• BMW is once again defining a brand-new segment in the automobile market. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines elegance, space, comfort and variability in truly unique style. As an attractive, future-oriented extension of the BMW 5 Series, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is quite unparalleled worldwide in the upper middle segment, combining the characteristic features of a prestige saloon, a modern, highly versatile Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo in brand-new, unprecedented style.

• Through its body design, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the proportions so typical of a BMW, an elegantly stretched silhouette and a coupé-like roofline, as well as four doors with frameless windows to create one complete, harmonious unit. The front view of the car animates powerful dynamism through the sheer presence of the upright BMW kidney grille, large air intakes and dual round headlights slanted back at an attractive angle. For the first time the daytime driving light function is provided by corona rings with LED technology. Boasting clear-cut horizontal lines, the rear end comes with that characteristic look of width, power and muscle further enhanced by L-shaped rear light clusters with homogenously illuminated rows of lights in LED technology.

• The luxurious and, for a car with this kind of coupé-like silhouette, surprisingly generous and variable interior gives both the driver and passengers a spontaneous feeling of comfort and well-being. This superior feeling is further enhanced by comfortable entry to the car, the slightly elevated seating position, the large window areas, the optional panorama glass roof, as well as exquisite materials and supreme quality of finish.

• Flexibly adjustable, the interior of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo enables the driver and passengers to vary the generous space inside the car as they wish to their individual, personal requirements. In their standard position, the rear seats offer the passengers the same kind of legroom as in the BMW 7 Series combined with the same headroom as in the BMW X5. In this configuration, luggage capacity is already an ample 440 litres or 15.4 cu ft. Thanks to the partition behind the rear seats, the passenger and luggage compartments are separated acoustically and in terms of climate conditions from one another like in a saloon. When required, the rear seats may be moved individually to the front by up to 100 millimetres or almost 4″, with legroom still remaining the same as in the BMW 5 Series Saloon and an increase in luggage capacity to 590 litres or 20.7 cu ft. And after folding down the rear-seat backrests together with the partition, finally, luggage space increases to its maximum capacity of 1,700 litres or 59.5 cu ft.

• Offering unique functionality, the two-piece tailgate on the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo provides exceptional variability and maximum comfort in loading the luggage compartment. Opening the small, sedan-like luggage compartment lid beneath the rear window, with the tailgate as such remaining closed, the driver and passengers are able to conveniently load the rear compartment without causing any unpleasant noise, draughts or changes in temperature within the passenger compartment. To load large and bulky objects, on the other hand, all they have to do is open the large tailgate for maximum convenience.

• The sheer space and the inspiring, modern design of the interior team up to provide a truly luxurious ambience and the supreme long-distance comfort of a modern Gran Turismo. The sleek surfaces on the front and rear door panels merging smoothly into one another as well as the horizontal arrangement of the instrument panel enhance the impression of supreme generosity. Seat comfort, headroom and elbow freedom are all of the highest standard otherwise to be found only in the luxury performance class. The slightly elevated seating position, the clear, structured arrangement of the controls, BMW’s new iDrive with its Control Display up to 10.2 inches in size, and the cockpit in Black Panel technology all help to give the driver maximum supremacy at all times. The rear seats may be adjusted individually fore-and-aft and also come with individual adjustment of the backrest angle. To meet the greatest demands in terms of individual luxury, finally, two individual comfort seats at the rear are available as an option.

• The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is entering the market with a choice of no less than three ultra-modern drive units carrying over BMW -EfficientDynamics into a new segment in the automobile world. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo offers a truly unique, unparalleled balance of driving experience and fuel economy with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 6.5 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 43.5 mpg imp, and a CO2 rating of 173 g/km. The two gasoline models also set new standards for efficiency in their respective engine class.

• As a world-first achievement introducing a new and even more efficient range of engines, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo comes with the first straight-six gasoline engine featuring TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC and developing maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp. The top engine in the range, finally, is the V8 TwinPower Turbo delivering maximum output of 300 kW/407 hp in the BMW 550i Gran Turismo. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo, in turn, comes with a 180 kW/245 hp straight-six diesel of the latest generation with an all-aluminium crankcase and common-rail direct fuel injection. All engines naturally fulfil the EU5 emission standard.

