just 13 seconds at 106 mph.
The MaxBoost 435 package includes a dual cold air induction system, as well as a polished intercooler piping upgrade, engine management software upgrade, and a stainless steel cat-back exhaust. What's more, Hennessey installs all of the equipment itself and backs the package with a one year/12,000 mile warranty. Without any crucial suspension or brake upgrades, we doubt that the MaxBoost MKS will outrun an M5 on the track, but it'll certainly blow the doors off of your Grandfather's Lincoln any day of the week. Hit the jump to see a video of the MaxBoost 435 MKS in action.
[Source: Hennessey Performance]Continue reading Hennessey MaxBoost 435 for the MKS makes beautiful nonsense [w/video] Hennessey MaxBoost 435 for the MKS makes beautiful nonsense [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsDetNews: Ford's slow revival of Lincoln taking heat from dealersFiled under: Car Buying, Lincoln, Luxury 
2010 Lincoln MKT - click above for high-res image gallery
In a nutshell, the problem with Lincoln is that on the Taurus SHO launch, Ford brought along an Audi A6 4.2 for comparison's sake. Says one Lincoln dealer, "It's hard to sell a $48,000 MKS when the Ford guy down the street has a Taurus with the same features for $10,000 less." Put another way, despite the polarizing new sheetmetal, it's still obvious to consumers that the MKZ is a Fusion, the MKS is a Taurus, the MKX is an Edge and the MKT is the Flex.
"I have more dedicated Lincoln-Mercury employees than Ford Motor Co. does. They don't have any executives who wake up every day thinking about these brands." Says Lincoln/Mercury dealer owner Chris Lemley to The Detroit News in what might just be the "ouch!" comment of the year.
Part of the problem is without question the not-so-great state of the economy, with luxury sales tanking by nearly 25 percent in 2009. Still, with Lincolns priced lower than the competition, one might think they'd be selling better. For instance, the Lincoln MKT (priced at $49,995 with all the fixins) matches up quite well with the much more expensive Audi Q7 ($61,825). However, "If people were cross-shopping Audi and Lincoln, that would be great," said one analyst. "Audi buyers are shopping for a style statement. They're not even looking at Lincoln. Lincoln still has not gotten back up to first-tier luxury." Hence all that dealer fury.
[Source: The Detroit News]
DetNews: Ford's slow revival of Lincoln taking heat from dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsAutoblog Podcast #166 - Chicago recap/Geneva previewFiled under: Chicago Auto Show, Podcasts, Geneva Motor Show, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GM, Lincoln, Mercury, Toyota 
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
It's Chris² as both Shunk and Paukert join Dan and for Episode #166 of the Autoblog Podcast this week. First up, as usual, is the Autoblog Garage, housing a Suzuki Grand Vitara and a Kia Soul this week. From there, we take a quick trip through the Chicago Auto Show's highlights. The 2011 Ford Edge, Toyota Avalon, Honda Odyssey concept, and Hyundai Azera all figure in the conversation.
We leave the stockyards for the land of fantastic chocolate and mull a few of the things we're likely to see at the Geneva Motor Show. Toyota's updated RAV-4 and the 5 by Peugeot garner mention before we return stateside to talk about Chrysler's refreshed LX cars and Fiat-based Caliber replacement. On the entertainment tip, Adam Carolla's Top Gear USA revelation catches our attention, and then we entertain ourselves by beating up on Mercury's choice of the Tracer name for its upcoming version of the Ford Focus.
Check out our listener's awesome photo gallery below, and direct fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey, or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!
Check out Matt's sweet Volkswagen GTI, which he was lucky enough to win from VW and then send pictures to us in triumph.
Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #166 - Chicago recap/Geneva preview Autoblog Podcast #166 - Chicago recap/Geneva preview originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Mark Fields tells dealers new compact Mercury is coming in 2011Filed under: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury 
Lincoln Concept C - Click for high-res image gallery
At the National Automobile Dealers Association convention in Orlando, FL on Sunday, Ford's President of the Americas Mark Fields announced the first new product for Mercury in several years. The fate of Ford's middle brand has been in doubt for over a decade as models like the Tracer, Sable and Cougar have been discontinued. In what's surely welcome news to Lincoln/Mercury dealers, Fields informed NADA that Mercury would get a new small car based on the new global compact platform that underpins the forthcoming 2012 Focus and Grand C-Max.
