Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Ford Focus ST Review

Inside, the ST design, however, is striking. A bespoke suit resembling the Recaro seats that are suitable to order according to model in two-tone exterior paint to provide excellent support when cornering at speed. The operation of all functions is a bit strange, since at least the middle console of switches almost overloaded.
Works closely tailored the passenger compartment. It may be due to the lower body, which still leaves enough headroom? Or is it the very slim fitted interior of the Focus? In any case the passengers are well embedded in a Ford Focus, suggesting a degree of greater safety.
Electrically folding exterior mirrors with environment lighting and Blind Spot Assist, the Lane Assistant including fatigue Warner and high-beam assistant, the traffic signs detection and heated windshield and washer jets. In sum, considered almost a bargain. It is used for traffic safety and can be used for relaxing travel.

Performance
Nothing against a 2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. An engine that can be found virtually in its basic configuration for all manufacturers. We missed the five-cylinder engine from the previous-ST and the RS and the RS 500 yet. The hoarse rattle, pushing the brutal and distinctive motorsport genes had to yield many new demands.
Ford Focus in its currently fastest edition also serves Handsome vehicle for the long haul. Since no menacing sound and the onboard annoying family can relax and chat. The Ford on average stated consumption of 7.2 liters can only be achieved with a lot of restraint. In our tests, the onboard computer was usually at about 10 liters, which should be noted is that we usually go pretty fast, were prevalent cold temperatures and snow tires were mounted.
Almost perfectly accustomed are the driving characteristics of the ST. As with all the other Focus models, the chassis is designed with a mix of sportiness and comfort, so that no harm beats the disc, yet the fleet cornering is done brilliantly. When ST is the sporty tuning tighter the ticking and is supported harmoniously with the electric power steering EPAS, the three-stage ESP and electronic differential lock and the CUSC system.
The electronic power steering is calibrated so that it influences torque even more sensitive and detects as for example with simple straight ahead looks extremely smooth and sporty cornering extreme acts directly with corresponding slight resistance. Already quite sporty design is the normal level of the ESP, in contrast to the other Focus models engages much later. The repeal of the traction control, the next step can be to even slight drifts and intervenes only resume once the aid is urgently needed. Completely goes well, but should be of only experienced pilots and used most exclusively on racetracks.
Opposite effects are showing yet matched TVC and CUSC. The electronic differential lock TVC (Torque Vectoring Control) brakes in quickly approached curves the inner wheel off specifically to reduce the typical understeer tendency of a front-wheel drive. The opposite approach suggests a CUSC (Cornering understeer control). By a specific torque is added, before the ESP used, affects the yaw angle and the sensitivity is equal throughout, whether the driver is accelerating or not straight. The highlights of the ST in spheres that succeeds by other manufacturers generally only with adaptive chassis.

Specifications: Ford Focus ST
Engine: 4-cylinder petrol engines
Transmission: six-speed manual
Displacement: 2,000 cc
Power in kW / hp at xy / RPM: 184 kW (250 PS) / 5,500
Max torque: 360 Nm at 2,000 to 4,500 rpm
Length / Width / Height: 4.362/1.823/1.484 in mm
Wheelbase: 2,648 mm in
Empty weight: 1,362 kg
Perm. Total weight: 2.050 kg
Luggage capacity: 363-1148 l
Tires: 235/40 R 18
Wheels: 8.5 x 18 "Alloy
Acceleration: 6.5 seconds
Maximum speed: 248 km / h
Fuel tank capacity: 60 liters
Fuel consumption combined transport: 7.2 liters per 100 km

