2011 Ford Explorer.

2011 Ford Explorer

For years the most dominant SUV in North America, the Ford Explorer long rode on its rugged reputation. Yet by the early 21st century, as buyers began to shy away from the body-on-frame SUVs for crossovers, Ford is optimistic that its 2011 Explorer is the right answer at the right time that will help to recreate the brand.Pricing for the V6 starts at $28,190, plus an $805 delivery fee. The XLT model comes in at $31,190, while the Limited variant starts at $37,190. With every possible option, a fully-loaded Limited will list for around $48,00.

2011 Ford Explorer

Modern interpretation of the SUV
The all-new Explorer rides on a unibody platform derived from the automaker's D3 platform rather than the separate frame of the outgoing model. Substantially updated since the platform first debuted, it now underpins the Taurus, Flex, Lincoln MKS and Volvo XC90 in addition to the all-new Ford Explorer.

2011 Ford Explorer

With a road-oriented fully independent suspension and Ford's optional "intelligent" four-wheel-drive system, the Explorer isn't likely to challenge the body-on-frame Toyota 4Runner or similarly unibody-based Jeep Grand Cherokee for off road prowess. Instead, V6 Explorers can be equipped with a terrain management control knob based on former Ford subsidiary Land Rover's similar system. Offering snow, sand, mud and normal modes, the system simply requires a twist of a knob to properly set up the Explorer's all-wheel-drive and stability control systems for various types of terrain. The system will also include a hill descent mode for low-speed off road maneuvers.

2011 Ford Explorer

Powerplants rethought for the modern SUV
The Explorer also debuts a new EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine and it will offer a more powerful (and thirstier) V6. This 2.0-liter inline-four combines a turbocharger, direct injection and four valves per cylinder to deliver an estimated 237 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 250 lb-ft. of torque from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm. Ford says that fuel economy is up 30 percent over the outgoing Explorer V6. The EcoBoost four-cylinder will only be offered with front-wheel-drive.

2011 Ford Explorer

For those who place a priority on power - and those who want to tow - the Explorer also features an optional 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft. of torque. The naturally aspirated V6 also features direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing, which Ford says helps boost fuel economy by about 20 percent compared to the outgoing Explorer. With the V6, Explorer owners can tow up to 5,000 lbs. and the V6 is available on both front and all-wheel-drive Explorers.

Both engines will be mated to six-speed automatic transmissions; XLT and Limited trim levels will feature a shifter-mounted +/- toggle switch for manual-style gearshifts. All models also feature electric power steering to reduce fuel consumption and assembly complexity. The electric steering combines with a new Curve Control feature, which works with the Explorer's stability control and brakes to stabilize a vehicle that has entered a turn too quickly. Ford will also offer the Explorer with its automatic parallel parking system that first debuted on the Ford Flex.2011 Ford Explorer

Inside and out
With a length of 197.1 inches and a width of 90.2 inches including the exterior mirrors, the latest Explorer is a fair amount larger than the outgoing model - and it's one of the largest in its class, measuring in just three inches shorter than a GMC Acadia.It gains a much more swoopy look than before, although the canted C-pillar seen in the original two-door Explorer returns. Part of the new Explorer's signature look, it also adds rigidity to the SUV's body structure.Inside, the new SUV features more room and three rows of seats, as well as a decidedly unique dashboard.Ford says that the Explorer features its highest quality interior.The lineup
Ford offers the 2011 Explorer in three configurations, starting with the base model, equipped with 17-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, a 4.2-inch LCD screen to display vehicle information, cruise control, power windows and locks and a tilt and telescope steering column.

2011 Ford Explorer

Buyers can step up to the XLT to gain standard automatic headlamps, heated mirrors with LED turn signals, a kelyess entry keypad, reverse sensing and an alarm system and 18-inch alloy wheels. Additional features can be added to the XLT via option check boxes.
The range-topping Limited adds power folding side mirrors, ambient lighting, power adjustable pedals, automatic climate control, a 10-way power driver's seat, an auto-dimming interior mirror, a rear-view camera, remote start and keyless access with push-button start, among other items.
The Explorer will be exclusively produced at the automaker's Chicago assembly plant.

2011 Ford Explorer

2011 Ford Explorer

2011 Ford Fiesta.

2011 Ford Fiesta

The Fiesta Hatchback is Ford's most premium subcompact offering, available in either SE or SES trim level and exclusively with five doors.

