An EcoBoost V8 Shelby GT500 Mustang?

More power, less fuel consumption, lower emissions. The claims for Ford Motor Co.’s EcoBoost engine seem almost too good to be true, but the automaker is ready to offer the technology in as much as 90% of its line-up by mid-decade, and is planning to expand the engine variations using the advanced technology that makes such promises possible.

Until recently, Ford would only discuss the EcoBoost that is being used on the new, aluminum 3.5-liter V6, though it now has confirmed a version of the system will go onto an inline-four, as well. But several sources are telling TheDetroitBureau.com that Ford is considering using the EcoBoosttechnology on a modified V8, as well, which might serve as the replacement for the big block eight-banger now used in such muscle cars as the Shelby Cobra Mustang. More in the jump!

Meanwhile, a report in the Detroit News claims that the automaker is also taking EcoBoost technology in the other direction, with a possible 1.0-liter I4 application that could be used in future small cars, such as the Fiesta subcompact coming to the U.S. in mid-2010.

Ford plans to generate a 35% increase in its fuel economy by mid-decade, a massive achievement – if it works. The company backed off from an earlier promise, dubbed “25 in 5,” to increase SUV fuel economy 25% in five years. While hybrids, electrics and other alternative powertrain systems will help meet the latest goal, company officials, including product development chief Derrick Kuzak, have said that EcoBoost will play the critical role in getting there.

The underlying technology is, in many ways, similar to what has made the diesel so popular in Europe: high-pressure direct injection and turbocharging – in this case, small, twin turbos that avoid the classic “turbo-lag” that used to frustrate motorists waiting for the devices to “spool” up and provide an added boost to acceleration. Ford technicians claim that EcoBoost delivers a significant portion of the mileage gains that would otherwise come from switching to diesel, which Ford doesn’t see much of a market for in the U.S.

The automaker is still in the early roll-put phase with EcoBoost, which is making its first appearances on models like the 2010 Taurus SHO, the 2010 Lincoln MKS and the updated Ford Flex “people mover.” Other models, such as the F-150 pickup, are due to get thetechnology. And it will begin to roll out overseas, in places like Australia, as well.

The initial demand for the vehicle has been far stronger than anticipated, despite Ford’s own upbeat forecast. The SHO is accounting for 20% of overall Taurus sales, while EcoBoost models account for 40% of the new Lincoln MKT, the Detroit News quotes Amy Marentic, the automaker’s marketing manager. That’s 15 points higher than anticipated.

With the automaker demanding a premium of $5,000 to $7,000 for models equipped with the powertrain – a figure that typically includes other optional gear – that has helped Ford sharply drive up the transaction prices for its products, this year.

While the company claims the 3.5-liter version of EcoBoost can achieve V8 performance with V6 fuel consumption, some reviewers have been cautious about endorsing the claim. The more aggressive the system is used, the less the mileage benefit, if there is any at all. This could be another EPA cycle beater at its core – designed to give great ratings that customers may never obtain. Whether consumers will find thetechnology worthwhile make take some time to find out. Real world results often differ sharply from what happens in the federal government’s fuel economy rating system

But for now, at least, Ford is moving ahead aggressively.

There has been talk about using the EcoBoost in performance and muscle cars. And if a V6 would do, what about a V8? The system is flexible enough to adapt to a wide range of engines. With a V6, like the one in the SHO, EcoBoost is turning out 365 horsepower.

“Imagine what we could do with a big V8?” hinted a well-placed company source. Could it rival the 540 horsepower of the supercharged 5.4-liter V8 in the Shelby GT500? Apparently, we’re going to have to wait awhile to find out.

Source: Detroit Bureau

Last year when Ford announced a 50-unit run of the 2008 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, the program became a huge success and the Dearborn automaker sold out of all the units before the vehicle even went into production. Well, Ford is back this year and is repeating that success with the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang at the 2009 SEMA show.

For its SEMA launch, Ford racing has unveiled a one-of-a-kind SEMA Special Silver Cobra Jet with charcoal Cobra Jet graphics. Like its predecessor, the 2010 Cobra Jet is intended for NHRA Stock and Super Stock racing. The 2010 model comes with all the features of the 2008 model with some enhancements including a full race-prepared automatic or manual transmission, drag race-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50 certified rollcage, and an Aeromitive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell. Another new option is the launch control/rev limiter that lets drivers preset the rpm after they stage the car. When they are ready to go, all they have to do is put the pedal to the floor and enjoy the ride.

Production of the 2010 Cobra Jets will kick off in January at the Auto Alliance International (AAI) assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. All 50 units of the car have already been spoken for and deliveries are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2010.

