Lexus Rocks the F-Sports at SEMA 2009

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  • Lincoln MKS EcoBoost Pitted Against Maserati Quattroporte at 12,000 feet

    Lincoln MKS EcoBoost Pitted Against Maserati Quattroporte at 12,000 feet October 5th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson's avatar Nelson Ireson, Author, October 5th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 5 Comments

    Lincoln MKS EcoBoost Pitted Against Maserati Quattroporte at 12,000 feet

    In a phenomenally disappointing choice of marketing tactics, Ford today unveiled its "6versus8" campaign, presented by a pair of buff books and featuring some of the least relevant comparisons in recent memory. To give the V-6 EcoBoost a fighting chance against the big V-8 engines, Ford even tilts the playing field by running them against each other at 12,000 feet.

    The move to high altitude is no doubt to widen the gap between the naturally-aspirated luxury V-8 cars and the twin-turbocharged V-6, since forced induction engines are, by nature, not as sensitive to the reduced oxygen present at higher altitudes. That's an unfortunate move,...

    In a phenomenally disappointing choice of marketing tactics, Ford today unveiled its "6versus8" campaign, presented by a pair of buff books and featuring some of the least relevant comparisons in recent memory. To give the V-6 EcoBoost a fighting chance against the big V-8 engines, Ford even tilts the playing field by running them against each other at 12,000 feet. The move to high altitude is no doubt to widen the gap between the naturally-aspirated luxury V-8 cars and the twin-turbocharged V-6, since forced induction engines are, by nature, not as sensitive to the reduced oxygen present at higher altitudes. That's an unfortunate move, because it says from the outset that Ford doesn't think the engine will win in a fair fight at elevations experienced day-to-day by 95% of the U.S. population. Which kind of guts the whole point of the comparison. Predictably, the MKS beats all but the BMW 550i, the power benefit of running the twin-turbo EcoBoost engine at altitude overcoming the MKS's decidedly less sporty suspension setup. The worst part is that the EcoBoost engine and the MKS it rides in are both sold short by this lack of confidence. The EcoBoost engine is lively and responsive and every bit the equal of an equally-tuned V-8 engine. The MKS is a solid luxury sedan that offers more value than almost any European offering and most Japanese luxury cars, too. That's what makes the advertorial fluff in this Motor Trend/Automobile/Ford video presentation comparing the MKS EcoBoost against the Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E550, Maserati Quattroporte, and BMW 550i so annoying. Stacking the deck is one thing, doing it with the presumption of the MKS's failure to stack up from the outset is worse. Nevertheless, once you sift through the thicket of advertising-speak, there is some nice in-car video of both the MKS and the "challengers," offering at least a little redemption to this otherwise pointless exercise. Check out our review for our thoughts and experiences with the 2009 Lincoln MKS (non-EcoBoost model). Read More

  • IIHS awards 2010 Lincoln MKT with Top Safety Pick

    IIHS awards 2010 Lincoln MKT with Top Safety Pick September 10th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran's avatar Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, September 10th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 1 Comment

    IIHS awards 2010 Lincoln MKT with Top Safety Pick

    The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently updated its testing regime to better reflect the outcomes of real-world accidents, namely to simulate the result of an accident between different sized vehicles. This saw ratings for many small cars revised downwards and reinforced the age old adage that size does matter when it comes to crash safety.

    The new tests haven’t managed to negatively impact on the new 2010 Lincoln MKT, however, as the three-row luxury crossover has just been awarded the Institute’s Top Safety Pick award. Significant improvements in protection for people in rear crashes highlight the latest...

    The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently updated its testing regime to better reflect the outcomes of real-world accidents, namely to simulate the result of an accident between different sized vehicles. This saw ratings for many small cars revised downwards and reinforced the age old adage that size does matter when it comes to crash safety. The new tests haven’t managed to negatively impact on the new 2010 Lincoln MKT, however, as the three-row luxury crossover has just been awarded the Institute’s Top Safety Pick award. Significant improvements in protection for people in rear crashes highlight the latest changes incorporated in the new model, with most of the praise being awarded for the vehicle’s new seat designs. The MKT was also praised for its side air bags that are designed to deploy up to 30% earlier than traditional air bag systems, as well as a segment-first, forward collision warning system. To qualify for the Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control. Criteria to win are tough because the award is intended to drive continued safety improvements such as top crash test ratings and the rapid addition of electronic stability control. Incidentally, when it comes to safety, Ford (and its Lincoln and Mercury subsidiaries) is one of the leaders in the industry. Last year Ford topped the list of automakers with the highest number of Top Safety Pick awards, with no less than 16 titles to its name. Read More

  • Lincoln downsizing models, possible compact car and small crossover in the works

    Lincoln downsizing models, possible compact car and small crossover in the works July 27th, 2009 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, July 27th, 2009 Ralph Hanson 12 Comments

    Lincoln downsizing models, possible compact car and small crossover in the works Lincoln will reportedly be taking a new approach to what sort of vehicles it produces, with plans to downsize vehicles in the wake of flailing sales of the Navigator SUV and other large cars. The new approach will see the American brand focusing on cars that will likely be the smallest Lincolns ever, an approach that some other luxury rivals have shied away from in fear of a U.S. market not ready for smaller cars yet.

