rmc523

I agree, I don't like it.

Well we obviously cant really see him as a valued/respected poster since he joined back in '04, but only has 31 posts.

Also, they mentioned some new 5-speed transmission at launch, followed by a 6-speed in 2010, and we know 6-speeds will be standerd across the board from launch.

How do you know that? Also, if that's true: 1) Why? 2) Would it be getting the new Taurus/X type taillight bulbs, that light up as quickly as LEDs, but aren't? I was beind a Taurus X last night and he put his turn signal on, the light flashed quickly as LEDs do.

I agree, I dont like that part of this chop either. I do think the taillights look nice though, more like the Zephyr concept. Also, that design ties the MKZ in more with the MKX and it's taillight design.

It's not a bad commercial, whoever made it.

Not bad looking.

What do they use Cummins for right now?

I agree. Ford is already unloading LR, which is a (currently) profitable luxury SUV-only brand, b/c of lack of future investment funds (along w/ other reasons). Also as you mentioned, the new environmental regulations could limit what companies like Jeep and LR will be able to do, so I'm not sure buying Jeep would be a good thing for Ford.

I think these came out a while ago. Anyways, the Traverse looks like it'll be another GM rebadge, no real distinct sheetmetal or anything.

Unless those same people who've bought Tundras have already realized their mistake and gone and bought an American truck. I've seen quite a few new Tundras in used lots.

I'm curious as to why they were crushing the Lexus. I don't necessarily mind, but am just curious.

haha

I agree I hate it when a thread turns into a giant argument where everybody is arguing with each other

Not bad, I like it. To me it continues where the '89-'97(?) Thunderbird left off.

I don't believe the Tbird emblem was etched into the porthole windows of the '02-'05s.

That has been suggested time and time again, however, w/ FNA and FoE merging operations, vehicle lines, etc. in a few years/next model generations, causing almost identical FNA and FoE vehicles, Mercury would then, in a short matter of time, become another Ford rebadge. Besides, at the moment, according to an article posted somewhere on here, some FoE products (S-Max, other Genk(?) plant models) have a 6 month waiting list because the plant cant make enough of them. So, it sounds like FoE doesn't have much excess capacity to ship models over for US consumption as Mercuries.

You did see her in a Sable ad. It aired a few months ago. I haven't seen any Mercury commercials in a while, though.

Good pic of the Mazda I'm not sure if there's a way to make them full size, unless they're already online at some other website (then you "insert image", which will make it full size) I've been wondering the same thing BTW.

Sorry, I'll edit that.

Haha!!

I see this last person got the new Quadra-steer and deluxe window package options.

Is that a good or a bad thing?

While what you said about Explorer being changed is true, Ford could've done more and can be doing more right now. Stylistically, I like the current Explorers, and we're stuck w/ it's design until the new unibody model arrives. Powertrain-wise, I think Ford needs to find a way to replace the Explorer's aging (and not very fuel efficient) V6. They should try to get the 3.5L in there. I suppose the new model isnt that far off though, so at this point, it'd be a waste of time, money, and effort to try.

You have to remember that the current F-150 is will only be 4-5 model years (depending on the way you look at it) old when it's replaced, which is very quick in the truck world. I'd say all new sheetmetal, new interior, engine upgrades/new engines (at launch/following launch), new options (tailgate step new post-cab bed step, integrated trailer brake system,....etc.) is a pretty significant upgrade for a 4-5 year old truck. That said, on the vehicles you listed above, Ford did drop the ball, but IMO, Ford won't let that happen w/ their bread-and-butter F-series.