• All model variants come as standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission previously to be admired only in the BMW 760i twelve-cylinder luxury saloon. Featuring an innovative configuration of gearsets, a unique level of internal efficiency, and the same low weight and compact dimensions as a six-speed automatic transmission, this high-tech automatic combines gearshift comfort, dynamic performance, and motoring efficiency of the highest calibre. The most advanced engine technology, the innovative eight-speed automatic transmission, and a wide range of unique technologies in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics allow the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo to set new standards also in terms of economy and emission management.

• The modern, demanding suspension technology of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is designed for both fascinating driving dynamics and supreme grand touring comfort. The double track control arm front axle and the Integral-V rear axle exclusive to BMW are made largely of aluminium. Standard features also include rear axle air suspension as well as hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with a steering servo pump operating on demand. Integral Active Steering is available as an option, combining active steering of the front wheels with rear-wheel steering varying according to driving conditions and current requirements.

• Featured as standard, Dynamic Drive Control influences not only the gearshift dynamics, but also the gas pedal and steering assistance control map. In combination with optional Adaptive Drive, the dampers with infinite variation on both the inbound and rebound stroke contribute to the superior suspension function. In addition to the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ programs, the driver also has the choice of the COMFORT mode available directly from the Dynamic Drive Control button on the centre console. A further point is that intervention in DSC Dynamic Stability Control is reduced in the SPORT+ setting and in the traction mode.

• The optimised body structure in conjunction with appropriately coordinated and electronically masterminded passive safety systems ensures maximum occupant safety at all times. These systems include three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres and a tyre defect indicator. The standard features include foglamps and adaptive brake lights, with bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime driving light function as well as Adaptive Headlights with variable light distribution and Bending Lights all coming as an option.

• The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is also available as an option with the complete range of features from BMW ConnectedDrive, including Cruise Control with Stop & Go, a High-Beam Assistant, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, Side View, Top View, and a back-up camera. Over and above these outstanding features, BMW ConnectedDrive also offers BMW Online, BMW Assist, BMW TeleServices, as well as an Enhanced Emergency Call function automatically determining and reporting the current location of the car.

• The wide range of standard features offered by the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo includes automatic air conditioning, an audio system, an AUX-In connector bush, and the Integrated Owner’s Manual. Optional features include four-zone automatic air conditioning (standard in the BMW 550i Gran Turismo), telecommunication and navigation systems, a USB port, an 80 GB hard disc for navigation data and the user’s private music collection, a multi-channel audio system, a DAB double tuner, a DVD entertainment system at the rear, a Head-Up Display, a panorama glass roof optimised for noise control and attractive design, as well as an electrically swivelling trailer hook.

• Engine variants:

BMW 535i Gran Turismo: straight-six gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC,
Capacity: 2,979 cc,
max output: 225 kW/306 hp at 5,800 rpm,
max torque: 400 Nm/295 lb-ft from 1,200–5,000 rpm,
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 6.3 seconds,
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph),
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 8.9 Liter/100 kilometres,
equal to 31.7 mpg imp,
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 209 g/km,
emission standard: EU5

BMW 550i Gran Turismo:
V8 gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo and High Precision Injection
Capacity: 4, 395 cc,
max output: 300 kW/407 hp from 5, 500–6,400 rpm,
max torque: 600 Nm/442 lb-ft from 1,750–4,500 rpm
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 5.5 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 11.2 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 25.2 mpg imp
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 263 g/km,
emission standard: EU5

BMW 530d Gran Turismo:
straight-six diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and third-generation common-rail direct fuel injection (piezo-injectors),
max injection pressure: 1,800 bar
Capacity: 2,993 cc,
max output: 180 kW/245 hp at 4,000 rpm,
max torque: 540 Nm/398 lb-ft from 1,750–3,000 rpm
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 6.9 seconds
Top speed: 240 km/h (149 mph)
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 6.5 litres/100 kilometres,
equal to 43.5 mpg imp
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 173 g/km,
emission standard: EU5

