2017 Ford F-150 Raptor Super Crew

You know the old saying goes that dogs tend to resemble their owners.  I guess that could be true in some cases.  However I think if you want a true representation of a persons’ character, style and even swag, check out what they are driving.

Introducing the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor Super Crew.  What would this say about you?  Maybe somewhat of a bad boy with attitude.  A rebel with a cause. Based on the aluminum-bodied F-150 Super Crew, the Raptor Super Crew rides on a 145.0-inch wheelbase—a foot longer than the standard Super Cab-based model—and has four front-hinged doors and the Super Crew’s 5.5-foot bed. Aside from that, and the inevitably more capacious rear seat, not much changes compared with the standard Raptor.

Ford has said officially that it will outmuscle the previous Raptor’s 6.2-liter V-8, which churned out 411 horsepower and 434 lb-ft of torque. With up to 500 fewer pounds to lug around—thank you, aluminum! —and 10 gear ratios allowing the engine to stay in the sweet spot of the power band, the 2017 Raptor is expected to be much quicker off the line. It also should be a force to be reckoned with off-road thanks to torque-on-demand four-wheel drive plus a new terrain-response system with six available modes. It’ll be more fuel-efficient, too, if anyone cares.

Come get all the information at Hixson Ford of Alexandria 2506 MacArthur Drive Alexandria, LA or give us a call at 318-448-0871 today!

2016 Ford Fiesta

The 2016 Ford Fiesta is a reminder of how far Ford has come over the past decade. It wasn't too long ago that the company reserved its best small cars for European and other overseas buyers, leaving Americans to pick through the leftovers. In fact, the subcompact Fiesta wasn't even sold on our shores until 2011, when we finally got to experience the refined, fun-to-drive economy car that the rest of the world was talking about. Today, that same Fiesta remains a perennial favorite, joining forces with the similarly sophisticated Focus to strengthen Ford's appeal among small-car shoppers.
Although the Fiesta has been around for awhile now, Ford keeps introducing nifty features that keep it fresh. The latest example is the new-for-2016 Sync 3 infotainment system, which replaces the relatively complex MyFord Touch system. Optional on the Fiesta SE and standard on higher trims, Sync 3 employs a simplified touchscreen with clearly laid-out categories, and it responds to pinch and swipe commands just like a smartphone. The Fiesta also offers other items that you might not expect to find in an ultra-affordable subcompact, including standard USB connectivity and Sync voice controls.
One Fiesta feature that's always been a standout is its handling on the road. Blessed with tight, responsive steering and a nimble feel, this little Ford is a hoot to drive, even if you're just zipping to the supermarket and back. Of course, the performance-oriented ST model is even more fun, but it's also relatively pricey; moreover, both the ST and the surprisingly entertaining three-cylinder EcoBoost model come solely with a manual transmission. If you opt for the base engine's automatic transmission, incidentally, you might notice that it doesn't shift as smoothly or precisely as expected.
Chief among the Fiesta's rivals is the much more spacious and versatile Honda Fit, though the Honda's driving character is less engaging. The Chevrolet Sonic boasts confident road manners and an available high-resolution touchscreen of its own, but it lacks the Ford's premium vibe. The stylish Kia Rio and sensible Hyundai Accent are also worth considering, particularly given their generous powertrain warranties. But the 2016 Ford Fiesta is undoubtedly a very good choice in this segment, conceding little to Father Time as its impressive run continues.

