Ford Focus RS - Good on Top, Great Underneath

Ford Focus RS
Personally, I have never been a fan of the Ford Focus RS or otherwise. The 2009 RS has definitely started to change my mind, keyword being started. It may not look like much at first glance but this car has got a lot more to offer than meets the eye.
The Body: The front of the car is actually very nicely done in my opinion. There’s a big grill in front which sort of reminds me of

Ford Focus : Global Car basically the third generation

Ford Focus
The Ford Focus has always been one of the best-handling C-segment cars I’ve ever driven. The biggest drawback it has for the Malaysian market is that it’s a little small on the inside, being an European product where their C-segment cars are a little smaller. Their Civic is a smaller hatch compared to the large 2,700mm wheelbase version we get here.
And here it is, the latest edition

Auto Jingles: Have you driven a Ford lately?

As nostalgic as we are, how could anyone forget the jingle Ford used in the mid 1980s? Have you driven a Ford lately? Why don't car manufacturers have unique jingles like this anymore? You know it had to work if someone still remembers it 20 years later. Over the next few weeks, we're going to jog everyones collective mind and bring some good old fashion car jingles out of the archives. We're going to remember a time, when manufacturers would spend the money to have a song written about their product. To start this off. Here are two 1986 Ford Taurus commercials. Both carrying the Have you driven a Ford lately? jingle. But also unique music just for the Taurus. It's funny, I remember a time back in the late 80s, visiting the Pittsburgh Auto Show and this jingle would play over loudspeakers hidden in the Ford display every few seconds. Enjoy.

Hold your horses: Mustang production scaled back for 2008, fans push for more special editions

No one can deny the Mustang's popularity. Especially when it is the only real pony car on the market til the Dodge Challenger and Chevy Camaro hit showrooms. Though one this is for sure. The V8 Mustang just isn't as in high demand as it was.

Since 2004 the 4.6 liter V8 has accounted for 52% of the sales mix. In the past it has usually been right around a 70% V6 to 30% V8 mix. 2005 saw a greater demand and Ford responded with increased output.

For 2008 Ford has announced that they will be cutting back production on the 2008 V8 powered Mustang. Ford cites higher fuel costs, and the fact that the performance oriented buyers have already purchased their Mustangs.

This brings us to another interesting article out of Automotive News. Since 2005 Ford has steadily produced a number of low volume, hopped up Mustangs to eager buyers. And according to Ford, has not has as many special edition stangs in the stable as they do now. Despite this, Mustang enthusiasts are still nagging for more cars. Mustang Chief Designer Doug Gaffka says "They want Mach1, they want Boss,".

For promises not to disappoint. So we may see even more special Mustangs being produced in the next few years.

The current stable is made up of:

• Shelby GT500 (coupe & convertible)


• Shelby GT500 KR (coupe only)


• Shelby GT (coupe & convertible)


• Bullitt(coupe only, 2008 production)


• GT California Special (coupe & convertible)


• Warriors in Pink (coupe & convertible. Portion of sales go to fund breast cancer research).
  

And this doesn't even include the special Mustangs produced by Saleen, Roush, Steeda and others.

It would be nice to see another Mach1 Mustang. Especially if equipped with a true shaker hood scoop though.

Source: Automotive News

Ford idles truck and SUV plants

Following the lead from General Motors, Ford today has ceased production at their F150 Dearborn, Mi factory(the famous Rouge factory) along with the Louisville, Ky factory that produces the Explorer. It is unclear as to how long the factories will remain closed.

Sales of both models have continued to fall this year. F150 sales are 12.4% below 2006 figures. The Explorer is at 23.5% vs. 2006. The closings give ford a combine 10,450 units per week lost for the F150 and Explorer.

Ford exec Mark Fields said in a related article in the Detroit News that the Ford Motor Company is expecting a rough 2008 as car sales in the U.S. continue to decline. Fields asked and answered his own question, saying, "Do I think it's going to be Armageddon? No." He continued by saying that Ford will take the coming year on a month-to-month basis in order to "manage the business appropriately."

Source: Automotive News, Detroit News.