The new baby Mercury will be one of 10 different vehicles that come off that platform and it's expected that a small Lincoln based on the Concept C that debuted at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show will also join it. The Mercury Mountaineer is not expected to be replaced when the new Explorer debuts later this year, leaving Mercury with the Milan, Mariner and the new compact. Fields gave no other details about the new car, but it could be a version of one of the other European Focus models, such as the coupe-convertible or the smaller five-seat C-Max.
[Source: Reuters]
Live Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc. Report: Mark Fields tells dealers new compact Mercury is coming in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsAutoblog Podcast #164 - Return of the LiebermanFiled under: Podcasts, Recalls, Safety, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Jaguar, Jeep, Lincoln, Toyota, Tesla
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
The prodigal Jonny Lieberman phones in this week for episode #164 of the Autoblog Podcast, joining Chris, Sam, and Dan for the ensuing hijinks. Despite the massive preoccupation with Toyota recalls, which does lead us off, our quartet manages to hit some other topics, too.
Hyundai's 2011 Sonata and its pricing gives us relief from recall madness, followed by the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee's pricking and packaging details. Very quiet Mercury has rumors of a Focus-based C-Segment car coming up, and we return to Toyota - this time with better news - a potential high performance division. That's your hour-and-a-half for this week, see you next time!
Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget - Let us know what you think of our podcast 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!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #164 - Return of the Lieberman Autoblog Podcast #164 - Return of the Lieberman originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 18:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Mercury planning C-segment vehicle for 2012Filed under: Sedan, Hatchback, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Rumormill 
Lincoln Concept C - Click above for high-res image gallery
According to Automobile Magazine, Ford is putting Mercury on its list. Sorry, we couldn't help ourselves. Specifically, the list in question contains the names of 10 vehicles the Blue Oval plans to build off its global compact car platform. Mercury will supposedly be getting one of the new C-segment vehicles based on the architecture used for the recently unveiled 2012 Ford Focus, which also shares its guts with the Ford C-Max and Grand C-Max MPVs.
Says Lincoln-Mercury spokesman Mark Schirmer, "Certainly, one [variant of the global compact car architecture] will be a Mercury... It'll give us something to put into showrooms, and help energize the Mercury brand." We're glad to hear that, as the Mercury brand is in some serious need of rejuvenation.
Best guesses for what form the new compact Mercury for 2012 might take range from a slightly upmarket version of the Ford Focus (we certainly hope it'd be more than just a shoddy badge-job) or something along the lines of the Lincoln Concept C from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. If it's going to be one or the other, we cast our official vote for the latter. We'll see.
[Source: Automobile Magazine]Report: Mercury planning C-segment vehicle for 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsMulally: Mercury's star still shining bright... for nowFiled under: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury 
You'd be forgiven for assuming Ford would be willing to let Mercury die a slow, drawn out death. In fact, it seems like that's what's taking place naturally, what with the stunning lack of interesting new product over the last few years decades. According to Ford head honcho Alan Mulally, though, that's not the plan, at least for now.
Speaking at the Washington Auto Show, Mulally reportedly said, "That's our plan - to continuously improve the Mercury and Lincoln brands," reiterating twice that this is the plan "right now." Some are taking this to mean that Mercury's future may actually be up in the air, seeing the phrase "right now" as Mulally's way of saying the plan could soon change.
In any case, Ford's stated goal with the Mercury brand's lineup continues to revolve around small, premium vehicles that aren't necessarily available in nearly identical across the aisle in the Ford dealership. Whatever happens, we're just hoping that Ford finds a place in its heart to keep Jill Wagner around as a spokesmodel.
[Source: Inside Line]Mulally: Mercury's star still shining bright... for now originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsReview: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost AWD has a good personality and great movesFiled under: Crossover, Lincoln, Reviews, Luxury 
2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost AWD - Click above for high-res image gallery
Approaching the 2010 Lincoln MKT for the first time is like meeting a blind date. You've been told by friends she has a good personality, which immediately has you wondering what she looks like. From a distance you see your fears confirmed: She's a big girl with a toothy grin and a weird hump. If super models are your thing, you'll be disappointed by this three-row crossover sitting alone in the corner with a red carnation in her hair. But if you meet her with an open mind, you'll find that a good personality goes a long way.
