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Ford And Mahindra To Come Out With New Crossover And EV
Something is finally coming out of the partnership between Ford and Mahindra that was inked way back in September 2017.
According to reports, the two brands are partnering to come up with a crossover and an electric vehicle. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that the planned crossover has anything to do with Ford’s plans in the same segment. Simply put, Ford wants to put its mark in the Indian auto market.
What we now understand about the agreement on the SUV is that Ford will be doing majority of the work using Mahindra’s equipment, which interestingly included the platform on which the SUV will be built on. This means that Mahindra, even as a partner to Ford, will stay out of the plans in producing the 2020 Bronco.
Aside from the SUV crossover, the two companies are also producing an electric vehicle to compete with the likes of Tesla. Although details are still unknown, this could be a huge stepping stone for Mahindra to finally sink its teeth on the US market, either under its own name or the sub-brand Pininfarina. Mahindra already has headquarters in Detroit, Michigan, so the first step has already been casted.
Mahinda previously reiterated its plan to make its presence known in the US market. An EV made in collaboration with a beloved American company, Ford, could be the linchpin that will make that happen.
Ford and Mahindra are working on a lot more than a crossover and EV. Those two are just part of the grand scheme of things, which include developing new initiatives and technologies that could open the door for future projects in the US and in India.
Jim Farley, Ford’s executive vice president and president of Global Markets, said that his company’s aim is to offer the best vehicles that will fit the lifestyles of the Indian market.
The New Ford Focus RS Will Be A Hybrid
Ford is planning for another RS-badged Focus as the current generation Ford Focus RS is preparing to stop production by April 6 this year. The next-generation Focus RS will reportedly be a hybrid that can produce up to 400 horsepower.
Dutch publication Auto International started the rumor last week when it reported that the next-generation Focus RS will have a 48-volt, mild-hybrid system that will boost the power production of the vehicle. That is reason enough for the RS-badged Focus to be able to choke out a nice 400 horsepower output.
The current-generation Ford Focus RS produces 350 horsepower, though a 370-horsepower version was also available, thanks to a Mountune performance kit. The 370-horsepower Focus RS was aptly called the Focus RS Heritage Edition.
The same report said that the current 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine will be carried over to the next-generation Focus, but it is believed that the hybrid will have a bigger starter motor that will seriously boost the powertrain capability. Aside from the 400-horsepower output, the new Focus RS will allegedly also come up with an additional 44 pound-feet of torque, bringing the total to 394 pound-feet of torque.
These are just rumors, of course, but there’s credence to it since Ford plans to electrify most of its vehicles in the coming years. In fact, it even teased a future battery-electric performance crossover that would carry the “Mach 1” name. There was also a report that a hybrid version of the Mustang and F-150 might be coming out.
Jim Farley, executive vice president and president for global markets, earlier said that Ford plans to distribute seven fully-electric cars in North America by 2022. This might be the start of that project.
There’s no timeline as to when the next-generation Focus RS will come out. What we do know is that the next hatchback will make its bow at the 2018 Geneva Auto Show. The sedan version might make its debut at the 2018 New York Motor Show.
5 Reasons We’re Looking Forward To The 2019 Ford Ranger
After a seven-year hiatus, it looks like Ford is back in the midsize truck segment. The 2019 Ford Ranger is no F-150, but it will do just fine to battle it out with the likes of the 2019 Ram 1500 and the Chevrolet Silverado, which, like the Ranger, made its debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
1. Exterior
The 2019 Ranger will be offered in three trim packages and uniquely, two appearance packages. Let’s talk about the trim packages first. The base XL will be produced for fleets, contractors, and anyone who focuses on function rather than form. The mid-grade XLT has more features and it doesn’t look like a work truck. Finally, the Lariat trim is for those looking for everything—luxury, form, ability, etc.
Surprisingly, Ford is not offering a Platinum or Limited trim model to compete with the GMC Canyon Denali. As for the appearance packages, the 2019 Ranger can come in Sport or Chrome packages. There are also two sizes—the SuperCab (extended cab) and the SuperCrew (crew cab).