Is Ford signaling the end of the mighty Crown Vic?

The Detroit News announced today that Ford has plans to close their Ontario, Canada factory, by the end of 2010. The factory in St. Thomas is home to the Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car.

Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) president, Buzz Hargrove, told the Detroit News that, "There's nothing we can do to save St. Thomas."

The St. Thomas factory has made some glorious Ford vehicles in the past. From the firetacular Pinto, to the almost world car Escort. The 2.6 million square foot facility employs 2,400 people.

While it would be shame to see the Crown Vic, Grand Marquis and Town Car go on to that parking lot in the sky. These fall into that same category of cars that the old Taurus did. For really did nothing to the cars to keep them up to date. Other than very minor upgrades over the past few years, the cars themselves have not changed much cosmetically in the last 10 years. There was also Ford's "Late to the game" Mercury Marauder which was the answer to the Chevrolet Impala SS that went out of production in 1996, which also put GM out of the cop car game.

What Ford REALLY needs to do is revamp the Crown Victoria into a true modern rear wheel drive platform. If GM can develop a hybrid system that can move a heavyweight like the Escalade around, Ford can do the same to the Crown Vic. Having a hybrid system would do wonders for both police use and as taxi cabs.

Source: Detroit News.

Super Bowl ads. Ford, Chrysler, & VW oddly missing

We got word that there will be four automakers with ads during the Super Bowl this year. General Motors will have a Chevrolet 60 second spot during the second quarter and Cadillac will be sponsor for the pre and post game shows.

Hyundai and Toyota will both have two spots each. Also announced is a spot from Audi. This marks their first time advertising during a Super Bowl in 20 years. Theirs will be a two minute long spot featuring the Audi R8.

Toyota's ad will more than likely pump up the new Sequoia and Tundra pickup. Though I highly doubt that it will do anything to help the Tundra's image right now.

Cars.com will also have a 30 second spot this year.

Strangely though is the lack of an announcement that Ford or Chrysler will be having spots. There is still time for them to jump on the band wagon, so we'll see where it goes.

I watch the Super Bowl just for the car ads. General Motors has always topped our list of favorites. So as a bonus, we're including our favorite GM spot from the Super Bowl in 06.


Source: Automotive News, Audi.

European autos have resale edge over domestics

Recent surveys show that the Detroit Big Three are starting to lose footing on their vehicles resale values. Kelly Blue Book is saying that the top five brands with the best overall predicted resale value are Volkswagen, BMW, Honda, Acura, and Porsche. The rest of the Top Ten are Lexus, Subaru, Toyota, Infiniti, and Audi. Of course, none of these are Big Three domestics. Many of those brands made up the 1o worst picks for resale value for 2008.

Why the big turn? Simple. Over production. The Big Three lean towards overproducing their vehicles. Then they slap on huge discounts and rebates. Those combined with the over abundant supply of Taurus, Impala, and Stratus fleet and rental cars. Helps to absolutely destroy the resale value of those cars.

Volkswagen is the surprise comeback kid on the survey list. They have steadily grown over the last 5 years. Thanks to big boosts in quality, fuel efficiency, European styling, and exceptional value.

Source: The Wall Street Journal

Spy Shots: 2009 Ford F150

Here's some new spy shots of the 2009 Ford F150. Nothing yet from Ford on what the specs will be but this is going to be what the truck will look like due to its last of masking. KGP photography recently spotted this F150 out in the desert. More than likely the truck was out there from some brochure photography.

The styling is very crisp with it's new bolder grille, following the same lines of the F250s. New doors, mirrors, head and tail lights. Looks very very good. Surely the new truck will make its official debut at the Detroit Show in January. So

we should have more information then.

Source: KGP Photography, autoblog.com

2008 Barrett Jackson Shelby GT Mustang. A special edition of a sepecial edition

Amen to Ford and Shelby for offering the Shelby GT. It brought the Shelby name and performance at a price that we can afford. Though it's still not the same as the Shelby GT 500.