It's our job to go on blind dates with vehicles before you do, and despite the MKT's controversial design, we're glad we sat down and got to know her. Now, if you can't get over seeing a beached whale in your driveway every morning, stop reading; no twin-turbo direct-inject V6 engine, advanced infotainment features or luxurious appointments will change your mind. We'll agree to disagree and you'll probably pass judgment on the MKT from afar, not even giving it the courtesy of a test drive before shacking up with that German model. Will you regret not getting to know the MKT like we did? Read on to find out.
Photos by John Neff / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Review: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost AWD has a good personality and great moves Review: 2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost AWD has a good personality and great moves originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentseBay Find of the Day: Faux Rolls-Royce Phantom hearse means you can go out as a fraud, tooFiled under: Aftermarket, Auctions, Lincoln, Rolls-Royce, Specialty 
Lincoln Town Car turned Rolls-Royce Hearse - Click above for high-res image gallery
In this situation you might think we'd be at a loss for words. However, a Lincoln Town Car hearse cut to look like a Rolls-Royce Phantom gets our little fingers fluttering. Sadly, most of what we want to type isn't fit for print. At least the seller's description provides a good deal of comic... something. Have a look:
"Here it is! Open the doors to one of the most money making industries. The funeral business. I had a customer tell me that I should do a RR Hearse. It took me about a year to do it but I am so glad I did. The first funeral we did, the owner of that funeral home was so impressed with the reaction from his customers that he wanted to buy it from me. I did not want to sell it because I have 3 funeral homes wanting to book it almost every day. And they not only book the hearse but they also now book the 6 pack limo for the family from us."
Fair enough. We suppose money is one possible explanation for this sort of you-ain't-fooling-no-one creation is filthy lucre. In fairness, it does possess one killer app. You ever seen a funeral procession going down the street and think to yourself, "I wonder what sex that corpse is?" Wonder no more, as this hearse has blue fog lights for boy stiffs, and pink ones for the (dead) ladies. Here's some more from the seller:
"We went from not doing funerals to doing almost 3 to 5 funerals per week and at $395.00 per 4 hr. funeral for the hearse and $395.00 for the 6 pack limo! You do the math. The other great thing is that 90% of funerals are Monday through Friday. They don't get drunk, no trashing the limo and they are done by mid day. And if they do go over, then it is an aditional $95 per car, per hr."
Straight boo ya! Doing the math, that's nearly $800 per funeral. Pure profit, man. Except for the little part about who in their right mind would want to go to their grave in this thing?!? Oh, and in case you thought a fake Roller is the only hearse your fledgling business will need, click immediately to the back of the gallery to see some more phonies. Finally, in a perverse way we're stoked we finally found a Town Car worse than this one.
[Source: eBay]eBay Find of the Day: Faux Rolls-Royce Phantom hearse means you can go out as a fraud, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Ford could take Lincoln global (one day)Filed under: Ford, Lincoln, Luxury 
2011 Lincoln MKX - Click above for high-res image gallery
Just a few years ago, Ford had so many luxury brands in its then considerable suite of marques that there were upscale offerings for just about any taste in every region of the world. Aston Martin, Land Rover and Jaguar are now in the hands of other owners and Volvo is on the outs, so how will Ford deliver luxury goods to other regions of the world? How about Lincoln?
The idea has been kicked around to no avail in the past, but with a growing luxury market in emerging markets like China, the Blue Oval may need a new global plan for its lone luxury marquee. Automotive News reports that Ford will only discuss expanding Lincoln globally when its North American operation gets turned around. Ford President of the Americas Mark Fields told AN, "We don't have any plans at this point to take it global. That doesn't mean in the future we wouldn't look at that, but it's very important for us to focus on North America."
If Ford waits for Lincoln to turn around in North America before looking at other markets, the process could take a while. Lincoln sales were down 23 percent in 2009, with sales dipping to a 28-year low of 82,847 units. Many of Lincolns newer models have arrived with a luke-warm reception from both journalists and the car-buying public, though there are high hopes for the recently introduced 2011 Lincoln MKX and its trick MyLincoln Touch interface. Another Lincoln that could help spur sales overseas is a smaller model based off of the Concept C from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]Report: Ford could take Lincoln global (one day) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsAutoblog Podcast #161 - Detroit Auto Show recapFiled under: Detroit Auto Show, Podcasts, Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, GM, GMC, Honda, Lincoln, Toyota, Volkswagen
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
It's a North American International Auto Show recap for Episode #161 of the Autoblog Podcast. Chris, Sam and Dan mull the top five of the show before speaking more in depth about some unveilings. The new Chevrolet Aveo gets us started before we move on to another sharply styled General Motors concept, the GMC Granite. We touch briefly on the Honda CR-Z, and then Toyota's FT-CH comes up next before we call it a night with the Volkswagen New Compact Coupe Concept.
