Well, the F-150 draws inspiration from the F-22 fighter jet but have no obvious similarities in terms of physical outlook. However, Ford has ensured that the F-150 truck is made of enough steel to give it the feeling one would get if given the opportunity to fly one of those fighter jets. So what exactly makes the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by F-22 fighter jet special?

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by F-22 Fighter Jet Exterior  Design

On the exterior, Ford could not manage to make the F-150 look like a fighter jet. However, the company did just about enough to make the truck look aggressive and intimidating. Most noticeable are the impressive Innov8 wheel finished with custom made Falcon Wildpeak heavy-duty tires. Just for beauty and flare, the F-150 parades an expensive-looking candela exterior lighting system, carbon fiber fender flares, hood, and vent. The grille sporting design immediately brings the thought of an F-22 fighter jet to mind and the paint job is simply militaristic in appearance (custom black and gray).
Ford also opted for an improved exhaust system (made from stainless steel) with carbon fiber tips. The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by F-22 is sleek, new and has all the making of a tremendous truck.

Interior  Design

A lot of work also went into the design of the truck’s interior. Well, that should be expected with the hype surrounding the construction, design, and release of the F-22 inspired truck. A 1500-watt audio system makes the mark in an interior full of high-end designs and quality materials.

Jet cues also feature in the interior, going further to prove that this “beast” originates from an even bigger beast called the F-22. The seats and other designs follow the same design and construction we have come to love Ford for.

Engine Specifications

Yes, the exterior and interior of the F-150 feature some really impressive designs but the truck offers more than just that. It also features a 3.5-liter Ecoboost twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This “bad boy” has the capacity to generate as much as 545 horsepower, 660-pound feet which are an upgrade when compared to those of the stock version that features 450 horse power and a summed up 510-pound feet. The Borla exhaust mentioned earlier should do more for making the sound of the F-150 appealing. The stock version, well, does not sound too good. So the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by F-22 fighter jet is definitely an upgrade.

Price and Release date

The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by F-22 fighter jet is an absolute catch and certainly does not look out of place when it literally stands by the side of an F-22 fighter jet. But not everyone would be willing to fork out $300,000 every time the truck either shows its face or is mentioned, like was the case at the recent auction. So how much would an F-150 truck cost? Considering the fact that a jet could cost as much as $150 million, the F-150 truck inspired by it should also command a high fee. Based on current valuations and the price of previous versions, the F-150 Ford truck should cost within the range of $50,000 to $60,000.

Since someone already owns a 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by the F-22 fighter jet, the truck has been officially launched. As we are seen with other fighter jet inspired Ford trucks, these vehicles are customed made and are not your everyday truck.

The post 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor inspired by F-22 Fighter Jet appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

Leno is such a fan of Ford such that days after receiving his model, he has already put over a thousand miles on the GT. He ordered a black model with two orange go-faster stripes that seem to split the model into two. Other extras ordered by Leno include carbon fiber trimmed wheels and titanium lug nuts. The comedian, however, chose to stick with the model’s stock steel exhaust system which may be a hint that the optional titanium exhaust system does not result in a significant drop in weight or better exhaust sound note.

Jay Leno’s 2017 Ford GT from my point of view

I hear that the car also comes with an AM radio as standard, really Ford? In a world with satellite radio, how could designers opt for AM radio; who even listens to AM radio anymore? But on a closer analysis on most of the buyers of supercars, I have realized most are 60 years old and above meaning AM radio is still important to them; now I understand why the automaker made it a standard feature.  Leno also added a protective film on almost all elements of the GT’s exterior, including its windshield.

Being an avid Le Mans fan, Leno has used the model to celebrate the GT’s recent class conquest during the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans; he has hooked the GT with a custom number plate that reads “BK2LMNS” that stands for “Back To Le Mans”.

I think Ford did right by making the new GT its own model, one different from the 2005 Ford GT. The designers did not even try to make the model a tribute to the legendary GT40. Unlike the 2005 model which was largely intended for the streets, the new model is first a racing car and then a street-going car.  Its aerodynamics blends well with its stunning looks that are easily recognizable as a GT. Although it is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5 L, EcoBoost V-6 that is also used on the F-150 truck, Ford has gone to great lengths to boost the engine’s performance which they surely achieved as evidenced by the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans conquest. The mill produces 647 hp which helps the model dash from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds.