Thursday, October 24, 2013
2012 Ford Focus ST
An outlook to the Cologne show also on the Seine. The sporty version of the series has a 184 kW/250 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder with horsepower and is Benzindirekteispritzer enthusiasts points.
The previous model equipped with the ST was a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine with 166 kW/225 hp and reached a top speed of 240 km / h
Even outside of the ST calls attention to itself, but the paint comes in a striking shade of orange ("Tangerine Scream") therefore. The Cologne manufacturer that stirs anticipation of a car that will compete for the VW Golf GTI. The price of the sporty Focus are not fixed yet.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Ford Focus RS500 Review
A powerful new limited edition Ford Focus RS model, called the Ford RS500, Ford launched as a major performance and will provide a definitive driving experience for performance car enthusiasts.
Making its world debut at the 2010 Leipzig Motor Show in Germany, April 9, 2010, this new model is designated RS500 to emphasize the very limited production run of 500 vehicles and number, will be offered to customers to buy.
Ford Focus RS500 has a muscular 350 hp 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, which produces 15 percent more power than the standard Focus RS offers exhilarating performance.
Strength of the Ford Focus RS500 liver accompanied by similarly dramatic. Painting limited edition sports model "leaves" a unique matt black with wheels that are suitable for providing a strong visual impact which is unlike any other Ford production.
"We are determined to mark the end of production for Focus RS today and is recognized by something more special," said Joe Bakaj, Ford of Europe vice president for product development. "From the heady performance looks incredible, we have no doubt that the Ford Focus RS500 will be appreciated and quickly snapped up by performance car enthusiasts.
"The vehicle is joining the long line of iconic and Ford RS500 RS is the worthy recipient name, which has become synonymous with success on the road and track with the legendary RS500 Sierra Cosworth has dominated racing sedan in late 1980," said Bakaj.
Production is strictly limited to 500 individually numbered cars Run
Ford Focus RS500 marks the end of production for the current generation Focus RS, with the last vehicle scheduled to leave the Ford plant in Saarlouis, Germany Assembly in September 2010.
While the tremendous customer demand has ensured that the total production of the Focus RS is expected to exceed 11 000 units (significantly more than planned 7000-8000), production of the Ford Focus RS500 will start at the Ford plant in Saarlouis in Germany in May 2010 and will be limited only for 500 vehicles to customers for twenty European markets.
Each Ford Focus RS500 will be a metal plate on the center console, hand carved with a unique identification number 001-500.
A small number of pre-production vehicles produced by Ford internal use - such as product development or release of demonstrators - will have its own unique numbering system to ensure the exclusivity of the 500 cars of customers.
Demand for Ford Focus RS500 is expected to exceed supply by a considerable margin, and a full production run of only 500 vehicles allocated across 20 European markets in line with the expected interest rate. For some countries, a very small number of vehicles that are used means that the Ford Focus RS500 will indeed be a very exclusive purchase for its customers.
Upgrading PS 350 Powertrain
"The sound of the engine a more urgent and significant thrust of the performance of mid-range drivers soon that this is not a standard Focus RS," said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford C-car worldwide vehicle Guidelines. "With 15 percent more power and the same bold, sporty, our new powertrain gives the Ford Focus RS500 special engine it deserves."
To provide Ford Focus RS500 with power unit assembly, with 305 hp 2.5-liter turbocharged Duratec RS engine from the Focus RS has been enhanced to offer standard power significantly more high-end and midrange, but without sacrificing strength database engine and responsive on low revs.
Peak power of 45PS up to 350p at 6000 rpm, while torque has increased 440-460 nm, delivered through a wide speed range 2500-4500 rpm.
To achieve the required balance of muscular mid-range performance and high-end, the engine received a complete set of enhancements designed to improve engine breathing and combustion.
Changes include air-air intercooler is much more likely to deliver solid cooling costs, and greater air flow air filter box increases, the offspring diameter exhaust, and upgraded fuel pump with an updated software calibration to optimize the performance of the last machine.
"A better engine breathing has allowed us to increase power without increasing the turbo boost pressure significantly," Herrmann said. "It has improved peak performance while maintaining excellent maneuverability, fuel consumption and emissions than the standard Focus RS."
Initial performance figures for the Ford Focus RS500 shows that it achieves 0-100km / h in 5.6 seconds with a top speed of 263 km is similar to the / h in standard SR.
Designed by performance car enthusiasts
Ford Focus RS500 engine has been modified by a team of enthusiasts Ford TeamRS engineers in partnership with Revolve Technologies, an engineering company that develops improved motor performance Mountune approved through the Ford brand.
Joint development and testing so that the 350 hp Duratec RS engine to achieve the specified performance standards while offering durability and Ford RS customers expect.
Complete technical details that have been developed for engines 305 hp Focus RS - including revised cylinder head gasket, ultra-durable metal sprayed cylinder bore, piston and rod newly revised - has ensured that no other mechanical changes necessary to meet the increased performance of 350 units which focus Ford RS500 hp.
Advanced Chassis FWD
A key factor in the success of the latest generation Focus RS is a sophisticated chassis front-wheel drive, which combines a wider track, just RevoKnuckle front suspension design and the Quaife limited slip differential to provide a helical very responsive steering, outstanding traction and minimum drive torque unwanted.
Chassis design has proven just as effective in the treatment increased the level of torque Ford Focus RS500, and specifications have not changed for this application, helping to maintain the same sporting and responsive dynamic that is center of attraction recognized standard Focus RS.
High-performance braking system, and 19-inch wheels and tires 235/35/R19, also reported no change from the standard vehicle, although red brake calipers and a dramatic black finish alloy wheels unique to the RS500 Ford Focus.