We'll be back again next week with more Autoblog Podcast goodness. Until then, fill in with Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think of our podcast 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!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #161 - Detroit Auto Show recap Autoblog Podcast #161 - Detroit Auto Show recap originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsDetroit 2010: Lincoln MKX smiles for the cameraFiled under: Detroit Auto Show, Crossover, Lincoln, Luxury
2011 Lincoln MKX - Click above for high-res image gallery
The first major unveiling on day two of the 2010 Detroit Auto Show has come and gone, and we managed to sneak out of the room with a slew of live photos of the newly refreshed 2011 MKX. We already got the details that make the 2011 model a considerable improvement over its previous incarnation, and you can refresh your memory by clicking here or reading the press release after the break. Of special note is the new 3.7-liter V6 engine with 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.
After touching, feeling and prodding the reborn MKX ourselves, we can confidently say that the quality of its materials and craftsmanship are top notch. We're also pretty intrigued by the new MyLincoln Touch - nee MyFord Touch - system, which combines an eight-inch touchscreen display in the center stack, two 4.2-inch LCD screens to the right and left of an analog speedometer (the exact same screens you'll find in the Fusion Hybrid) and two steering wheel-mounted five-way button controllers.
Tie it all together with Ford's award-winning HMI (Human-Machine Interface) setup and you're able to control all that newfangled technology using either your voice or your fingers on the touch-sensitive console or the aforementioned wheel-mounted controllers. Pretty cool stuff, and you can read all about it here. Be sure to check out our live photos in the gallery below and make the jump for the full press release.
Continue reading Detroit 2010: Lincoln MKX smiles for the camera Detroit 2010: Lincoln MKX smiles for the camera originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsDetroit 2010: Lincoln MKX gets facelift, MyLincoln TouchFiled under: Detroit Auto Show, Crossover, Lincoln, Luxury 
2011 Lincoln MKX - Click above for high-res image gallery
The final piece of the Lincoln puzzle is here. Meet the new 2011 MKX. And yes, it does look quite a bit like the MKT. Depending on where you stand vis-a-vis the current MKX, the visual difference is either just a change, or a much needed improvement. Most of us are siding with the latter, though we fully realize that many folks simply don't like the MKT. Bottom line, it is what is.
The really story is not the exterior - it's the interior. Specifically, the MKX is the first vehicle getting Ford's all new Minority Report-inspired (no, really) MyFord Touch system. Although in this application the futuristic navigation, entertainment, climate and phone system is called MyLincoln Touch. Hey, what's in a name.
There's more inside to greet you than just MyLincoln Touch, as the MKX features vastly improved materials than not only the previous car, but all other Lincolns. We touched, we felt and please trust us - the MKX is an nice, upscale place to be. Also, they've banished buttons. Literally, there aren't any on the center stack. Instead you're treated to a series of touch sensitive sliders. George Takei would be stoked. The best part: all this inner goodness will soon be making its way across the Lincoln lineup.
Continue reading Detroit 2010: Lincoln MKX gets facelift, MyLincoln Touch Detroit 2010: Lincoln MKX gets facelift, MyLincoln Touch originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsCadillac CTS wins Consumer Reports luxury sedan comparo, still not recommendedFiled under: Hybrid, Sedan, Acura, Audi, Cadillac, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz 
Cadillac CTS - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Cadillac CTS sedan outscored its competition from Audi, Acura, Mercedes-Benz and Lincoln in a Consumer Reports competition of luxury sedans over $50,000. The CTS was given an "Excellent" overall road test score of 84, four points better than the closest competitor. CR says that the CTS gives up next-to-nothing to its overseas competition, adding "the ride is supple and controlled and handling is agile and sporty." The Cadillac's 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic were also given kudos for punchy acceleration and smooth shifting. The Acura RL came in second with a "Very Good" road test score of 80. The Acura was given high marks for technology but was marked down for a less than sporty ride and a less than best-in-class rear seat. The Mercedes E350 and Audi A6 3.0T followed with "Very Good" scores of 79. Interestingly, CR says the E350 was marked down because it didn't handle as well as the last generation E-Class, adding "handling is still capable, but not exceptional, and the ride isn't as absorbent as before." The A6 is given generally high marks all around including interior, ride and handling, but its performance evidently wasn't enough to elevate it to the head of the class. The Lincoln MKS Ecoboost brought up the rear of the group with a "Very Good" score of 75. CR says the MKS has an "ordinary" driving experience, but the testers gave it good marks for a well-resolved interior.