Although he is an avid fan, Jay Leno also noted that the model is not as exotic as many would have wished; its sound system, for example, is not that impressive but he goes ahead to claim that this exoticness was not all that important. To him, the most important thing is the model’s outstanding chassis.

The GT has an MSRP of $400,000 but as you can bet, that is not an issue for all members. Ford will produce 250 units every year for four years meaning Jay Leno is very lucky to be among the first members to receive theirs.

The post Jay Leno’s 2017 Ford GT appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

Drivetrain

To really experience the legend of the GT, I had to get my hands into one and take it to the tracks. The fact that the GT has already proven its worth in the tracks made me more anxious. As I sat behind the wheels, I was aware of the immense power of the 3.5 L, twin-turbocharged V6 behind me, 647 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque to be precise.  I could not help but wonder why Ford had to wait for this long to revive this legendary racer. The unit sends its “juice” to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission system.

Although I would have loved a V-8 in this model, I must say Ford has done great to ensure the V-6 does the job just right. I soon found out that the engine provides awesome peak power and with an EcoBoost engine controller, it was easy to keep the beast in Sport, Track or V-Max modes. This as I found means the modes start producing the needed boost even before the throttle comes into play. When the throttle sets in, well, the result can rival a V-8. Although the vehicle is rumored to hit 60 mph from a standstill position in 3 seconds, as much as I tried, I could only do it in 3.5 seconds. I did a quarter mile in 12.5 seconds but the vehicle is rated to need only 10.5 seconds to do a quarter mile. Although V-8 enthusiasts still feel upset, I must say I loved the sound of the V-6 engine.

Unlike the original GTs, controlling this beast is much easy, courtesy of Ford’s precise steering system and its pushrod suspension. Specifically, the car’s suspension system enables one to change the ride height according to the driving mode one is in. A ride of 4.7 inches is ideal in the streets to protect the vehicle belly but stepping on the tracks, you will need to put its height at 2.75 inches in Track and V-Max modes to enhance its stability.  Considering it is a performance dedicated supercar, I found its ride quality mostly in the “Normal”, “Wet” and “Sport” modes particularly impressive even when you decide to take your beast across the country. The suspension system is so crafted that it has a front-end lift feature which raises the model’s ground clearance when approaching steep inclines and driveways. In essence, the GT transforms from a dedicated track race to an exotic car with much ease enabling you to drive home after spending time on the tracks.

2017 Ford GT Interior Impressions

The model is not functional though. You won’t have to carry along much of your luggage as the trunk accommodates only 0.4 cu ft of cargo. The space is not even a conventional cargo space but rather a pocket of space left behind the engine. The fixed driver’s seat was particularly well executed as it gives one consistent sight line while still ensuring easy reach of controls and excellent weight distribution. There is no need to worry if you will fit in the driver’s seat as Ford thought of that and hooked up the model with movable pedals and a tilt-telescopic steering wheel. The supercar, however, lacks sound deadening and the engine’s note dominates the cabin particularly in Sport, Track and V-Max modes.

To share your exploits at the tracks, Ford has hooked up the model with an advanced Ford Performance application that enables the driver to store his/her perspective and telemetry video. Pairing this app with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enables the driver to review his/her driving as well as share such video on mobile devices. There is even a SYNC 3 and an audio system in there to ensure you are not bored when you go for long distances.

The post 2017 Ford GT First drive impressions appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Shelby F-150 Super Snake Exterior

Straightaway, looking at the 2017 Shelby F-150 Super snake you can tell this is not an ordinary F-150.  Shelby has hooked it up with its traditional dual racing stripes that seem to cut the vehicle into two. There is also another stripe that stretches across the bottom part of the doors on either side. The truck also wears a Shelby as well as a Super Snake badge on the grille, engine hood, doors, tailgate and bedside panels.

The badging is Shelby’s way of ensuring no one mistakes your $100,000 truck for a regular F-150.

The grille, hood, side sills and rear bumper have been customized for the Super Snake.

The model rides on a set of chrome 22-inch Shelby alloy wheels wrapped in 305/45 performance tires for enhanced grip.  Other features include SHELBY Step Bars and painted vents and fender flares.

The model is offered in 6 factory colors to choose from.

Interior

The cabin is a “serpent’s” playground. One thing is sure; you will not mistake this model for a regular Ford truck’s cabin.  Shelby has featured its snake logos almost on all surfaces.  To start with, the model has a SHELBY CSM Serial Numbering on the dash. The center console lid carries a SHELBY Snake Badge. SHELBY Snakes are also embroidered on the headrests while the floor mats have SHELBY lettering.

