Finally a Hybrid that works for everyone! 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

I snagged this video of a New York state Ford dealer doing a video walk around of the new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. But the more I learn about it, I realize that this is a Hybrid that blows my previous objections to Hybrids away! I for a long time had been saying that Hybrids really only make sense for folks that do an Urban driving loop, but the Fusion's 41 mpg city is really only half the story. Highway rated at 36 mpg is great, but what really tops the list is the Fusion's ability to run on Electric only up to 47 mph! I was thinking about that in relation to my daily drive and realized that I could drive a Fusion Hybrid on mostly electric power without hypermilling and probably only have to refuel once a month.

I live and work in the suburbs doing only short stints on highways and usually doing 45 mph or lower. And the Fusion Hybrid seats real adults in comfort and has a usable trunk. The Escape Hybrid was impressive enough, but it switched to the internal combustion engine at speeds over 20 mph. Now, I know that the Prius gets better fuel economy, but the Fusion is a more paletable Hybrid for everyday people.

The only thing that hurts really is the $27k pricetag. I wonder when Ford will have a Hybrid Focus? I'm sure it will meet or exceed the Fusion's economy and hopefully be under $25k.

Another video of Mazda BT-50 (Ford Ranger) last one I promise

English language video of Mazda BT-50 (Ford Ranger)

I was able to find a video in English but only for the Mazda version (BT-50) of the new Ranger.

Video walk around of new Ranger in UK

Ranger video from Russia?

Here's what a Ranger should be!

What is the future of the Ranger?

Today there was a comment on one of my archived posts that brought back one of my favorite gripes. The Ranger, how Ford has let it lapse and what I hope they will do. Ok, let's get some history here, the Ranger name started as a trim level on the full size Ford F-Series trucks, just like the Eplorer badge. Starting in the late 60's and early 70's Japanese makes started to bring compact pickups to the US, Nissan and Toyota leading the way, but Isuszu and Mazda also. So, when the Domestic makes saw an emerging market segment, they initially imported partner trucks rebadged as their own, in the case of Ford that was the Courier. But eventually they recognized that a true Domestic compact pickup would make more sense and the Ranger was born . And from 1987 to 2004 it was segment leader. In many ways it was far superior to the Courier it replaced and Ford improved it with each generation. But the evolution stopped in 2000 or so and it was just mild refresh after that, until this day. I believe it was a combination of relatively cheap fuel here in the states and our tendancy to super size everything. While competitors grew in size, the Ranger remained compact. It remains a profitable unit for the company, especially since they've done no real development over the last decade. What a shame really. But with new safety and emissions standards coming into effect soon, the current Ranger is coming to a point where Ford can't sell it, even if customers were lined up out the door, which really they aren't. One major fault is that the current Ranger can't be fitted with airbags in the A pillar. Another minor fault is that it's not available in a true 4 door cab here, while it has been all over the world, including Mexico.

But as with Ford's need for small fuel efficient car, they have the answer in their global garage.
Ford developed a new Ranger (Mazda BT-50 also ) for markets outside of the United States.
And I've posted about it before, because it's a class leader and would be a huge hit here.
I'm not sure if it has air bags in the A pillar, but I'd guess it does since it's sold in Europe.
It's also got 2 great Diesel powertrain options and one of the nicest interiors I've ever seen in a compact truck. So, should Ford rush to get this cleared to come here? Would they import it from Asia or build it here? Yes they should rush to bring it market! If the Diesels aren't going to meet emisions, they can stick the 2.5 petrol I-4 and 3.5 V-6 in there. Over the last few years I've read criticism of the Ranger on the web and speculation that Ford should introduce a new Mid Size pickup using the F-100 nameplate. I disagree, but if they did it right, I'd be willing to take a look.

Now, this is a photoshop done quite a while ago by "FUD" (?) that I had seen on several message boards suggesting that the new Ranger be based on an Explorer chassis. But at this point is that prudent? Haven't we had that already? Isn't that the crap known as the Sport Trac?
What say you? I say, bring us the Global Ranger, with the Diesel option for those pulling boat trailers.

Top Gear's Clarkson drives Fiesta Blue's Brothers style !

I love Top Gear and this video of Clarkson reviewing the new Fiesta is an example of why. Responding to complaints that they no longer do practicle testing for reviews Clarkson does his best to answer the standard questions, but then goes completely overboard.

With scenes reminiscent of The Blues Brothers or maybe even the original Italian Job and then an epic beach landing with the Royal Marines, it's got to be one of the most memorable Top Gear reviews in ages.

Ford should use part of this in their advertising when the Fiesta comes to the states next year!

American Muscle's video on how they mount and balance your order of Wheels and Tires

You may notice some new links on the sidebar, American Muscle and American Trucks. So, I was checking out their sites and found a video showing how they mount and balance the wheels and tires you order for free and explaining a little about their customer service.

