Showing posts with label TheCarConnection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TheCarConnection. Show all posts

Thursday, June 04, 2009

4 of the top 20 selling vehicles in May are Fords! The Car Connection has the entire list

#1 Ford f-150 shouldn't be a real shock to anyone, the F series truck has been one of the best selling vehicles in the world for 26 or more years. And with a nice update of a great truck it's topped the list.
And new product sells, so the Fusion which was already popular is again an easy call.

The one that sort of raised my eyebrows was the Escape. Sure, it's recieved a recent update and it's a solid performer, but with other cute utes in it's class receiving major overhauls and the Escape' blocky styling, I was surprised that Escape was higher on the list than CRV or Rav4.


And although I've been critical of the US Focus, here it is also in the top 20.
Well, it's styling is fresh and with features like SYNC it's got appeal. But I'm sure the 34 mpg and relatively low price don't hurt.




Friday, May 29, 2009

The Car Connection has story about Ford offering SYNC updates to customers for free


Don't you hate when you're the first one on the block to buy that hi-tech gadget and then they release an improved version that blows yours away? Well Ford recognizes this and wants customers that have bought SYNC equipped vehicles already and those contemplating a purchase now to rest easy. They're offering free updates/upgrades via Inernet downloads.
When did cars become i-Phones? Updates, apps and such are new ideas to a dinosaur like me, but we evolve or die. And this is the type of news that gives me confidence that when I buy my new Ford I won't have regrets every six months ( or less these days) when the next new fangled gadget is available.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

The Car Connection's comparison of Mustang & Camaro needs to take the gloves off

So, I was reading Rex Roy's piece comparing the 2010 Mustang & Camaro. Overal a well written piece, but you know me I have to comment, it's in my nature. First I want to criticise early in the piece when he talks of V6 Mustangs and Camaros being called "Secretary's Cars". First, the Mustang when it was first introduced may have been called that in 64. I personally believe the only one who used that term was Carroll Shelby in an effort to hype his Shelby Mustangs when they came out. But also I'd like to point out that neither the Mustang or Camaro used a "V-6" until 1974 for the Mustang and 1982 for Camaro. Both were initially available with I-6 engines. It's the little details that real car guys notice. And while I agree that the Mustang's styling has had a nice refreshing, I believe Rex needs to take off the gloves on this one. I love Mustangs, but when you love something you have to be extra critical.
And the new 2010 Camaro, especially the LS V-6 model, kicks the pony's ass up and down the block. More base power, 300hp vs 210hp and better fuel economy 29mpg hwy vs 26mpg hwy, are major advantages for Chevy. And let's not forget the IRS! I haven't driven the 2010 Mustang, but I have driven the 05 & 06 models. I also haven't driven the Camaro, but it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that the fully independant suspension of the Camaro will mean a much more livable and stable ride on rough roads and better handling in the twisties.
So, you're saying "Joe, give the Mustang a chance" and I'm saying that Ford needs to give the Mustang some major improvements. Tough love is love just the same

TheCarConnection's review of the 2008 Ranger, with permission


Readers will know of my love for the Ford Ranger and my hopes that a new Ranger will come in the next few years. But with permission of TheCarConnection I'm linking to and reposting a detailed review they did of the 08 Ranger.
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UPDATE, edited to comply with Fair use, see the review at link in title
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Reason Why:
The most direct competitors for the Ranger are the GMC Canyon/Chevrolet Colorado compact trucks. The Ranger has a smoother V-6 engine, but the GM twins have an optional five-cylinder engine with more power. The Canyon and Colorado also offer a true four-door model with a back bench seat, though it's uncomfortable for long trips. The Mazda B-Series is a version of the Ranger that Ford supplies to its Japanese partner; you may prefer the B-Series' styling.
The Bottom Line:
The 2008 Ford Ranger’s best, highest use is as an inexpensive work truck or off-road play toy. Anything else exposes the flaws in its seating, its fuel economy, its available features and in its performance.
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Marty Padget, the Executive Editor wrote the above. And there are even more detailed information available on their sidebar. I'm trying something new here. Since I don't have access to new vehicles to review them, I spoke to TheCarConnection and I'm trying this out.
There could be more coming as we develop a relationship over the coming weeks, I'll keep you updated if this works out.