The Ford Escape is all-new for the 2013 model year and goes on sale this spring. This five passenger crossover SUV has been a strong seller for Ford even as the current model comes to an end. The 2013 Ford Escape will offer three four cylinder engine choices and all three engines have a highway mileage rating of 30 mpg or better reports Ford.

Hot Seller

That’s good news for America’s best-selling car brand. The 2012 Escape is offered with either one four cylinder engine or a V-6 engine, with its most fuel efficient model getting 28 mpg on the highway. The new model is powered by a 2.5-liter four that is rated at 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and is the same engine found in the current model.

New to the line are a pair of EcoBoost engines, automotive technology that combines turbocharging with direct fuel injection to squeeze more power out of a smaller engine. Its 2.0-liter four is rated at 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway. This engine makes 240 horsepower and 270 foot-pounds of torque, delivering V-6 equivalent power.

The smaller EcoBoost engine displaces at 1.6 liters and is rated at 23 mpg city, 33 mpg highway. This engine makes 178 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of torque. This compares to the base engine that delivers 168 horsepower and 170 foot-pounds of torque.

The base engine is available only in the S model. The smaller EcoBoost is the standard engine for SE, SEL and Titanium models; the larger EcoBoost engine will be optional for the models.

Hybrid Canceled

Gone for 2013 is the hybrid model that has been available to Escape buyers since 2005. That technology will be updated and reintroduced later this year with the C-Max a van-like crossover that shares the same platform as the Ford Escape.

Tech Specs

The next generation Ford Escape is slightly smaller than the outgoing model. This vehicle sits on a 105.9-inch wheelbase and is 178.1 inches long, 72.4 inches wide and 66.3 inches tall. The Escape has a 7.9-inch ground clearance.

For days that the new Escape offers 98.1 cubic feet of storage capacity. Cargo volume behind the second row seat measures 34.3 cubic feet or 68.1 cubic feet behind the first row.

This vehicle weighs from 3,515 to 3,732 pounds and has a towing capacity ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds.

Related Articles

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• Configurate it: 2013 Ford Escape (blogs.insideline.com)

Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company.

The Ford Rally Sport brand, known commonly as ‘RS’, is synonymous with high-performance cars which offer excellent value for money. The RS brand enjoys a well established pedigree which began in 1970 with the very first RS Escort and has continued to this day with the very latest RS Focus incarnation and the proposed RS Fiesta.

Over the years the RS brand has taken on the giants of the rally world such as the Subaru Impreza, the Mitsubishi Lancer and the Audi Quattro and has held its own.

However, the very first RS-branded vehicle, the RS Escort was a success story in itself over a number of models.

The Mark I Escort RS1600

The story of the Ford Escort on the rally scene began with the high-performance Escort Twin Cam which made use of the 1.5-liter engine originally designed for the Lotus Cortina. This model enjoyed great success in the late 1960s and early 1970s culminating in the winning of the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally which led to the development of the 1.6-liter Escort Mexico.

From this point the Escort RS1600 was developed using a 16-valve Cosworth engine. Both of these Escort models featured high-performance engines, sports suspension and strengthened body shells. From the RS1600 Ford developed the more refined RS2000 which featured a 2.0l Pinto engine and went on to achieve notable rally and racing victories.

The Mark I Escort continues to be popular to this day on the amateur rally scene owing to its loss initial purchase cost, high-performance engine and ease of maintenance which mitigates the need for specialist tools. Today, roadworthy RS models of the Escort attract a high price.

The Mark II Escort RS2000

With the development of the Mark II Escort all models of the Mark I RS range were carried over with the Mexico becoming known as the RS Mexico. The new Mexico however enjoyed limited success as most opted either for the significantly cheaper Sport model or the more refined RS2000. The all-new RS1800 was also released, making use of a 1.8-liter BDA engine specifically for rally.

The Mark II Escort continued where the Mark I had left off in terms of rally success.

Between 1975 and 1979 Ford won every single RAC Rally using the Escort RS1800 with Ford drivers taking the drivers’ title and the runner up in the World Rally Championship in 1979. This success led Ford to take the manufacturers’ title for the first and last time until 2006.