No Video Content

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2016 Ford Fiesta is a subcompact car available in two body styles: a sedan and a four-door hatchback. Both are available in S, SE and Titanium trim levels. The high-performance ST model is available only as a hatchback.
The base S comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, a rear spoiler (hatchback only), power locks and mirrors, manual windows, remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, Sync voice controls and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.
The Fiesta SE includes all of the above, plus 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, power windows, cruise control, upgraded cloth upholstery, a trip computer, chrome interior door handles, metallic-painted interior trim, a front center console with armrest, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, multicolor ambient lighting and MyKey parental controls.
The SE Appearance package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler (sedan), sport cloth upholstery, adjustable lumbar support for the driver, a leather-wrapped shift knob, satellite radio, dual USB ports (replacing the auxiliary audio jack) and the Sync 3 infotainment interface with a 6.5-inch touchscreen and enhanced voice controls (including AppLink mobile app integration). The Comfort package throws in heated front seats, heated mirrors and automatic climate control.
The SE is also eligible for the EcoBoost Fuel Economy package, which includes the turbocharged three-cylinder engine, a manual transmission, various aerodynamic improvements and special wheels and tires to help the Fiesta achieve slightly better fuel economy. Additionally, the SE hatchback can be equipped with the Black package (16-inch black alloy wheels, black exterior trim, foglights) and a stand-alone sport body kit.
At the top of the Fiesta food chain is the Titanium trim, which essentially incorporates the contents of the SE Appearance and Comfort packages, but wears a different set of 16-inch wheels, plus chrome exterior trim and a black grille. It also has a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an eight-speaker Sony sound system and HD radio.
The Fiesta ST hatchback also starts with the Fiesta SE's amenities plus the SE Appearance and Comfort packages (excluding the heated mirrors and seats), adding the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, unique bodywork, a larger rear spoiler, dual exhaust tips, a six-speed manual transmission, a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels with summer performance tires, quicker steering, upgraded brakes, keyless entry and ignition, the Sony sound system (with HD radio), ST-specific cloth sport seats (with driver height adjustment) and various sport-themed accents. The ST Recaro package adds heated Recaro front sport seats (including height adjustments for both), leather and cloth upholstery and heated mirrors. Also available are black 17-inch wheels with red brake calipers.
A sunroof and a navigation system are stand-alone options on the SE, Titanium and ST trims. A Kicker subwoofer can be added to any Fiesta sedan, while remote start can be added to any Fiesta equipped with an automatic transmission.

Powertrains and Performance

The base engine for the 2016 Ford Fiesta is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed "Powershift" automatic transmission is optional. Powershift is technically an automated manual transmission that Ford uses for increased efficiency, but it operates just like a conventional automatic.
In Edmunds performance testing, both the manual and automatic-equipped Fiestas went from zero to 60 mph in about 9.5 seconds, which equates to adequate performance for this class.
The EPA estimates fuel economy to be 31 mpg combined (27 city/37 highway) with the automatic transmission. We achieved 33.4 mpg on our official Edmunds mixed-driving evaluation route. The manual transmission is effectively the same, checking in at 31 mpg combined (28/36). When you opt for the Fuel Economy package (automatic transmission required), the numbers edge up to 32 mpg combined (28/38).
The optional "EcoBoost" 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder produces 123 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque. The five-speed manual is the only transmission available. In Edmunds performance testing, this little engine brought the Fiesta from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds, which is a bit quicker than average for the class. At the same time, it returns 36 mpg combined (31/43), matching the thriftiest cars in the class. We observed 37 mpg on the Edmunds evaluation route.
The 2016 Ford Fiesta ST's turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder pumps out 197 hp and an impressive 202 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission offered. In Edmunds performance testing, the Fiesta ST sprinted to 60 mph in a sprightly 7.1 seconds. EPA estimates for the ST stand at 29 mpg combined (26 city/35 highway), an excellent result for such an energetic engine.

Safety

Every 2016 Ford Fiesta comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum for non-ST models; four-wheel discs for the ST), traction and stability control, an integrated blind-spot mirror, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag. Standard Sync features include a 911 Assist function, which uses your paired cell phone to connect automatically to a 911 operator. The SE adds the MyKey system for setting electronic parameters for other drivers (teens, valets, etc.), while the Titanium model features a rearview camera and rear parking sensors.
In Edmunds brake testing, multiple Fiestas stopped from 60 mph in 117-122 feet, which is better than average. The Fiesta ST stopped in 112 feet, which is satisfactory for an affordable performance car with summer tires.
In government crash testing, the Fiesta received four out of five stars for combined overall protection, with four stars for frontal protection and two stars for side crash protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Fiesta the top rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. In that agency's small-overlap frontal-offset test, the Fiesta received the second-lowest "Marginal" rating. The Fiesta's seat/head restraint design was rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.