2. Interior
The super sleek exterior is just about right with what we’re going to find once we go inside. The 2019 Ranger has a dashboard similar to Global T6 Ranger with an 8.0-inch SYNC 3 infotainment system wherein you can control such features as the Ford+Alexa connectivity and the optional B&O sound system. The gear shifter is console mounted and Ford wouldn’t disappoint you with its optional FordPass 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot for 10 devices.
3. Drivetrain
The powertrain is irresistible. It comes with a single engine for now, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder that is similar to the one used by Mustang. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that is standard across all devices. There is an option for either a rear-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive, as well as for an electronic locking rear differential.
4. Safety
Every 2019 Ranger will come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking. The XLT and Lariat trims will come equipped with Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, a Reverse Sensing System, and Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage. Those spending their money on the Lariat trim can also opt for the Pedestrian Detection and Adaptive Cruise Control.
5. Pricing
Expect the Ford prices to be somewhat near its competition. The base XL will most likely sell for $23,000 while the Lariat can have a price tag of $42,000.
2019 Ram 1500 vs Chevy Silverado 1500 vs 2018 Ford F-150
Ram 1500
Chevrolet Silverado
Ford F-150
There are a lot of big trucks that have been revealed at the Detroit Auto Show. It’s almost as if the motor show was exclusively organized for pickup trucks like the 2019 Ram 1500, the Chevy Silverado 1500, and the 2018 Ford F-150.
Lighter with Better Aerodynamic
In 2015, the F-150 lost much of its weight. The same can be said this year for the Ram 1500 and the Chevy Silverado 1500. On top of the list is the Silverado, which shed 450 pounds compared to the other V8 models. The Ram 1500, on the other hand, lost 225 pounds. The Ram and the Chevy lost their pounds because of the use of aluminum.
Where it differs is here: the Silverado used aluminum on its hood, doors, and tailgate; the Ram on the hood and the tailgate; and the F-150 used aluminum on all exterior parts for a total weight lost of 732 pounds.
Engines and Transmissions
Both the Ram and the Chevy are being powered by a V8 engine. The Ram has a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that produces 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the Silverado again used a 6.2-liter V8. Experts predict that the new Silverado could churn up to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
Ford F-150 is still using the same 5.0-liter V8 engine, but you now have the option to go with a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This one produces 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.
The Rams will be paired with an eight-speed automatic; a different one will be set for the V6 and the V8. The Silverado will get a 10-speed automatic for its 6.2-liter V8 and diesel. The F-150 will also use a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon: The Fastest Wagon in the World
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is not your average family car. Beneath its luxurious exterior lies an engine with a performance that can beat even the likes of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.
Performance
According to Mercedes-Benz USA, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is the fastest station wagon in the world. Beneath the hood of the car rests a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. The unit has an output of 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. The auto operates on a 4MATIC all-wheel drive configuration. Then, its power is distributed through an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission that uses a wet clutch.
Putting the pedal to the metal will allow the Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon to reach 60 mph from a complete stop in just 3.4 seconds. That beats the acceleration of the Mustang and the Camaro. On the other hand, the maximum speed of the auto is electronically-capped at 180 mph.
Mercedes noted that when the car was tested by a journalist at the Nordschleife of the Nuerburgring track, it conquered the whole circuit with its lap time of 7:45.19.
Design
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is the high-performance version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon. Therefore, it has all the signature look of Mercedes’ midrange luxury vehicle such as the curvaceous corners, glossy finish and striking body lines. Its appeal is further highlighted by its improved stance, thanks to AMG’s suspension; jet wing-inspired front bumper complete with air intakes; rear diffuser; rear lip spoiler at the roofing; quad exhaust tips; and chrome horizontal grille with black vertical slats in the background.
The most noticeable part of the E63 S Wagon is its 12.3-inch digital display. The gauges also come in carbon fiber look to enhance the sporty elements of the car’s cockpit. Moreover, it has AMG Performance Seats and Steering Wheel as well as nappa leather surfaces.
Pricing
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S has a starting price of $106,950, excluding its $995 delivery and destination fees.