When the GT500 went in to production the 1st one for sale was sold at the Barrett Jackson Auction for some crazy money. And the car wasn't even built yet. Since then we have seen many first run special cars go across the blocks at B-J each year.

Thus year though we will see a different kind of Barret Jackson special car. One that you can actually buy. Well 100 people can actually buy as there will only be 100 made. If you live in Arizona or Las Vegas, Nevada. You can go down to your local Ford dealer and pick up one of the 2008 Barrett Jackson Edition Shelby GT Mustang. Offered in both coupe and convertible, each will come only in black with "Barrett Jackson Red" stripes. And special B-J signature door sill plates. Oh, and an autographed photo of Carroll Shelby, Craig Jackson, Amy Boylan and Steve Davis.

The rest of the package is made up of black 18 inch wheels, a Ford Racing tuned 319 horsepower V8, flow through exhaust with x pipe crossover, 5 speed manual trans with a Hurst short throw shifter, front strut tower brace, and Ford Racing Handling Package. That adds special dampers, larger sway bars, and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle.

Not a bad package for only $39,000. Though I'm sure dealers will mark them up since there's only 100 to go around. Though I highly doubt that the dealers are going to match or exceede the $250 per car donation(built in) that will go to the Carroll Shelby Children Foundation. So buying one is for a good cause. Now to get my tickets to Arizona.......

http://www.shelbychildrensfoundation.org/

Source: Ford, Chelby, Barrett Jackson.

PRESS RELEASE:
Exclusive 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT Unveiled in Arizona

• 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT Production is Scheduled for 100 Total Units


• Black Exterior with "Barrett-Jackson" Red Stripes and Other Touches Included


• Cars Will Be Sold Through Arizona Ford Dealers


• A Portion of Proceeds from Sales to Benefit the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Nov. 21, 2007 Three American automotive icons, Ford Motor Company, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and Shelby Automobiles, have collaborated to create collector car history with a limited edition 2008 Mustang Shelby GT. The companies today unveiled the 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT based on the Ford Mustang at the Arizona International Auto Show.

With an MSRP beginning at US$38,980.00, a total of 100 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs, in both coupe and convertible body styles, will be sold through Arizona Region Ford dealers beginning today. The purchase price of each car will include a $250 donation to the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

"The Arizona and Las Vegas Ford dealers have been strong supporters of mine over the years, which is why Shelby Automobiles joined with Barrett-Jackson and Ford Motor Company to create a limited edition car just for their customers," said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles. "And I'm pleased that a portion of the sales will benefit an endowment we're building at the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation. This is a rare chance for enthusiasts to enjoy a very special car and support a great cause."

Ford is a strong supporter of Barrett-Jackson and has sponsored its Family Value Day that kicks off the automotive lifestyle week in Scottsdale. Family Value Day was designed to attract a new generation of car enthusiasts by offering discounted tickets for adults and admitting children under the age of 12 for free.

"Barrett-Jackson's unrivaled lifestyle events celebrate America's love of the automobile," said Ford Motor Company Phoenix Regional Sales Manager, Tim Stoehr. "Their passion for the automobile has resulted in a unique venue to share our vehicles with the public. This limited edition car symbolizes our high octane relationship and gives a few lucky people the chance to own a piece of the Barrett-Jackson experience."

Over the past 37 years, Barrett-Jackson has evolved from an auction primarily attended by dedicated collectors and dealers into a retail automotive lifestyle event that is broadcast live worldwide. Shelby Cobras, GT350s and GT500s have been among the most popular cars to cross the auction block.

"We have a long tradition of selling the best Shelbys in the world because they are among the most desirable cars ever built," said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "Over the past several years, we've worked with Ford Motor Company to raise almost a million and a half dollars for Carroll's Foundation by offering new Shelby cars for sale. It was natural to celebrate our connection to these cars with a very limited edition Shelby."

From the black 18-inch wheels to the Shelby Cobra roadster hood scoop, the car is mean. The engine is upgraded with a Ford Racing package to pump out 319 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque through a high-flow exhaust system with X-pipe crossover. The Shelby GT comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission featuring a Hurst short-throw shifter; a five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The package includes a Ford Racing Handling Pack with special-tuned dampers, unique sway bars and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly. Overall ride height was dropped and a front strut-tower brace added.