Interior Design and Special Features

Although the Fiesta is Ford's cheapest car, it doesn't feel like a penalty box inside. On the contrary, its materials are quite nice for the price, and everything seems to be tightly screwed together. Metallic accents add a touch of class, while available niceties like ambient lighting, heated leather seating and premium Sony audio give the Fiesta the character of a more expensive product.
The standard Sync system allows voice control over the audio system and your cell phone, and it also provides such features as voice-prompted turn-by-turn navigation and emergency assist. Pairing the Sync system to your phone and getting it set up can be finicky, but it's a useful workaround for the standard, form-over-function radio interface with its lookalike buttons. The touchscreen included with the optional Sync 3 system improves things considerably, providing crisp graphics with an intuitive, dashboard-style category menu at the bottom.
Interior space is generous up front, with a driver seat that easily adjusts for a wide range of physiques. The backseat is definitely on the tight side, however, even for this pint-sized segment. The Fiesta sedan has a decent trunk capacity of 12.8 cubic feet, but the hatchback's space behind the rear seats is only a tad bigger at 14.9 cubic feet, with just 26 cubic feet available with the rear seatbacks folded down. That's pretty skimpy.
The ST trim's interior has a bit more style, especially with the available two-tone accent treatment. The optional Recaro sport seats feature large side bolsters that wrap around and hug both front occupants. As such, they hold you securely in place while you're hustling the ST along a curvy road. On the other hand, those aggressive bolsters make getting in and out of the car a little harder, and larger folks may find the seats uncomfortable on long trips.

Driving Impressions

If you're looking for an entertaining driving experience, the 2016 Fiesta will happy oblige. Although the base four-cylinder engine delivers only modest acceleration, we like its refinement at high rpm, and the Fiesta's quick steering and well-controlled body motions keep the fun factor high. Meanwhile, the EcoBoost three-cylinder engine provides a palpable turbocharged punch while also topping the fuel economy charts. As for the ST, its turbocharged four-cylinder is strong enough to put a smile on anyone's face, and its sport-tuned suspension is a blast on the right kind of road.
In everyday driving, the Fiesta's relatively quiet cabin and supple suspension make for an unusually pleasant ride. The potential weak link is the Powershift automatic transmission, which is essentially a manual gearbox with a computer-operated clutch. Ford uses it to maximize fuel economy, and based on the EPA ratings, it's hard to argue. Nonetheless, you may find its behavior odd; for example, it's sometimes slow to respond in stop-and-go traffic, and its shifts can feel rather imprecise.

2015 Ford Taurus

In some ways, the 2015 Ford Taurus seems like an ideal choice for a large sedan. It offers most of the qualities that shoppers typically expect from this class of car, and there are distinctive powertrain choices available to expand its appeal. But in other areas, Ford's big sedan will seem less appealing.
Ford offers a choice of three different engines, including a fuel-efficient yet powerful "EcoBoost" four-cylinder, a competitive traditional V6 and a turbocharged V6 that churns out an impressive 365 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, but an all-wheel-drive system is also available for buyers looking for an edge when driving conditions turn dicey. Other highlights for the Taurus include an adult-friendly rear seat, a truly enormous trunk, great crash test scores and a long list of available options.
With deeper analysis, however, you'll likely realize that the Taurus is outclassed by newer large sedan rivals. Its interior isn't as roomy as expected given the car's size, and outward visibility is poor. There's also ponderous handling indicative of a big sedan and the sometimes frustrating MyFord Touch system's touchscreen controls.
While a redesigned model is on its way, we think for this year you'll be happier with other alternatives. The well-rounded 2015 Chevrolet Impala, classy 2015 Chrysler 300 and elegant 2015 Toyota Avalon are our current top-recommended choices, with the sportier Dodge Charger, upscale Buick Lacrosse and stylish Hyundai Azera being other strong contenders. We'd also take a close look at Ford's own Fusion, which is easier to drive and not that much smaller inside. So although there is much to like about this big Ford, the 2015 Taurus is simply outdone in most respects.

