Thursday, October 1, 2015

Is your car ready for Winter?

 
1.  Check your battery.  Getting stranded in the cold with a dead battery is no one's idea of a good time.  If you have a maintenance-free battery, there should be a window on the top of the battery that tells you the state of it's charge.  If it's not, check the fluid levels, and top off with distilled water as necessary.  if you're not sure how to check your battery, most any auto parts store will be able to check it for you.
2.  Check your tires.  While a dead battery can leave you stranded, balding tires on snowy and icy roads can lead to a much more dangerous situation.  If you live in an area that gets a significant amount of snow, you may want to consider snow tires.
3.  Check your wiper blades.  Going cheap on your wiper blades or ignoring them can lead to very unpleasant driving in the winter.  Bad wipers can't do an adequate job of keeping the snow and ice off of your windshield, no matter how high you have the defrosters blasting.
4.  Check your fluids.  Check your owner's manual, but for most vehicles, the cooling system should be flushed every two years.  If your vehicle is overdue, prior to winter setting in is as good of a time as any to have it taken care of.  Also, refer to your owner's manual to find what type and what mixture of anti-freeze you should be using.  You will also want to keep your windshield washer fluid full, using a fluid that is designed for not freezing in the cold weather.  If you get stuck behind a truck throwing dirty snow at your windshield, you will be glad you did.  As always, change your oil regularly.
5.  Keep your vehicle supplied.  Normal emergency materials are key for the winter.  If you do get stranded on the road, you want other driver's to be able to see you.  Roadside flares are not excessive to keep on hand.  Keeping extra warm cloths, gloves, and a blanket or two are always good ideas as well.  Be sure to have lock de-icer on hand- and keep in mind that it doesn't always help to have it in the car.  Some in your house, and some at work are a great idea. 
6.  Care for the interior of your car.  In and out of the snow, ice, and salt can be particularly rough on your carpets.  Be sure to have at least an inexpensive set of floor mats for your car.  Better yet are the kind that can hold the water and keep it away from your carpets completely.
7.  Let your car warm up (and revving your engine doesn't really help).  Keep in mind, though, thieves are excellent at watching for cars that are running but unattended.  Have an extra door key that you keep on you and lock the doors while it is warming up, even if you are at home. 
8.  Be safe.  Allow extra time to get where you are going, leave plenty of space between you and the driver in front, and use good common sense.  It's better to arrive a few minutes late than not at all. 
 

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

The all-new 2016 Lincoln MKX



   Power Player. Discover the perfect combination of power, efficiency and quietness. The available 2.7L EcoBoost engine is ready for wherever the road takes you, delivering over 225 HP and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. In creating the engines, Lincoln's engineers not only improved the fuel economy, they also designed it to remarkably quiet. The result? A best in class EPA-estimated highway fuel economy of 26 mpg (city 17 mpg) from the quietest Lincoln MKX engine in the segment.


Shop our Lincoln inventory at www.gurleyleeplincoln.net or visit our showroom located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN. 46614 where you can speak with a member of our Lincoln Certified Sales Team. We look forward to hearing from you.

Farm to Car: The Next Frontier in Sustainability

   See how Debbie Mielewski, Senior Technical Leader of Materials Sustainability at Ford, and her team of nerd rockstars is launching the Farm to Car movement, making materials from plant by-products, including soybeans, tomatoes, coconuts and more.
   Henry Ford himself once said, “I forsee when industry shall draw its raw material from the fields,” and initiated the first Ford sustainability efforts. Today, thanks in large part to Debbie’s team, every Ford vehicle in North America features seats formulated with soybean-based foam.





Shop our current Ford inventory at www.gurleyleepford.net or visit our showroom located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN. 46614 where you can speak with a member of our Ford Certified Sales Team. We look forward to hearing from you.

Thursday, July 9, 2015

Top 10 reasons the 2015 MKZ should be your next car

What’s New for 2015
   The MKZ was redesigned in 2013 to make it more reliable and comfortable while also improving fuel efficiency, and the company didn’t make many changes for 2015. In fact, this is one of the consistent complaints among reviewers. The complaints that people have had in the past regarding the infotainment center and substandard materials have not been changed.

