Tag: Ford

2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD Delivers on Expectations
EV & Electric Cars, News, SUV & Crossovers

2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid AWD Delivers on Expectations

The release of the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid marks a significant milestone in compact truck offerings, addressing customer demands for greater capability and versatility.Key TakeawaysFord's entry-level Maverick now offers AWD with its hybrid powertrain.The new model builds on the success of front-wheel drive while adding off-road capabilities.Pricing and availability details have yet to be finalized, but it will likely see a slight increase over current models.Since Ford announced plans for an AWD version of its hybrid Maverick pickup back in 2021, enthusiasts and critics alike have eagerly awaited the arrival. The new model comes as no surprise given consumer feedback urging for more robust drivetrain options alongside existing front-wheel drive config...
Mustang GTD Surprises Critics with Strong Sales Despite High Price Tag
News, Supercars

Mustang GTD Surprises Critics with Strong Sales Despite High Price Tag

The Ford Mustang GTD has proven to be a surprising success, despite initial skepticism over its hefty price tag of $325,000 and up. The track-ready beast is drawing in buyers who are willing to pay supercar prices for the iconic American muscle car.Key TakeawaysFord sold 231 units of GTD through November, despite its high price point.The Mustang GTD has a starting price that rivals European exotics like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Ferrari 296 GTB.Production isn't capped for now; Ford plans to build it at least until 2026.Ford's decision not to cap production of the Mustang GTD is a bold move, especially considering its price point. The car has already garnered over 7,500 expressions of interest in the US alone before launch, indicating strong demand among enthusiasts who aren't afraid to sp...
Burnt Ford Sierra Restored to Racing Glory
News, Pickup Trucks

Burnt Ford Sierra Restored to Racing Glory

Imagine the roar of an engine, the scent of burning rubber, and a car that tells stories. The Burnt Dick Johnson Racing Ford Sierra is back from its ashes with a near-restoration that's bound to turn heads at any track or show.Key TakeawaysNearly restored to racing condition after years of neglectShowcases the craftsmanship and dedication of restorersA piece of automotive history that's ready for its comebackThe Ford Sierra RS500 was already a legend when it hit the streets, but Dick Johnson Racing took it to another level with their custom touches. And now, after being left in disrepair, this car is getting a second chance.Restorers are pouring heart and soul into every part of the vehicle, from its iconic wing spoiler to its powerful V6 engine. They're not just fixing what's broken; they...
Ford’s Godzilla V8 Engines: 6.8L vs 7.3L
News

Ford’s Godzilla V8 Engines: 6.8L vs 7.3L

Ford offers two powerful gas engines for its Super Duty lineup, the 6.8-liter Mini-Zilla and the 7.3-liter Godzilla. Both are cast-iron behemoths with pushrod architecture but differ in displacement, power output, and pricing.Key TakeawaysFord's 6.8L Mini-Zilla produces 405 hp and 445 lb-ft of torque for $1 less than the base model price.The 7.3L Godzilla boasts a more powerful output with 430 hp and 485 lb-ft, available as an upgrade option at $1,500 extra.Both engines feature similar architecture but vary in compression ratio and stroke length to optimize performance for different needs.The Mini-Zilla is the standard engine across most Super Duty models due to its cost-effectiveness. It offers a solid 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, making it an attractive option for those on a b...
Ford’s New Ranger-Sized EV Ute Faces US Test Before Global Rollout
EV & Electric Cars, News

Ford’s New Ranger-Sized EV Ute Faces US Test Before Global Rollout

Ford is set to introduce a new electric utility vehicle (EV) that closely matches the size of its popular Ford Ranger model. However, before it can hit markets like Australia and others worldwide, this all-electric variant must first prove itself in the competitive U.S. market.Key TakeawaysFord's new EV ute is roughly the same size as its gas-powered Ranger model.The vehicle needs to establish a foothold in the United States before expanding internationally.Potential competitors include electric models from other automakers like Chevrolet and Toyota.At around $45,000 USD, Ford's new EV ute sits comfortably within the mid-range of current market offerings. This price point puts it in direct competition with established players such as Tesla’s Model Y crossover SUV, which starts at a similar...
Ford F-1000: A Diesel Pioneer in Brazilian Cities
News