No Video Content

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2015 Ford Taurus is a full-size five-passenger sedan offered in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Limited and SHO.
The SE comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, integrated blind-spot mirrors, LED taillights, keyless entry, an exterior-access keypad, cruise control, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, six-way power front seats with manual recline, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera, Sync voice controls, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod interface.
The SEL adds 18-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors with puddle lamps, rear parking sensors, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and satellite radio.
The SEL offers a long list of options, including Group 201A, which adds keyless ignition and entry, power-adjustable pedals, MyFord Touch (includes a touchscreen electronics interface plus two additional displays in the gauge cluster), two USB ports, an SD card reader, RCA video/audio input jacks, expanded Sync functionality (including traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions) and an additional center speaker. Stand-alone options include 20-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, a rear spoiler, leather upholstery (packaged with heated front seats) and a navigation system.
Stepping up to the Taurus Limited gets you the Group 201A equipment, plus 19-inch wheels, heated and ventilated eight-way power front seats (with two-way lumbar), driver memory functions and leather upholstery.
The Limited's available 301A option package bundles automatic high beams and wipers, an auto-dimming driver-side mirror, a blind-spot warning system (with rear cross-traffic alert), a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a power rear sunshade and a 12-speaker Sony sound system with HD radio. The Driver Assist package further adds adaptive cruise control, a collision-warning system with brake support, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and an automated parallel parking system. Additional stand-alone options for the Limited are 20-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, a sunroof, the navigation system and multicontour front seats with active bolsters and a massage feature.
The Taurus SHO includes all of the Limited's major equipment and supplements that with a more powerful V6 engine, all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension and steering, xenon headlamps, distinctive styling, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, aluminum pedals and distinctive leather upholstery with simulated-suede inserts. The optional SHO Performance package adds 20-inch alloy wheels, summer tires, performance brake pads, an even sportier state of tune for suspension and steering components, a different final-drive ratio (for quicker acceleration off the line), a defeat function for the stability control and simulated suede trim on the steering wheel. Stand-alone options are identical to those on the Taurus Limited, except for the spoiler, which is standard on the SHO.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2015 Ford Taurus comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 288 hp and 254 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an option on the SEL and Limited models. EPA fuel economy stands at 23 mpg combined (19 city/29 highway) with front-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive drops those numbers to 21 mpg combined (18/26).
Optional on the SE and front-wheel-drive SEL and Limited models is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's rated at 240 hp and a stout 270 lb-ft of torque. This engine is the fuel economy leader, earning EPA ratings of 26 mpg combined (22/32).
The Taurus SHO gets a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that makes 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters are standard. In Edmunds performance testing, the Taurus SHO went from zero to 60 in a quick 5.8 seconds. Fuel economy ratings for the SHO are 20 mpg combined (17/25).

Safety

Every 2015 Ford Taurus comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and integrated blind spot mirrors. A rearview camera is now standard across the model lineup, along with the MyKey system that allows drivers to set speed and volume parameters for secondary drivers such as teenage children or valets.
Rear parking sensors are now standard on the SEL, Limited and SHO models. Optional on the Limited and SHO are a pre-collision warning system with automatic brake intervention (included with adaptive cruise control), lane-departure warning system and lane-keeping assist, and a blind-spot warning system that includes a cross-traffic warning system (which warns you of approaching cars or pedestrians when backing up).
In government crash tests, the Taurus earned an overall rating of five stars out of a possible five, including five stars for overall frontal crash protection and five stars for overall side crash protection. The Taurus also received the best rating of "Good" in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's crash testing, including moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Taurus features an attractive passenger cabin with an upscale look and feel, an effect that's enhanced by the availability of options like massaging front seats and a heated steering wheel. The available MyFord Touch system, which consists of a large touchscreen, a pair of smaller driver-configurable displays flanking the gauge cluster, steering-wheel-mounted buttons and voice controls adds a high-tech element. That said, trying to hit the touchscreen's virtual "buttons" while on the move can be frustrating and the entire system can take a while to get the hang of.
One design quirk of the Taurus is that its thick roof pillars, high beltline and tall center console can make the otherwise roomy cabin feel less spacious than it actually is. Outward visibility is also poor. Both front and rear seats offer generous head- and legroom, though, and the 20.1-cubic-foot trunk is pretty much the biggest you can find in any sedan.