Ford's new-to-America Fiesta is the automaker's first subcompact offering in decades, and currently its only premium small car. In order to pay homage to its European roots, Ford only offers the hatchback starting in SE guise - bypassing the base S trim level available on the Fiesta Sedan - starting with a base price of $15,120.

2011 Ford Fiesta

The range-topping SES Hatchback carries an MSRP of $17,120. Moving to the class exclusive dual-clutch dry transmission -- complete with six forward moving gears, dubbed "Powershift" by Ford -- adds about $1,000 to the price.
Ford says the U.S.-spec Fiesta boasts 15 class-exclusive features - such as keyless entry with push-button start, Sync, EasyFuel cap-less fueling and a driver's knee airbag, as well as significantly improved interior quietness (compared to the European product) due to the addition of a laminated windshield and additional sound dampening materials.

2011 Ford Fiesta

The 2011 Fiesta features a 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine that is rated at 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque. This four-banger features Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), which allows smaller displacement for increased fuel economy without compromising performance. Ford also makes use of an aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff, combined with an engine accessory drive system that was designed to improve efficiency by reducing the energy it takes to power the air conditioner and alternator. When coupled with electric power assist steering, the small gains translate to measurable gains in fuel economy.

2011 Ford Fiesta

Ford's latest four-cylinder offering will be mated to either a five-speed manual transmission - rated at 28 city, and 37 highway mpg - or the six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic, which is officially rated for 28 city, and class-leading 40 highway mpg.
In order to meet federal crash standards and compensate for the switch from European summer tires to all-season tires, Ford reports that the front anti-roll bar was increased from 19 mm to 22 mm, and the rear twistbeam saw a 28 percent increase in rigidity, compared to the European Fiesta.

2011 Ford Fiesta

Ford also added a push-button feature - Grade Assist - which essentially helps to maintain low gearing for more responsive throttle under acceleration, as well as reduced braking during grade descent.
Customers can choose from 15 or 16-inch wheels on most models, and an available 17-inch Ford Racing wheel as well.

2011 Ford Fiesta

To address traditional concerns of Americans regarding safety in a small vehicle, Ford has developed what it claims is the safest car in the segment. Ford boasts that the Fiesta features more Boron (strongest automotive-grade steel available) steel than any Ford product, with key placement of boron steel in the most vulnerable locations. In all, the Fiesta's frame and sub-structure features over 55 percent high, or ultra-high strength steel.
In addition to paying special attention to creating a rigid steel cage for the Fiesta's occupants, Ford has also incorporated a class-exclusive driver's knee airbag, as well as dual-stage front airbags, curtain airbags and side airbags for a total of seven airbags.

2011 Ford Fiesta

The U.S. Fiesta has also been evaluated by NHTSA, and was the first subcompact car to ever receive the highest possible crash rating under the new standards.
The U.S. Fiesta also gains Sirius satellite radio and has a four-inch information display screen located in the center of the dash. Other optional features include remote start, optional power-operated moonroof, premium audio and several custom exterior graphics choices.

2011 Ford Fiesta

2011 Ford Fiesta

2011 Ford Flex.

2011 Ford Flex

in the 1970s it was wagons, minivans were the child of the 1980s and SUVs took off in the 90s into the 21st century.
Now, the traditional SUV is dying off in favour of the crossover, vehicles that aim to blend the attributes of a car and SUV. Regardless of all the fuel spikes and supposed shifts in customer buying habits, America still likes its vehicles big, with a lot of space and power.
Ford is happy to oblige with the three-row Flex, sitting a three-row “crossover” at the top of Ford’s range. Car Throttle spent some time with the Flex to find out

2011 Ford Flex

To our eyes the Flex looks quite unlike anything else on the road. It isn’t a car and it definitely isn’t an SUV. The windows and pillars are blacked out, offering a clean look that makes the roof appear unsupported.
It is a nice touch – we shudder to think of the prospect of body color pillars on the Flex. The Flex has a strong front end and the familiar Ford three-bar grille design element.
This Flex isn’t a vehicle that will blend in with the crowd, and to us, that’s a good thing. The exterior can be customized to your liking and the roof is available in white, silver, body color, and on the new Titanium model, Tuxedo black. You also can opt for a chrome-plated liftgate out back. As part of the EcoBoost engine package, the Flex’s suspension is lowered by 0.4 inches. On the road, the Flex still turns heads, nearly two years on after its introduction.