Official BMW Press Release

2011 Ford Explorer (Ford Media)
* All-new Ford Explorer SUV offers best-in-class fuel economy from high-tech powertrains, featuring multiple enhancements to improve mechanical efficiency
* Explorer comes standard with a powerful, fuel-efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
* For customers wanting top SUV fuel economy, Explorer offers an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine delivering V6 power with four-cylinder fuel efficiency
* A pair of six-speed transmissions – unique to each engine – help deliver high performance and engaging driving dynamics with class-leading fuel efficiency

DEARBORN, Mich., July 26, 2010 – Ford’s iconic Explorer has been reinvented and redeveloped to create new expectations for SUV fuel efficiency and performance. It will be the new class leader in its segment with fuel economy improvements reaching more than 30 percent.

“This all-new Explorer adds class-leading fuel efficiency to a legendary portfolio of capability, performance and customer convenience,” said Jim Holland, chief nameplate engineer. “SUV customers in general – and Explorer customers specifically – told us they want the freedom and empowerment Explorer always has stood for, with improved performance and significantly increased fuel economy.”

Offering two new engines – the technologically advanced turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder that is the latest in the Ford Motor Company EcoBoost commitment and a responsive, fuel-efficient V6 – the new Explorer balances capability with environmental responsibility.

Explorer V6 sets new standard
The Explorer 3.5-liter V6 is offered as standard equipment across base, XLT and Limited models. Delivering an anticipated improvement in fuel economy of more than 20 percent versus the current Explorer, this smooth and powerful V6 enables intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD) with terrain management. The improvement in efficiency helps Explorer to surpass fuel economy figures for the 2010 Honda Pilot and other vehicles in the segment.

Using Ti-VCT for optimized fuel economy and reduced part-throttle emissions, this engine delivers an estimated 290 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque.

This V6 engine has been highly developed for the Explorer application, with multiple actions that enhance mechanical efficiency, increase fuel economy, lower emissions, reduce operating costs and bolster durability.

Mechanical efficiency, performance and fuel economy have been improved through Ti-VCT, a low-tension drive belt featuring a one-way clutch for the alternator, a direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valvetrain with polished buckets to reduce friction, piston-cooling jets, improved bay-to-bay breathing through the cylinder block and composite cam covers that reduce engine weight.

Ti-VCT allows precise, variable control of valve overlap, or the time when intake and exhaust valves are open concurrently. This enables increased mechanical efficiency for improved response and performance, while optimizing fuel economy. In part-throttle conditions, Ti-VCT helps reduce emissions.

The 3.5-liter V6 also features improved deceleration fuel shutoff technology to maximize fuel economy in closed-throttle situations.

The Explorer V6 has been engineered for durability with a chain-driven camshaft, high-strength forged powder metal connecting rods with floating pins, fully counterweighted forged steel crankshaft, a die-cast aluminum deep-sump oil pan and four-bolt main bearing caps with side bolts through the engine block.

Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics are controlled and reduced through a tuned composite upper and lower manifold, the silent-chain cam drive and an acoustic engine cover.

The Explorer 3.5-liter V6 delivers best-in-class fuel economy yet offers power to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

EcoBoost 2.0-liter I-4 delivers normally aspirated V6 punch
For SUV drivers seeking maximum fuel efficiency, Ford introduces the all-new Explorer with an available EcoBoost2.0-liter I-4. Combining direct injection of gasoline and turbocharging, this advanced engine delivers performance comparable to normally aspirated competitive V6 engines. Developing up to 237 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, this I-4 delivers 250 lb.-ft. of torque.

Estimated fuel economy improves by more than 30 percent, putting the fuel efficiency of the Ford Explorer in line with sedans such as the 2010 Toyota Camry V6.

Like other Ford EcoBoost engines, peak torque is generated at a low 1,700 rpm across a broad band to 4,000 rpm. This torque plateau makes for flexible, efficient power delivery across a wide range of engine and vehicle speeds, while helping save fuel by making power at lower rpm levels. Ti-VCT, four valves per cylinder and DAMB valve lifters increase mechanical efficiency through improved engine breathing across the broad power and torque bands.