Performance Tested to limit
In recognition of the potential for extreme performance of the Ford Focus RS500, a limited edition model subjected to a series of durability tests have been focused to concentrate on the monitoring capacity of the car.
The development program includes a special endurance test at the Nurburgring Nordschleife famous in Germany, where Ford TeamRS engineers joined with three drivers racing Ford workers work in teams to complete the 10,000 km road non-stop, which is equivalent to the competition in ten consecutive 24-hour Nurburgring race without interruption.
"We want to make sure that the fan can drive the Ford Focus RS500 to restrict the path, with no worries about the durability of the car," said Matthias Tonn, Ford Focus RS500 Chief Engineer of the program. "This means that go beyond our standard test routines, and push the car with its performance envelope. After 500 laps of the Nurburgring non-stop, we are very confident and pleased with the durability of the way it is done with a clock in the range of 8 minutes."
Paint finish "Foil" unique Matt Black for maximum visual impact
Focus RS is a standard create a lasting impression with the functional design and flashy, but the painting "leaves" are matte black Ford Focus RS500 only make a limited edition car even more special.
Superb matt black bodywork is combined with a suitable metal alloy wheels black, glossy black finish and low lattice trapezoidal and splitters, two-blade rear spoiler and rear venturi, which manages the flow of air under the car behind.
Tiny flashing colors around the vehicle - including the red brake calipers, blue RS badges, and a special blue and red RS500 badge on the tailgate - only serves to highlight the unique aspects of the car.
"We deliberately set out to ensure that the Ford Focus RS500 unlike any other production vehicle," said Tonn "With the dramatic black finish and imposing stance, this car is really mean, moody and beautiful!".
The matt black film for Focus Ford RS500 was developed in partnership with technology company 3M, which specializes in advanced film products for the automotive industry.
All Ford Focus RS500 vehicles will be painted in standard color Panther Black metallic, before being shipped to a special facility 3M, near Frankfurt, Germany, where a special sheet film is applied to the body to create the effect of the black mat.
The film is very durable, and are specifically designed to withstand scratches and surface marks in automotive applications. If damage to the bodywork, Ford dealers will be fully supported by the pan-European network of agents that can replace the 3M film on the affected panel.
Special Ford Focus RS500 Interior Details
Attention to detail on outside RS500 is also reflected in the car, with a series of special features that are unique to a limited edition model.
Center console is distinguished by a metal plate of the car numbered and carbon-effect finish on the bezel are subject to unique RS typical pattern.
In contrast to the blue detailing on the standard Focus RS, Ford Focus RS500 features a special color scheme of red, including the stitching of the leather trim on the steering wheel, door trim and gear lever gaiter, and on the mat.
Customers can also determine the extent to front Recaro sport seats in full red leather, to further enhance the visual impact.
Premium specifications for all vehicles
All Ford Focus RS500 vehicles will be equipped with a very high specification as standard, with only two features that are available as optional items. In addition to a comprehensive level of equipment standard on Focus RS, the RS500 includes the following features as standard:
Dual-zone automatic temperature control
Heated glass
Rear parking distance sensors
Detection System deflation Tyr
Automatic lights and wipers
Auto dimming rearview mirror
Ford Keyless
Improved connectivity with Bluetooth ®, voice control and USB port
Sony 6-CD audio system
Recaro sports front seats with partial leather
Both features are optional touch screen DVD navigation and audio system, leather seats and Recaro full before the red.
"We believe that customers were lucky enough to get one of these models are limited edition Ford Focus RS500 will get a real collectors item," said Joe Bakaj "From the looks incredible charm, great driver and specifications. Fully equipped, the Ford RS500 offers performance enthusiasts the main Ford for the road. "
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Ford Taking Orders for Hot Focus ST
Ask the average North American car guy what comes to mind about what high performance cars Ford builds, the Mustang and Taurus SHO will come to mind, and hell stop there. Soon, the Ford Focus ST will be joining that group. In Europe, Ford has been building (and racing) performance versions of their small, mainstream four cylinder cars for decades. Finally, North America gets a taste of what weve been missing all this time.
One glance at the Focus ST and you immediately know this is no ordinary grocery getter. Apart from the aggressive aero, standard 18s, lowered ride height, beefier brakes and sport suspension, the Focus ST has the grunt to match the look. Motivation comes in the form of a 2.0L EcoBoost four, cranking out 252hp and 270 lb. ft. of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission available, and I am happy about that. Posers, stay home. If a car like the Focus ST appeals to you, but you could not be bothered to learn how to work three pedals and a gearshift together, you dont deserve to get to play.
The 2013 Ford Focus ST has a starting price of $23,700USD, plus $795 destination. The ST will be available only as a five-door hatchback. If you feel like building your own Focus ST, click here for the link to Fords site. Even going with the priciest option package with goodies like HD Radio, Recaro seats with leather, sunroof and navigation, the ST still comes in under $30 grand. To put that into perspective, the VW Golf R four door with similar power and features will run you over $6,000 extra.
Ford is now taking orders for the Focus ST. Its been a long, long wait to see such a car from Ford here in North America. To reward us for our patience, the first 1,000 people to place an order will be rewarded with a GoPro HD Hero2 Motorsports Edition camera pack. That shows Ford understands the buyer of the Focus ST completely-the fact that high quality photography is a passion for many here at The Garage is living proof. Stay tuned for more Focus ST news and updates.
Related posts:
- Review: 2012 Ford Focus
- This week in The Garage: 2008 Ford Focus Sync
- Road test: 2008 Ford Focus SES with Sync
- Last day to register and win a Focus from Ford and American Idol
- Road test: 2008 Ford Focus SES Part 2
Friday, October 4, 2013
Buick Verano Turbo 2013 Focus On Comfort Rather

