Filed under:

We’re set to record Autoblog Podcast #383 this evening. Check out the topics below or drop us your questions and comments via the Q&A module. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven’t already done so. To take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #383
Ferrari 458 Speciale
2015 Ford Mustang weight
Google autonomous car
2015 Subaru BRZ Series.Blue

[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Can’t see the EventBox? Click Here.

Voices Heard Media

Submit Your Questions for Autoblog Podcast #383 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jun 2014 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

Ford Mustang enthusiasts rejoiced when they first learned that the all-new sixth-generation model would feature a fully independent rear suspension (IRS) and the option of a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder in addition to its naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 offerings. Yet some of that excitement has been suppressed with a growing concern about the upcoming coupe’s curb weight – Ford has released plenty of information about the vehicle, but it has kept absolutely silent about its mass.

After many of us speculated that the new model would shed some weight, after all, we all know that excess poundage is the enemy of performance and “lightweighting” is the engineering buzzword of the moment. However, our story last week contradicted that logic when Steeda Autosports, a company that has been given early access to the new model, stated on its website that “the 2015 Mustang ended up gaining 200-300 pounds in this remake.” The report had enthusiasts audibly squirming in pain.

But it now appears that Steeda’s statements may have been anything but scientific. The company, seemingly in a backpedal, clarified itself on Mustang6g.com today, saying: “Based on our experience working with IRS Mustangs in the past we estimated what the weight addition will be. In addition current industry trends with new cars show additional weight being added for various new safety and comfort features.”

Steeda Autosport’s well-publicized guess, as frustrating as it is, doesn’t bother us as much as the Blue Oval’s silence on the matter – is the automaker holding off on releasing bad news, or is it planning a pleasant surprise? We have tried contacting numerous sources at the automaker, and for the moment, mum’s the word.

As it stands today, only one company knows the true curb weight of the sixth-generation model. So Ford, how much does the 2015 Mustang weigh?

2015 Ford Mustang’s curb weight appears to be anyone’s guess originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jun 2014 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

Ford Mustang enthusiasts rejoiced when they first learned that the all-new sixth-generation model would feature a fully independent rear suspension (IRS) and the option of a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder in addition to its naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 offerings. Yet some of that excitement has been suppressed with a growing concern about the upcoming coupe’s curb weight – Ford has released plenty of information about the vehicle, but it has kept absolutely silent about its mass.

After many of us speculated that the new model would shed some weight, after all, we all know that excess poundage is the enemy of performance and “lightweighting” is the engineering buzzword of the moment. However, our story last week contradicted that logic when Steeda Autosports, a company that has been given early access to the new model, stated on its website that “the 2015 Mustang ended up gaining 200-300 pounds in this remake.” The report had enthusiasts audibly squirming in pain.

But it now appears that Steeda’s statements may have been anything but scientific. The company, seemingly in a backpedal, clarified itself on Mustang6g.com today, saying: “Based on our experience working with IRS Mustangs in the past we estimated what the weight addition will be. In addition current industry trends with new cars show additional weight being added for various new safety and comfort features.”

Steeda Autosport’s well-publicized guess, as frustrating as it is, doesn’t bother us as much as the Blue Oval’s silence on the matter – is the automaker holding off on releasing bad news, or is it planning a pleasant surprise? We have tried contacting numerous sources at the automaker, and for the moment, mum’s the word.

As it stands today, only one company knows the true curb weight of the sixth-generation model. So Ford, how much does the 2015 Mustang weigh?

2015 Ford Mustang’s curb weight appears to be anyone’s guess originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jun 2014 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

Automakers face competing interests when it comes to developing a new generation of vehicle. On the one hand, companies want to build their cars to be safer and better handling, with more equipment and maybe even larger dimensions over the model it’s replacing. On the other hand, they strive to keep weight down to the benefit of both performance and fuel consumption. Usually something has to give, and in the case of the new 2015 Ford Mustang, those efforts may have resulted in a weight penalty of two or three hundred pounds.

This according to Blue Oval modifier Steeda Autosports, which states that “the 2015 Mustang ended up gaining 200-300 pounds in this remake”. Despite the Mustang not being on the market yet, it would appear the leading Ford aftermarketer has been given early access to the 2015 model to help jumpstart its tuning efforts (a rather common development among trusted tuners). If Steeda’s assertion is accurate, that would make the challenge of getting the new pony car up to speed for both Ford and aftermarket customizers like Steeda that much greater.