A relatively high compression ratio is enabled by the use of direct gasoline injection, operating at fuel pressures from 2,200 to 2,800 psi. The unique turbocharger is optimally matched to the EcoBoost I-4 engine and SUV vehicle performance behavior. Precise fuel pressure control allows the Explorer I-4 to deliver boosted power at low rpm, without annoying turbo lag.

The EcoBoost I-4 uses 5W30-GF4 oil to reduce friction and reduce cost of ownership through 10,000-mile oil change intervals.

Targeted durability is 10 years, or 150,000 miles. Durability actions include enhanced oil filtration and cleanliness, the addition of an aluminum oil cooler with improved heat dissipation and cast inter-bore cooling inside the aluminum engine block. This engine represents the initial U.S.-market application of the brick-style charge-air cooler, delivering increased thermal efficiency.

The new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine is being introduced globally by Ford Motor Company, with applications in various products in Europe, Asia and Australia, in addition to the new Explorer.

EcoBoost technology will serve as a key element in Ford’s global sustainability efforts, powering up to 1.3 million vehicles on an annual basis by 2013.

Six-speed transmissions help performance and economy
The unique six-speed transmission paired with each Explorer offers performance and economy advantages with the flexibility of optimum gearing for every situation. Lower gears provide the benefit of improved acceleration from a full stop, while higher gears help increase fuel economy by allowing the engine to operate at lower speeds when cruising.

Explorer XLT and Limited models offer a SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, allowing drivers to manually change gears using a shifter-mounted +/- toggle switch.

Explorer powertrains have been developed to provide SUV drivers with the power and capability they expect and deserve, coupled with the fuel economy they really want.

Ford to Reveal the 2011 Ford Explorer in New York City with CEO Alan Mulally and Mike Rowe. The following advisory is being released by Ford Motor Company:

WHAT: Join Ford Motor Company President and CEO Alan Mulally on Monday, July 26th for the unveiling of the 2011 Ford Explorer.

WHO: Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford
Mike Rowe, host, Discovery Channel’s “Dirty Jobs”
The “Two Julies” – Julie Rocco and Julie Levine –the job-sharing engineering managers who combined to lead the 2011 Ford Explorer product team

Jim Buczkowski, director, Electronics Systems Engineering, leading Ford on in-car technology, including MyFord Touch

David Leitch, group vice president and general counsel, Ford

WHERE: Herald Square
34th Street & Broadway
(outside and east of Macy’s)
New York City

WHEN: Monday, July 26, 2010
10:00 a.m. EDT

- WRX Now Comes in Wide-Body Design and WRX STI Introduces a 4-Door Model -

- WRX STI 4-door starts at $1,000 less than the starting price of the 2010 5-door Model -

Subaru of America, Inc. today announced pricing for the 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI models. Arriving in dealerships in September, the aggressively redesigned 2011 WRX starts at $25,495 for both the 4-door and 5-door models. The 2011 WRX STI 4-door is $1,000 less than the starting price of the 2010 5-door (non-Special Edition) STI at $33,995.

Subaru Impreza WRX
Beginning at $25,495 – a modest $500 increase for the 4-door and the same starting price for the 5-door – the aggressive body style changes for WRX include new front & rear bumpers, wide front fenders and quarter panels, and a WRX logo side fender badge. The sedan adds a rear chrome satin finish and quad tailpipe outlets. The WRX receives new gunmetal gray alloy wheels paired with wider summer-performance tires. Additionally, all WRX models now have six upgraded speakers and come with steering wheel control switches for audio and Bluetooth functions.

The Subaru Impreza WRX Premium starts at $27,995 (both 4- and 5-door) and adds the All-Weather Package, power moonroof, and fog lights. The sedan also includes a standard rear trunk spoiler. The Subaru Impreza WRX Limited is available from $28,995 (both 4- and 5-door) and features HID headlights and leather-trimmed upholstery. A GPS touch-screen Navigation system is available on Premium and Limited trim levels and includes a 7″ touch-screen and standard Sirius satellite radio.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI
The Subaru performance leader, the WRX STI, returns as a 4-door sedan – along with the 5-door for the 2011MY. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI 4-door starts at $1,000 less than the 2010 WRX STI 5-Door (non-Special Edition) at $33,995. In addition to its wide-body style, the WRX STI sedan also brings back its signature impressive rear trunk spoiler. All WRX STI models include the All Weather Package.

The WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter, turbocharged and intercooled Subaru Boxer® engine pumping out 305 horsepower. To further improve its performance, the 2011MY WRX STI has a retuned suspension that includes improved suspension bushings, larger front/rear stabilizer bars, and stiffer front/rear coil springs that provide tighter handling, less body roll and improved steering feel. All WRX STI models are available with optional GPS Touch-Screen Navigation with a 7″ LCD touch-screen for $1,800. Additionally, all WRX and WRX STI models also receive a new mesh-type grill along with an upgraded audio system that includes standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, iPod control capability, an auxiliary input jack, USB port, and XM/Sirius capability with a roof mounted antenna.

A new trim level, the Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited 4-door, is added with a starting price of $37,345 and includes leather-trimmed upholstery, 18-inch BBS alloy wheels, power moonroof and fog lights.

The Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited 5-door starts at $35,995, and includes 18-inch BBS alloy wheels.

The Destination and Delivery charge for these and all 2011 Subaru models is $725 (Alaska D&D is $875). Complete WRX and WRX STI model information and prices can be found at www.media.subaru.com.

Subaru of America continues to enjoy record sales after its best-ever sales year in 2009, with June sales up 35-percent year-to-date.

BMW M1. What if you took two companies that had contrasting, unique strengths with cars and put them together to build a car emphasizing both of their traits? Well, that’s exactly what happened in the 1970s when BMW and Lamborghini got together to build a legendary car – the BMW M1.

The BMW M1 was a car built in a soap opera environment of sorts. The problem wasn’t BMW, but Lamborghini. BMW had retained the Italian exotic sports car company to design the M1. Alas, Lamborghini was having major financial problems at the time and ended up going bankrupt half way through the project. BMW was thus forced to take the car back and complete the project on its own.

These odd circumstances led to an odd car. The first M1s look more or less exactly like you might think they would if Lamborghini did half the work and then handed the car off to BMW and did not consult on the rest of the project. The car has some of the swooping designs you see with all Lamborghinis, but also some of the typical lines you see in BMW. Put together, the car looks something like…a DeLorean. To some, this is a beautiful design. To others, it is not.

The BMW M1 was sold to the public for only three years – 1978-81. The sales for this period totaled 456 cars, the smallest production line in the history of BMW. Oddly, the base engine was a 6 cylinder, with twin cams and produced a top speed in the 160 miles per hour range. Other BMW models were later given the M1 version, but they were just upgrades of the respective base production cars and not real M1s.

It must be said that the powers at BMW really liked the M1. They actually started a PRO M1 racing series that restricted teams to using just the M1 car. The series became a launching pad for Formula One drivers. The iconic Ferrari driver Niki Lauda won two PRO M1 championships and future F1 Champ Nelson Piquet won one. BMW still supports the series today although M1s long ago were phased out in exchange for 3 series cars.

Why write about a car nearly 30 years old? Well, BMW is considering updating the car and releasing a modern version. It is called the M1 Homage Concept. The car has only been seen once, but it just looks brutally wicked in a good way. The current economic environment has stopped BMW and other companies from pursuing such projects, but expect the car to get some attention when the economic situation improves. I honestly don’t care for the original M1 design, but the Homage Concept looks like an absolutely beautiful and aggressive car design worth every penny of what will certainly be a very high price.

Chevrolet Equinox recalls have many drivers concerned. The fact remains that the Chevrolet Equinox is an excellent vehicle, but every automobile has its problems at one time or another. Whether your Chevrolet Equinox is from 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 or 2010, you should learn about Chevrolet Equinox recalls. Chevrolet Equinox Recalls – Chevrolet Equinox Recall & Warranty Information

The best way to save money on car repairs is to consider buying an extended warranty. This will protect you in case something happens to your Chevrolet Equinox which is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty or a recall.