The windows are deep tinted to provide your passengers with privacy from the staring eyes of onlookers as you navigate your serpent through the crowded streets.

In addition to these Shelby custom features, the model retains all the amazing convenience, comfort and practicability we are accustomed to in all F-150 trucks.

Engine and performance

Under the hood is where the model takes a huge leap from the regular F-150. The pickup truck carries a 5.0 L, V-8 mill with a supercharger. The engine produces 750 hp. Buyers can choose RWD or AWD. Shelby did not reveal the truck’s performance figures but due to the power, the truck will certainly be much quicker than its regular version. The engine is enhanced with a high-performance intake, new fuel injectors and a billet throttle body. Other performance equipment includes a carbon-fiber intake tube and a heat exchanger.

Its suspension, on the other hand, has been tuned for better handling and more balanced ride. The suspension system lowers the ride height and helps to sharpen the truck’s responsiveness. The engine is also combined with a dual Borla exhaust system that has polished tips. The system produces a sound that is sure to intimidate other road users.

Price and release date

To own this serpent, you will have to spend $96,880, adding extra options will easily see you part with over $100,000. Remember the entry-level RWD F-150 has a starting price of only $27,110 meaning almost $70,000 is for the performance extras. The price comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. There will be just 150 of the “serpents” so you better make your order now if you want to be considered. Deliveries will start in the second half of this year.

The post 2017 Shelby F-150 Super snake appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Mustang Shelby Super Snake Exterior

The Super Snake is based on the Mustang GT. The exterior has a host of Shelby-engineered components. The new model comes with the Super Snake’s all-familiar bulging front hood with forced air scoops. The new scoops are however smaller than those on the  2015 version of the Shelby Super Snake. The grille has new mesh while a commemorative nameplate replaces the Shelby logo on the grille. It reads “50th Anniversary Super Snake” and features Carroll Shelby’s signature on top. The pronounced front splitter also carries Shelby’s name, a feature continued on the space between the taillights where the “Shelby” lettering has replaced the Shelby logo.

On the sides, Mustang’s splitters have been replaced with Shelby-made components. The rear, on the other hand, has a new tail panel, spoiler and a new diffuser.

The model also wears the all-familiar Shelby racing stripes, more badges as well as commemorative emblems throughout the body such as the one placed after the front wheel arches. This one reads “Shelby 1967-2017”.

The model will be available with Ford factory colors in addition to Shelby’s blue-and-white scheme. It rides on a set of 20-inch forged aluminum wheels that have either a black or a polished finish. The wheels are wrapped in special Shelby-spec performance tires.

50^th Anniversary Shelby Super Snake Interior

No Shelby-built Mustang has ever embraced a luxurious cabin. This “rich” history did not end with the Anniversary Super Snake. It is however hooked up with a host of upgrades including a new gauge cluster with wireless gauges. Anniversary logos and seats are featured all over; they are on the seats, floor mats and on door sill plates. A special plaque is placed on the dash to denote the serial number of each model, a sure way of saying this is not your ordinary Mustang.

There is an option for buyers to have the seats wrapped in Katzkin leather. For those planning to take their “Serpents” racing; they can opt to throw away the rear seats in favor of a four-point roll bar.

The engine Specs and performance

Power is what matter most for these types of automobiles. Under the hood of the “serpent” is a Coyote V-8 with a displacement of 5.0 liters.  This mill is paired with a supercharger to churn out 670 horses. The torque figure was not released but expect over 600 lb-ft. This makes the standard Mustang GT’s 435 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque look conventional.

If you still want more “venom” from your snake, you can opt for Level 2 upgrades. This involves adding a Kenne Bell or Whipple Supercharger to bump power output to 750 hp and over 700 lb-ft of torque, the latter is yet to be confirmed though. Adding these level two upgrades makes the Shelby Super Snake 50th Anniversary superfast needing only 3.5 seconds to hit 60 mph from standstill. It completes a quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds. The mill can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission system.

Price and release date

The fun that comes from driving a serpent that spits over 700 horses comes at a hefty price. The Super Snake 50^th Anniversary Edition package is priced at $36,795. Adding the base Ford Mustang GT takes the total price of the serpent to $69,995. Adding level 2 upgrades including either of the Superchargers means you will end up paying in excess of $80,000 for the fire-breathing monster.

