Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX earn IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards
Filed under: Safety, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln
When the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety first crash tested the 2011 Ford Edge and 2011 Lincoln MKX, the crossover twins came close to becoming a Top Safety Pick. So why didn't the Edge and MKX take home the prestigious safety honor? The soft-roading duo didn't quite measure up to the institute's roof strength standards, as the lids of the CUVs only withstood pressure equal to 3.5 times overall vehicle weight. The minimum score required to become a Top Safety Pick is four times overall body weight.
Instead of waiting for the 2012 models to improve roof safety, Ford went back to the drawing board and changed the roof structure of both vehicles. That hard work has paid off, as IIHS testing shows that the roofs can now withstand a force equal to 4.7 times overall vehicle weight. With the newly strengthened roofs now in production, IIHS has now blessed the CUVs with Top Safety Pick status. Only models produced after February, 2011 can boast TSP certification, however. Hit the jump to read the brief IIHS press release.
Gallery photos copyright (C)2011 Chris Shunk / John Neff / AOL
[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]
Continue reading Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX earn IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards
Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX earn IIHS Top Safety Pick Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsTRW develops electronic turn signal stalk
Filed under: Etc., Technology, Ford
TRW, supplier of systems and components to automakers, has introduced its latest generation steering column control module for the Ford SuperDuty and F-150, Edge/MKX and Explorer. Why is this news, and what the heck is a steering column control module?
In the old days (the 1990s), a bunch of individual pieces were fastened to the steering column. Turn signals were a separate part from the airbag system's clockspring, which was a unique piece from the multifunction switch. Each of those bits cost something to produce and procure, not to mention the wiring required to integrate the functions into the car. Supplier problems with just one piece could idle the supply of the whole assembly for days.
Modern serial communication and control systems have created a solution for these problems, and that's the steering column control module, a single component that integrates all the functions of those many individual pieces. The amount of wiring is reduced, reliability is up thanks to new electronic techniques supplanting older wear-prone designs and with fewer contracts to secure and pieces to ship and inventory, a better per-unit cost can be negotiated. TRW's new module includes all sorts of stuff like headlamp switches, turn signals, tilt/telescope control, hazard lamps, steering angle sensor and electronic turn signal cancel, which is unique to the new Ford modules. Tuning to customer preferences reduces complaints and increases satisfaction, too. It may sound a lot more complex, putting a computerized module in place of what was once simple switches and relays, but this is a case of newer being clearly better. Full press release posted after the jump.
Modern serial communication and control systems have created a solution for these problems, and that's the steering column control module, a single component that integrates all the functions of those many individual pieces. The amount of wiring is reduced, reliability is up thanks to new electronic techniques supplanting older wear-prone designs and with fewer contracts to secure and pieces to ship and inventory, a better per-unit cost can be negotiated. TRW's new module includes all sorts of stuff like headlamp switches, turn signals, tilt/telescope control, hazard lamps, steering angle sensor and electronic turn signal cancel, which is unique to the new Ford modules. Tuning to customer preferences reduces complaints and increases satisfaction, too. It may sound a lot more complex, putting a computerized module in place of what was once simple switches and relays, but this is a case of newer being clearly better. Full press release posted after the jump.
Continue reading TRW develops electronic turn signal stalk
TRW develops electronic turn signal stalk originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsConsumer Reports pulls Recommended rating on Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX – MyFord Touch to blame?
Filed under: Technology, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln, Luxury
2011 Lincoln MKX - Click above for high-res image gallery
Here's a slice of bad news for the MyFord Touch system. Consumer Reports has just released the findings of its crossover/SUV roundup, and both the 2011 Ford Edge and 2011 Lincoln MKX failed to garner enough points to wear the coveted "Recommended" badge. While CR noted that both vehicles offer improvements in areas like handling, fuel economy and interior quality, the publication found plenty of issue with the MyFord Touch/MyLincoln Touch system on both high riders. According to CR, the problem is that the driver interface system is overly complicated. In a separate report that focuses solely on the MyFord Touch system, the publication cited small fonts and a slow-to-react touchscreen as key issues, saying,
Ouch. So much for better living through technology. CR even went so far as to say that it hopes that Ford will give up the system of touchscreens and voice commands for the more simple dials and knobs."It all adds up to three or four ways to make what should be simple adjustments. None of the options works as well or is as easy-to-use as old-fashioned knobs and switches, and they can be more time-consuming and distracting to operate."
