Leading the Subcompact Pack, the 2013 Ford Fiesta Outpaces the Competition

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Admin

Subcompacts are quickly becoming one of the most popular types of cars on the road for a number of reasons. They are usually very inexpensive to own with very affordable pricing, excellent fuel economy, and all-around quality construction that makes for low maintenance costs. With the rising popularity of the hatchback body style, these small cars are increasingly versatile and have much larger interiors than you might think. Finally, they are easy and fun to drive, making them very appealing to drivers of all ages. For these reasons, the market for small, fuel efficient cars is very crowded. So how does the consumer ensure that they pick the right one when shopping in this market? The 2013 Ford Fiesta offers one of the most balanced combinations of fun and functionality and has earned the respect of many automotive journalists and publications for its excellent value.

The 2013 Ford Fiesta revives the spirit and essence of the original Fiesta and adds a modern touch and refinement. It is still an enjoyable small car to drive around town or on the highway, but now it is capable of achieving up to 40 MPG while turning out 120 horsepower from its 1.6L four-cylinder. Other modern niceties include a six-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission to make the most of those 120 horses. With undeniably attractive styling and a more useful cabin/cargo arrangement than its competitors, the Fiesta is one of the best selling small cars on the market. Check out the comparison below that takes a look at some of the newest “city-cars” out there. If you like what you see, stop by Springfield Ford in Springfield, PA and take one for a test drive.

2013 Ford C-Max Takes on the Prius

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Admin

When Ford introduced the 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid and 2013 C-Max Energi earlier this year, the move was a clear attempt by the automaker to gain ground in the ever-expanding hybrid market. The problem is, when people think hybrid they think Prius 9 times out of ten… (or more). Facing this, Ford had its work cut out when they engineered the C-Max. Here at Springfield Ford, we think they got it right.

With an MSRP starting at just $25,200 and the capability to return 47 MPG city AND highway, two of the most important features for most buyers are already better than the Prius! The C-Max also makes more power with an electrically assisted four-cylinder up front for an impressive total of 188 horsepower. Since it’s a Ford, it has plenty of great tech and attractive styling. Check out the video comparison below for more information.

Origins of the Ford Atlas Concept Truck

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Admin

One of the most exciting pieces of news from Ford in the past few months has been the Ford Atlas concept. This concept pickup truck was revealed at the 2013 Detroit Auto show, a show famous for big releases and exciting concepts. Even on such an impressive stage, the Atlas stands out as one of the most influential vehicle at the show. As America’s bestselling vehicle, the Ford F150 influences a lot of drivers and any changes (such as those proposed by the Atlas concept) would affect more people than any supercar.

Below is a list of slides that show some of the early iterations of the Atlas concept and some of the features that made it to the final version of the auto show truck. Here at Springfield Ford, we hope to see a lot of these great features make it to production versions of the F150 in the near future. While a lot of the initial ideas were futuristic and exotic, it is awesome to see how Ford designers toned it back as the process advanced in order to keep the truck functional first. The extended glass roof that sweeps back over the passenger compartment has been swapped for a more realistic roof-storage system while the tailgate-step/roof-rack extension was chosen over an integrated tailgate storage space. Features like the aerodynamic wheels and the integrated bed-lighting have survived through to the current concept but have evolved to be more realistic as features that could possibly make a production vehicle. Check out the slides below!

Ford Introduces 1.5-Liter EcoBoost Engine

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Admin

The latest news from the Ford Motor Company, an all-new 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder has been announced. This small, fuel-efficient, and powerful engine fits neatly between Ford’s smallest engine, the 1.0-Liter EcoBoost, and the 1.6-liter EcoBoost currently available in the 2013 Ford Fusion.

Some might find it a bit redundant to offer two engines with only .1-liters of differentiation, but Joe Bakaj, VP Powertrain Engineering, Ford explains, “The new 1.5-liter unit further extends our EcoBoost promise of economical driving in terms of both fuel efficiency and – in some markets – tax savings.”

Globally, many markets have excellent tax-relief incentives to customers who opt for vehicles that use a 1.5-liter-or-smaller engine. This newest EcoBoost engine will offer these markets a powerful and smooth running option that still returns excellent fuel economy. The small four-cylinder enjoys the fuel efficiency of a 1.5-liter powerplant with the added benefit of increased horsepower and torque.

This engine will become available in the 2014 Ford Fusion and the 2014 Ford Mondeo in global markets. Be sure to stop by Springfield Ford to check out our great selection of fuel efficient and modern vehicles.

Advanced Materials Used In Ford Interiors

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Admin

Source: Ford Photo Library

Ford is constantly trying to improve their vehicles with higher quality materials, improved build quality, and the most advanced technology. But the company is also making great efforts to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions per vehicle produced. In order to balance build quality and reduced emissions, Ford is putting a lot into the development of advanced materials that either require less energy to produce or that help the vehicle to operate using less fuel. At Springfield Ford, we love being a part of a company that puts so much interest in its customers and the environment.

One technique that Ford has been using since 2007, soybean-oil based foams, has been so successful that it is now used in every Ford vehicle available in North America. These soy-based foams have similar density and are actually more durable than traditional petroleum-based foams. By using this technique to build seats and interiors in all vehicles, Ford is able to reduce CO2 emissions by around 20 Million pounds each year!