Kicking Tires' Dave Thomas checks out the new Mazda 3 with Video

It's no secret that I hold the Mazda 3 in high esteem, high enough that I bought one brand new 3 years ago this month. And I was surfing around and found a short but sweet piece by Dave Thomas of Kicking Tires blog, with video, reviewing the 2010 3.

While I love my 3, I'm the first to say it's got a face only a mother could love. I bought it not on looks, although I've seen much much worse, but value and performance. To be 100% honest I bought it partly because it was the closest thing I could get to a European Ford Focus here in the US. The new 3 also has love/hate styling, but it's still got that Zoom Zoom factor that can't be denied.

When I was shopping for a new car 3 years ago, I went in with an open mind, no bias even though I love Ford. I test drove the Chevy Cobalt ( which was very good ) Dodge Caliber ( which had very interesting packaging and pricing ) and several others from both domestic and foreign manufacturers. I had specific criteria, most important was value and funcionality. It came down to the Caliber and 3 in a direct showdown. My brother had recommended a dealer than sold both brands and we arranged a direct comparison test drive. It's obvious which won, the Mazda had more power, better handling and higher quality perception.

My 3 gets 30 mpg on the highway, over 20 mpg on a suburban loop and is just tons of fun on twisty roads. The only major options I didn't get were the slushbox and navigation.
So, click on over and watch Dave give you the rundown on the latest 3.

Ford's loss statement not so bad and Bone to pick with NYC

We all read about Ford and GM's loss statements this quarter, Ford lost $1.4Billion and GM lost $6Billion. But when I read about Toyota's $7Billion loss my jaw dropped. And I read at AutoBlog recently that Ford has had a lower percentage drop in sales than many of it's competitors.
Part of that is the fact that Ford has recently introduced some great product and refreshes.
Some say it's also a benefit of Ford not taking any "bailout" loans from Uncle Sam.
I'm just greatful that Ford looks like they'll weather this economic storm.
It doesn't hurt that Ford is moving quickly to reorganize their production mix and build the new Focus and Fiesta in the United States and Mexico.
This should have been a seperate post, but I'm lazy. I have a major bone to pick with New York City. Recently they bought a small fleet of Nissan Altima Hybrids to test as patrol cars.
I'm all in favor of some hybrids being purchase for government fleets as well as taxis.
But in this economy and just as good policy, shouldn't they have bought domestic hybrids?
Doesn't the Ford Fusion Hybrid get better milage in the city loop than any of it's competitors?
Shame on New York! Whoever made the decision to go with the Nissan needs to brought into a back room and beating with a phone book.



I have to say the Fusion Hybrid just makes so much more sense.
And as I was reading The Auto Prophet's latest post, Hybrids ( especially domestics ) not only give you that warm fuzzy Eco Cred, but they help improve our fuel independance and national security! Not that Hybrids are the only solution, Ford's Eco Boost equipped vehicles will also go a long way to be greenish.

UK Fords that I'd love to own....

Ford has offered some fantastic cars here in the states over the years, but there have always been some forbiden fruit on the other side of the pond. Like the Ford RS 200. This insanely powerful street legal rally car. I saw online recently that one of these appears in the new Fast & Furious movie?

And while this was available in the US for a few years, I'd still love to be able to buy one of the rarer RS3000 or Tickford versions.

The Mk5 Fiesta, especially the ST version was another one that I've always envied. Even when the Fiesta does arrive here in the states, it's unlikely that we'll see an ST version. But with 150 hp this little car must be a blast!

And what about the Ford Puma ! Now this is a cool little car.

And for those Top Gear fans, this was their Car Of The Year in 2000 and there's a video on YouTube showing Tiff Needel tossing one around and shaking up Clarkson.

And another video, that I've posted in the past of Tiff giving stunt driving tips in one.

Maybe some day? One can dream, can't one.

Ebay auction of cap signed by Carroll Shelby!

The man the legend Carroll Shelby. And for a meager sum you can have a momento of the legend and help your intrepid blogger.

On e-bay, I have an item I'm auctioning that many true blue Ford and Shelby lovers may want to add to their collection.

No, I don't have the car to auction, be real I have a Ranger and a Mazda3, if I could afford a Shelby I wouldn't be blogging, I'd be out tearing up the streets!

But, I have a limited edition signed baeball cap for auction.

Never worn, adjustable size, in great condition, signed by the legend himself.

In order to celebrate the release of the 2006 Shelby GTH Hertz special, the man himself signed caps for employees of Hertz and one of these gems found it's way into my true blue paws.

But, alas circumstances force me to sell.