2015 Lincoln MKZ


1. Better Fuel Economy
     Gas prices can rise and fall drastically based on the market and global events, so people who drive a lot of miles are always looking for better fuel efficiency. In this area, the MKZ delivers with an impressive 22 mpg city/ 33 mpg highway. This is on the regular base engine, and buyers can enjoy even better ratings depending on the final trim level and engine options they choose.

2. Reliability
   Most buyers have busy schedules, so they don’t have time to deal with repair appointments and trips back to the dealer. The MKZ functions as expected without requiring numerous trips to the service department so you can continue with your busy schedule without the hassle of making trips to the dealership.

3. Options for Everyone
   While the MKZ may not come loaded with standard features, buyers are able to customize a car based on their own unique needs and options. Features like advanced cruise control, rear sensors, numerous alerts and a rear-view camera help make the drive safer and more enjoyable. However, buyers can also keep the purchase price down if they aren’t interested in the extra features.

4. Power and Economy
   Modern drivers are looking for cars that can get up and go, and the MKZ fits the bill nicely. The MKZ comes with several options, including front- or all-wheel drive, a turbocharged 4-cylinder, a naturally aspirated V6 and a hybrid system. Reviewers report that all of these models deliver on power and economy, and many people report that they’re enjoyable to drive.

5. Spacious Interior
   Lincoln has a key innovation in the MKZ that’s missing in other vehicles, and that includes a push-button shifter that open up the center stack. In addition to creating a more spacious feel in between the driver and passenger, it also allows Lincoln to utilize a giant touchscreen that can be used by people who aren’t as comfortable with voice commands.

6. A Quiet Ride
   Drivers who are looking for a quiet ride find that the MKZ is one of the top options. Whether you spend several hours in the car every day or just want to enjoy a peaceful ride when you head out to run errands, the MKZ may be one of the top cars to consider.

7. Plenty of Cargo Space
   With 15.4 cubic feet of storage in the trunk, there’s plenty of room for picking up the weekly groceries or going on vacation. People love the roomy trunk in addition to the spacious cabin interior.

8. A Sharp Look
   The MKZ has a sharp exterior look that you may enjoy greatly. Rather than a boxy sedan of past decades, this car features gentle curves, rounded lines and smooth corners. The cabin has massive windows around all four sides, so it’s easier for everyone in the car to see outside and enjoy the view along the way.

9. Pleasant Drive
   Most reviewer share that the car is pleasurable to drive. While it may not handle like a BMW, it still handles corners nicely with responsive steering and a smooth, comfortable ride. It also features Bluetooth capability, USB ports, a Wi-Fi hot spot and 11-speaker audio system to make drives of all distances more enjoyable.

10. 5-Star Safety Rating
   The MKZ received an overall rating of five stars for safety. Standard features include air bags throughout the interior cabin, traction control, lane departure warnings, anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights and a blind spot monitor. These features can help even experienced drivers stay safe on the road.


If you want the Lincoln MKZ to be your next car, shop our inventory or visit our dealership located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN. 46614 to speak with one of our Lincoln Certified Product Specialists. We look forward to helping you!


Thursday, July 2, 2015

Ford SYNC 3 Technology








   When you upgrade to SYNC 3, you enjoy all the great SYNC features plus our next generation of voice activated technology. A new easy-to-use design, a new interface and new features. Not only is SYNC 3 responsive and innovative, it delivers next-level connectivity to your busy life.

While the 2016 Ford Escape is the only vehicle available with SYNC 3, we have so many more Ford models with great Ford technology.






   Along with Voice Recognition, SYNC appLink and Siri Seamless Integration, there are several other options that make Ford SYNC 3 great technology for your Ford. Click here to learn all about Ford SYNC 3. Also, shop our inventory for your next Ford model or come into our show room located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN 46614 to speak with one of our Ford Product Specialists.



  


  

Ford SYNC with MyFord Touch

  






   When you upgrade to SYNC with MyFord Technology, you not only enjoy many of the great SYNC features, there are enhanced capabilities. An organized screen features four quadrants that keep you connected to several things while keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road, making your drive much more safe.