"The Shelby GT was designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience," said Amy Boylan, President of Shelby Automobiles. "In addition to the 'go faster goodies,' each will receive special badges and equipment, as well as a photo of one of these cars signed by Carroll."

Unique features of the Barrett-Jackson edition will include:

-- Black exterior with "Barrett-Jackson Red" LeMans Hood and Side Stripes

-- Barrett Jackson Edition Door Sill Plates

-- Black interior with the Shelby GT serial number plate

-- Special Gas Cap Insert

-- Autographed photo of Carroll Shelby, Craig Jackson, Amy Boylan and Steve Davis

"As someone who has been personally involved with Shelby cars for the past three decades, I'm very proud to be part of this limited edition car," noted Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. "Rarity and documentation are two of the keys to collectability, which is why only 100 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs are scheduled to be built. Each car will come with complete documentation and be included in the factory authorized registry."

The Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT will be displayed at the Arizona International Auto Show from November 22-25.

Ford announces 3rd quarter earnings. Break even a possibility in 07

Ford showed today that there is some light begining to show at the end of the tunnel. While just about every auto maker showed a loss of some sort, Ford's is showing to not be as bad as you might think. For the 3rd quarter of 07, Ford showed a net loss of only $380 million dollars. Compare that with a $5.2 billion loss this time last year, and that is a quite considerable improvement.

Revenue was also on the up scale this year. $41.1 billion vs. $37.1 billion last year. When looking at the North America car sales numbers, there was a loss of $1 billion dollars. Last year it was a $2.1 billion loss. North American revenues were up $1 billion this year also. $16.5 billion to $15.4 billion last year.

World wide vehicle sales are up by 20,000 units this year also. Ford recorded 1,487,000 sales this year.

Ford also released their forecast for the 4th quarter and the end of the year performances. They are pushing for either a small loss or to hopefully break even for 2007. Ford has already sold the Aston Martin brand, and is should have the deals wrapped up for Land Rover and Jaguar in the early part of 2008. That will free up alot of cash for Ford.

Source: Autoblog.com & Automotive News

Official 2008 Mustang Bullitt press releases

BUCKLE UP AND BRACE FOR ACTION, McQUEEN FANS:MUSTANG BULLITT™ RACES TO THE STREETS in 2008

· More horses: Featuring the latest in Ford Racing Technology, Bullitt's 4.6-liter V-8 delivers 315 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque.
· Sport-tuned: Modified chassis and suspension improves an already competent and capable chassis to deliver the most balanced Mustang ever.
· Film-inspired: Dark Highland Green exterior paint calls back the original movie car, while a specially mastered DVD helped Ford engineers deliver an exhaust note that matches the film.
· Mustang magic: Bullitt is the latest in a line of special editions that keep Mustang news fresh. Plus, it delivers on the Mustang tradition of unique products that fit customers' individual preferences: a steed for every need.
· Bottom line: Bullitt carries on the Mustang tradition of affordable performance with a $31,075 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). A limited production run of 7,700 units is planned.

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 6 – Four decades after hitting the big screen and redefining the on-screen car chase, the Ford Mustang Bullitt returns to the streets in 2008, blending the best Mustang ever with the latest Ford Racing technology.

This modern classic delivers a balance of power and performance, thanks to special chassis and suspension tweaks as well as the 315 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque that Bullitt delivers through its 4.6-liter V-8 engine.

"The 2008 Mustang Bullitt embodies the true spirit of the 1968 movie car," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Like the original Bullitt, this car dials the driving dynamics up a notch for Mustang enthusiasts who love the performance, handling and the sweet sound of Ford power that only Mustang can deliver."

The 2008 Bullitt arrives in dealers early next year, with a starting MSRP of $31,075 (including destination and delivery) and limited production of 7,700 units for the U.S. and Canada.