Driving Impressions

The 2015 Ford Taurus offers the kind of unruffled ride quality and quiet cabin that one would expect from a full-size sedan. However, its overall dimensions, hefty weight and aforementioned compromised visibility can make it seem even bigger than it is when behind the wheel. This is also true of the SHO model despite its sport-tuned steering and suspension.
The standard V6 provides sufficient power, though the optional turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder offers an appealing blend of power and outstanding fuel economy. The Taurus SHO's turbo V6 delivers strong acceleration while still being more fuel-efficient than its competitors' V8 engines.

2016 Ford Fiesta SE

The 2016 Ford Fiesta is a reminder of how far Ford has come over the past decade. It wasn't too long ago that the company reserved its best small cars for European and other overseas buyers, leaving Americans to pick through the leftovers. In fact, the subcompact Fiesta wasn't even sold on our shores until 2011, when we finally got to experience the refined, fun-to-drive economy car that the rest of the world was talking about. Today, that same Fiesta remains a perennial favorite, joining forces with the similarly sophisticated Focus to strengthen Ford's appeal among small-car shoppers.
Although the Fiesta has been around for awhile now, Ford keeps introducing nifty features that keep it fresh. The latest example is the new-for-2016 Sync 3 infotainment system, which replaces the relatively complex MyFord Touch system. Optional on the Fiesta SE and standard on higher trims, Sync 3 employs a simplified touchscreen with clearly laid-out categories, and it responds to pinch and swipe commands just like a smartphone. The Fiesta also offers other items that you might not expect to find in an ultra-affordable subcompact, including standard USB connectivity and Sync voice controls.
One Fiesta feature that's always been a standout is its handling on the road. Blessed with tight, responsive steering and a nimble feel, this little Ford is a hoot to drive, even if you're just zipping to the supermarket and back. Of course, the performance-oriented ST model is even more fun, but it's also relatively pricey; moreover, both the ST and the surprisingly entertaining three-cylinder EcoBoost model come solely with a manual transmission. If you opt for the base engine's automatic transmission, incidentally, you might notice that it doesn't shift as smoothly or precisely as expected.
Chief among the Fiesta's rivals is the much more spacious and versatile Honda Fit, though the Honda's driving character is less engaging. The Chevrolet Sonic boasts confident road manners and an available high-resolution touchscreen of its own, but it lacks the Ford's premium vibe. The stylish Kia Rio and sensible Hyundai Accent are also worth considering, particularly given their generous powertrain warranties. But the 2016 Ford Fiesta is undoubtedly a very good choice in this segment, conceding little to Father Time as its impressive run continues.

No Video Content

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2016 Ford Fiesta is a subcompact car available in two body styles: a sedan and a four-door hatchback. Both are available in S, SE and Titanium trim levels. The high-performance ST model is available only as a hatchback.
The base S comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, a rear spoiler (hatchback only), power locks and mirrors, manual windows, remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, Sync voice controls and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.
The Fiesta SE includes all of the above, plus 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, power windows, cruise control, upgraded cloth upholstery, a trip computer, chrome interior door handles, metallic-painted interior trim, a front center console with armrest, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, multicolor ambient lighting and MyKey parental controls.
The SE Appearance package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler (sedan), sport cloth upholstery, adjustable lumbar support for the driver, a leather-wrapped shift knob, satellite radio, dual USB ports (replacing the auxiliary audio jack) and the Sync 3 infotainment interface with a 6.5-inch touchscreen and enhanced voice controls (including AppLink mobile app integration). The Comfort package throws in heated front seats, heated mirrors and automatic climate control.
The SE is also eligible for the EcoBoost Fuel Economy package, which includes the turbocharged three-cylinder engine, a manual transmission, various aerodynamic improvements and special wheels and tires to help the Fiesta achieve slightly better fuel economy. Additionally, the SE hatchback can be equipped with the Black package (16-inch black alloy wheels, black exterior trim, foglights) and a stand-alone sport body kit.
At the top of the Fiesta food chain is the Titanium trim, which essentially incorporates the contents of the SE Appearance and Comfort packages, but wears a different set of 16-inch wheels, plus chrome exterior trim and a black grille. It also has a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an eight-speaker Sony sound system and HD radio.
The Fiesta ST hatchback also starts with the Fiesta SE's amenities plus the SE Appearance and Comfort packages (excluding the heated mirrors and seats), adding the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, unique bodywork, a larger rear spoiler, dual exhaust tips, a six-speed manual transmission, a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels with summer performance tires, quicker steering, upgraded brakes, keyless entry and ignition, the Sony sound system (with HD radio), ST-specific cloth sport seats (with driver height adjustment) and various sport-themed accents. The ST Recaro package adds heated Recaro front sport seats (including height adjustments for both), leather and cloth upholstery and heated mirrors. Also available are black 17-inch wheels with red brake calipers.
A sunroof and a navigation system are stand-alone options on the SE, Titanium and ST trims. A Kicker subwoofer can be added to any Fiesta sedan, while remote start can be added to any Fiesta equipped with an automatic transmission.