So head on over to ebay and look it up!
Item # 270386585014

MyFordDreams is open for business

MyFordDreams is now open for business again. I'd taken a bit of a break from blogging and am getting back in the saddle. And now I'm going to accept proposals for ads. I've got 2 new advertisers lined up already Car Insurance from Direct Line and also Churchill Car Insurance
Both are UK based companies, but that's fine with me, since I have written so much about the great Fords that they have over the pond as opposed to here in the states. Not that I don't love what we have, but you know I'm looking forward to the Fiesta and new Focus.

Unlike the lucky guy over at Jalopnik, I didn't get a new Fiesta to drive.

I'll have to wait until they hit my local dealerships.

What could the Fiat/Chrysler deal mean for Ford?

Well, there's no easy answer there, but Chrysler's filing for bankruptcy could have a major impact on suppliers. And IF the Fiat merger works, it could help "save" Chrysler.
But in a very simple way, the Fiat partnership would likely mean that one way or another we'll see the much praised Fiat 500 here in the states. But what will that mean to Ford?

The Ford Ka shares platform with the 500, but from what I've read it's actually better.

Does that mean we'll see the Ka here? Suposedly Americans will be clamoring for smaller cars, something I thought last year's gas prices would confirm. But we're already expecting the superior Fiesta here next year and the fact that the Ka shares a platform and some powerplants with the 500 could be a negative for Ford.

Here me out here for a minute. I know I've written about the Ka in a favorable light in the past and even suggested it would be a good move to bring it stateside. And as I said, while they share common DNA, the Ka does have better reputation for quality and even handling characteristics.

But, Fiat has a low quality record in Europe and it won't be long before the automotive press here points out to buyers the shared DNA. So, even though they're not built in the same plants and Ford's quality rating for the Ka is higher, once 500s start spending more time in the shop than on the road, will buyers assume the Ka will be crap also?

I'm torn here, I like the Ka, but the Fiesta is the one I'd be more likely to buy and does Ford need the Ka here? I'm sure a portion of the buying public will move to smaller more fuel efficient cars, but will there be enough of them to support the Fiesta and the Ka? Probably not. And will the "Fix It Again Tony" revive the "Found On Road Dead" label that Ford has worked so hard to shake?

What do you think?

Do I have any favorable words about the Mustang?

I've been beating up on my beloved Mustang quite a bit lately. I've complained about the lack of an IRS and the low horsepower compared to new competitors. So, can I say anything nice about the Mustang? Sure, without being hypocritical, it's still a great bargain performance car.

Even, maybe especially, if you consider the V6 Mustang. There are all sorts of aftermarket parts and kits that transform your "rental" Stang into a real fun and fairly fast car. And even though the GT "only" comes with 320 hp, we all know that with the right choices an owner can pump that well over 400 hp. I would suggest that you avoid the flash and go right for the performance upgrades. How many supercharger or turbocharger kits are there? Too many to count.

In all honesty, if I were to buy a new Mustang, I'd go for the Pony Package and then install an STS Turbo kit or Eaton Supercharger.

If what Igor said in comments recently are true, then things will get a lot better in 2012.

Until then, 05 forward Mustangs will continue to be the bargain performer. Maybe one of these days, when the economy improves I'll buy a used 05-06 Pony and add that STS?

CUVs killed the Woody Wagon ( sung to the tune of Video Killed the Radio Star)

Quick trivia question! What song was the first video played on MTV? Well, it was Video Killed The Radio Star by The Buggles of course. And what killed the Woody Wagon? Well, that's not as clear, it was most probably the Mini Van, but what's replacing it now is the CUV. And while I think CUVs make a lot of sense, I miss the wood.

I see these all over now and I'm sure Ford is greatful for that. The Edge CUV is a knock out.

It's got great styling and interior. The powertrain and chassis are good and it's almost a perfect family truckster. ALMOST

It seats 5, not 7 or 9. There's no third row seating. But do people really drive with that many kids anymore? I don't have kids, so the Edge is big for me.

Ford's answer to those that need the space, is the Flex. I HATE that name!

Stupid naming schemes again, but I'm not going to rant on that one, been there done that.

Built on the Taurus chassis and replacing the TaurusX/FreeStyle, the Flex has styling that you either love or hate. But, it seats 7 easily and has great chassis and interior.

But where's my wood? At one time Station Wagons were so American, and then even as they declined here, they thrived in Europe, especially the UK. But even there wagons are being replaced by MPVs, CUVs and the like. It's the alphabet killer against my beloved wagons.

I spent an hour on E-bay Motors this afternoon looking up Country Squires and other Ford Wagons. I'd love to find an old Pinto Squire. But, if I had a family, I'd follow the herd to the alphabet stew.

I was asked what I thought of the 2010 Taurus, so here it is.....