Ford Super Duty Trucks Get Power Boost For 2018
Maybe it is time to get our hands on the 2018 Ford F-Series Super Duty Trucks. After all, the American carmaker just boasted superiority in five major areas: horsepower, torque, towing, gooseneck towing, and payload. If that is not superpower to the tune of Marvel’s Avengers, we don’t know what is.
Both its horsepower and torque have been increased by at least 10 units. Packed with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel, the Super Duty Trucks can produce 450 horsepower, up by 10 from the 2017 line, and 935 pound-feet of torque. The move makes sense because truck manufacturers are now trying to reach the 1,000-mark for their torque.
The diesel option has also been upgraded. The 6.7-liter diesel now includes cylinder heads redesigned for greater strength during heavy loads. The upgrade added optimized fuel and turbo boost calibrations too. There’s a 6.2-liter gasoline engine option or the 6.8-liter V10 as well, but Ford has not revealed any details on this yet. These options will continue on until 2018.
According to Ford, the Super Duty Pickup Trucks has the best conventional hitch towing capacity. It can carry as much as 21,000 pounds and 7,360 pounds of payload.
Then, the 2018 Super Duty lineup has been boosted by an F-450 Crew Cab 4×2 dualie. It boasts of its ability to tow a gooseneck trailer, which has been increased to 34,000 pounds, big thanks to an integrated gooseneck hitch mounts. That capacity is up 1,500 pounds from 2016’s number.
Remember, the F-450 was only offered as a dual-rear-wheel 4×4 with the Power Stroke.
The 2018 Super Duty F-450 4×2 dual-rear-wheel pickup is scheduled to be released this winter in XL, XLT, Lariat and Platinum trim. It is expected to be sold with a price tag of $52,830, though this may differ depending on your distributor.
Top 3 Features of the 2018 Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang just got an update for its 2018 model around four years when its sixth generation unit was unveiled in 2013. For a starting price of $25,585, what does the car bring to the table?
Exterior
The Ford Mustang is defined by its muscular frame and wide body. Compared to the fifth generation model, the sixth generation series we have now is wider by 1.5 inches, lower by 1.4 inches and its grille has been revised to a trapezoidal shape.
Looking at the exterior of the 2017 and 2018 models of the car, there were no significant changes in their aesthetics. However, those who wish for their Mustang to stand out more can get the higher trims matched with the optional Performance package of Ford.
Interior
The new Mustang replaced its analog gauges with digital gauges and it got a 12-inch screen. The instrument panel allows the driver to choose from the different drive modes of the auto and other functions. The other interior elements of the 2018 model are the same with the ones found in the 2017 year model.
Engine
The updated Ford Mustang kept its predecessor’s 5.0-liter V8 and 2.3-liter EcoBoost units. The 5.0-liter mill has been reconfigured to produce 460 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. The rotational speed of the engine was improved to 7,500 rpm. The EcoBoost model is still at 310 hp but the torque has been increased to 350 lb-ft.
The power of the car is distributed via a six-speed manual transmission. The car can be combined with Ford’s new 10-speed automatic too.
Performance
The problem that we usually encountered when test driving an automatic transmission car with so much gears was that it sometimes switched to and fro at the higher gears like it was unsure where to stick. However, the 10-speed unit of the 2018 Mustang felt so smooth. It stuck to where it was supposed to be during the power increments.
The new suspension of the car performed decently. Combined with the Magneride active suspension, the handling of the auto is improved.
Top 3 Reasons Why the Hennessey Velociraptor is Awesome
The Hennessey Velociraptor 6×6 uses the platform of the Ford Raptor F-150.
Henneyssey Performance Engineering just introduced its customization package for the Ford Raptor. The famous American tuning house debuted its Hennessey Velociraptor at SEMA.
Here are the amazing features of the vehicle:
1. Six Wheels and Design Upgrades
The defining feature of the Hennessey Velociraptor is its six-wheel setup. The vehicle is based on the Ford Raptor F-150. The tuner said that the modification is compatible with the 2017 and 2018 models of the pickup.
The exterior of the Velociraptor is highlighted by its new 6×6 locking rear axles, suspension, bumpers, roll bar, LED lighting system and 20-inch wheels wrapped in off-road tires.