    For the immediate future, Lincoln could be planning a number of surprises to help return the brand to prominence. Spearheading this approach is rumored to be a new compact Lincoln based on a Ford platform, most likely the... Lincoln will reportedly be taking a new approach to what sort of vehicles it produces, with plans to downsize vehicles in the wake of flailing sales of the Navigator SUV and other large cars. The new approach will see the American brand focusing on cars that will likely be the smallest Lincolns ever, an approach that some other luxury rivals have shied away from in fear of a U.S. market not ready for smaller cars yet. For the immediate future, Lincoln could be planning a number of surprises to help return the brand to prominence. Spearheading this approach is rumored to be a new compact Lincoln based on a Ford platform, most likely the Focus' global platform, but whether or not Lincoln is sure of such a move remains uncertain. The brand has already explored the possibility of smaller cars for city dwellers via its concepts, but turning them into production vehicles could be a risk that Lincoln is not willing to take. Meanwhile, more likely to appear is a compact crossover based on an existing Ford platform that speculators are predicting could appear as early as 2011. While Lincoln is keeping its cards close to its chest, the smaller crossover could provide a change in brand image for Lincoln that would allow consumers to see the company capable of producing smaller cars. As for Lincoln's existing models, the MKZ sedan will be getting redesigned in 2012 or 2013, and will sit on Ford's global mid-size architecture alongside other mid-sized Ford models, reports Automotive News. The MKS meanwhile will get an exterior revamp close to the end of 2011, while a major upgrade is scheduled for 2014 or 2015. Lincoln's Navigator in the meantime has an uncertain future, and whether or not the company retains the massive SUV is anyone's guess - although with the discontinuation of earlier plans to upgrade the Navigator in 2011 we wouldn't be too surprised if it eventually goes the way of the Lincoln Town Car, which is almost certainly going to be scrapped after 2011. Read More

  • Lincoln MKZ gets more luxurious Executive Appearance Package

    Lincoln MKZ gets more luxurious Executive Appearance Package June 25th, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, June 25th, 2009 James Martinez 6 Comments

    Lincoln MKZ gets more luxurious Executive Appearance Package Rounding out Ford’s trio of updated midsize sedans at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show was the new Lincoln MKZ, which like its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan siblings received a new face, restyled interior, and more standard features for the 2010.

    Ford has now added a new rage-topping trim level for the MKZ titled the Executive Appearance Package. The accessories package adds more traditional luxury appointments and expands the range of Lincoln MKZ option packages.

    The features include Dark Charcoal or Cashmere colored trim, Bridge of Weir leather seats, unique door trim with stitching, a new center-console armrest insert,... Rounding out Ford’s trio of updated midsize sedans at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show was the new Lincoln MKZ, which like its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan siblings received a new face, restyled interior, and more standard features for the 2010. Ford has now added a new rage-topping trim level for the MKZ titled the Executive Appearance Package. The accessories package adds more traditional luxury appointments and expands the range of Lincoln MKZ option packages. The features include Dark Charcoal or Cashmere colored trim, Bridge of Weir leather seats, unique door trim with stitching, a new center-console armrest insert, genuine Swirl Walnut wood used for the instrument panel accents and console, and finally floor mats with an embossed Lincoln star logo. Executive Appearance Package is also available with new exterior colors, including Tuxedo Black, White Platinum, Brilliant Silver, Sterling Gray and Sangria Red. Customers also 17in machined aluminum or chrome wheels as standard, with larger 18in polished aluminum wheels available as an option. Power comes from the familiar 3.5L V6 Duratec engine, delivering 263hp (196kW) and 249lb-ft (337Nm) of torque. The engine uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high RPMs. It also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and a broader torque curve. Pricing should be revealed closer to the launch of the Executive Appearance Package in the late summer.2010 Lincoln MKZ Executive Appearance Package Read More

  • AT&T releases turn-by-turn navigation service for iPhone 3G and 3GS

    AT&T releases turn-by-turn navigation service for iPhone 3G and 3GS June 23rd, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, June 23rd, 2009 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    AT&T releases turn-by-turn navigation service for iPhone 3G and 3GS Just a couple weeks ago we brought you news of the new turn-by-turn GPS navigation software that would be coming to the Apple iPhone with the just-released OS 3.0 update, and now AT&T, the official carrier of the iPhone in the U.S., has released its official app, for free - but with a string attached.