Some people don’t see the value of an extended warranty for your Chevrolet. The problem is that even the highest quality vehicles have issues which will need to be repaired and not all of these repairs are covered by recalls or Chevrolet’s regular warranty. You could be stuck paying thousands of dollars for repairs just to keep your Chevrolet Equinox on the road. Don’t risk paying a huge repair bill – consider getting an extended warranty instead:

New recalls for Chevrolet vehicles are released every few months. An extended warranty gives you peace of mind and can save you thousands of dollars if just one thing goes wrong with your Equinox. You made an intelligent decision to buy or lease your Chevrolet Equinox – now make another smart decision and see if a Chevrolet Equinox Extended Warranty is right for you.

Ford Motor Company has sold well over 10 million Mustangs in the past 46 years and created 100 million more memories of youthful indulgence, magical first dates and unforgettable Friday night cruises. Now, as the fifth-generation 2011 Mustang rolls off the assembly line and into Ford dealership showrooms across the country, many who have experienced and reveled in the Mustang mystique think back to how it all started.

The first Ford Mustang rolled off the assembly line in Dearborn, Michigan, on March 9th 1964. A month later, on April 17th 1964, Mustang made its worldwide debut. But, the journey from drawing board, to assembly line and to driveways all across the American landscape actually began many years before, in the fertile imagination of a young man named Lee Iacocca.

Iacocca joined the Ford organization in 1946.  Although trained as an engineer, he soon realized his personal passion and future was in sales. Iacocca spent years as a field manager helping dealers promote and sell some of Ford’s most undesirable products.

In 1956, his “56 for $56″ campaign, advertising that buyers could purchase a new 1956 Ford for only $56 per month, caught the attention of senior management. Robert McNamara, then vice president of Ford Division, summoned him to Detroit. Once there, Iacocca’s sales savvy soon helped him lap everyone else on the executive fast track. In 1960, Ford chairman Henry Ford II promoted him to Vice President and General Manager of the Ford Division.

Iacocca had long thought that putting a back seat in a sports car would be a great idea. He reasoned that a well-styled, fun-to-drive compact car would appeal to America’s growing number of Baby Boomers.

After a number of presentations to Ford board members, the first prototype 1962 Mustang I was produced. It was a mid-engine two-seat roadster, named after the legendary World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane. On October 7th 1962, race driver Dan Gurney drove the Mustang I prototype over the U. S. Grand Prix course at Watkins Glen, New York.

Iacocca, however, wanted a more practical vehicle, one that would be cheap to produce and generate volume sales. Based on his time in the field as a Ford district manager, he knew its ultimate success would depend on three things:  great styling, strong performance and a low price.

After countless re-designs, the 1964 ½ Mustang emerged. The chassis, suspension and drive train components were taken from the Ford Falcon, but the finished vehicle featured a long sweeping hood, full-wheel cutouts, a functional rear seat and high-mounted grill with a free-spirited Mustang as its centerpiece. Multiple extra-cost options gave the buyer an opportunity to customize their Mustang and also generate generous extra profits for Ford.

Automotive legend has it that other names considered for the first Mustang included the Cougar, Thunderbird II, T-Bird II, Torino, Turino and T-5. Ford executives agreed that the name Mustang was a perfect fit for the low slung, dramatically styled vehicle, but they objected to an image of a World War II fighter plane as the logo.

After months of debate, it was decided that the image of the galloping horse best represented the free spirit of the car and its intended buyers. To further drive home the message, the galloping horse on the Mustang logo is shown running the opposite way that trained racehorses run around a track.

Although purists argue that the Plymouth Barracuda beat the Ford Mustang to market by a full two weeks, American car buyers had never seen or experienced anything like the marketing and advertising blitz Ford created to launch the 1964 ½ Mustang.

The official press release announced, “Styling and features of expensive European road cars are combined with American mass-production price, compact economy and traditional Ford quality in the Mustang – a new line of cars from Ford Division of Ford Motor Company.”

Ford actually previewed the showroom model Mustang to a continuous flow of automotive reporters and buff book writers beginning in January 1964. Product information and photos provided by Ford were put under an embargo, meaning reporters agreed not to reveal full details until the official public introduction.