2011 Ford Flex

The exterior design of the Flex is very bold, and Ford continues that to some extent in the interior. There are strong design themes, with a thick slab of wood trim on each of the doors (which surprisingly manages to look good) and beefy grab handles.
The Flex’s exterior shape is not just for looks either, it also makes for supreme practicality inside. The interior is extremely spacious and practical, with a light and open feel in our tester. Space, of primary importance in a vehicle like this, is abundant in the Flex

2011 Ford Flex

The second row has some of the largest amounts of legroom we have ever seen. Even with the vast area of space for second row passengers, the third row is actually usable as well, with the best head and legroom we’ve experienced in a third row of a crossover. For the driver and five to six passengers, the Flex would have to rank as one of the most – if not the most – comfortable vehicle to travel in.
Interior materials give off a feeling of quality that lives up to the Flex’s price – there are well-grained, high quality plastics and tight panel gaps everywhere.
The centre stack has large, quality knobs with chrome rings that tie in nicely with other chrome elements around the interior and as such, the interior is a nice place to spend some time.

2011 Ford Flex

Get in the drivers seat and the ambiance is quite unlike any other. The Flex has a unique driving position that feels commanding due to the visual dynamics. The hood is long, low and flat, working with the low dash and huge windshield to provide excellent visibility.
On the road, the Flex handles better than any 5000 pound, all-wheel drive, six-passenger vehicle has a right to. Roll is minimal and handling flat, with the Flex always coming across as confident and composed

2011 Ford Flex

The Flex EcoBoost has stiffer springs versus the standard model, but you wouldn’t be able to tell. The ride is supple and smooth, with a luxury-car feel that handled the worst we had to throw at it.
At idle, there is an almost imperceptible amount of vibration and noise from the engine, and on the road the interior remains quiet enough to hold a conversation. There was a bit of wind-noise emanating from the pillars, but that is to be expected from a vehicle of this size and shape.

2011 Ford Flex

2011 Ford Focus.

2011 Ford Focus

The 2011 Ford Focus lineup shrinks pending a redesign due as a 2012 model. Focus comes as a 4-door sedan in S, SE, SES, and SEL trim levels. The 2-door coupe has been discontinued. The only engine is a 140-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the S, SE, and SES. A 4-speed automatic is optional on those models and standard on the SEL. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Ford's Sync voice-activated control interface for cell phones and MP3 players is standard on SES and SEL and available on SE. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are standard on the SEL and optional on the SES. Remote engine start is optional on SE, SES, and SEL models equipped with the automatic transmission. SES versions have a sport suspension.

2011 Ford Focus

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

2011 Ford Focus

Today's Focus dates back to 1999, when Ford planned a "global" car that could please buyers in the U.S., Europe and Asia. It didn't quite work out that way, and in 2008, when the rest of the world had moved on to a new platform, the American Focus got a quick reskin. The 2011 Focus is evidence of that long life cycle: the styling's a mashup of new themes appliqued to a dated silhouette. The Focus Coupe, which suffered even more ungainly styling, has been euthanized for 2011.

2011 Ford Focus

The powertrain in the front-drive Focus mates a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. With 140 horsepower (136 hp in a California-clean-emissions version) the Focus won't stun any driver with its straightline performance, but it can achieve as high as 35 mpg highway fuel economy.

2011 Ford Focus

The cabin is roomy enough, and it's quiet and pleasant inside. The styling works better here, more upscale and more tightly integrated than the sheetmetal. The front seats make up in room what they lack in sporty bolstering; rear-seat room is decent, and trunk space is a bit larger than normal.

2011 Ford Focus

Last year, Ford added standard anti-lock brakes to the Focus lineup, along with stability control. Dual front, side and curtain airbags also are standard, along with MyKey, which allows parents to limit the car's top speed to 80 mph, keep traction control on at all times, and restrict the volume on the stereo to 44 percent of its loudest setting.

2011 Ford Focus

Among the key features are SYNC, Ford's Bluetooth-and-voice controller for entertainment and phone systems. The Focus also has a USB port for music players.

2011 Ford Focus

2011 Ford Focus

2011 Ford Fusion.

2011 Ford Fusion

For the 2010 model year onward, the Ford Fusion received a major overhaul that brought a new exterior, better engines and an expanded features list.