We’re waiting for official word from Ford on the veracity of Steeda’s claim, but if true, it’s bound to be a bit of disappointing news for legions of Blue Oval performance enthusiasts. Watch this space for more.

Has the 2015 Ford Mustang gained hundreds of pounds? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Jun 2014 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

Radical has been building fantastic open-cockpit racers and roadcars for years, for the track day enthusiast who wants a vehicle that looks like it could show up for a start at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The company’s latest creation is the RXC, and while this coupe looks like a prototype racer, it’s road legal in the UK and in some parts of the US. When testing a car this, um, radical, the first thought is likely to get it to the track for some big slides and wide open acceleration, but XCar Films takes the opposite approach in its latest video to learn how this racer fares on public roads.

The version tested here is the standard RXC with the 3.7-liter V6 out of the Ford Mustang tuned to 350 horsepower with a seven-speed sequential gearbox; but Radical also offers the same engine with 380-hp, a 454-hp Ford EcoBoost 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, or even a 500-hp V8. Even in the most basic guise, it’s a handful to control in the wet, if this video is any indication. The cliché of a road-legal racecar is bandied around a lot in the motoring world, but it truly applies to the RXC.

The only problem with seeing the RXC exclusively on the road is that it can never really open up and show its full potential. This racer is indeed chomping at the bit to rocket off into the horizon, but all those pesky road safety laws hold it back. Still, the video is a chance to get a better impression about this thoroughbred sports car. Scroll down to check it out.

Radical RXC is a Mustang-hearted racecar for the road

Radical RXC is a Mustang-hearted racecar for the road originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 May 2014 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

We’re pretty sure that any initial concerns Ford had about selling the redesigned Mustang in Europe have been lessened considerably, after the first 500 Euro-spec 2015 Mustangs were been reserved in just 30 seconds. Moreover, 9,300 people attempted to snag one of the coveted orders for the all-new muscle car. Yes, Mustang, you should do quite well across the pond.

The registration event was held during the UEFA (pronounced yu-eh-fa) Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.

“We knew there was huge excitement building for the new Ford Mustang coming to Europe, but the response during the UCL Final was overwhelming,” said Roelant de Waard, VP of marketing, sales and service for Ford’s European outfit. “It was a truly special way to kick off the Ford Mustang era in Europe.”

Customers who successfully reserved a slot haven’t been notified just yet – that will come in the next few weeks – although we do know that the 500 cars were available to drivers in 20 different European countries. The specs, though, were limited.

Hardtop fans are limited to Race Red, while Convertible drivers will get Magnetic Silver – the 2015 Mustang’s launch colors. Despite the lack of a choice on color, owners will be able to choose between the Mustang’s two European engines, the 2.3-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder and the brawny, 5.0-liter V8. The initial run of cars will include MyFord Touch with Sync and navigation, black leather seats with heating and ventilation functions, park assist and 19-inch wheels. It’s unclear how much these launch cars will cost European consumers.

Ford, which is the official vehicle supplier for the Champions League, promoted its registration event with a series of videos, depicting the Mustang in front of major landmarks from London, Paris, Berlin and Rome, as well as a final video showing the Mustang inside Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, where the final match was played.

Take a look below for the official press release from Ford, as well as the promotional videos for the Mustang registration, which we’ve embedded for your viewing pleasure.

First 500 European Ford Mustangs reserved in 30 seconds [w/video]

First 500 European Ford Mustangs reserved in 30 seconds [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 May 2014 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

Radical has been building fantastic open-cockpit racers and roadcars for years, for the track day enthusiast who wants a vehicle that looks like it could show up for a start at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The company’s latest creation is the RXC, and while this coupe looks like a prototype racer, it’s road legal in the UK and in some parts of the US. When testing a car this, um, radical, the first thought is likely to get it to the track for some big slides and wide open acceleration, but XCar Films takes the opposite approach in its latest video to learn how this racer fares on public roads.

The version tested here is the standard RXC with the 3.7-liter V6 out of the Ford Mustang tuned to 350 horsepower with a seven-speed sequential gearbox; but Radical also offers the same engine with 380-hp, a 454-hp Ford EcoBoost 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, or even a 500-hp V8. Even in the most basic guise, it’s a handful to control in the wet, if this video is any indication. The cliché of a road-legal racecar is bandied around a lot in the motoring world, but it truly applies to the RXC.