The Mark V Escort RS Cosworth

The use of the RS brand continued throughout the Mark III and Mark IV Escort models, culminating in the design of what is the ultimate RS Escort in the eyes of many: the Escort RS Cosworth. Launched in 1992, this model featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged Cosworth 16-valve engine producing 167kW and capable of 140 mph. Ford completed an initial production run of 2,500 examples to satisfy rally requirements but the Cosworth was in such high demand that production continued
well beyond this number.

Author Information

This post was written by James Harper on behalf of Toolorders.
Click here to learn more about their range of Teng Tools.

Photos: smerikal

Previously on the Food Hood website we told you all about the Ford SYNC system which comes with navigation as an option.  The navigation device itself is relatively easy to use if you are familiar with GPS devices, but if this is new technology for you then it can be quite daunting at first.  With that in mind we’ve put together this very concise guide to using the navigation aspect to the system which will help you to get the most from the product.

Powering-Up the Ford Navigation System

Ford SYNC logo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Firstly you will need to start the car engine, which by default should initiate the power on the SYNC system and turn on the GPS aspect to the system.  If this does not happen, as might do on some older models, then press the NAV button on the left side of the console in order to activate the correct screen into the navigation mode.

Now you press the MAP option on the touch-screen and after two seconds the Ford maps will appear on the display, whilst showing you your geographical position. The maps are viewed “top-down” and you will immediately see the street names and any geographical references that you are near to.

Choose Where You Want to Go

By pressing the DIRECTIONS button you can start to type in a zip code or address, or even just a business name or place name.  The Ford Navigation System should then locate where you want to drive to and will give you the option of either the shortest or the quickest way there.  One thing to pay careful attention to is whether the map software is up to date.  This will soon be apparent if the GPS appears to be lost.  If that is the case then you should look to purchase Ford Navigation System Updates which come in DVD format.

Don’t Get Stuck in Traffic Jams

The Ford GPS comes with traffic alerts meaning it will tell you if there is a jam up ahead.  By using the TRAFFIC button you can access the Traffic Channel and have the system suggest different and alternative routes so you can complete your journey with reduced chances of delay.

Other Hints and Tips

Make sure that the volume settings are at the optimum levels for you.  You can change the volume of the GPS up or down but be warned, as this will also control the volume settings on the whole SYNC and entertainment system such as any music files that you have queued up to play.

Author Information

Bob Simmons loves the F-Series Fords and maintains various automobile advice websites.  He is also one of the team behind a website offering independent advice to Ford owners, the most recent article being a “how to” guide relating to the GPS system found in the Ford Edge range.  Click here for more information.

Ford Sync was first offered with the 2008 Ford Focus.

Many Ford models now have the option of the SYNC system which is this automaker’s own-brand factory-installed communications and entertainment system that fits seamlessly into the dash, giving the driver a huge array of options at the touch of a button. It’s possible to make telephone calls using hands-free Bluetooth technology, play your digital music files, and some versions even offer on-screen navigation to help you route from A to B. An overview of the available functionality is set-out below followed by more detailed information.

• Mobile Phone Integration
• Entertainment Functions
• Voice-Activated Navigation

Model Application

The system has been available in 14 Ford models beginning with the Focus in 2008, allowing connectivity with your friends and family due to the ability to synchronize your Smartphone to the display. The hands-free aspects to SYNC are probably the most valuable because this helps to reduce the chances of driver distraction while using a phone while driving – which in some countries is now legally banned. According to research from 2010, some 27 percent admit that they are prone to sending an SMS from their phone while behind the wheel – which inevitably can be extremely dangerous. This is where the Ford SYNC system can help.

Ford worked with Microsoft to develop the system so that the driver can operate their Smartphone by using voice commands or buttons on the steering wheel. Once the system is set-up to work in tandem with the driver’s phone (which is set into a small docking bay) it is possible to receive SMS and text messages to the SYNC system which then reads them out loud from the dashboard.

Microsoft technology powers the Ford Sync.