The 50^th Anniversary Super Snakes will be limited to only 500 units so you had better hurry and place your order right away.

Competition

Being a one-off model, it is a bit hard to find a suitable mode that can rival the Shelby Super Snake 50th Anniversary. I can only think of the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat X, a one-off model that was created in 2015 by the Walsh Motorsport.

The post 2017 50th Anniversary Ford Mustang Shelby Super Snake appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford F-150 Exterior

The 2017 Ford F-150 has a rugged yet bold design. A gigantic grille flanked by striking headlights characterizes this look. The model also features a huge black front bumper.  The model is offered in three body styles i.e. Regular cab, SuperCab as well as SuperCrew. In addition, it features three-bed sizes (5.5 foot, 6.5-fooy as well as 8-foot). Buyers have an option of Race Red, Ingot Silver metallic and Blue JEANS Metallic exterior colors.

The base XL trim features 17-inch wheels, Black 3-bar style grille with a black surround, black bumper, rain lamp wiper activated headlights and running lights. Opting for the STX package adds Flash Gray-painted pockets, privacy glass, fog lights and 20-inch machined aluminum wheels.

The XLT adds front and rear chromed bumpers, black mesh grille inserts, chrome 3-bar grille that features chrome nostrils, power lock tailgate, power adjust side mirrors, dual glass as well as a rear fixed window featuring privacy tint.

The LARIAT trim adds LED Box Lightning, heated side mirrors with turn signals, LED tailgate, rear power sliding glass window with a defroster and privacy tint on SuperCab and SuperCrew. It also features LED security approach lights.

The F-150 Raptor features front and rear performance bumpers, a unique grille with the FORD lettering. Its front hood has air extractors, a feature continued on its flared front fenders. The Raptor also features 2 rear hooks, QUA beam LED headlights and LED taillights, heavy duty skid plates and customized wheel lip moldings.

On the other hand, the King Ranch features front and rear accent-color bumpers, accent color grille inserts, remote tailgate release, two-tone body paintwork and caribou step bars. The Platinum trim features satin mesh grille inserts, 3-bar style grille with a satin finish and chrome accenting; it also features deployable running boards. The top-of-the-range Limited trim features black mesh grille inserts, a bar-style grille that has a satin finish, twin panel moonroof on the SuperCrew as well as satin chrome door handles that feature body-color bezels.

2017 Ford F-150 Interior

The F-150 has a spacious cabin, which is also family friendly.  At the rear, you will even find LATCH connectors. The cabin is well trimmed with soft-touch materials. It also features Ford’s Sync3 infotainment system. The system has a simple and intuitive interface.

The dashboard, on the other hand, features numerous buttons for controlling audio and climate functions. Buyers have an option to add a navigation system, voice recognition as well as Siri Eyes Free that helps the driver to use voice commands to answer texts or emails without having to take his/her eyes off the road.

The F-150 has three bed lengths that enable buyers to choose one that is right for their needs. A functional tailgate allows one to climb in and out of the bed easily. The model also features movable tie-down cleats and stable loading ramps that make it easy to load and secure cargo.

Engine Specs and performance

The most changes on the model are under the hood where Ford offers a 10-speed automatic transmission system in place of the 6-speed system on the outgoing models. However, the 10-speed system will only be available on models with the 3.5 L, V-6, twin-turbocharged mill. Speaking of the V-6, the mill has been upgraded to offer 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, which is 10 horses and 50 lb-ft more than what the outgoing models offered. This is courtesy of a combination of port and direct fuel injection, use of new turbochargers as well as use of a new valvetrain. The new level of torque places the model at the top of the class; it also beats V-8 as well as turbodiesel mills available on half-ton trucks today.

An even more powerful version of the V-6 mill will be used on the performance-oriented Raptor. This iteration may produce around 420 horses and 480 lb-ft of torque. The mill will replace the current 6.2 L, V-8.

In addition to the V-6, the vehicle will also feature a 2.7 L, turbocharged V-6 mill, a 5.0 L, V-8 as well as a 3.7 L, naturally aspirated engine. These engines still use the 6-speed transmission but word is they will all get the 10-speed automatic system for the 2018 model year.