Mechanical of Buick Verano Turbo 2013

Body and interior of Buick Verano Turbo 2013

Buick Verano Turbo 2013 News
Buick Verano Turbo 2013: Focus On Comfort Rather
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Buick Verano Turbo 2013 Focus On Comfort Rather
The trend in automotive is definitely the 4-cylinder and especially the 4-cylinder turbo. We have seen in recent years manufacturers, Hyundai, Chevrolet and Ford, to name only those, dropping the V6 and provide intermediate 4 cylinders. And it seems that Buick wants to join in the dance with its compact Buick Verano Turbo 2013Â in granting a turbo 4-cylinder engine.
Mechanical of Buick Verano Turbo 2013
 In addition to the 4-cylinder engine 2.4-liter 177 horsepower base model, the Buick Verano Turbo 2013 us a 4-cylinder 2-liter turbocharged Ecotec dual overhead cam head whose power amounts to 250 horsepower at 5 300 rpm. And this mechanism produces amazing torque of 260 lb-ft at as low as 2000 rpm. Two transmissions are offered to consumers: an automatic and a 6-speed manual.
 From the outside, the discerning eye will notice the different wheels and tires, dual exhaust in the back, the logo T for turbo and the rear spoiler that identify well the Turbo model. Inside, however, only the pedals and the shifter will not know we’re sitting in a turbocharged version. Driving, however, we note the suspension and steering firmer improvements are welcome.
Body and interior of Buick Verano Turbo 2013
 In terms of standard equipment, the Buick Verano Turbo 2013 T receives dual exhaust, a sports pedals, a spoiler on the trunk lid, leather interior, the Bose audio system, front seats and leather steering wheel heating. In addition, the infotainment system Intellilink Buick is standard on all Verano sedans as well as the rear-view camera. If we provide all amenities, we shall be entitled in addition to the detection system of vehicles in the blind spot and push-button start. Buick has also added two new metallic colors, blue and black coal Luxo metal.
 The Buick Verano Turbo 2013 is a vehicle quiet and focused more on comfort than performance. It is a compact really well put together that often offer more than the competition for the price.
 If the arrival of a new turbocharged version still interesting, still it will be offered to customers at the end of the year. General Motors and assures potential clients that the Buick Verano Turbo 2013 T displays a price lower than the Japanese competition is $ 27,620. However, if you can not wait for the Turbo model, note that the basic model also offers outstanding qualities and a 4-cylinder 2.4-liter that is doing very well business.
Buick Verano Turbo 2013 News
Buick Verano Turbo 2013: Focus On Comfort Rather