On the surface, the Fusion got new front- and rear-end styling -- enough of a facelift that, from most angles, it looks like a whole new model. The edgy grille continues Ford's "three-bar" chrome design cue in what's bound to be a polarizing expansion of the theme.

2011 Ford Fusion

Under its reshaped hood, the Fusion gets three powertrain options - replacing the outgoing two motor lineup. The top two models will be equipped with a 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift gate. The entry-level four-cylinder version will come standard with a six-speed manual.
For this latest generation, the base four is upgraded to a 2.5-liter unit pumping out 175 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque with variable intake variable cam timing, new exhaust manifolds, and electronic throttle control. Ford says efficiency is up over 10 percent compared to the previous Fusion's four-cylinder, now rated at 23/33 city/highway mpg.

 2011 Ford Fusion

The next step up is a modified 3.0-liter V6 that puts out 240 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. A new air induction system and torque-actuated variable cam timing help boost power. The new cam design uses torsional energy instead of pressurized oil to phase the camshaft, which Ford says will helps save a bit of fuel, as well as improve response time.
The 3.0 V6 is also E85-capable. Ford says fuel economy is up to 20 city, 28 highway on the front-wheel drive model.

 2011 Ford Fusion

New for the latest generation is a 3.5-liter V6 -- standard on the 'Sport' model. With 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque on tap, it is essentially the same V6 used in the Flex, Edge and a handful of other Ford vehicles.
The 2.5- and 3.0-liter Fusions come with available electronic power steering. What's more, the 3.0 features an extra-aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff that Ford says will also come on 2.5-liter models eventually.

2011 Ford Fusion

Pricing
The 2.5-liter Fusion S starts at $19,695, positioning it below the Chevrolet Malibu but above the Toyota Camry. The 'S' has basic features like air-conditioning, power windows, mirrors, and locks, capless refueling, traction control, ABS, and 16-inch wheels.

The next level up is the $21,375 SE model, which has the same features as the S, but larger 17-inch wheels, a six-speaker stereo with Sirius Satellite Radio, and the choice of the larger 3.0-liter V6. Ford Sync 2.0 is also an option on the SE.

2011 Ford Fusion

The $24,805 SEL model adds the Sync 2.0 as standard, the seven-color lighting system, leather seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights, keyless entry, and, again, the option of the larger 3.0-liter motor. Other options include a reverse-sensing system, all-wheel-drive, GPS, and a Sony sound system.
Lastly, the $26,655 Sport model has the 3.5-liter V6 as standard, red-, blue, or black-accented leather, chrome trimming inside, 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust, optional AWD, optional GPS, and the option of Sony audio.
The Fusion Hybrid gets its own unique page, and can be found by navigating on the list of Ford models found to the left.

2011 Ford Fusion

2011 Ford Fusion

2011 Ford Mustang.

2011 Ford Mustang

Ford updated the Mustang for the 2010 model year, but largely ignored the car’s engine bay. However, that will likely change for the 2011 model year, with details of the Mustang’s new powertrains hitting the Web on Wednesday

2011 Ford Mustang

As previously reported on these pages, the base Mustang will be powered by Ford’s 3.7L V6 for the 2011 model year. Although that engine produces 273 horsepower in Lincoln applications, power will be ramped up to 315 horsepower for the Mustang, according to The Mustang Source. That represents a significant increase of 105 horsepower over the current V6-powered Mustang and an 11 horsepower advantage of the Chevrolet Camaro V6.

2011 Ford Mustang

A 400 horsepower 5.0L V8 motor will also be joining the Mustang lineup for 2011. Dubbed ‘Coyote’, the new mill will be used in the Mustang GT model and will be available with a six-speed manual transmission – something the Camaro has offered since 1993.

2011 Ford Mustang

Combined with Ford’s latest track pack, the 2011 Mustang GT reportedly lapped Michigan’s GingerMan Raceway dead-even with the current BMW M3 — despite a 200 pound weight disadvantage.

2011 Ford Mustang

Because Ford’s 365 horsepower EcoBoost motor would leave little to differentiate the V6 Mustang from the 400 horsepower V8 model, there are no current plans to use the turbocharged engine in the Mustang in the immediate future. However, the Mustang GT will likely see a power boost in the coming years, possibly opening the door for a turbocharged Mustang.