The Following Ford models come with Ford SYNC with MyFord Touch Technology:

2015 Fiesta
2015 Focus
2015 Fusion
2016 Fusion
2015 Mustang
2015 C-Max
2015 Taurus
2015 Edge
2015 Flex
2015 Escape
2016 Escape
2015 Explorer
2016 Explorer
2015 Expedition
2015 Transit Connect
2015 Transit
2015 F-150
2015 Super Duty
2016 Super Duty


   Along with LCD Screen, Voice Recognition and Climate Control, there are several other options that make Ford SYNC great technology for your Ford. Click here to learn all about Ford SYNC. Also, shop our inventory for your next Ford model or come into our show room located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN 46614 to speak with one of our Ford Product Specialists.

Ford SYNC Technology







   Ford's SYNC technology allows you to make calls, listen to music, voice-control select apps with SYNC appLink and much more. Voice-Activated SYNC technology helps keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel, making your drive more safe.

Ford SYNC is available on the following Ford favorites:

2015 Fiesta
2015 Focus
2015 Fusion
2016 Fusion
2015 Mustang
2015 C-Max
2015 Taurus
2015 Edge
2015 Flex
2015 Escape
2016 Escape
2015 Explorer
2016 Explorer
2015 Expedition
2015 Transit Connect
2015 Transit
2015 F-150
2015 Super Duty
2016 Super Duty

   Along with Hands-Free Calling, No-Extra Charge 911 Assist and Music Search and Control, there are several other options that make Ford SYNC great technology for your Ford. Click here to learn all about Ford SYNC. Also, shop our inventory for your next Ford model or come into our show room located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN 46614 to speak with one of our Ford Product Specialists.
 

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Lincoln Black Label

  


   Welcome to Lincoln Black Label, an ownership experience designed to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning luxury client. We want our Lincoln customers to feel they are in the peak of luxury. Centered on a curated collection of designer, interior themes – meticulously brought to life in rare, high-end materials – and a host of exclusive membership privileges, Lincoln Black Label not only engages the senses and imagination, it represents the ultimate in luxury, comfort and service. Choose from the following to customize your Lincoln Black Label experience.


Oasis

   Characterized by a harmonious, subtle, two-tone interior in soothing shades of cream and tan, Oasis evokes a desert spa sanctuary or perhaps the sandy dunes of a tropical paradise. Borrowing from Eastern influences, Oasis speaks to those who want to reduce the chaos in their lives and escape to a luxurious, calm, peaceful environment.
 

Center Stage

   Inspired equally by the fashion world and the theater district, this interior is for those with a flair for the dramatic. The Jet Black leather interior with Foxfire Red Alcantara® accents captures the excitement of standing center stage, while onyx wood (MKZ) and black striped wood (MKC) add a lush texture to this undeniably stylish design.


Indulgence

   Few things ignite our senses like fine chocolate, and such was the inspiration for this sumptuous theme. Uncommonly soft, beautiful leather, with a subtle antiqued finish, adds richness and depth to the interior, while Ziricote wood – usually reserved for high-end yachts and fine musical instruments – adds warmth without the need for dyes or stains.


Modern Heritage

   For those who appreciate a clean, modern aesthetic, look no further than this incredible theme. Featuring a high-contrast black-and-white interior highlighted by crimson stitching and Argento® wood trim, this clean color scheme marries the artful past of Lincoln to the vision for its future.



Materials of Black Label

   The materials used for Lincoln's Black Label are the richest of the rich. We’re all creatures of our environment, and thus we focused on the design of the interior – the place where the driver spends the most time. We’ve elevated the inside with rare materials such as Alcantara® and Venetian leather – a textile sought after by fashion pioneers. For the interior trim, we sourced premium woods seeking optimal color and richness in every grain – all elements working in harmony to create an unforgettable tactile experience.

Crafting the Black Label

   Black Label was created for individuals who are drawn to a certain kind of craftsmanship; those who appreciate the significance of space inside a seam, the warmth of a premium leather, and delicate touch of a fine-quality fabric.

The Leather of Black Label
   Journey through the tannery where you’ll be immersed in the intimate process of producing incredibly supple yet durable leather for Lincoln Black Label.