No real surprise, I like it! I loved it as the Five Hundred, because of it's great chassis and interior and I love the improved styling and switch to the Taurus name. I always thought the Five Hundred should have been called the LTD or Galaxie, but Taurus will do.

I have to say that it's over 4,000 lb curb weight is amazing, but not so when you compare it to the 3,000 lbs or more of your average "compact" car. Finally the 260+ hp of the 3.5 V6 matches it's competition. And of course you've got to love the new SHO.

But go over to Driving Enthusiasts.Net, and read what Jeff Fisher has to say.
He contrasts the new SHO to the Fusion Sport and points out that the Fusion Sport more closely reflects the spirit of the original SHO. Don't get me wrong, the 355 hp EcoBoost SHO is a dream come true on paper. God, I'd love to see that engine in a Mustang!

But overall, I think the 2010 Taurus is just a great car. And professional reviews say that the faster you go the better it feels. I will be among the very few sad to see the TaurusX/FreeStyle go. I know the Flex is the same car under the skin and that Station Wagons have fallen out of favor, but I swear they should have called that one Fairlane or Country Squire, maybe even brought back a limited edition woodside?

A Hybrid for those that need more than Eco Cred!

Absolutely amazing! I knew Ford could do it. I loved the Escape Hybrid, but with the new Fusion Hybrid, they've raised the bar in so many ways. Sure a Prius gets better milage, but the Fusion gives a Hybrid option to real folks and blows away competitors with 41mpg City!

This is a car that is truly an accessable and reasonable car for the masses. Kudos to Ford!
Not just a car for the trendy crowd. I'll give you an example, my neighbor bought a new Saturn Vue Hybrid, but GM's "Mild Hybrids" may have huge flashy graphics down the side, but what about MPG? And of course the Hollywood elite all want to be seen in a Prius. But if you want to blend in and get the real world benefits, without having to anounce to the world that you're "Green" this is the one to get.

I have a real bone to pick with New York City by the way! I read recently that they bought a bunch of Nissan Altima Hybrids. Why in the hell would they do that? Why not buy Fusion Hybrids?

Future of Ford and this blog hopefully looking better

With all the news being bad, it's hopeful that at least FoMoCo's news is less so.
We've all read how they posted much lower losses than expected and how that in turn resulted in a bit of a rise on their stock price. If I had money to invest, which I don't, I'd buy Ford stock.
For two reasons, first I think it's a sound investment and secondly to show support for the only Domestic automaker that didn't need a bailout.

Ford's product mix and quality are both improved over previous years.
We can finally see some of the great overseas models here in the US.
Igor, a frequent commentor here and an avid Ford fanatic, has left comments saying that we can expect the Kuga as the replacement of the Escape and even gives guesses on powertrains. He also has words on Mustang and EcoBoost. Normally I would consider such comments to be just wishful thinking, but he's been guessing very well, if it is guessing.

So, Ford looks like a viable proposition moving forward. And what about MyFordDreams?
Well, I've been dealing with a lot of personal issues over the last year and I'm feeling that I may actually be able to get back in the game. I'll never bee AutoBlog or Jalopnik, but I'll be getting back into the swing of things soon.

I've had many interested parties try and contact me about advertising on the blog. If anyone is interested in sending me a proposal, they can email me at myforddreams@aol.com or xltoffroad@aol.com I had been reulctant in the past, but as The Auto Prophet recently said, it won't make me rich, but it could pay for a new camera or other blog related expense.

I'd appreciate your patience as I go and fix links on the side and clear house. Tags/labels will be used from now on.

It always comes back to the lack of IRS for me

I've been seeing a lot of photos and now reviews of the new 2010 Mustang and of course the SVT Shelby GT500 lately and while everything is written in glowing terms, it always comes back to the lack of an IRS for me.



I don't care how great the new Mustang is, and I'm sure it is, at this time, there is no excuse for the lack of an independant rear suspension, none at all. For years I've read that it would be too expensive or that an IRS couldn't handle the power. Tell that to Chrysler, Chevrolet, BMW, Mercedes and Hyundai! Enough is enough!



The Mustang has been the lone Pony Car for a number of years now, since Chevrolet stopped making the Camaro, but the Camaro is back and so is the Chalenger. And both of them have independant rear suspensions. Sure, they're more expensive than the Mustang, but how about the Hyundai Genesis Coupe? That starts at the same base price the Mustang and that has IRS.

How about the power? Well, Ford sells the Australian Ford Falcon with an IRS and as much horsepower as the Mustang if not more in the FPV versions. Camaro, Challenger and even the Hyundai, all have more power available than the Mustang GT's 320 and they have IRS.

The excuses have worn thin. So, while I love the Mustang, I see huge chances for improvement.
Don't even get me started on the 4.0 SOHC V6!