The 10-speeed transmission system is jointly made together with General Motors. GM will debut the system on the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Price and release date

The base F-150’s XL trim with a regular cab is affordable at a starting price of $26,540. The F-150 Raptor fetches $48,325 while the Limited trim attracts as much as $59,600. The starting price for a Supercab XL model is $30,600 while the SuperCrew MSRP starts at $33,055.

Changing bed sizes costs from $300 to $1,100 depending on the bed length and trim. Upgrading from the base engine costs $2,600 to get the 3.5 L, V-6 and $1,600 for the V-8. A buyer can also add other options at an extra cost. The F-150 trucks are already available in dealerships.

Competition

Top rivals of the 2017 Ford F-150 include the GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

The post 2017 Ford F-150 appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford Transit Exterior

The Transit is available in two body types i.e. as cargo vans and passenger wagons.  The van is offered in a single trim level but the wagons are offered in XL and XLT trims. In addition, the models are offered in varying lengths i.e. Regular (medium), Long as well as Extended lengths. The models are also offered in different height styles (low-, medium- as well as high-roof heights).  Further, the models handle different weight ratings hence the Transit 150, 250 and 350 nametags.

These different features make it possible for a wide variety of combinations. In fact, the models offer up to 58 different combinations.

2017 Ford Transit Interior

Many people love the fact that one can configure the cabin of the Transit to suit their unique applications. Vans are intended for cargo hauling and as such only offer the front row of seat leaving the rear fully dedicated for cargo. Wagons on their part are fully dedicated for hauling passengers. They can fit from 8 passengers to a maximum of 15 passengers if you chose the long extended wheelbase. Depending on one’s preferences, the seats can be had in 3-5 rows.  The seats have been upgraded to feature heating function.

Transit vans are hauling monsters. Standard vans have a cargo carrying capacity of 246.7 cubic feet that can be expanded to 487.3 cubic feet if a buyer selects the Long Extended body version. The wagons can also be transformed to offer more cargo space in addition to their little cargo space at the rear. By folding all the seats, the wagons can match the cargo space offered by the vans.

Tech-wise, the Transit models are hooked up with Ford’ SYNC3 system that features voice recognition and fast processing speeds. The models also feature an intuitive user interface that offers a touch-screen with enhanced graphics. Both wagons and vans cone with a rearview camera along with a trailer hitch system as standard features. The models also feature a new LED cargo lighting package.

For safety, the models are offered with a host of driver assist features  such as lane keep assist, parking assist, lane change assist, ABS , a backup camera among others. Like the 2016 models, the automaker still offers Ford Telematics as an option feature. The telematics help a person to monitor his/her fleet of Transit vans and wagons.

Engine and performance

The 2017 Transit is offered in three engine choices. The base mill is a 3.7 L, V-6 that produces 275 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.  The automaker also offers a turbocharged 3.2 L, 5-cylinder diesel engine good for 185 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The final engine is a turbocharged 3.5 L, V-6 that produces 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.

Towing and payloads will remain largely unchanged for the 2017 year. Payload ranges from 2740 pounds to 4560 pounds while towing capacity ranges from 2900 pounds to 7500 depending on the model chosen. Fuel economy will also remain unchanged for all models.

All engines are mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission system. There is an option for a Full Manual function that enables a driver to pull the model’s shift lever to “M” standing for manual mode. This allows the driver to use the same toggle switch to select the preferred gear.

Price and release date

The Transit Vans have a starting price of $31,610 while the Transit XL passenger Wagon starts at $34,365. Transit XLT Passenger Wagons are the most expensive with a starting price of $35,660. These prices rise past $40,000 when all extra options are selected. The models are already available in dealerships so head over to the automaker’s website to customize your Transit.

The post 2017 Ford Transit appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford Taurus SHO Exterior

The Taurus is one big sedan, as big as some SUVs in terms of its length. However, Ford has used some taut body lines that make it look smaller than it is actually. Like the regular Taurus, the SHO is underpinned by the CD4 platform. The model’s structure and body parts are made of lightweight materials aimed at reducing its weight. Compared to the outgoing models, the SHO has only received minor upgrades.

The SHO features a new shield-looking grille with chrome inserts. Narrower headlights flank it. The front bumper looks more muscular. In addition, the SHO features a scooped hood as well as unique body lines that make it stand apart from the regular Taurus.

At the rear, the model feature narrower taillights that complement the headlights. In addition, the model features a rear spoiler that highlights its sporting nature.

Unlike the regular Taurus that rides on 18-inch wheels, the SHO rides on 20-inch wheels.