In the same crossover/SUV roundup, CR also was unable to recommend the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe, remarking that "handling is ungainly and stopping distances are long."
CR's official press release is available after the jump.
Photos copyright (C)2010 John Neff and Chris Shunk / AOL
[Source: Consumer Reports]
Consumer Reports pulls Recommended rating on Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX - MyFord Touch to blame? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFord recalling nearly 15,000 F-Series and Edge/Lincoln MKX crossovers
Filed under: SUV, Truck, Recalls, Safety, Ford
If you thought 2010 was going to wrap up with an all quiet on the recall front, think again. Ford and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration have announced the recall of 14,737 vehicles for a faulty body control module that may short out and cause a fire. The recall covers certain 2011 models that were built in a six-day period, including some 2011 Edge, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 and Lincoln MKX vehicles. NHTSA says that if the body control module shorts out, it could overheat and cause a fire.
Dealers are expected to inspect the module and, if necessary, replace it free of charge. NHTSA says that Ford plans to start the work on or before January 10, 2011, and that owners may contact Ford directly with questions at 1-866-436-7332. Hit the jump for a look at the full recall notice.
[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]
Continue reading Ford recalling nearly 15,000 F-Series and Edge/Lincoln MKX crossovers
Ford recalling nearly 15,000 F-Series and Edge/Lincoln MKX crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments2011 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX get first recall
Filed under: Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln
2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery
That was quick. Ford has issued a recall for a whopping 71 2011 Lincoln MKX and 2011 Ford Edge models due to rear latches that are unable to be locked. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the locks weren't programmed properly from the factory, and as such, the rear gate can't be locked by any of the buttons inside of the vehicle or even the key fob.
NHTSA says that the problem violates the agency's motor vehicle safety standard number 206 pertaining to locks and door retention components.
Ford will reprogram the locks free of charge, and the recall is set to get under way starting on November 1. Owners can contact Ford or the NHTSA to learn more about having their vehicles repaired.
Photos by Zach Bowman / Copyright (C)2010 AOL.
[Sources: NHTSA, Family Car Guide]
2011 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX get first recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments2011 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX get first recall
Filed under: Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln
2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery
That was quick. Ford has issued a recall for a whopping 71 2011 Lincoln MKX and 2011 Ford Edge models due to rear latches that are unable to be locked. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the locks weren't programmed properly from the factory, and as such, the rear gate can't be locked by any of the buttons inside of the vehicle or even the key fob.
NHTSA says that the problem violates the agency's motor vehicle safety standard number 206 pertaining to locks and door retention components.
Ford will reprogram the locks free of charge, and the recall is set to get under way starting on November 1. Owners can contact Ford or the NHTSA to learn more about having their vehicles repaired.
Photos by Zach Bowman / Copyright (C)2010 AOL.
[Sources: NHTSA, Family Car Guide]
2011 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX get first recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFord unhinges rest of its Explorer-filled, SEMA-bound toybox
Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Ford, Design/Style
Galpin Auto Sports Explorer - Click above for high-res image gallery of Ford customs to debut at SEMA
SEMA 2010 is just around the corner and Ford has supplied a number of vehicles to various aftermarket tuning companies ahead of the festivities. The 2011 Ford Explorer is just one of the vehicles receiving the tuner treatment, but it's getting a lot of attention. Ford has supplied three of them to different companies, to create three different styles: Urban, Luxury and Adventure.