The launch of the limited edition 2008 Mustang Bullitt coincides with the 40th anniversary of the release of the Warner Bros. Pictures film that gave the original car its name. In the movie, legendary actor Steve McQueen drove a Dark Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT that gained cult status among Mustang enthusiasts, thanks to a seven-minute scene that film and car buffs believe defined the modern movie car chase.Bullitt Chassis Delivers a Balance of Performance and Comfort.

Ford engineers modified the 2008 Mustang Bullitt's chassis and suspension to fine-tune handling and ensure the extra horsepower and torque from the 4.6-liter V-8 is put to good use. The live rear axle uses a unique 3.73:1 gear that helps launch the Bullitt with vigor.

Stock Mustang GT shocks and struts were swapped out for new units that allowed engineers to dial in a more aggressive driving dynamic while still maintaining the outstanding ride and balance of the base Mustang GT. A tower-to-tower brace designed specifically for the Bullitt lends additional torsional and lateral stiffness to the chassis for improved cornering and holds a unique serial number for each Bullitt.

"The 2008 Mustang Bullitt delivers balanced performance," said Paul Randle, chief engineer. "Comfort is not compromised for performance. Performance is on demand. You can easily take Bullitt from the track to the street and back onto the track with confidence."

The brakes also have been improved versus the base Mustang GT's. More aggressive front pads were developed specifically for Bullitt and improve fade resistance and pedal feel.

The 2008 Mustang Bullitt wears unique cast-aluminum Euroflange wheels, offering a modern twist on the original movie car. The Dark Argent Gray spokes feature a satin finish, while a bright-machined lip completes the look. Calipers are colored to match the wheel. The wheels are wrapped in the same P235/50ZR 18 BF Goodrich g-Force T/A KDWS tires used on Mustangs at the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah.

Powered by Ford Racing

Bullitt packs firepower under the hood. The 4.6-liter, 3-valve V-8 delivers 315 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 325 pound-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm.

Engine calibration is designed to increase throttle response for a snappier acceleration feel. The redline has been boosted by 250 rpm to 6,500, with top-end speed bumped to 151 miles-per-hour. Gears are selected via a Tremac 5-speed manual transmission, and the shifter is topped with a polished aluminum shift ball designed specifically for the 2008 Bullitt.

The car features the first use of an open-element air filter in a factory-produced, fuel-injected Mustang. Inspired by Ford Racing, the intake is tucked neatly behind the driver side headlamp, mounted in an air box that was tooled up specifically for the Mustang. The hood liner was extensively modified to provide a full seal to the air box, ensuring that the engine is fed a steady diet of cooler air.

"Colder air reduces intake losses," said Randle. "The new cold-air intake has shown a reduction in rise over ambient temperature from 50 degrees down to 17 degrees Fahrenheit. That equates to more horsepower and more torque in all driving conditions."

Engine performance is further enhanced through the use of an innovative adaptive spark ignition system, new for the 2008 Mustang.

The system can sense, within a few seconds, what type of fuel is being injected into the motor and adjusts the spark to provide maximum torque at any given speed – and as much as 10 pounds-feet more between 1,000 and 4,000 rpm.

Bullitt can run on either premium or regular fuel. Ford recommends premium fuel for optimum performance, but the adaptive spark ignition will adjust the spark to burn regular fuel without damaging the engine.

"With all the improvements we've made to the engine and the taller 3.73-to-1 rear gear, the Bullitt will plant you firmly in the driver's seat when you stand on the throttle. We've seen zero to 60 times drop by up to three tenths of a second," said Randle. "There's also plenty of power on tap at any speed. The car definitely feels lighter on its feet, and it is."

The custom-designed exhaust system continues Mustang's traditional use of a true dual-exhaust system with a new H-pipe specifically developed for Bullitt. The all-new mufflers, featuring larger 3.5-inch chrome tips (versus the 3-inch tips on the standard Mustang GT) are tuned to minimize backpressure, maximize horsepower and provide the Bullitt with its powerful exhaust note.

"We wanted to get the exhaust note as close to the original movie car as possible, so we based it on a digitally mastered DVD," said Randle. "We wanted something that would rumble your heart, literally buzz you – and the Bullitt team delivered."