2017 Ford Taurus SHO Interior

Considering its competitors, I have to confess that I consider the SHO’s cabin a bit bland.  It is not even as roomy as I believe it should be.  The model accommodates five passengers. The new model’s seatbelts have been upgraded for enhanced safety. All seats of the model are heated but the front seats are also cooled and power adjustable and also offers a massage function. The seats, dashboard, door panels and the steering wheel are upholstered in a quality material on lower trims with an option for  leather upholstery on higher trims. The cabin also comes with the latest version of the automaker’s Sync infotainment system.

The instrument panel has been revised to offer more functionality. The model also comes with a multifunctional steering wheel with an option for a heated unit in higher trims. It also features an 8.0-inch screen as well as a 12-speaker premium Sony sound system. For safety, the sedan will feature an array of autonomous features such as front collision warning, parallel parking assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring among others.

Engine specs and performance

Under the hood of the 2017 Ford Taurus SHO is a 3.5 L, V-6 that is good for 288 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque, which means although the model is big and heavy, it is not slow.  The mill is offered in either forward-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It returns 18 mpg and 27 mpg on city and highway drives respectively for FWD models while AWD models are rated at 17 mpg, city and 27 mpg, highway.

However, if you still want more power for your SHO, you can opt for the tweaked version of the V-6 that features twin turbochargers. The mill bumps up output to a whopping 365 horses and 355 lb-ft of torque. It is EPA rated at 16 mpg on city and 24 mpg on highway drives. The engine is only offered in AWD.

On the other hand, if you are an enthusiast of the SHO but a bit economical when it comes to spending on gas, you can opt for the optional 2.0 L, 4-cylinder mill which produces 240 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. The mill is only offered with FWD. This engine is EPA rated at 20 mpg on city and 29 mpg on highway drives.

Price and release date

The base 2017 Ford Taurus SE trim models with the standard V-6 mill have an MSRP of around $28,000; the SEL will attract around $30,500 while the Limited trim will fetch around $37,000. To get models with the 2.4 L mill, you have to add an extra $1,000 while on the SEL and Limited trims; you have to spend $1,900 more to get AWD. The performance-oriented SHO attracts a whole $42,520.

Competition

Top rivals of the 2017 Ford Taurus SHO are the likes of Hyundai Azera, Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger, Toyota Avalon and Kia Cadenza.

The post 2017 Ford Taurus SHO appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s Exterior

On the outside, the FP350S looks almost identical to the Mustang GT4 as well as the Shelby GT350R-C. Only a few visual differences tell it apart. At the front, the only difference with the above models is that it has additional splitter struts compared to the GT350R-Cand slight modifications on the bumper where it misses canards on each side compared to the GT4. Still, on the splitter, Ford has used carbon-fiber to reduce overall curb weight.

On the sides, the wheels are the only feature that sets it apart from the above models. It features 19-inch wheels that are wrapped in Pirelli tires rather than Continental tires like on the GT350R-C. There is an option for 18-inch forged wheels.

At the rear, the model is unique. It features a larger wing made from carbon-fiber. The wing sits higher than the one on the GT4 or that of the GT350R-C that looks more of a spoiler than a wing.

Buyers will have an option for a graphics package that features double racing stripes that commence from the snout and run rearwards to the trunk-lid. There are also vertical stripes on the doors as well a host of “Ford Performance” lettering and logos.

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s Interior

The interior of the model is still a mystery. However, since it is a race-specific model, I expect it to be fully equipped with all equipment required for track racing in the U.S.A. The automaker, however, intimated that the model’s cockpit will have an FIA-compliant roll racing seat that has 6-point harnesses, as well as a quick-release steering wheel. This wheel helps in case of a crash and makes it easy to enter or exit the car.

To improve performance analysis in the cockpit, the FP350s features a MOTEC data system that enables easy acquisition of performance data. The model will also feature a simplistic display in place of the traditional, analog cluster. Also, expect to find an upgraded center stack integrated with more knobs, buttons and switches.

Engine specs and performance

The FP350S has received a significant revision under the hood. It is fitted with a 5.2 L, V-8 mill. The mill features a flat crank plan. It also features a 12-quart-deep sump oil pan and cooler. It is paired with a Tremec 3160 manual gearbox with an integral shifter and oil pump as well as a Torsen differential that features a 3.73 rear drive ratio. To aid the engine is a race-tuned exhaust system in place of the standard unit. Official performance details are not yet out but the engine is estimated to produce 526 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. This power will enable it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in an estimated time of 3.5 seconds.