2011 Ford Mustang

Other changes to the Mustang line for 2011 include an aluminum block for the Shelby GT500 model. A Boss model is on tap for 2012.

2011 Ford Mustang

While the new 2011 Ford Mustang V6 is a good car, the 5.0 is great. In a single model year, Ford has manged to address all of the 2010 Mustang GT's shortcomings. Besides the brand spanking new motor (which really is the big story), the Blue Oval boys made a number of other changes. It's going to take a well trained eye to spot any visual differences between the 2010 and 2011 models, but there are differences. First off, the aluminum pony in the grill has been lightened a shade. In addition, the front and rear fascias are slightly tweaked. There's a new lower spoiler and air dam up front and the rear wheels now have tire spats. All of the exterior changes plus an underbody aeroshield add up to a four-percent more aerodynamic car, and help this 412-hp brute achieve a very respectable 26 mpg on the highway. Also, let's not forget the big, shiny 5.0 badges. A1A Beach Front Avenue has been put on notice!
 

2011 Ford Mustang

Speaking of getting on it, the 7,000 rpm redline begs you to do just that. An all-new six-speed (finally!) manual further encourages you to bash the motor all you like. There's also a new six-speed automatic that's okay (though it does lack paddle shifters), but we spent exactly 17.5 seconds driving the auto version (that's two blasts down an eighth-mile drag strip), so you'll need to do your own research if you're not interested in rowing your own. If you are, the new six-speed manual is pretty good, though we'd prefer a short-throw kit. We also had occasional trouble coming down into second and/or fourth. We suspect this is mostly due to the shift lever's long throw, which again would be fixed by a short throw kit. That said, the new transmission doesn't seem to mind abuse.

2011 Ford Mustang

2011 Ford Mustang

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

Ford has introduced a heavily revised version of its Shelby GT500 range-topper for its latest model year. For the latest generation, the SVT and Shelby-engineered muscle coupe gets an all-aluminum version of its existing 5.4-liter V8 for more performance and better efficiency, along with a fresh new look.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

For the first time, Ford's Shelby GT500 is going to an all-aluminum version of the 5.4-liter supercharged V8 that was in the 2010 GT500. This new engine is good for a 102 lb weight decrease, as well as 10 horsepower bump over the outgoing model -- putting total output at 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft. of torque.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

One piece of technology that helped to make this muscle car a little slimmer was the addition of a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc cylinder lining. This Ford-exclusive technology is being applied for the first time, and helps to reduce weight by 8.5 pounds while also reducing friction within the piston rings and cylinder bores by coating the inside of the cylinder bores with special nanoparticles. Ford also says that this new technology will provide for better durability and improved heat transfer.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

The latest Shelby GT500 will be the first modern Shelby without a gas guzzler tax, thanks to the EPA-projected 15 mpg city, and 23 mpg highway ratings. The engine changes also result in 80 percent torque being available between 1,750 and 6,250 rpm, along with a larger two-row intercooler that delivers 40 percent more cooling capacity.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

 The GT500 achieved the increase in fuel economy through a combination of weight savings from the use of an all-aluminum engine block, improved body and undercarriage aerodynamics and the addition of Electric Power Assisted Steering.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

Likely the most significant option change for the GT500 is the SVT Performance Package, giving the GT500 a track-ready performance pack from the factory. This package includes specially developed Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires, a higher rear axle ratio, stiffer springs, lighter wheels and cosmetic changes for both the coupe and convertible. Ford attributes a 3.0-second lap time savings over the outgoing coupe on the 2.3-mile test track. 

Ford has also lowered the GT500 by 11 millimeters up front, and 8 millimeters out back for improved handling. SVT says it added slotted brake dust shields to help improve brake cooling and handling, as well as a new pedal box with is aimed at improving clutch and pedal efforts.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

The latest model also benefits from a 20 percent decrease in unwanted road noise from strategically placed sound absorption materials, allowing drivers and passengers to focus more intently on the rumbling exhaust.
Another major change for the new Shelby is the option for a glass roof coupe -- the same unit available on the newest model standard Mustang coupes.
The Shelby GT500 also now comes with standard HID headlamps, options MyKey technology, an integrated spotter mirror and fold-down rear headrests for maximum rearward visibility.

2011 Ford Shelby GT500

2011 Ford Shelby GT500