Capturing the Bullitt's Undercover Look

The original 1968 Mustang's stealth-like appearance wasn't necessarily intentional. In typical Hollywood fashion, the movie crew removed all exterior badges and logos from the car – including the iconic pony badge on the grille.

The 2008 Mustang Bullitt calls back the original movie car in painstaking detail – right down to the dark green paint and lack of exterior badges, scoops and spoilers.

The only visible identification is the word "Bullitt" dropped into a gun-sight graphic in the center of the faux gas cap on the decklid.

"The 2008 Mustang Bullitt, like the movie car, is a wolf in sheep's clothing," said Doug Gaffka, chief designer. "Mustang is – and always has been – such an icon that it's recognizable without the badges. But Bullitt's clean exterior doesn't give away the Ford Racing-inspired power and performance lurking under its skin."

The new Bullitt wears a close match to the movie car's 1968 Highland Green paint, officially called Dark Highland Green. This distinctive color has only graced one other Mustang, the 2001 Mustang Bullitt. Gaffka assures Bullitt enthusiasts that the color will remain an exclusive Mustang Bullitt color. Non-purists can opt for only one other color – black.

The Mustang Bullitt uses the standard Mustang GT's front fascia. A new black-mesh grille is devoid of the standard chrome pony and is accented by a satin aluminum strip that represents the chrome grille surround on the 1968 car. The rear fascia also is shared with the standard Mustang GT and houses Bullitt's unique dual exhaust tips. Dark Argent Gray painted brake calipers closely match the wheel spokes, while staying true to the original.

Bullitt Interior Delivers Comfort with a Purpose

The interior is pure Mustang Bullitt, understated and dressed in Charcoal Black leather and Satin metallic trim. The centerpiece of the interior is the hand-machined, aluminum swirl dash panel appliqué.

"The machined appliqué differentiates the Bullitt from any other Mustang in the line-up," said Gaffka. "It's also perfect for the Bullitt. The graphic presentation brings back the feel of the '60s while still staying true to the Mustang's modern interior design."

Satin aluminum bezels circle the air vents and gauges, complementing a satin aluminum shift ball that replaces the standard leather-wrapped shifter on the Mustang GT. The pedals wear race-inspired aluminum covers that further reinforce Bullitt's performance intentions.

The interior is graphically clean. The only identifying marks visible inside Bullitt are the logo and gun-sight graphic mounted in the center of the leather-wrapped steering wheel and the word "Bullitt" embossed into the metal sill plates.

The Dark Charcoal leather seats pick up the diamond perforation inserts from the base Mustang GT. The seats are patterned after those in the Shelby GT500 providing added lumbar and bolster support. The seats are constructed using the new soy-based foam developed by Ford and introduced on the 2008 Mustang. The soy foam, made up of 24 percent renewable content, is produced through a process that requires less energy and emits less CO2.

Bullitt Pushes Beyond

The Bullitt package enhances the Mustang GT Premium package with the following:
· 3.73:1 Limited Slip Rear Axle
· Ford Racing Power Pack (cold air induction system)
· High Performance Calibration
· Performance Friction Carbon Metallic® front brake pads
· Ford Racing Strut Tower Brace
· Sport –tuned suspension (shocks/springs/stabilizer bar)
· Modified "H" Pipe
· Dark Grey Brake Calipers
· 18-inch Euro-Flange Bullitt Wheels with Charcoal Satin Finish
· 3.5-inch Packed Exhaust Tips
· Distinct Upper Grille
· Bullitt emblem on faux fuel cap
· Black interior with upgraded steering wheel
· Charcoal Black sport leather seats
· Unique IP finish (hand-machined aluminum swirl)
· Satin Aluminum interior accents (ball shifter/sill plate/pedal covers)

Standard content also includes:

· 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engine
· 5-speed manual transmission
· Auxiliary audio input jack
· One-touch up-down power windows
· Power mirrors and door locks
· Keyless entry
· Air conditioning
· Tilt steering wheel
· Speed control
· Rear window defroster
· Four-wheel power disc brakes
· Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Traction Control
· Seat-mounted side air bags
· LATCH
· Personal Safety System®
· SecuriLock®
· Tire Pressure Monitoring System
· Shaker 500 Audio System with six-disc CD player, MP3 and eight speakers