Shop our online inventory to create your own Lincoln Black Label. Visit our website or come into our dealership located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN. 46614 and speak with one of our Lincoln Certified Product Specialists.

Monday, June 15, 2015

Buying Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned

With Certified comes Confidence.

   Why should I consider a Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned luxury vehicle? Three words – peace of mind. Before your vehicle is delivered, it receives a unique 200-point inspection. Any item(s) that does not pass our standards is replaced or repaired with a factory-authorized part. On top of that, every Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned vehicle comes with limited warranty coverage, optional upgrade coverage and other exclusive benefits.

The 200-point inspection includes the following:
  • Engine
  • Electrical System
  • Exterior Lights
  • Glass and Outside Mirrors
  • Vehicle Exterior
  • Vehicle Interior
  • Tires and Wheels
  • Brakes
  • Vehicle Frame
  • Fuel System
  • Road Test
  • Exhaust System
Every carefully selected Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned luxury vehicle has to meet stringent requirements:
  • There must be fewer than 60,000 miles on the odometer.
  • To identify potential issues, a CARFAX vehicle history report is run to identify issues such as accident history and frame, flood and fire damage.
    • If a vehicle has been damaged, it may not meet our standards. That’s why we run a CARFAX Vehicle History Report to identify any potential issues, such as:
      • Flood vehicle
      • Fire damage
      • Frame damage
      • Salvage vehicle
      • Branded title
      • Odometer issues
      • Accident history
      • Vehicle title history
Warranty:
   Coverage for all Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned vehicles includes repair or replacement of covered components for six years from the original Lincoln New-Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage start date or up to 100,000 miles on the odometer, whichever comes first.

Having the correct information about the car buying process is important in purchasing any type of vehicle, whether it's new, used or certified pre-owned. Now that you how the certified pre-owned program works, shop here for our certified pre-owned Lincoln inventory or visit our showroom located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN. 46614 to speak with one of our Lincoln Certified Product Specialists.

Ford Certified Pre-owned and the Benefits of buying certified pre-owned

   Not so long ago, buying a used car was a dicey proposition. Actually, it still can be. But it is so much easier now to buy a used vehicle that is in excellent working condition―and to find one whose reliability will allow you to sleep at night. Part of the reason for this is the emergence of the pre-owned certified car market. As these cars grow in popularity, more and more groups are getting into the picture. Car dealers and third-party companies are now joining an area that was once the domain of vehicle manufacturers.
   For a vehicle to be Ford certified, a pre-owned vehicle has to be less than six years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles on the odometer. It then has to pass a 172-point inspection. What's involved in the 172-point inspection? Several things are involved when running the inspection on the vehicle, including:

  • Vehicle history
  • Road test
  • Exterior/Interior appearance and condition
  • Diagnostics
  • Underhood/Underbody components
  • Hybrid system
  • Convenience features

  • Who certifies vehicles to make sure they can be sold certified pre-owned?
       Ford factory-trained dealer technicians go through each vehicle, performing a rigorous 172-point inspection, including obtaining a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. Any part(s) that doesn’t meet our standards is replaced with a factory-authorized part. For added peace of mind, each vehicle comes with comprehensive limited warranty coverage and powertrain limited warranty coverage backed by Ford Motor Company.

    Why is a CARFAX vehicle history report so important?
       The CARFAX vehicle history report can identify any vehicle that does not meet our strict standards. The report is part of our 172-point inspection process, and it includes checks for:

    • Flood vehicles
    • Fire damage
    • Frame damage
    • Salvage vehicles
    • Branded title
    • Odometer issues
    • Accident history
    • Vehicle title history

    Do Ford-Certified Pre-Owned vehicles come with warranty coverage?
       Yes, every Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicle comes with a comprehensive limited warranty backed by Ford Motor Company covering more than 1000 components for 12 months/12,000 miles plus seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty coverage.
     