The only problem with seeing the RXC exclusively on the road is that it can never really open up and show its full potential. This racer is indeed chomping at the bit to rocket off into the horizon, but all those pesky road safety laws hold it back. Still, the video is a chance to get a better impression about this thoroughbred sports car. Scroll down to check it out.

Radical RXC is a Mustang-hearted racecar for the road

Radical RXC is a Mustang-hearted racecar for the road originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 May 2014 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

The big news this morning was that the 2015 Ford Mustang would start at $24,425, including its destination pricing. The big news this afternoon is, well, bigger.

Mustang6G.com has come up with what it claims is pricing info for the entire Mustang line, rather than just the V6. That means we know all about the EcoBoost and GT prices now, which, when combined with the dealer order sheets we reported on last week, gives us our clearest look yet at how the Mustang can be outfitted (we’re still a bit short on pricing info for some standalone options, like paint premiums and such).

The base EcoBoost starts at $25,995, while the GT rings up at $32,925.

The base V6 wears the code-name 050A, while the base EcoBoost is 100A and the base GT is 300A. All prices include the $825 destination charge.

We already know the most basic, V6-powered Mustang, the 050A, starts at $24,425. The upgraded V6, which Ford identifies as 051A, costs $25,420 and adds 18-inch wheels, LED foglamps, a six-way power drivers seat and a body color spoiler.

The base EcoBoost starts at $25,995, while the GT rings up at $32,925 (a $1,715 increase). Regardless of engine, the Premium trims, code-named 200A and 400A, respectively, are virtually identical. They add selectable drive modes, a number of interior styling bits (ambient lighting, aluminum foot pedals, etc.), a nine-speaker stereo in place of the standard six-speaker setup and an eight-inch color display with MyFord Touch. Moving from the EcoBoost 100A to 200A drives the price up to $29,995, while upgrading the GT from 300A to 400A ups the ante to $36,100 (a $790 increase over the current GT Premium).

The Premium models themselves have an extra equipment pack, code-named 201A on the EcoBoost and 401A on the GT. Regardless of engine, this package adds a 12-speaker Shaker stereo, HD radio, memory seats with two settings and blind-spot monitoring. The EcoBoost 201A costs $31,790 while the GT 401A costs $38,720.

The GT Performance Pack, which adds a whole wealth of performance-oriented options including a strut-tower brace, a larger radiator, a stiffened suspension, six-piston Brembo brakes, 19-inch wheels and a 3.73 rear end, will cost $2,495 (identical to the 2014 GT Performance Pack’s price). It’s not entirely clear if the EcoBoost Performance Pack, which offers essentially the same options, is priced the similarly (although it seems reasonable to assume).

Other standalone options include navigation ($795), Recaro leather seats ($1,595, the same as 2014), an Enhanced Security Package ($395) and floormats ($85). The destination charge, which we included in all the prices above, is $825. Last, but certainly not least, the Fiftieth Anniversary Mustang GT will start at $46,995.

So, loyal readers, what do you think? Does this pricing strategy seem reasonable? Now that you know what each trim level costs, which would you choose? Have your say in Comments.

More 2015 Ford Mustang pricing information leaks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2014 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:
Ford is officially selling its all-new 2015 Mustang, following today’s release that the automaker has begun accepting orders for the fastback model. Accompanying the announcement came the long-awaited pricing for the entry level model, fitted with the 3.7-liter V6, which will start at $24,425 (*including destination and delivery).

As previously announced, there will be three available powerplants when the vehicle is launched. All are offered with a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters (horsepower and torque figures have not been finalized):

• Naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6, producing more than 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.
• Turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, producing more than 305 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque.
• Naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, producing more than 420 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.

The base price of the 2014 Mustang is $23,335 (including destination and delivery), which means the 2015 model arrives with a $1,090 premium over the outgoing model – an increase justified by an all-new platform with the new independent rear suspension. Other new standard features include HID headlamps, rear view camera system, keyless entry and SYNC connectivity with a 4.2-inch color display.

According to the press release, the Mustang will roll into North American showrooms this fall.

Ford opens order banks for 2015 Mustang, pricing starts at $24,425*

Ford opens order banks for 2015 Mustang, pricing starts at $24,425* originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2014 01:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News

Filed under:

Earlier this week, Ford invited us to Charlotte, NC, to ride in an all-new 2015 Mustang fitted with its turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. It’s the first forced-induction, four-cylinder ponycar for the Blue Oval since the sun set on the 1996 Mustang SVO. We jumped at the opportunity, as only a handful of people have ever been in the passenger seat of this new car, and most automotive media won’t get as close as we did until this fall.