Available options include:

· HID headlamps
· Shaker 1000 Audio System six-disc CD player, MP3 and 10 speakers
· SIRIUS satellite radio
· Ambient Lighting
· Active Anti-Theft System
· Wheel locking kits

The 2008 Mustang Bullitt will be built at Ford's Automotive Alliance Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. It goes on sale early next year. Press materials and visuals of the new 2008 Mustang Bullitt are available at http://www.media.ford.com/.

MUSTANG BULLITT WINS, KEEPS FANS 40 YEARS RUNNING

Four decades after the original Bullitt made its appearance on the silver screen, the Ford Mustang Bullitt will return to the streets in 2008. On sale in January, the new Bullitt stands to gain notoriety among enthusiasts and club members who keep the spirit of the car alive and well. The Shot Heard 'Round the Mustang World.

The 2008 Bullitt Mustang marks the second tribute to the iconic 1968 Bullitt Mustang. Ford launched a specially modified Mustang GT in 2001 after receiving overwhelming positive response from consumers who saw the concept version at the 2000 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

The car is as popular today as it was at its introduction in 2001. More than 3,000 Bullitt Club members link up on the forum pages of the International Mustang Bullitt Owner's Club web site (www.imboc.com). The site's registry lists 2,428 Bullitt Mustangs and represents owners from all 50 and several other countries.

Bullitt owners are loyal, many having gone as far as having Bullitt tattooed somewhere on their bodies. Club members are like a family, answering the call when one of their own runs into trouble. When one member's car broke down on the way back from the 2006 Nationals, for instance, "Bullittheads" made calls and pulled strings and had the car repaired for free and returned to the young serviceman's family while he was serving his country in Iraq.

Mike Affourtit, IMBOC co-founder and webmaster, is a long-time Mustang enthusiast and was drawn to the 2001 Mustang Bullitt because of the connection the car had with the movie Bullitt.

"It was the whole Steve McQueen vibe," said Affourtit. "As soon as people saw the car, they fell in love with it. It offered an instant connection with the movie car and the movie chase scene. That Bullitt is the epitome of muscle cars and especially Mustangs."

The Mystery Behind the Original Bullitt Mustang

Two 1968 Mustang GTs with 390 cu.-in. engines were purchased for the making of the movie. Both vehicles were modified for on-screen duty with making modifications to the engines and suspensions and camera mounts welded in to facilitate in-car photography.

One of the two was equipped with a roll cage. This was the car seen jumping the hilly streets of San Francisco and being used as a battering ram to force the bad guys' Charger off the road and into a gas station moments before it explodes in a massive ball of flame.

At the end of filming, the bashed and battered Mustang was sent to the salvage yard to be crushed.

The history of the second movie car is chronicled in an article written by automotive journalist and Mustang expert Brad Bowling. It can be found on his website: http://www.bradbowling.com/

Ultimately, the remaining car was sold to an MGM employee and changed hands several times until 1972. The car's current owner bought it under the stipulation that his name remained anonymous.

The mysterious owner, now a successful businessman, has turned down numerous offers to sell the car or to loan it out for display at commemorative events. McQueen himself tried to buy the Mustang from him in 1977, but the owner turned him down. He did tell McQueen that if he ever did decide to sell, McQueen would get first dibs. McQueen died in 1980.

Bullitt will scream into dealers in January. With a starting price at just under $31,000 and limited production of 7,700 units for the and , McQueen wannabes will need to grab their tweed jackets and hop in line.

Source: Ford, Pictures: Autoblog.com

Steve McQueen Rides Again! The 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt

Few will deny that the 1968 movie Bullitt staring Steve McQueen, is undoubtedly one of the greatest car movies ever made. Images of a black 68 Dodge Charger R/T and a green 68 Mustang GT tearing up the streets of San Francisco are engraved into the mind of every car nut. Thanks in part to both the movie and McQueen's popularity, Ford built a special edition Bullitt Mustang GT in 2001. The retro styled Mustang packed the punch and overall look of the the 68 GT used in the movie. But it wasn't quite what the doctor ordered.

