Ford announced today its 2009-model year list of product and powertrain upgrades for its North American lineup, revealing an array of all-new or upgraded vehicles as well as major improvements in fuel economy, smart technology, safety features and quality levels. New from Ford is the Flex crossover, Lincoln MKS flagship sedan (pictured) and a more fuel efficient Escape compact SUV, and coming later this year will be the all-new F-150 pickup.

Also debuting late this year is the new 2010 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ mid-size sedans, along with the new 2010 Fusion Hybrid and Milan Hybrid.

Within two years, approximately 85% of Ford's North American lineup will offer fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmissions. And, also coming in the 2009-model year are the first applications of Ford's new EcoBoost engine technology. The combination of turbocharging and direct-injection technology will allow fuel-savings of up to 20% and emissions reductions of up to 15% compared to engines with increased displacement but similar power outputs.

EcoBoost V6 engines will be introduced on several vehicles next year, beginning with the Lincoln MKS and Ford Flex crossover. Four-cylinder EcoBoost engines will debut in 2010 in both North America and Europe. Ford will offer EcoBoost on more than 80% of its North American lineup by the end of 2012.

Ford also is introducing six-speed transmissions with dual-clutch PowerShift technology, start-stop engines that shut off when the vehicle stops, electric power steering to even more vehicles, direct injection, and Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing engines.

Other Ford technologies that will debut in 2009 include SYNC with 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report, SIRIUS Travel Link and a new blind spot mirror.