Full Synchronization

Not only that, it is also possible to control all your music by speech. This takes away the issue of having to reach to the dashboard and start trying to turn various dials and push buttons like you would do on a traditional in-car entertainment system. Drivers can synchronize their digital music player to the SYNC using USB or Bluetooth and then speak the commands back to the SYNC to find, browse and play through their music files – plus you can adjust volumes – while never having to let go of the steering wheel.

The optional navigation aspect to the SYNC device is provided by the world’s best selling GPS company, otherwise known as Garmin. The Garmin integration allows for voice-activated navigation which lets the driver operate a full-color display containing 3D mapping and landmark icons. In addition, the system contains a database with millions of POI files. POIs are also known as “points of interest” locations that let the driver search for amenities close to them which can then be navigated to. For example, it would be possible to find hospitals, tourist attractions, and shopping areas simply by interacting with the system using your voice.

Third-Party Applications

Interestingly it is also possible for third-party companies to develop applications to work on the Ford SYNC system. Some applications already approved to be used via the Smartphone and SYNC link are apps such as a Twitter reader and even an API for Facebook integration.

Author Information

Bob Simmons currently drives a 2010 Ford F-150 and has owned over 10 Fords since the 1980s. He also runs a successful website which publishes information on how you can update the navigation system in your car for when you need new maps. If you want to know more about how you can get the most up to date maps for your Ford SYNC then please refer to the Ford Navigation Update section on his website. Please note that he also frequently publishes new Ford Navigation Coupon Code offers on behalf of manufacturers which give Ford customers money-off opportunities for when purchasing new Navteq update DVDs.

Photos courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

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

For 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.

The Ford Focus is a front-wheel-drive compact model that seats five people and is offered in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback editions. The current model is based on the European-spec edition and is completely new for the 2012 model year. Now in its third generation, the Focus is one of Ford’s best-selling cars, a competitive compact that is priced from $16,500.

Engine and Transmissions

A 2.0-liter 16-valve four cylinder engine powers the Ford Focus. This aluminum block and head engine makes 160 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 146 foot-pounds of torque at 4,450 rpm. This gasoline direct engine has a 12.0 to 1 compression ratio and measures 3.44 inches bore by 3.27 inches stroke.

A 5-speed manual transmission is standard. Optionally, a 6-speed automatic transmission can be had including one that version that offers select shift capabilities.

Fuel Economy

When paired with a manual transmission, the Ford Focus is rated at 26 mpg city, 36 mpg highway. For optimum fuel economy, Ford offers the Focus SFE, a specially tuned model with a 6-speed automatic transmission that gets 28 mpg city, 40 mpg highway. Choose the select shift and your fuel mileage estimates are 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway.

The Ford Focus runs on regular grade gasoline. With its 12.4-gallon fuel tank, the SFE edition has a cruising range of nearly 500 miles or enough fuel to travel from Kansas City to St. Louis and back.

Focus Dimensions

Both Focus models share similar exterior dimensions as they share a 104.3-inch wheelbase. However, the sedan measures 178.5 inches in length and the hatchback comes in at 171.6 inches. Both models are 71.8 inches wide and 57.7 inches tall.

Front legroom measures 41.9 inches while rear legroom comes in at 33.2 inches. Front shoulder room is 55.6 inches; rear shoulder room is 53.7 inches. Front head room is 38.3 inches while rear head room measures 38.0 inches or 37.9 inches with the hatchback. Front hip room is 53.9 inches; rear hip room is 52.7 inches.

Cargo volume measures 13.2 cubic feet in the sedan’s trunk. With the hatchback, there is 23.8 cubic feet behind the second seat and 44.8 cubic feet with the second seat folded down. The sedan weighs in from 2,905 pounds; the hatchback weighs from 2,920 pounds.

Focus Notables

Including an electric model, the Ford Focus is sold in eight trim levels. An “S” edition is available only with the sedan, while SE, SEL and Titanium models are sold with both body styles.