    That string is a $9.99/month service charge. While it's a slick way to distribute the high initial cost necessitated by the complex software and map licenses, it's also a recipe for spending more than the price of a standalone GPS unit over the course of a year or two.

    Nevertheless, AT&T is geared up for widespread adoption of the app, and... Just a couple weeks ago we brought you news of the new turn-by-turn GPS navigation software that would be coming to the Apple iPhone with the just-released OS 3.0 update, and now AT&T, the official carrier of the iPhone in the U.S., has released its official app, for free - but with a string attached. That string is a $9.99/month service charge. While it's a slick way to distribute the high initial cost necessitated by the complex software and map licenses, it's also a recipe for spending more than the price of a standalone GPS unit over the course of a year or two. Nevertheless, AT&T is geared up for widespread adoption of the app, and has built a feature-packed experience to ensure users are satisfied. The software, written by Telenav GPS, has already been available on a number of phones and carriers, including the competitive Google Android-based T-Mobile G1. "With the new iPhone OS 3.0 software, we're expanding the advantages of true turn-by-turn navigation - both voice and on-screen directions - to millions more customers. We're bringing greater convenience to drivers and travelers nationwide, including providing regular, automatic updates to map information at no charge so customers have the latest at their fingertips," said AT&T's Mark Collins, vice president of voice and data products. So how does it rate as an actual GPS device? The initial reports are good, with voice prompting, points of interest, automatic re-routing, speech recognition, and on-screen controls and displays all easy to use, complete and familiar. One weakspot: no mounting hardware is made available with the app, so you'll have to source your own if you want to put the new AT&T Navigator software to use on the road. Read More

  • Ultra-rare 1936 Lincoln ‘Aero-Mobile’ modified by Howard Hughes sells for $1 million

    Ultra-rare 1936 Lincoln ‘Aero-Mobile’ modified by Howard Hughes sells for $1 million June 18th, 2009 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, June 18th, 2009 Ralph Hanson 1 Comment

    Ultra-rare 1936 Lincoln ‘Aero-Mobile’ modified by Howard Hughes sells for $1 million It’s not every day that one of the rarest cars in the world comes up for auction, and it’s even rarer still when that vehicle forms part of the legacy of one of the world's most intriguing and famous individuals - Howard Hughes.

    Hughes may be best known for his construction of the wooden 'Spruce Goose', which currently claims the record for the largest flying boat ever built, but the industrious American socialite also built several other interesting works. As an American aviator, industrialist, and film producer/director, Hughes became one of the richest men in the world - but his wealth never stopped him from building... It’s not every day that one of the rarest cars in the world comes up for auction, and it’s even rarer still when that vehicle forms part of the legacy of one of the world's most intriguing and famous individuals - Howard Hughes. Hughes may be best known for his construction of the wooden 'Spruce Goose', which currently claims the record for the largest flying boat ever built, but the industrious American socialite also built several other interesting works. As an American aviator, industrialist, and film producer/director, Hughes became one of the richest men in the world - but his wealth never stopped him from building astonishing machines to help him break world records. This is where his work as an aviator meets the automotive world, with his heavily modified limousine. Beginning with a 1936 Lincoln K Model V12 Limousine, Hughes reportedly took the car and converted it into what he thought a 1936-37 Boat Tail Speedster should really look like. After a lengthy process during which the entire car was redesigned and restructured, the result was an astonishingly aerodynamic vehicle that hence became known as the 'Aero-Mobile'. Hughes reduced the weight of the car by "thousands of pounds", and coupled with a modified engine and exhaust system it was able to cruise at speeds in excess of 100mph - virtually unheard of in that time for a passenger car, but somehow fitting as a car to match Hughes' nature as an adventurer and aviator. With its classic good looks at the front and the home-made, bolted-on appearance of a tail on the back, the car will not be winning any beauty contests in the near future, but as a testament to Hughes' ingenuity it is certainly second to none. The car finally went for $1 million at the Leake Collector Car Auctin in Tulsa, Oklahoma on June 13. Other notable mentions included a 1936 Lincoln Model K Brunn Cabriolet that went for $187,500, a 1931 Cadillac V16 Convertible Sedan that sold for $185,000 and a 1932 Packard 903 Super 8 Coupe Roadster that was picked up for $160,000. Read More

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