But, the embargo didn’t prevent them from filling pages and pages of their publications with speculation about how the new Mustang would be equipped or what it might look like. It was all part of the auto maker’s plan to build buyer anticipation and excitement to a feverish pitch during the three months prior the Mustang’s launch.

Ford also leaked information to some major publications. In early March, the Detroit Free Press received an anonymous tip that Walter Buhl Ford II, nephew of chairman Henry Ford II, was seen driving a prototype Mustang convertible to a luncheon in downtown Detroit. Photos soon appeared in the newspaper, as well as in Time and Newsweek.

In late March and early April 1964, Life, Look, Business Week, Esquire, Sports Illustrated and The Wall Street Journal, as well as every buff book and car magazine, included feature stories about the all-new Mustang.

On April 16th1964, Ford previewed the car to an estimated 29 million television viewers with ads that ran at precisely 9:30 pm on all three major networks, ABC, NBC and CBS.

On April 17th 1964, 2600 newspapers across the country ran full-page announcement ads, as well as lengthy feature articles. A flood of print and television advertising also followed, featuring ads of how fictional wallflowers were transformed into swingers once they owned a Ford Mustang. That same week, Lee Iacocca and the Mustang were also featured simultaneously on the covers of both Time and Newsweek.

The stage was now set for what would be one of the boldest and most exciting new car introductions ever conceived.

Ford Edge Sport model gets Mustang engine
The Ford Edge Sport is getting sportier with a new engine swiped from the Ford Mustang. Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday that the 2011 Ford Edge Sport — the high-performance version of the Edge, which is one of the country’s top-selling mid-size crossovers — will have the same engine as the Mustang sports car.

Read more on AP via Yahoo! Finance

2011 Ford Edge Sport gets Mustang engine
DEARBORN – The Ford Edge Sport is getting sportier with a new engine swiped from the Ford Mustang.

Read more on Eaton Rapids Community News

New Ford Edge Sport model has Mustang engine
Ford is adding a little Mustang to the Ford Edge crossover. The automaker says that the 2011 Ford Edge Sport edition will have the same engine as the Mustang sports car.

Read more on AP via Yahoo! Finance

Ford Edge Sport model gets Mustang engine
The Ford Edge Sport is getting sportier with a new engine swiped from the Ford Mustang. Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday that the 2011 Ford Edge Sport _ the high-performance version of the Edge, which is one of the country’s top-selling mid-size crossovers _… FordMustang – Ford Motor Company – Ford – Ford Edge – Mid-size car

Read more on San Francisco Chronicle

Scion’s Appeal Aimed at Gen Y. Several automotive brands have tried to lure the hip and the young. But so far, no other brand has done it better than Scion. The gusto of capturing the heart of the generation Y is just one of the strategies of Scion, a division of Toyota Motor Corp.

Scion, which was created in 2003, flaunts the youngest customer base that a brand could seize in the United States market. The Japanese brand has 31 as the average age of customers. With the growing competition all aimed at the youth drivers, Scion still believes that it can do better.

“They’re a smart, diverse population and they know what they want,” Jim Press, president of Toyota Motor North America, said of that generation. “It’s this group more than any other that’s demanded great change in the auto industry. They’ve caused us to rethink how our motor vehicles are designed, sold, financed, delivered and serviced.”

Last Thursday, at the Chicago Auto Show, Scion unleashed two new vehicles that have been meticulously engineered to appeal to those Internet-dwelling, trend-savvy youth consumers – the next generation xB and the all-new xD five-door.

The Scion xB, a box-shaped, 5-door compact hatchback, is made bigger than its ancestor. It is designed to appear more rounded. The vehicle, powered by a 2.4L engine, is inspired by the Scion t2B concept’s style, which was unveiled at the New York Auto Show last year. The Scion xD, the sporty hatchback built off the Toyota Yaris platform, is the replacement of the xA. The vehicle was introduced at an invitation-only no-camera event early last year in Miami. The xD, powered by new 2ZR-FE 1.8 liter engine, will come standard with 16″ wheels and tires boosted by EBC Greenstuff, CD player by Pioneer with mp3 capability, power locks, windows, and other upbeat features. It will appear on showrooms in spring this year.