To bring the monstrous engine to a halt are AP Racing Radi-CAL 6-piston brake calipers that feature 14.6-inch rotors for the front wheels and AP Racing 4-poston clamps that feature 13.4-inchrotors at the rear. Beefed-up cooling ducts help channel cooling air to the braking system making it remain effective as you dash along the tracks.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to announce official prices of the FP350S. As for the release date, the model will go on sale next year in time of the racing season.

Competition

Since the model will compete in three different series, it will compete with a number of models. In the Trans Am series, the 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s will sweat it out with the likes of BMW M3, Dodge Viper and Chevrolet Corvette in the TA3 class and Chevrolet Camaro in the TA4 category. It will also face the Camaro in the SCCA and NASA series.

The post 2017 Ford Mustang Shelby FP350s appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.

2017 Ford Fiesta Exterior

Ford has put some effort in giving the new 2017 Ford Fiesta a sportier look. The model has a wider and longer look. The automaker has done away with the sharp point outside edges of the headlights. The new look features a bubbly appearance though still of the same size. The grille look has been redesigned to look wider compared to the outgoing model; its lower side edges are more upright. Each trim has a unique grille design. While the titanium trim has horizontal bars, the ST-Line features a front spoiler with a black mesh front grille. On the other hand, the plush Vignale has a satin honeycomb look for its grille.

On the sides, the accentuated lines in the outgoing model carry over but are more pronounced on the new Fiesta. One line cuts through the door handles while the other line runs towards the bottom of the doors. The result is a sculpted appearance without having to unnecessarily make the car muscular. It also features blacked mirror caps.

At the rear, the rear quarter glass slots much higher than on the outgoing model. In addition, the model features short, wraparound taillights that replace tall, high-mounted headlights on the outgoing models. The lower part of the hatch has also been recessed. The rear of the car also features vertically oriented reflectors.

Overall, the exterior of the three-door hatch looks more attractive compared to that of its five-door sister.

2017 Ford Fiesta Interior

The cabin of the new Ford Fiesta 2017 features a single-piece center console. The model will also feature a new instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch TFT multifunction screen that is mounted on the middle of the center cluster. Ford will finally feature the Sync3 infotainment system as a standard feature across all trims. Buyers will also have an option for a 6.5-inch or an 8.0-inch touch-screen that are designed to “float” on top of the Fiesta’s dash.

According to the automaker, the screens are the best in the segment in terms of resolution. The Sync3 also features Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, USB and Bluetooth connectivity as well as a Sync App-link. The Sync App-link enables voice activation and Smartphone apps such as HearMeOut and Spotify. For audiophiles, the 2017 Fiesta comes with a 675 Watt, AB&o Play audio system.

The cabin offers a greater level of convenience as the automaker has made things pretty simple. Its center console, for example, features fewer buttons for a cleaner look. The model also comes with a bin to store things such as USB drives.

Things get even better for the rear passengers as the model will offer 16mm of extra knee-room. Storage space on the rear doors has been expanded to 0.6 liters while the glove box has also been expanded.

Engine specs and performance

Under the hood, the 2017 Ford Fiesta features a number of engines. The first mill is a 1.1 L, 3-cylinder petrol engine that replaces the 1.2 L, mill on current models. This engine has two iterations where one produces 69 hp while the other produces 84 horses.

The second mill is the current EcoBoost engine that is carried over unchanged. This petrol mill has three iterations of output i.e. 98 hp, 123 hp and 138 hp. This means the Fiesta will have five different gasoline drive-trains.

On the diesel front, the Fiesta will have two drive-trains.  The two iterations share the same 1.5 L, diesel mill that is tuned to produce either 84 hp on base trims or 118 horses on higher trims. Petrol mills are paired either with a 6-speed manual gearbox or with a 6-speed automatic transmission. On the other hand, the diesel mill is hooked up with  a 5-speed manual transmission system.

What’s more, all mills feature a stop/start technology to help save more fuel.

Price and release date

Ford will showcase the 2017 Fiesta at the Geneva Auto show in March next year before it goes on sale shortly later. As for the price, I expect the price to remain relatively unchanged; expect a price in the range of £14,000 to £20,000.

The post 2017 Ford Fiesta appeared first on FordCarsInfo.com.