As we revealed in our Deep Dive, Ford will slot this new turbocharged four as premium powerplant between its naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 and the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8. At last mention, the automaker said the direct-injected, all-aluminum engine will develop 305 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, returning the best fuel economy of the three powerplants in the process. History buffs will note that those figures are appreciably stouter than the 200 horses and 240 lb-ft that the ’86 SVO realized out of the same displacement, and the latter’s figures were hugely impressive at the time. On paper, the new EcoBoost four looks to be a good fit for most owners who want to balance performance with efficiency – we were eager to see how it felt from the passenger seat.

Riding Notes

• Ford is continuously polishing its final product. The Mustang we rode in was a prototype, still in need of some final tweaks. Its interior was mostly complete, but many of the surfaces were lacking texture or constructed with the incorrect material – standard prototype fare.
• A manual and a traditional automatic transmission will be offered at launch, with both containing six gears. While the standard trans is a carryover, the automatic has been upgraded with paddle shifters and is driver configurable with four different electronic modes (Normal, Sport, Track and Snow/Wet) that alter shift points, traction control and throttle response. Our test car was equipped with the automatic.
• The steering effort may also be adjusted between three different settings (Comfort, Normal and Sport), thanks to its new electronically assisted rack.
• Our car was optioned with a Performance Package that will be a must-have for enthusiasts. It includes firmer dampers and higher-rate springs (take a closer look and note that the 2015 model already rides a bit lower, with tighter wheel well gaps), chassis bracing, upgraded front bushings and stiffer sway bars (by about five percent). More capable four-piston brake calipers are fitted to the front axle over 13.8-inch ventilated rotors, while the rear brakes retain a single-piston sliding caliper over 13.0-inch ventilated discs. The package does nothing for the engine, but a new 3:55 rear axle ratio (replacing a 3:31) will make it feel a bit quicker. Lastly, a set of 19-inch alloys wrapped in performance-oriented Pirelli PZero rubber (255/40R19 at all four corners) improves grip.
• Off-the-line acceleration wasn’t tire-chirpingly quick, even in the sportiest setting, but once the engine was under full boost – we noted a bit more than 15 psi on the analog dial between the center HVAC vents – it started to pull strongly, wanting to stretch its legs. (Ambient temperatures were in the mid-90s, with equally high humidity, both of which work against a turbocharged powerplant.) The short autocross course limited the driver to just second gear, with the shift from first to second arriving smoothly. Our pilot demonstrated shifting in both automatic and manual modes, which features nifty rev-matching throttle-blips, and it never felt sharp, harsh or tiringly aggressive.
• As is nearly always the case with a four-cylinder engine, the new 2.3-liter lacks the ultimate smoothness of a six or eight. At this stage of tune, however, it’s no better or worse than the racket emanating from BMW‘s new four. There was a notable intake and exhaust note, both pleasantly tuned, but we couldn’t catch any turbo whine in our short jaunt (Ford didn’t allow us to pry open the hood and view the intake design). This Mustang’s siblings will each have much better lungs, while the four will require some acclimating.
• One big advantage a four-cylinder holds over a six- or eight-cylinder is reduced mass. During the parking lot autocross, the new Mustang felt impressively agile and light. There was very little body roll, even during extreme maneuvering (the car in this picture is cornering aggressively). Under heaving braking, the new chassis and sporty underpinnings – independent rear suspension and all – seemed to successfully resist the urge to dive or become unsettled. There was a bit of front-end push in the tightest sections, but applying the throttle quickly moved the weight rearward, extinguishing the understeer (the front of the coupe felt lighter than the rear, which would indicate good balance). We’d be willing to bet that the four will be the most nimble in the family.
• It’s likely that Ford sees even more potential in the idea of an EcoBoost Mustang – new spy shots and video revealed earlier today suggests that the company may be working on a model with even higher performance, though its cylinder count remains unclear.

In a nutshell, we climbed out of the passenger seat in Charlotte impressed. Three quick laps observed from the passenger side are no substitute for a thorough test drive, but we’ve sat right seat in hundreds of vehicles, with the majority of those being far less competent. Climbing behind the wheel of the 2015 Ford Mustang for ourselves can’t come soon enough.

2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 May 2014 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read more here: Mustang News