Fast forward to 2006. Motor Trend wanted to have a photo shoot in San Francisco for their road test on the new Dodge Charger R/T and pair it with the all new Mustang GT. Ford agreed and took a new yellow GT and repainted it 1968 Highland Green for the shoot. In that article, there was a small tid bit that Ford had plans in the works for a new Bullitt Mustang for 2008. Just in time for the 40th anniversary of the movie.

It's finally official. The Bullitt Mustang will make a triumphant return in 2008. While the car has not been "officially" unveiled, that will happen at the Los Angeles Auto Show. We are treated to a press release and some press day pictures from a press event in San Francisco this week.

Along with Highland Green, the 2008 Bullitt will also be offered in basic black. The rest of the car has been given an even more impressive retro treatment. The entire car will be completely badge less. No pony emblems on the sides or grille, just like the original. There will be a faux gas cap on the back which will carry a special center with gun cross hairs and the Bullitt name. The grille will be solid black mesh, without a pony emblem and a simple, but effective chrome surround on the edge. 18 inch aluminum wheels will have gunmetal painted spokes, and while they have been available in a polished finish, evoke memory of the classic American Racing Torque Thrust wheels of the 60s.

The interior will be finished in black leather(hopefully with a retro seat pattern). The dashboard will be treated to a machine turned aluminum finish, that looks oh so cool.

The business end of the Bullitt is just as impressive. The motor will be the same 4.6 liter V8 found in all standard Mustang GTs, though for the Bullitt, Ford Racing was on hand to tweak the camshaft timing, new calibrations, and air intakes. The chassis and suspension have also been tuned to enhance the handling. Which includes sport springs, a strut tower bar, and more. The tuned exhaust has also been tweaked, thanks to digital enhancement of the movie, to match the original perfectly.

The 08 Bullitt will have a ground stomping 315 Horsepower with 325 Ft. Lbs. of torque. All of this is routed through a 6spd manual trans and the same rear end at the GT 500 Shelby with 3.73:1 gears.

For announced a production run of 7700 Bullitt editions. Each car will be numbered on the strut tower brace, rather than by a plaque on the dashboard. The Bullitt will begin to roll off the assembly line in the first quarter of 2008, and showing up in Showrooms just in time for the warm weather to hit. With 7000 cars bound for the U.S. and the last 700 bound for Canada. Pricing is expected to be around $31,075. So it's rather reasonably priced too. I'm going to put my order in now.

Look for more updates on this one.

Source: Autoblog.com

SEMA 07: Big Bad Ford Super Duty.

The Ford Super Duty is the baddest truck to prowl the road. Especially when you combine it with a dually bed and a PowerStroke diesel. DeBerti brought along their low rider F450. Though it is just a bit different. This F450 is designed for hauling motorcysles. A Dallas Smith Axleless Lo-Floor front-wheel-drive chassis conversion puts the bed floor almost on the ground entirely. What more could a bike lover want? You get to ride right into the bed of your truck. No clamp on ramps or steep grades to ride up. What more could you look for in a truck?

Jaguar X Type axed for North America

Jaguar has announced that the X Type sedan will no longer be sold in North America. Production for the "Baby Jag" will end in December. The up coming Jaguar XF is slated to replace both the X Type and the aging S Type for next year. Since its launch in 2002 the X Type has failed to meet the sales goals Ford Motor Co. & Jaguar had hoped for.

Competition from the Mercedes Benz C Class and BMW 3 Series won over potential buyers. Potential buyers were disappointed with the cheaply appointed interiors, and poor packaging of an old design that rode on the Ford Mondeo platform. Since the 2002 launch, sales have steadily decreased. 33,018 units were sold in 02. Through September of this year, only 2,403 X Types have been sold. While production for North America will come to an end. The X Type will still be sold elsewhere in the world through 2010, when production is expected to end.