Scion reflects Toyota’s target market expansion to cover this generation of 63 million. Every year, four million of the said generation reaches the driving age. “The arrival of these two new products has inspired us to raise to a new level our ability to connect with young buyers,” Scion Vice President Mark Templin said. When Scion unrolled the new members of its clan, the introduction was also coupled with Scion City launch in Second Life, an online world with 3.4 million virtual residents.

The next generation Scion xB will replace the boxy image of wagon. It may still appear boxy but the utility vehicle is given softer edges to enhance styling. The engineers of the automaker have extended the wheel base by four inches, the length by a foot and the width by three inches.

“Toyota probably better than anybody has the ability to anticipate where the market is headed,” said brand analyst Erich Merkle of IRN Inc. in Grand Rapids. “Scion’s many custom options will make it a hit among this youthful crowd,” he added.

Toyota has never looked to the brand for mass sales, but rather to reach the generation Y customers. But the swift Scion lineup has to be aimed at the heart of the generation Y, about 65 million people age 8 to 22 who, as Automotive News predicts, will be buying four million cars per year by 2010. And many of them will be searching for more than insipid transportation.

Scion Vice President Jim Farley said, “Once, quality and reliability were enough to sell a vehicle. Now you need emotion, individuality. Buyers often assume you have good quality. Now you have to add emotion.”

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www.momentumtransport.com Save on your Scion XB Auto Transport needs. 2010 scion xB

Help answer the question about 2010 scion xB

how much will it cost me if i pay scion xb 2010 cash?
16,420 is the website cost
can i get it lower price if i pay cash?
yes its 16,000 CASH!
no credit card or check, cash!

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Anthony Fontanelle -
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Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive
buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does
freelance work for an automotive magazine when
he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

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2010 Scion Tc. As in previous years, Scion’s sporty tC coupe offers only one engine for 2010: Toyota’s 2.4-liter 2AZ-FE engine, shared with the Toyota Corolla XRS, Matrix XRS, and Scion xB.

The 2AZ-FE is unchanged for 2010. As before, it is a 16-valve inline four with an aluminum block and head, cast-iron cylinder liners, and chain-driven dual overhead camshafts, with Toyota’s VVT-i variable valve timing on the intake cam. It has a total displacement of 2,362 cc, with twin counter-rotating balance shafts for smoothness. In the tC, it is rated at 161 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.

Despite the tC’s sporty mission, torque is the 2AZ-FE’s real raison d’être — no surprise, since versions of this engine have also been used in the four-cylinder Camry, Highlander, and RAV4, as well as Japanese- and European-market Toyota minivans. Many smaller engines can match the 2AZ-FE’s 161 horsepower, but not its mid-range muscle. With twin balance shafts, the 2AZ-FE is also very smooth for a big four-cylinder engine. The penalty is fuel economy; the tC’s EPA combined rating is only 23 mpg with manual transmission, 24 mpg with automatic. That is slightly worse than Honda’s 197-hp Civic Si coupe, although unlike the Civic Si, the tC does not require premium fuel.

In past years, Toyota Racing Development (TRD) offered a dealer-installed supercharger kit for the tC, boosting it to around 200 horsepower, but TRD’s catalog does not list kits for 2009 or 2010 models. That may be because Toyota is phasing out the 2AZ-FE in favor of the 2.5-liter 2AR-FE engine, currently used in the RAV4 and Camry.

The current tC dates back to 2004, and there are rumors that Toyota will replace it in 2011 with a new rear-drive coupe, powered by a Subaru-designed 2.0-liter flat four with about 200 horsepower.

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Ryan and Tiffany bought a new Scion xB from Lithia.com in Medford, Oregon – and were given a free flip mino HD camera to take on their road trip to Reno, Nevada. The duo brought along wacky friends Randy and Jennifer – making the road trip video footage of Mount Shasta, casinos, gambling and pit-stops something not to be missed. 2010 scion xB

Help answer the question about 2010 scion xB

should i get a 2006 scion xb or a 2010 scion xb?
i like the style of the 2006 xb but not the speedometeter and i like the scion 2010

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Ronnie Tanner -
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Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at SWEngines.com. He writes about Scion tC Engine and other industry specific topics.