    What areas are included in the comprehensive limited warranty?
    • Engine
    • Transmission
    • Rear-wheel drive system
    • Front-wheel drive system
    • Steering components
    • Brakes
    • Front and rear suspension
    • Electrical system
    • Air conditioning and heating
    • Technology components
    • Emissions components
    • Factory audio system
    • Safety systems

    Now that you're armed with information about Certified Pre-Owned and the benefits of buying, shop our Ford Certified Pre-Owned inventory online or visit or showroom located at 320 E. Ireland Rd. South Bend, IN. 46614 and speak with one of our Ford Certified Product Specialists and be confident in knowing you're making a great vehicle choice in buying certified pre-owned.

    Tuesday, June 9, 2015

    Getting an Auto Loan

    Buying a car can be fun. Figuring out how to pay for it? Not so much.

    Unless you have the luxury of paying with cash, you'll need to deal with auto financing. Financing requires just as much thought and time as figuring out what car you want to buy. If you don't make the right decision now, you might penalize yourself financially and cause headaches for yourself for years to come. So with that in mind, here are some things you should think about when considering an auto loan.

    1.Compare Rates

     Shop around for the best rates. To do this:
    • Call around to local banks and ask what the interest rates are for car loans.
      • Start with your own bank or credit union; credit unions often have better rates than banks.
      • The easiest way to find out rates is just visit one of the online sites that lists national and local bank loan rates, as well as those of online lenders.
    Use the annual percentage rate (APR) of the loan as your standard when comparing. A difference of just 1% adds up over a loan's lifetime. Be sure to check out online lender sites, too. They have great rates and a variety of contract lengths. Finding out the cost of a loan doesn't take a math degree. Most online financing sites have calculators that crunch the numbers for you.

    2. Dealer Financing

      Of course, you can always go with dealer financing. The dealer might have the best deal available―if not, find the best rate elsewhere and ask the dealer to beat it. But beware when dealing with the dealer. The dealer's just the middleman, and usually it's the most expensive way to go. Of course, those 0% financing deals sure do seem attractive and sometimes they really are a great deal, but beware because they usually come with short-term leases. Also, to qualify for those leases, your credit needs to be top-notch. And a large down payment is usually required. If you decide to go with dealer or manufacturer financing, make sure the transaction is completed and approved before you leave the dealership. If you fail to do this, the dealer might call you in a few days to tell you that the financing fell through, and then try to stick you with another lender at a higher interest rate.

    Factors Affecting Your Interest Rate

    •    The exact interest rate you'll pay depends on a number of factors. The top factor being your credit. The higher the number, the lower your rate. It's a good idea to obtain a recent credit report to make sure you know what's on it.
    • The longer the length of the loan, the higher the interest rate you'll pay. And usually, used car loans have higher rates than new car ones. Also, it's easier to get a longer-term loan for a new car than for a used one.
    • The most popular loan contracts are for either 48 or 60 months. Longer lengths enable you to have a lower monthly payment, and they also might make a higher-priced car suddenly fit into your budget.  More months equals higher interest rates equals more money.
    • A long loan length also may not make sense if you don't want to keep the car for more than a couple of years. 
     Keep in mind that having an existing loan makes it more difficult to trade in a car.


    Now that you're armed with loan knowledge, shop our selection or new, used and certified pre-owned cars!

    Tuesday, June 2, 2015

    Try Before You Buy


    Test-driving a new or used vehicle does not obligate you to buy anything or even to make an offer, but you can get the most value out of your time spent test driving by sticking to a routine and thoroughly checking out the vehicle. It is a critical part of buying a car. When you've picked out the car you want, naturally you're going to want to take it on a test drive. Here are some tips to remember when you head out on the road.

    1. The actual driving part of the test drive should be brief but thorough. Check the Engine, Suspension, Steering and Cornering, and on-board amenities including the heating and air conditioning. The test drive should also include stop and go street driving as well as highway driving.
    2. When you're on the streets, make sure you pay attention to the steering ability of the car while taking a left and right turns. This will give you an idea of the brakes, transmission and engine behavior.
    3. While driving on the highway, go ahead and check the vehicle's acceleration. Make note of how smoothly the car rides when it's accelerated. Also, make note of the noise from the engine and exhaust.
    4. After some highway driving, head back to the seller's location and preferably get more street driving in to ensure the car doesn't run hot or rough after highway driving. You should also find a place to check the cars stopping power by hitting the brakes hard.
    5. Drive the car long enough to get the engine to regular operating temperature. The street and highway driving should include running in all gears and going in reverse at some point.
    6. Run the heat to ensure that it emits hot air and check the air conditioning for cold air. Be sure to run the air conditioning longer so you can check the impact it has on the engine
    7. Make sure you allow the car to sit idle for at least five minutes after driving to ensure it doesn't run hot or rough after any type of driving.