The Urban style was handled by Funkmaster Flex and the Team Baurtwell shop. The crew from GAS, or Galpin Auto Sports, turned its Explorer into a high-end machine for Luxury. CGS Motorsports handled Adventure and added lifestyle touches to the 'ute while still providing an upscale, custom feel.
Other vehicles wearing a Blue Oval at SEMA include;
- 2011 Lincoln MKX by ID Agency
- 2011 Ford Taurus SHO by Rick Bottom Designs
- 2011 Ford Taurus SHO by H&R Springs
- 2011 Ford Edge by K-Daddy Kustomz
- 2011 Ford Fusion Sport by Steeda Autosports
[Source: Ford]
Continue reading Ford unhinges rest of its Explorer-filled, SEMA-bound toybox
Ford unhinges rest of its Explorer-filled, SEMA-bound toybox originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFord begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines
Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Crossover, Ford
In case you thought installing SYNC into Ford vehicles was a ho-hum-whatever affair, that's not the case - Ford puts a lot of thought into it. The Blue Oval's latest assembly line advance is to have SYNC's infotainment software installed into the 2011 Ford Edge via WiFi. Made possible by the the latest version of SYNC with WiFi access, the new process allows Ford to save money on parts and inventory by using a common module among vehicles in different cars and made in different plants. After the Edge, the Lincoln MKX and 2011 Explorer will gain the same systems. Follow the jump for the press release.
[Source: Ford]
Continue reading Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines
Ford begins using WiFi to install Sync on assembly lines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX configurators up and running
Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln, Luxury
The 2011 Ford Edge and 2011 Lincoln MKX configurators have gone live for your shopping - or time-wasting - enjoyment. The Edge SE starts at $27,220 for the 3.5-liter V6, but you can hit it out of the park before even leaving the first page by selecting the Edge Sport all-wheel drive for $38,070. That'll get you a 305-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 canvas to play with. There isn't much more you can add to it, but after stuffing it like a turkey we got it up to $45,171. For those with a mind to be a kinder on wallets and Mother Earth, there are SEL and Limited trims on offer, as well as the 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine (...eventually).
The Lincoln MKX puts less on the table when it comes to varieties: the front-wheel drive starts at $39,145, the AWD at $40,995. Both get that 3.7-liter V6, six-speed SelectShift transmission and SYNC as standard fit. If you go the package route, your work is just about finished, because they cement quite a few exterior and interior choices. But don't take our words for it - click the links and get to configuratin'. Hot tips, Drew and Tony!
[Source: Ford, Lincoln]
2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX configurators up and running originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments2011 Lincoln MKX gets 19/26 MPG ratings, Ford claims best-in-class
Filed under: Hybrid, Government/Legal, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln
2011 Lincoln MKX - Click above for high-res image gallery
The 2011 Lincoln MKX delivers 15 percent more horsepower (305 ponies in all) and 12 percent more torque (280 pound-feet) than the outgoing model, and that added power comes with the added bonus of improved efficiency. The Environmental Protection Agency has rated the 2011 MKX at 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg around the highway, besting the Lexus RX350 by one mpg in the city and on the highway. That's a combined 21 mpg, which Ford says is enough to best its nine closest competitors.
Ford was able to crank up ponies while also ratcheting up efficiency by adding twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to its 3.7-liter V6 engine. TI-VCT enables a larger torque-curve while also improving power by 10 percent and efficiency by 4.5 percent versus an engine without the technology. The 3.7-liter engine, which is also available on the 2011 Mustang and the 2011 Edge Sport, also utilizes aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff to further increase efficiency. Basically, the engine shuts down whenever the driver doesn't need engine torque.
The EPA has also rated the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, which scores 36 mpg on the highway and 41 mpg in the city. That's the same numbers as the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which shares a common powertrain, and six mpg better than the smaller Lexus HS250h. Hit the jump to read over the Ford presser.
[Source: Ford]
Continue reading 2011 Lincoln MKX gets 19/26 MPG ratings, Ford claims best-in-class
2011 Lincoln MKX gets 19/26 MPG ratings, Ford claims best-in-class originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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