But worry not; since the Cobra Jet is based on the V6 Mustang, any consumer can turn his Mustang into a Cobra Jet by purchasing parts from the Ford Performance Parts catalog.

Source: eGMCarTech

Saleen's designers have managed to retain much of the design language that made previous versions of the S281 so popular while updating the style enough to properly flow with the lines of the 2010 Mustang. What do you think?

Source: AutoBlog

Props. I can't fathom how long this took to create.

Ford Racing is continuing to launch its assault on all forms of motorsport with the upcoming launch of the 2010 Boss 302R Mustang to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the original Boss 302's 1970 Trans-Am championship. No photos of the car have been released quite yet, but we do have plenty of information thanks to a leaked letter to Ford dealers. Like the FR500S, FR500C, FR500CJ and other Mustangs available from the Ford Racing Performance Parts catalog, the Boss 302R is for off-road use only and will be built in very limited quantities. Just 50 are planned for production at a starting cost of $79,000.

Two versions of the 302R will be available, with the base package designed to compete in various SCCA and NASA classes and the upgraded version built to Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series specifications. The base Boss 302R includes a 5.0-liter four-valve V8 pushing out an estimated 400 horsepower as well as a six-speed transmission, race-spec suspension, brakes and tires, and safety equipment including a roll cage and race seats with safety harnesses. The Grand-Am spec version also gets a sealed high-output race engine, seam-welded body, racing fuel cell, a data acquisition system and more for a cost of $129,000.

Ford Racing is currently taking orders, and judging by sales of their other competition Mustangs you will need to order immediately if you want to get your hands on one. Full details at the source!

Source: AutoBlog

In July, Ford Racing announced that the Mustang will race in the Nationwide series when Ford begins a limited rollout of its new car in 2010. The Ford Mustang NASCAR Nationwide Car was revealed today and in collaboration with Roush Fenway Racing and Con-way Freight.

The No.16 Con-way Freight Mustang will be driven by 21-year old Colin Braun, who was the 2008 Raybestos Rookie of the Year. He will move to a full-time Nationwide program next season. Press release at the source!

Source: eGMCarTech

Saleen's Flickr page has given us some teasers for the upcoming Saleen S281 debut at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. The three photos posted on the site actually provide a decent look at the front and rear of the car, and we especially like what's been done to the 2010 Stang's controversial rear with the elongated tail and the diffuser-style rear valence. Full details to follow.

The hand-build Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang has been priced at $89,950.

The special-edition Mustang is based on the 2009 Ford Mustang coupe and will be offered with two engine options – a naturally-aspirated 4.6L V8 making 320-hp and a supercharged version pumping out 400-hp. Both models are matted to a 5-speed manual transmission and are covered by Ford’s engine warranty.

Only 45 units of the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang will be built.

Source: eGMCarTech

The new stallion atop Roush's Mustang lineup gets a 540-horsepower upgrade complete with a second-generation R2300 supercharger, forged internals, high-flow fuel rails and injectors, upgraded fuel pump and a beefier clutch. The $59,945 price tag also gets you 18-inch wheels and tires, 14-inch brakes, a Roush suspension system, various interior enhancements and a Roush body kit complete with a billet grille.

If the you're the type of person that is only interested in performance and not the rest of the fluff, Roush is also offering a sleeper package called the 540RH. Along with the drivetrain and suspension upgrades, this budget Roush only includes the rear spoiler, a short-throw shifter, and a subtle stripe package. Roush claims they have already tested the car at the drag strip (with the optional Cooper RS3 tires) and came away with an 11.8 second time slip. At $46,145, the 540RH tucks in nicely under the Shelby GT500's price tag while offering similar performance.

Source: AutoBlog

So you’ve taken out the second mortgage, told the condescending unsupportive wife to hit the road, and you’ve finally obtained your dream car. But now that you have it, and you’re most likely up to your ears in debt, ask yourself the following question:

If the worst should happen, and I damage my KR, can I afford to repair it? Hit the jump for a startling discovery!

Will the GT500KR get repaired? Will it remain in a wrecked state? Will it be driven without the hood? Bookmark the source to continue the saga.

Source: SpokenTorque

Here's the latest rumors on the upcoming Mustang, with new specs to challenge the Camaro, which has outsold the Mustang the last three months.

Source: BradBarnett

Sometimes two isn't enough, amirite?

As the sales are reported...

Camaro August Deliveries: 8,680
Total Camaro's Produced in August: 10,682
Mustang August sales: 6,289
Challenger August Sales: 1,132

Total Camaros produced to date (since March 16, 2009): 43,373
Total April - August Deliveries: 31,190

Goes to show that GM has a hot selling car finally.