    Be sure to take advantage of your test drive and come up with some questions or additional information about the car or it's performance. You should feel comfortable that you have thoroughly tested the vehicle before buying and a test drive is the best way to do it. Don't forget to have fun!

    Shop our online inventory here and schedule a test drive today!

    Monday, May 11, 2015

    A Blast from the Past



       For the 2016 Ford Mustang, Ford is looking to the 1960's version for inspiration. The new-generation Mustang already pays tribute to past generations, but Ford is looking to turn up the nostalgia a bit for 2016 with two new appearance packages and a throwback to the 1967 Mustang's hood-vent turn signals. Devoted Mustang fans will remember the turn signal repeaters tucked in the hood vents of the 1967-68 pony. Every 2016 Mustang GT will feature LED turn signal repeaters in the lip of the hood vents. While it may not be the most functional nostalgic update, it IS the kind of throwback Ford loves to reveal to it's dedicated following. The 2016 model also marks the return of two trim packages that originated in the 1960's: the California Special and Pony packages.


    Continue Reading here

    Tuesday, April 14, 2015

    2016 Shelby GT350R

     
    2016 Shelby GT350R
     
     
    
    The Mustang Shelby GT350. Made for the track, this pony is powered by a flat-crank
    5.2-liter V-8 that revs to the stratosphere. But what if you're looking for
    well, more? More unique features, more proficiency and more focus? Feast your
    eyes on the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R. The R doesn't stand for righteous, but
    it might as well. This car is an all-around athlete, one that is exceptionally
    agile and precise. Along with carbon fiber wheels, larger front splitter and rear wing, the Shelby GT350R features distinct design details. The exterior of the car features red painted brake calipers with red pin striping at the edge of the over the top racing stripes. This Mustang is laying the groundwork for a story that will play out for years to come on the street and on the track. So, rage on, super(pony) car enthusiasts. Rage on.

    Continue Reading at http://gurleyleepford.net/2016-Shelby-GT350R

    Friday, April 10, 2015

    Lincoln Continental Concept

    2016 Lincoln Continental Concept




    Lincoln is resurrecting the Continental name for its new flagship sedan, signaling Ford's deep commitment to returning the brand to its former glory as a top luxury choice. "They have leapfrogged to a different realm of luxury," said Michelle Krebs, analyst with AutoTrader.com. "Lincoln to date has been premium but not necessarily luxury. This moves them to the true luxury realm." The Lincoln Continental Concept is everything we know about cars, and everything we understand about people. The 2016 Lincoln Continental Concept is a exceptionally gorgeous and contemporary vehicle that will have a legitimately powerful engine system. The interior and exterior design modifications reflect the luxury the Lincoln Continental Concept will exhibit. Lincoln is on it's way to what the original brand's spirit and appeal was all about-elegance, refinement and a distinctively American take on luxury and comfort.

    Continue Reading at http://gurleyleeplincoln.net/2016-Lincoln-Continental-Concept/

    Friday, March 13, 2015

    Ford Mustang makes World Car of the Year 2015 shortlist

    When it comes to icons, a few cars spring to mind immediately. The Ford Mustang is one of them. One of the original muscle cars, the Mustang has gone through several evolutions and still stood the test of time, keeping its rightful place in the heart of enthusiasts the world over. Whether you are in love with its power, styling or story, this is one of the originals and best.





    And the Mustang has rightfully earned a spot on the shortlist for the "World Car of the Year 2015" for the World Car Awards 2015. To get to this point, a panel of five of the most highly respected designers in the industry had the formidable task of narrowing the field for the jury to vote for. Masatsugu Arumoto of Japan, Silvia Baruffaldi of Italy, Gernot Bracht of Germany, Tom Matano of USA, and Sam Livingstone of the UK. Each brings a unique strategy and strength to the task at hand as well as a passion for automotive design.