As a bonus, CR engineers also tested the new Lexus HS250h. The dedicated luxury hybrid was given an "Excellent" score of 83 - just above that of the Toyota Prius - though the publication dings the Lexus because it "doesn't have the refinement, quietness, and ride comfort associated with the Lexus brand." CR says the HS250h makes up for these shortcomings, though, with terrific real world fuel economy - they achieved an average 31 miles per gallon during its testing.
Though the CTS took top honors in Consumer Reports' road test, the quality-driven publication still does not recommend the vehicle due to reliability issues. Only the Acura was given a "Recommended" nod, though the A6 and the MKS contain engines that are too new to receive a recommendation. The luxury test appears in the February issue of the magazine. Hit the jump to read over the official press release.
Continue reading Cadillac CTS wins Consumer Reports luxury sedan comparo, still not recommended Cadillac CTS wins Consumer Reports luxury sedan comparo, still not recommended originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsLooking Way Up: Ford posts 33% sales gain in 2009, 15% market shareFiled under: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Earnings/Financials 
We'll have our monthly By the Numbers post ready lickity split, but here's a little tidbit worth sharing ahead of the full data download. While automotive sales have been almost universally down in 2009 compared to 2008, Ford has a legitimate reason to crow about its December figures, which are up a third over December of '08 and an impressive 50 percent over November.
Ford boasts that its market share is up to 15 percent - one full percentage point higher than in 2008 and the first time since 1995 that the Blue Oval has gained on its competitors. Ford, Lincoln and even Mercury sales were improved in December. Here are a few of the highlights:
- Ford Fusion: Posted a December sales increase of 83 percent and set new December (18,852) and full-year (180,671) sales records.
- Ford Taurus: Sales totaled 7,256 for the month, up 110 percent versus a year ago. Since the introduction of the 2010 model in August, Taurus sales are nearly 90 percent higher than a year ago.
- Ford Escape: Set a December sales record (19,156), up 75 percent versus a year ago. For the full year, Escape sales totaled 173,044, the second-best sales year ever.
- Ford F-Series: America's best-selling truck for 33 years in a row. Best sales month since March 2008. F-Series sales in December were 48,209 (up 16 percent), bringing the full-year total to 413,625. In 2009, F-Series increased its leadership position among full-size pickups with a 4 percentage-point gain in segment share.
- Ford Hybrids: December sales of hybrid vehicles totaled 2,843, up 147 percent versus a year ago. Sales totaled 33,502 in 2009, a new record and up 72 percent versus a year ago.
Ford's full-year sales totaled 1.62 million vehicles, down 15 percent from 2008. Even that, though, is a mild ray of sunshine considering that the industry was down about 20 percent overall. In the mood to crunch the numbers even more? Feel free to hit the jump for the full press release.
[Source: Ford]Continue reading Looking Way Up: Ford posts 33% sales gain in 2009, 15% market share Looking Way Up: Ford posts 33% sales gain in 2009, 15% market share originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsSpy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly nakedFiled under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln 
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.
[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 | CommentsFor Sale: Lincoln Town Car Limo/Hearse combo... in case your night on the town goes horribly wrongFiled under: Aftermarket, Car Buying, Lincoln, Specialty 
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 | CommentsNew features from Ford: Remote start and heated steering wheelFiled under: Aftermarket, Technology, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury 
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 | CommentsFord EcoBoost Engines see high take rate, customers see higher transaction pricesFiled under: Sedan, Technology, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln
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 | CommentsREPORT: Stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealers being scaled out of existenceFiled under: Car Buying, Marketing/Advertising, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury 
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 |
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