All models comes equipped with air-conditioning, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power side mirrors and power windows, and an entertainment system that offers an AM/FM single-disc CD player, MP3 capable with 4 speakers, audio input jack and speed-sensitive volume control. Available with some models is Ford Sync infotainment, keyless entry and push button start, MyFord Touch, cruise control, a power moonroof, a navigation system with a rear backup camera and leather seating surfaces.

All Focus models offer traction control, stability control, four-wheel antilock brakes and brake assist. The Focus features six airbags and comes with a tire pressure monitoring system.

Ford Warranties

All Focus models are covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper to bumper warranty. This vehicle also offers a 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year or 60,000-mile safety restraint system warranty. Corrosion coverage extends five years with no mileage limitation. A 5-year or 60,000-mile roadside assistance program is also available.

More Ford Specs

2012 Ford Escape Hybrid Specs

2012 Ford Fiesta Specs

2012 Ford Mustang V-6 Specs

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.

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.

When the Ford Escape Hybrid arrived on the scene in 2005 as a 2006 model year SUV, its marked the first time that full-time hybrid technology was used in this type of a vehicle. It was also Ford’s first attempt at buiding a hybrid and was followed four years later by the Fusion Hybrid. A Mercury Mariner Hybrid was sold for several years until the Mercury brand was retired in 2010. This five-passenger crossover SUV is available in front- and all-wheel-drive, and is sold in standard and Limited trim levels. Priced from $31,395, the 2012 edition will be its last one as Ford will be offering its next generation hybrid technology to the all-new C-MAX beginning in the 2013 model year.

Hybrid Powertrain

The Escape Hybrid is Ford's first hybrid vehicle.

The Escape Hybrid stores electricity in its nickel-metal (Ni-MH) battery pack. Regenerative braking plays a significant role in resupplying the battery. The gas engine makes 155 horsepower and the electric motor makes 94 horsepower for a net 177-hp rating. This model puts out 136 foot-pounds of torque at 4,500 rpm. The engine has a 12.3 to 1 compression ratio and is of aluminum cylinder block and head construction.

Fuel Economy

The front-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid is rated at 34 mpg city, 31 mpg highway. The all-wheel-drive edition is rated at 30 mpg city, 27 mpg highway. This SUV takes regular grade gasoline and offers a cruising range of about 450 miles with its 15.1-gallon fuel tank.

Escape Hybrid Dimensions

Built on a 103.1-inch wheelbase, the Ford Escape Hybrid is 174.7 inches long, 71.1 inches wide and is 67.9 inches tall. This SUV offers front head room of 40.4 inches and 39.2 inches in the rear. Front shoulder room comes in at 56.6 inches and 55.9 inches in the rear. Front hip room is 53.3 inches while rear hip room measures 49.1 inches. Front and rear legroom measures 41.6 and 35.6 inches respectively. This model offers 31.4 cubic feet of standard cargo space behind the rear seat. Fold that seat down and it expands to 67.2 cubic feet.

Safety Features

Every Ford product is covered by a 3-year or 36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty. This model also comes with a 5-year, unlimited miles rust perforation warranty and a 5-year, 50,000-mile safety restraint warranty. The gas engine and the transmission are covered by a 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Hybrid components are protected for 8 years or 100,000 miles.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

See Also — 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid Specs

Ford’s smallest of all pocket rocks, the Fiesta ST, has been confirmed for production. The Fiesta ST was rolled out as a concept at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show along with a production-ready Focus ST. At that time, Ford was mum about its Fiesta ST production plans, but on the eve of the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show, the Ford Motor Company has given the green light to produce its diminutive performance hatchback.

EcoBoost Power

The all-new Fiesta ST will be powered by an EcoBoost 1.6-liter four cylinder engine. EcoBoost is Ford proprietary technology that brings in direct fuel injection, turbocharging and variable valve technology to squeeze out more power from a smaller engine. This 180-horsepower motor should help the Fiesta ST go from 0 to 60 mph in just under 7 seconds and offer a top speed of 135 mph. A short-throw 6-speed transmission is the possible mate to this engine — don’t look for an optional automatic tranny with this model as what would be the point?