    Bract explains his strategy: “At first, it is a spontaneous ‘like’ or ‘don’t like’ decision. There are cars you would never vote for because they are against your own design philosophy.” Baruffaldi has a different approach: “I start deleting the less significant models first, in order to narrow the selections. Then comes the more difficult part, to pick up only five of the remaining nominees.” ...



    Continue reading at Gurley Leep Ford Lincoln

    Thursday, March 12, 2015

    The Best Got Better: The All-New 2015 Edge

    When does a proven leader get even better? This is what Ford set out to demonstrate with the all-new 2015 Edge, reworking it from the ground up, loading it with more technology, higher levels of craftsmanship and improved vehicle dynamics. From every angle, the all-new Ford Edge is a better vehicle.





    When it was launched in late 2006, the Edge defined crossovers. Designed with car-like comfort instead of traditional truck-based SUV design, the Edge immediately had a clear advantage. It delivered better on-road comfort, fuel efficiency and handling—proof to owners that a crossover could meet (and exceed) daily driving demands and become an every day vehicle.



    CONFIDENCE IN YOUR DRIVE
    The all-new 2015 Edge will still hold the same confident, smooth driving experience that owners have come to expect. The entirely new body structure and redesigned front and rear suspension better isolate road imperfections and absorb road noise without compromising handling.





    Three engine options are offered: a standard twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four cylinder and a 2.7-liter Ecoboost V6. A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine is available. All models are equipped with dual output exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission.





    The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost, outputting 245 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque, is significantly improved over the previous 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Beyond efficiency advantages, the new engine provides more capability. Edge equipped with 2.0-liter EcoBoost can be ordered with newly available all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,5000-pound trailer. (For comparison, in 2014, the four-cylinder Edge was front-wheel drive only and no trailer tow package was offered.) ...





    Read the full article at Gurley Leep Ford Lincoln

    Check Your Car Like A Pro

    Your car takes a beating from the snow and cold of winter. So take care of it by performing some basic car care tips from the experts at Ford that will help keep your car running smoothly. And just in time for road trip season.

    1. CHECK THE BATTERY. When it comes to breakdowns, battery issues rank at the top. And the cold will drain your battery faster than when it’s warm. Keeping your battery in good shape is the best way to avoid potential problems.

      DIY: Examine the battery terminals and cables to make sure they are tight and free of corrosion.

      When to bring it to your Ford Dealer Service Center:
      If the battery grinds or clicks when you start up, if your headlights are dim or your battery is more than three years old.


    2. WINTERIZE THE WIPER SYSTEM. Winter wipers are stronger and have an extra layer of rubber that protects against corrosion and rust, so they’re a good idea to install during those harsh months. Also, the experts recommend Motorcraft® Windshield Washer Fluid with the necessary freeze protection for your area.

      DIY: Changing your own wiper blades is fairly simple. Check your owner’s manual to find the correct size and specific instructions on replacements. Or check out these seven easy steps. The experts also recommend Motorcraft® Winter Wipers. They feature a neoprene anti-icing boot and application-driven pressure points, keeping the blade on the windshield which further improves your visibility.


    3. GET THE RIGHT TIRES. When dealing with wet, icy roads, you want the best traction you can get. But when are winter tires necessary? The general rule of thumb is when dealing with extreme snow and ice, use winter tires. They are designed to push the slush away and keep you safely on the road. In areas of light to moderate snow, all-season tires are just fine.

      DIY: Find out which tires match your Ford vehicle and driving conditions here...
    Read the complete tips at Gurley Leep Ford

    Tuesday, February 10, 2015

    5 Things You Need To Know About Your Brakes

    Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your vehicle. Without a good set, you could be at risk of an accident. This is why understanding how your brakes work and when to replace them is so important. You'll get better use of them and overall better life for the braking system of your vehicle, saving you potential costly repairs.