Customers can further level up their ride with add-ons included in their performance upgrade such as stainless steel replacements, air-to-air intercooler improvement and onboard computer tuning. They also have the option to get Brembo brakes for the front and rear, bigger wheels and tires, more advanced LED lights, better armoring and upgraded electronics.
2. Power
Buyers can bring up the power of their six-wheeler up to 600 hp through turbo reconfiguration. It should be noted that this boost is available for owners of unmodified Ford Raptors too.
3. Pricing
The price of the Hennessey Velociraptor with all the goodies mentioned above is at $295,000. On the other hand, those who only want the 600 hp performance increase for their Ford Raptors have to dish out $22,500.
The cost may be overwhelming to many, but be reminded that the famous Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 had a sticker price of around $515,000 during its production run. However, after it ended its production, the six-wheeler has become rare and one auction in Florida back in 2015 sold one for an astounding price of $975,000.
Photos
Check out the photos of the Hennessey Velociraptor based on the Ford Raptor F-150 in the gallery below:
4 Things We Found Out About The 2019 Ford Ranger
Prototypes for the 2019 Ford Ranger have been spotted, and spy photos prove that the new model will be an “extensive update” of the current model rather than being redesigned for a next-generation model. Ford enthusiasts will not miss out on the aesthetics of the current model since the “new” design will be all too familiar.
1. T6 Platform To Be Used
The US version will differ slightly from the versions that will be sold overseas. According to reports, the 2019 Ranger will differ mechanically and visually, though the size and shape should still be the same—based on a body-on-frame platform codenamed T6.
The T6 platform is being used both by the current Ranger and the Everest model. Along with the new Ranger, Ford engineers are also working on a brand-new Everest. Most of the development are being handled in Ford’s Australian outpost.
2. Gas Options Available
There is no word yet on what kind of engines we’ll see under the hood of the new Ranger. The current one is being powered with two diesel engines: a 2.2-liter inline-4 that can produce 158 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque and a 3.2-liter inline-5 with 197 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque.
For the US market, it is more than likely that the 2019 Ranger will be offered in gasoline options. Yet, we’re still expecting for diesel engines to come and save the day.
3. Ranger Raptor In The Horizon
There are rumors that Ford is working on a new Ranger Raptor as well, but the American automaker has been very silent about the details. The powertrain will most likely be a detuned version of the F-150 Raptor’s 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6. Will it be available in the US? We don’t have word on that yet.
4. Rivals And Launch Dates
The 2019 Ranger will be introduced early next year. It will compete with the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma.
Ford Ranger Black Edition To Make Its Debut At The Frankfurt Motor Show
Ford’s most popular truck, the Ranger, has been fitted with an all-black trimming and exterior features for a special limited version of the current model. Called the Black Edition, it is scheduled to make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.
The vehicle will only be available for European customers, though, so the US market would have to wait until 2019 to get their hands on the Ford Ranger Black Edition. To make it more exclusive, not everyone in Europe can drive the Black Edition. There will only be 2,500 units of this edition, so you better make sure you deposit a reservation if you’re interested in owning this.
According to Ford, the Ranger is Europe’s best-selling pickup truck.
Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Europe, said in a statement that Ranger customers want the vehicle’s “tough, go-anywhere capability, and its rugged good looks.” He added that the company has high hopes and expectations for the Ranger Black Edition, which is an “attractive new limited series.”
Based on the limited series trim, the all-black special edition is a de-chromed version of the current Ranger. Instead of chrome finishing, the pickup truck will have a black grille, alloy wheels, and sports bar. It is painted in Absolute Black.
Inside, the seats are covered in leather trim and there are heated door mirrors. Standard equipment of the Ranger Black Edition includes satellite navigation, front parking sensors, rearview camera, Ford SYNC 3 multimedia system with 8-inch touchscreen, and dual-zone electronic climate control.
European market can start placing their orders in their chosen dealers now. So yes, maybe Europe is a little bit luckier because they’ll have a chance on the Black Edition. But on the other hand, they don’t have the new Bronco yet, so maybe there is enough justice in the world.
