Dearborn, Michigan - Having signed a confidentiality agreement, what can I tell you about Ford's upcoming models? Since the automaker likes to maintain a suspense, we journalists have to be careful of what we're writing. You know, talking about something without pictures to back up our words can be a real hassle.
Changes at Lincoln |
| (Photo: Ford) |
That said, here's what I'm entitled to tell you: in the next few years, Lincoln will have refreshed its entire lineup -- all for the better. The company's stylists explained to us: "You'll finally see vehicles that are different, more dynamic and more distinctive. They will be true American luxury cars with lots of chrome but tastefully appointed." Look out for the 2007 NAIAS in Detroit: Ford will unveil a superb concept motivated by an engine worthy of its heritage.
2008 models, already?  |
| Ford Escape 2008 (Photo: Ford) |
Ford plays with words, just like many other manufacturers, actually. They say they will introduce 2008 models in 2007. Automakers have kind of made up their own unwritten rule, which is: if a vehicle is produced after January 1
st, it can be sold as model of the following year. For example, if Ford were to launch an SUV at the end of January 2007, they could market it as a 2008 model. I find this very annoying. In my mind, automakers deceive consumers. Launching a new model in the fall of 2007 and selling it as a 2008 model might be OK, but announcing a 2008 model in January or February 2007 is a joke. It's not only Ford; I blame the entire auto industry for this situation.
Will Ford see the light at the end of the tunnel?The blue-oval brand is certainly heading in the right direction. Rod Meloni, director of business features at Detroit's TV4, told us that several projects will be slightly delayed. By 2010, we'll finally see a subcompact car. Maybe
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| Ford Fairlane (Photo: Ford) |
there will even be an official concept at the upcoming NAIAS, who knows? The preliminary prototype that we saw yesterday did have great looks. Several models of the current lineup, showcased in 2007 as 2008 models, will receive major upgrades.
Next year, we will witness the arrival of a small commercial vehicle from overseas that should become really popular here. In the fall, the 2008 Fairlane concept will hit the market. A cross between a van and a wagon, this vehicle will most likely bear a different name, since "Fairlane" is closely linked to a sixties car in people's mind.
Mythical cars keep going strong! |
| Ford Boss Mustang (Photo: Ford) |
After the GT40 and the Shelby GT500, we'll see the Boss Mustang come back to life in 2007. Then, in 2008 or 2009, another version of the famous pony (well-known by movie fanatics) will make its return. We'll be able to give you more details at the beginning of January. I promise we'll even have pictures -- you can take Auto123's word for it (not Ford's). DaimlerChrysler also likes to maintain a suspense, but since they didn't invite me to their event, I don't have an embargo to abide by. So, I can tell you that the production Dodge Challenger will be in Detroit. Watch for two well-known American magazines, because they have the green light to reveal all the details.