    TIP 1: BRAKES WEAR DOWN OVER TIME
    The brake pad is designed to wear out. They don't last forever. Brake pads squeeze the brake rotors, creating friction and put a lot of wear and tear on the part. The harder you push on the brakes, the more friction is generated. Combined with other factors, brakes will wear out faster under these conditions. And while it is hard to estimate an average life span for brake pads, there are some things you can do to help prolong their life...


    Read more at Gurley Leep Southside Ford Lincoln

    Monday, February 9, 2015

    Ford: Making Greener Cars

    When it comes to greener vehicles, Ford Motor Company has been a leader in the automotive industry. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) placed the best-selling Ford F-150 and Focus Electric on their list of most environmentally friendly vehicles for consumers in 2015.


    Still America's best-selling pickup, the F-150 was named as the greenest standard pickup. And the Focus Electric was named among 12 of the greenest vehicles. Also making the Greener Choices list was the Ford C-Max Hybrid.


    See more at Gurley Leep Southside Ford

    Power And Performance Go Hand In Hand With The 2015 Ford Edge Sport

    Ford is putting out their most powerful Edge for 2015.


    The all-new, redesigned Edge Sport boasts more horsepower and higher torque than its predecessor, thanks to the newest EcoBoost engine, a 2.7-liter V6. It has a stronger, more athletic appearance and carries passengers in comfortable, leather-trimmed sport seats. Technology never lacking, Ford SYNC keeps you in touch and the center stack houses an 8-inch LCD touch screen. Two more configurable LCD screens are configured into the instrument cluster along with two USB ports, an SD card reader and an auxiliary input jack.


    "The 2015 Edge Sport is exactly what it says it is -- a utility vehicle that not only looks beautiful, but is a spirited performer," said Cristina Aquino, Ford Edge Consumer Marketing manager. "Ford customer research showed there was a strong desire for more in terms of power and content, and with redesign of Ford Edge, we wanted to give customers a true sport version, which meant bringing the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 along for the ride."


    Read more at Gurley Leep Southside Ford-Lincoln

    Friday, February 6, 2015

    The 2016 Lincoln MKX: Intelligent Sophistication

    When the all-new Lincoln MKX made its debut at the 2015 North American Auto Show, heads turned. And for good reason. The premium crossover has an engaging form with a luxurious interior which is what we expect from Lincoln. To really stand out, two all-new available Lincoln Black Label limited-edition designer themes are available.




    Power and performance live under the hood. "The new 2.7-liter Eco-Boost adds a new level of performance to the all-new Lincoln MKX," said Chief Program Engineer Elaine Bannon. "The focus is on delivering a total personalized luxury experience for our client: performance, quiet ride, power and technologies that make life easier, all in an environment wrapped in rich materials."




    A new feature -- and an automotive first offered exclusively through Lincoln -- is the high-end audio system. Those in the know understand this unparalleled listening experience delivers a front row experience in the comfort of your vehicle. Further performance and refinement is delivered via the QuantumLogic Surround technology offers three listening modes -- stereo, audience and on stage.




    Another first with the Lincoln MKX with the available 360-degree camera, making parking assistance easier by providing up to 7 feet around the vehicle. Adding to your peace of mind, it also offers a 180-degree split view to assist with cross-traffic situations.




    Read more at Gurley Leep SouthSide Ford: Intelligent Sophistication: Introducing the 2016 Lincoln MKX

    Lincoln Motor Company Brings Revel Audio To Lincoln Drivers

    Lincoln Motor Company has made an exclusive 10-year agreement with a name audiophiles will recognize -- Revel. The award-winning sound system will be added to Lincoln vehicles, making it the only brand to offer Revel audio systems.




    Now Lincoln owners will be able to enjoy a higher quality, true home theater system in lux surroundings. Revel engineers partnered with the engineers and designers at Lincoln on what Revel refers to as the Science of Sound on the vehicle design process. To ensure pure sound quality, each system is engineered through careful placement, tuning, calibration and number of speakers unique to each Lincoln model.




    "The Revel system for Lincoln was created for the unique interior environment of each Lincoln model," said Phil Eyler, senior vice president and general manager, HARMAN global car audio. "The system is tuned to create an immersive audio experience unlike any other on the road."




    Read more at Gurley Leep SouthSide Ford Lincoln