The Fiesta ST is not a new model as the previous edition was last sold in European showrooms in 2008. No high performance Fiesta has been sold in the United States, although if you go back to the late 1980s, a handful of Fiestas that had the oomph were sold stateside. The Fiesta returned to U.S. and Canadian markets in 2011, ending a two-decade absence. It is currently the smallest Ford product sold on this side of the pond; a 1.0-liter three cylinder engine will soon be offered to go with the four.

Geneva Display

The newest Fiesta ST model is on display in Geneva and will go into production in 2013. Ford’s Team RS developed the car, and will follow through on its promise to deliver superior ride and handling improvements over the base model. Those improvements will be realized by serving up a specially-tuned chassis that features an enhanced Torque Vector Control system and electronic stability control with three driving modes. This model was tested and refined on the ‘Ring in Germany.

Inside, the Fiesta ST will offer a high-contrast interior including standard Recaro seats, a first for this model. Ford’s MyKey system will also be included, a feature that gives the owner control over performance and safety when a novice driver is behind the wheel. MyKey is popular in the United States where parents can put limits on the vehicle’s top speed and radio volume. SYNC, Ford’s voice-activated in-car connectivity system will also be included. Likely, air-conditioning, power accessories and a jam-up audio system will be included. Yes, the aftermarket parts people will be salivating as they come up with different products to enhance your ride.

Future Plans

As for North American availability, Ford says that it “remains open to the idea of introducing the high-performance small car to other regions, including North America…” That willingness is likely to result in a groundswell of social media pressure from Fiesta enthusiasts, something that Ford won’t mind.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

The Ford Crown Victoria, a full-size rear-wheel-drive sedan is no more, having been retired at the end of 2011. With its retirement, three decades of police enforcement vehicles have come to an end, but not for long. Today, the Ford Motor Company is offering law enforcement two police interceptor vehicles — one is based on the Ford Taurus sedan, the other one on the Ford Explorer crossover SUV.

Two Engine Choices

Both Ford models also dispense with V-8 engines, the hallmark of all police cars for decades. Instead, Ford is using two 3.5-liter engines including an EcoBoost V-6, an engine that features direct injection, turbocharging and variable valve technology. This motor offers V-8 equivalent power and is rated at 365 horsepower and 350 foot-pounds of torque.

A normally aspirated V-6 engine is also available and produces at least 263 horsepower and is flex fuel capable. What that means is that these vehicles can run on regular grade gasoline, E85 fuel or a combination of the two. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Chicago Assembly Plant

Ford is building the Taurus at its Chicago Assembly Plant, home to 1,280 hourly and 95 salaried employees. That Torrence Avenue plant was opened in 1924 and has undergone several renovations including a $400 million modernization in 2004. Ford’s continued investment in America’s third most populated city hasn’t gone unnoticed, with the city of Chicago announcing last month that it has ordered 500 of Ford’s new Police Interceptors.

Each model comes equipped with technologies that were not available with the Crown Victoria. These include a Blind Spot Information System that utilizes a pair of radar sensors in the rear quarter panels to detect vehicles in surrounding lanes. When a car enters the driver’s blind-spot zones, the system signals the driver with a warning light that appears in the side view mirror. Cross-traffic alert works with BLIS to sense oncoming traffic when gradually pulling out of a parking spot. Working only when the vehicle is in reverse, this feature detects when a car is within three spaces of the patrol car.

Every model also comes with a rear view camera that serves ups a color image with guidance markers on the rearview mirror, a reverse sensing system, electronic stability control and traction control. Also included is Ford SYNC, a proprietary hands-free information system that can be customized to work with police aftermarket equipment including lights and sirens.

Certification Testing

Both models have undergone and passed certification testing designed by the Michigan State Police and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. This testing evaluates the durability and capability of a vehicle through a variety of tests, whereby its systems are pushed to the limits for nearly an hour and a half – well beyond the demand customarily put on patrol cars even in extreme situations.

See Also — 2012 Ford Taurus SHO Specs

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• Chicago cops order Ford’s new police cars – USA TODAY (content.usatoday.com)
• Ford’s NewPolice Squad (foxnews.com)