Category Archives: New Models

Performance Ford Explorer Arrives Later This Year

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Popular crossover SUV receives V-6 EcoBoost engine.

The Ford Motor Company announced today that its popular Explorer crossover sport utility vehicle will soon feature a high performance model. This SUV was completely new when the current generation edition rolled out for the 2011 model year, a unibody design that replaced the earlier body on frame layout.

V-6 EcoBoost Engine

2013 Ford Explorer SportFor the 2013 model year, the high performance Explorer Sport will bring to the model line a vehicle powered by a twin turbocharged engine that will make at least 350 horsepower and include standard four-wheel-drive with a Terrain Management System.

“Adding an EcoBoost drivetrain to Explorer Sport delivers even more fuel efficiency and performance to the lineup,” said Bill Gubing, Explorer chief engineer. “This is our highest- performance, most capable Ford Explorer ever.”

Ford is comparing the Explorer Sport to a pair of Chrysler products, namely the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango R/T, models that are powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Delivering 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, the Explorer Sport will beat the Chrysler models that deliver 13 mpg city, 20 mpg highway. Moreover, this vehicle compares to the Land Rover Range Rover Sport which comes in at 13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway.

The Explorer Sport’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine will be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities. Steering wheel mounted paddle shifters will enable drivers to enjoy a more engaged experience on the road.

Performance Attributes

The top of the line Explorer Sport loses none of its many other attributes including its 5,000-pound towing capacity, its roomy interior or responsive handling. Indeed, Ford has reinforced its chassis to improve its handling. A solid-mounted electric power-assisted steering rack offers a faster ratio, to improve responsiveness around town or off-road. Larger brakes ensure that this SUV comes to a sure stop.

Exterior changes include a special grille featuring low-gloss Sterling Gray mesh that is contrasted with ebony high-gloss bars. The lower fascia includes a functional opening for enhanced cooling and is outfitted in black. Inside, available charcoal black leather-trimmed seating provides an elegant look.

Explorer Sport Amenities

Available or optional with the Explorer Sport is a dual-zone climate control system, a 10-way power driver’s seat, a 6-way power front passenger seat, heated front row seats, a rear view camera, SYNC with MyFord Touch and a Sony audio system with 12 speakers.

Also available are a number of safety features including a blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert, active park assist and inflatable rear seat belts. A power lifttgate, remote start, a dual-panel moonroof and adjustable pedals are among the many high-end options featured in the 2013 Ford Explorer Sport.

See Also — Ford Police Interceptors Take a Bow

Photo courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Super Duty Trucks Receive Mild Refreshing

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2013 Ford Super Duty

Super Duty is Ford's line of heavy duty pickup trucks.

The Ford Motor Company has announced that its Super Duty line will receive some important changes effective with the 2013 model year. Those changes included the addition of a first-ever Platinum series, a top of the line trim level that is already found on F-150 trucks. In addition, new interior and exterior design cues, and updated MyFord Touch and Sync are among the many other changes that will be offered with the 2013 Ford Super Duty.

Product Refreshing

Consider these changes to be a mid product cycle update. The truck certainly isn’t all-new, but it receives enough changes to give buyers more choices and a different look. Ford Super Duty trucks are prized by contractors as well as outdoors enthusiasts who need this vehicle’s heavy duty payload and trailering capabilities.

“The F-Series Super Duty Platinum is the latest expression of Built Ford Tough truck luxury,” said Brian Rathsburg, F-Series Super Duty Marketing manager. “It has a distinct appearance and a long list of features to deliver a superior experience. Along with that, it has all of the capability F-Series trucks are famous for.”

Premium Pickup Trucks

High end trucks are nothing new with Ford launching its first model in 1999 when it introduced a special-edition Harley Davidson F-150 for the 2000 model year. Other trucks that have followed include Platinum and King Ranch editions, models that offer well-appointed cabins including leather seating surfaces.

Ford says that the Platinum trim level will be made available on with Super Duty crew cabs, and can be ordered in F-250, F-350 and F-450 pickups. As always, customers can choose either its 6.7-liter Powerstroke turbodiesel engine or its robust 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine.

Exterior Embellishments

From the exterior, shoppers will note greater use of chrome around the grille, on door handles and on mirror caps. The running boards and exhaust tip are also covered in chrome. Each truck comes with 20-inch polished-aluminum wheels with painted black inserts, to offer a stunning and attractive contrast.

Inside, the Super Duty Platinum receives wood grain appliques and the front captain’s chairs offer a softer grain leather. Woodgrain accents are found on the dashboard and doors, with genuine wood offered on the leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Other features include a driver’s 10-way power-adjustable seat, power adjustable pedals, SYNC with MyFord Touch, a navigation system with a rear view camera, remote vehicle start, a universal garage opener and power-telescoping mirrors.

2013 Ford Super Duty

A larger 8-inch screen with new buttons and knobs make MyFordTouch with Sync easy to operate.

Technological Changes

Notably, the Super Duty’s MyFord Touch features simple to use knobs and an 8-inch high resolution screen display. This design makes it easier for customers to access their phone, adjust climate control, make entertainment and navigation choices, and enjoy a greatly expanded voice control system.

Ford hasn’t announced pricing yet for its newest Super Duty trucks, vehicles that will be made available later this year. Figure that if you can afford a Lincoln MKS or MKT, then the Super Duty Platinum will be within that price range and offer comparable amenities found in any Lincoln product.

See Also — Four Ford Truck Gas Engines

Photos courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.