Ford F-1000: A Diesel Pioneer in Brazilian Cities

The Ford F-1000 was a when it rolled into Brazilian cities back in the late '70s. With its diesel engine and robust features, this truck paved the way for modern pickup trucks.Key TakeawaysThe F-1000 was a pioneer with a 4-cylinder diesel motor in 1979.It offered better fuel economy compared to the V8 engines, saving drivers up to 40% on gas.This truck helped popularize pickups in urban areas during the '80s and early '90s.The F-1000 wasn't just another car; it was a revolution. Introduced with an innovative MWM diesel engine, this pickup could haul 1,000 kg while offering better mileage than its gas-powered counterparts. It's hard to believe how different things were before the F-1000 came along.But what really made the F-1000 stand out was how it changed people’s minds about trucks in c...
Ford Focus: A Farewell to a Sales Dynamo
Industry & Business, News

Ford Focus: A Farewell to a Sales Dynamo

The Ford Focus, once a symbol of innovation and practicality in the automotive world, faces its end as car manufacturers pivot towards SUVs. With sales declining, it's time for one last look at this iconic model.Key TakeawaysFord Focus production will cease by 2026 due to shifting market demandsSUV dominance in Europe means fewer hatchbacks like the Ford Focus are being producedThe environmental regulations and fuel economy targets have impacted its viabilityBy 2025, SUV sales will make up about half of all new car purchases in Europe. This shift has forced manufacturers to focus on larger vehicles that cater to changing consumer preferences.Despite being a class leader for nearly three decades, the Ford Focus's impact is waning as it can't compete with the practicality and perceived safet...
Ford Ends Escape Production, European Kuga at Risk?
News

Ford Ends Escape Production, European Kuga at Risk?

Ford has announced the end of production for its popular SUV model, the Escape. This move could have implications for its cousin in Europe, the Ford Kuga.Key TakeawaysFord is shutting down production at Louisville plant to prepare for electric vehicles.The American market's loss doesn't mean a direct impact on European sales just yet.Kuga could be next if Ford continues its shift towards electrification and streamlining models.It’s the end of an era as Ford pulls the plug on one of its most popular SUVs in America, the Escape. The company is making way for electric vehicles by closing down production at Louisville's factory where it was made. But don't worry just yet if you're a fan over here in Europe; your beloved Kuga isn’t going anywhere—yet.While Ford’s decision to stop manufacturing ...
Ford Maverick Lobo’s Performance Boosted with New Tires
News

Ford Maverick Lobo’s Performance Boosted with New Tires

The Ford Maverick Lobo, designed for autocross performance, failed to live up to expectations due to its standard all-season tires. However, swapping them out for Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer tires significantly improved the truck's handling and braking capabilities.Key TakeawaysThe Lobo’s lateral grip increased from 0.85 g to 0.90 g with new tires.Stopping distances were reduced by over 24 feet at 70 mph after tire change.New summer tires cost $1,240 and greatly enhanced the truck's overall performance.The Lobo’s base model comes equipped with Goodyear Wrangler Territory HT all-seasons. These tires didn't provide enough grip for its intended use on autocross tracks. The stock setup resulted in mediocre acceleration times of 5.8 seconds to reach 60 mph and identical quarter-mile performan...
Torque Trumps Horsepower for Towing: A Closer Look at the Ford Super Duty
News

Torque Trumps Horsepower for Towing: A Closer Look at the Ford Super Duty

When it comes to towing, torque reigns supreme. The 2023 Ford Super Duty exemplifies this with its ability to tow up to an astounding 40,000 pounds thanks to a whopping 1,200 pound-feet of torque.Key TakeawaysThe 2023 Ford Super Duty can haul a record-breaking 40,000-pound load.Torque is crucial for towing as it provides the initial force to move heavy loads from a standstill.Horsepower becomes more important at higher speeds and isn't nearly as significant when starting off with a massive trailer or cargo.While torque gets all the attention in this context, horsepower is still vital. The Super Duty offers 470 horsepower from its powerful diesel engine, but it's clear that torque plays an outsized role for towing tasks.The Bugatti Veyron, on the other hand, showcases why high horsepower ma...