Other advanced technologies and materials being researched by Ford include lightweight metals that could help improve fuel efficiency in many vehicles. The idea is that the less weight a vehicle needs to move, the less fuel it will have to consume. Many car parts that are currently made of steel are being swapped out for high-strength aluminum-alloy and magnesium-alloy replacement parts. These alloys are stronger and lighter than traditional steel. The only issue that Ford needs to figure out is how to form these metals into the same shapes since each metal bends and stretches differently. Check out the videos below for more details.

What is the Best Ford Mustang?

Posted on April 3, 2013 by Admin

Quick question… If you have $30k to buy a new car with, which Ford Mustang would you buy? Would you buy a modern 2013 model or would you buy a classic?

It really comes down to your preferences, one is not necessarily better than the other. With the brand new, 2013 model you would get a warranty, modern technology, the latest safety standards, and the ease of mind in knowing that it will work every time you turn the key. On the other hand, with the classic you get a sense of nostalgia that can only come with time, classic good looks (that the current Mustang is designed around), and the sounds and smells associated with a classic carbureted V8.

While the classic is a lot cheaper in most cases, it will require much more money in terms of repairs and upkeep. On the other side of the argument, the modern Mustang does a good job of evoking that classic attitude but there’s just something missing. Which would you choose?

2013 Ford Escape Ecoboost

Posted on March 27, 2013 by Admin

The 2013 Ford Escape is an American version of the European Ford Kuga. It definitely has European, modern styling with smooth lines and folds that move up the side of the car. It is packed with power and high-tech features.

According to Roman Mica and Nathan Adlen at The Fast Lane Car, it is very responsive and has the lot of power. They say it gives the most connected feel to the road—better than any other competitor in the compact crossover segment.

The Titanium trim is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with four cylinders. It boasts 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. This gives as much power as a V6, but is much more efficient. Roman at The Fast Lane Car was able to accelerate 0-60 mpg in about 7.5 seconds.

Another EcoBoost engine is the 1.6-liter four-cylinder. It gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. It packs 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque under the hood.

One great convenience feature is the optional hands-free liftgate that opens with just the kick of your foot under the rear bumper (you do have to have the key fob nearby—like in your pocket or purse).

Stop by Springfield Ford Lincoln today to test the new 2013 Ford Escape and feel its great driving dynamics.

What Features Are Available On The 2013 Ford Edge?

Posted on March 19, 2013 by Admin

The 2013 Ford Edge returns this year as one of the most comfortable and spacious crossover SUVs on the road. As a dedicated five-seater, the Edge offers generous space for passengers and cargo in the its versatile cabin.

The Edge is available with three unique engines to suit different types of drivers. The base 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 285 horsepower and returns up to 27 MPG with FWD or 25 MPG with AWD. There is also an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that gets slightly less power but returns noticeably better fuel-efficiency. This engine, which is only available on FWD models, puts out 240 hp while returning up to 30 MPG. Finally, there is an optional 3.7-liter V6 capable of 305 horsepower and up to 26 MPG in FWD or 23 MPG with AWD. All models come standard with an efficient six-speed automatic transmission.

Plenty of standard safety features and optional convenience packages make the Edge a safe and comfortable ride for the whole family. All models get a built in USB port, MyKey, a capless fuel door, and MyTouch with Bluetooth connectivity. Be sure to stop by Springfield Ford in Springfield, PA for more information to see the new Edge in person.

Production of the New Ford Fiesta ST Begins

Posted on March 13, 2013 by Admin

The Ford Fiesta is one of the best selling subcompact hatchbacks on the market right now and it is about to get even more appealing. Productions for the special Ford Fiesta ST has just begun in preparation for the 2014 model year.

The Fiesta ST is not your average hatchback though. It’s not even your average “hot hatch”. The Fiesta ST will be one of the most powerful and exciting subcompact cars to hit the streets in quite some time. With its 197 horsepower, 214 lb-ft of torque 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine; sport tuned suspension; six-speed manual transmission; upgraded braking components; and tighter steering ratio this may just be the hottest subcompact available with a factory warranty.

With a starting price expected to be under $23,000 and an EPA estimated 34 MPG, the Fiesta ST will help you save some cash too. Check it out in 2014 here at Springfield Ford.

Ford Mustang Track Apps Help Drivers Understand Performance

Posted on March 6, 2013 by Admin

One of the fun and informative options available on newer Ford Mustang models is the Track Apps system. Track Apps measure performance statistics in the Mustang on demand. Some of the available measures include Acceleration, Braking, and G-Forces.

The Acceleration Track App measures the Mustang’s straight-line acceleration. It has the ability to record 0-60, 0-100, 1/8-mile, and ¼-mile runs and has the option of a drag-strip style “Chrismas tree light” system that indicates when to go.

The Braking Track App measures braking performance. This app has the ability to measure both distance and time needed to bring the car to a complete stop from 60 or 100 mph. This is helpful in knowing the limits of the Mustang’s braking system, grip, and tires.

The Accelerometer Track App measures g-forces in the Mustang. This app is able to measure lateral g-forces and can show how well the car is gripping in corners left and right as well as under acceleration and braking. This information is displayed as a dot-on-bullseye graphic that is available on demand and shows instantaneous performance.

For more info about the Ford Mustang Track Apps, stop by Springfield Ford and experience them in person.