The freshened Ford Mustang outpointed two other reincarnated muscle cars — the Chevrolet Camaro and the Dodge Challenger — as well as the new Hyundai Genesis Coupe in Consumer Reports’ tests of six sporty cars and coupes in the October issue.

The Mustang received a Very Good overall road test score of 78, outpointing the Camaro which received a Very Good 71, and the Challenger, which received a Good 53 points. CR’s engineers found the Mustang’s 2010 freshening makes it an even more balanced and satisfying driver’s car than ever before. A lot in the jump!

The new Camaro shares basic underpinnings with the Pontiac G8 sedan. The Challenger is based on the large Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger rear-wheel-drive sedans. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe received a Very Good test score and is distinct from the rest of the group. It is loosely based on the Genesis luxury sedan and is powered by either a turbocharged four-cylinder or V6 engine, in contrast to the muscle cars’ V8s.

CR also tested the redesigned Nissan 370Z two-seat coupe, an agile sports car which received a Very Good test score, and the updated and improved 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX, which also received a Very Good test score.

Prices ranged from $38,565 for the 370Z to $26,088 for the WRX. The Mustang has average reliability and is Recommended, as is the WRX. The other models are too new to have reliability data for CR to Recommend them. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR’s Annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

Full tests and ratings of the sporty cars test group appear in the October issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale September 1. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org . Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to site for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news and car buying information.

In everyday driving, the Mustang corners with agility and the highway ride is civilized. The Ford Mustang GT premium, ($34,725 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 315-hp, 4.6-liter V8 engine that delivers strong acceleration and gets 20 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests. The engine has a deep burble that is pleasing to listen to. The five-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly and accurately. Braking is Very Good. The 2010 freshening brought upgraded interior materials and better fit and finish.

The Camaro provides blistering performance and handles capably, but its girth undermines its agility. The Chevrolet Camaro 2SS ($35,425, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 426-hp, 6.2-liter, V8 engine that delivers very strong performance and 18 mpg overall. The engine sounds great when the throttle is punched. The six-speed manual transmission has a good feel. Braking is excellent. The interior is nicely finished despite gaps around the instrument panel and some cheap plastics.

With exhilarating straight-line acceleration, a brawny V8, and stock-car styling, the Challenger recaptures the character of the American muscle car. The Dodge Challenger R/T ($36,600, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 370-hp, 5.7-liter “Hemi” V8 engine that delivers strong performance and 18 mpg overall. The optional six-speed manual transmission shifts well with a pistol-like grip that fits snugly in hand. Whatever wind and road noise there is, and it’s not much, is overwhelmed by the invigorating engine growl. Braking is mediocre and it has a big car feel rather than a sports car. The well-assembled interior has a nicely padded dash and nostalgic horizontal seat stitching.

The Genesis Coupe has agile handling that makes make it fun to drive, which is unusual for a Hyundai. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Grand Touring ($28,375, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 306-hp, 3.8-liter V6 engine and gets an impressive 23 mpg overall. The V6 engine smoothly hums under acceleration. However, the interaction of the six-speed manual transmission’s shifter and heavy clutch make it a challenge to get smooth shifts. Braking is very good. The interior is nicely finished, although it’s not luxurious like the Genesis sedan’s.

The WRX’s ride is taut, yet controlled and the car is steady yet compliant on the highway. The Subaru WRX ($26,088, MSRP as tested), is powered by a 265-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers very strong acceleration and gets 24 mpg overall. It’s well matched to a five-speed manual transmission. In everyday driving, the WRX engine has the manners of a typical four-cylinder with mileage to match. Braking is excellent. Interior plastics are all hard, but the interior is well-assembled.

Redesigned for 2009, the two-seat 370Z is shorter and better finished than its predecessor, the 350Z. Great handling and braking are high points of the 370Z, as is abundant power. The cabin is cramped and noisy, it’s hard to see out, and the stiff ride is wearing over time. The Nissan 370Z Touring ($38,565, MSRP as tested), is a real sports car with quick handling and lots of grip. It is powered by a 332-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine that gets 23 mpg overall, but on premium fuel. The six-speed manual transmission’s short-throw shifter has a good feel. Braking is excellent. The interior has exceptional fit and finish.

Usually, these customizers are poorly done. This one, however, is pretty badass. I even made an effort to make one for myself - and I'm a GM guy. Hit up the link to create your own, or go through the gallery and see what everyone else wants their dream mustang to be. I included mine in the thumbs!

Source: Ford Vehicles