Powertrains and Performance

The base engine for the 2016 Ford Fiesta is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 120 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed "Powershift" automatic transmission is optional. Powershift is technically an automated manual transmission that Ford uses for increased efficiency, but it operates just like a conventional automatic.
In Edmunds performance testing, both the manual and automatic-equipped Fiestas went from zero to 60 mph in about 9.5 seconds, which equates to adequate performance for this class.
The EPA estimates fuel economy to be 31 mpg combined (27 city/37 highway) with the automatic transmission. We achieved 33.4 mpg on our official Edmunds mixed-driving evaluation route. The manual transmission is effectively the same, checking in at 31 mpg combined (28/36). When you opt for the Fuel Economy package (automatic transmission required), the numbers edge up to 32 mpg combined (28/38).
The optional "EcoBoost" 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder produces 123 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque. The five-speed manual is the only transmission available. In Edmunds performance testing, this little engine brought the Fiesta from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds, which is a bit quicker than average for the class. At the same time, it returns 36 mpg combined (31/43), matching the thriftiest cars in the class. We observed 37 mpg on the Edmunds evaluation route.
The 2016 Ford Fiesta ST's turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder pumps out 197 hp and an impressive 202 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission offered. In Edmunds performance testing, the Fiesta ST sprinted to 60 mph in a sprightly 7.1 seconds. EPA estimates for the ST stand at 29 mpg combined (26 city/35 highway), an excellent result for such an energetic engine.

Safety

Every 2016 Ford Fiesta comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum for non-ST models; four-wheel discs for the ST), traction and stability control, an integrated blind-spot mirror, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag. Standard Sync features include a 911 Assist function, which uses your paired cell phone to connect automatically to a 911 operator. The SE adds the MyKey system for setting electronic parameters for other drivers (teens, valets, etc.), while the Titanium model features a rearview camera and rear parking sensors.
In Edmunds brake testing, multiple Fiestas stopped from 60 mph in 117-122 feet, which is better than average. The Fiesta ST stopped in 112 feet, which is satisfactory for an affordable performance car with summer tires.
In government crash testing, the Fiesta received four out of five stars for combined overall protection, with four stars for frontal protection and two stars for side crash protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Fiesta the top rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. In that agency's small-overlap frontal-offset test, the Fiesta received the second-lowest "Marginal" rating. The Fiesta's seat/head restraint design was rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.

Interior Design and Special Features

Although the Fiesta is Ford's cheapest car, it doesn't feel like a penalty box inside. On the contrary, its materials are quite nice for the price, and everything seems to be tightly screwed together. Metallic accents add a touch of class, while available niceties like ambient lighting, heated leather seating and premium Sony audio give the Fiesta the character of a more expensive product.
The standard Sync system allows voice control over the audio system and your cell phone, and it also provides such features as voice-prompted turn-by-turn navigation and emergency assist. Pairing the Sync system to your phone and getting it set up can be finicky, but it's a useful workaround for the standard, form-over-function radio interface with its lookalike buttons. The touchscreen included with the optional Sync 3 system improves things considerably, providing crisp graphics with an intuitive, dashboard-style category menu at the bottom.
Interior space is generous up front, with a driver seat that easily adjusts for a wide range of physiques. The backseat is definitely on the tight side, however, even for this pint-sized segment. The Fiesta sedan has a decent trunk capacity of 12.8 cubic feet, but the hatchback's space behind the rear seats is only a tad bigger at 14.9 cubic feet, with just 26 cubic feet available with the rear seatbacks folded down. That's pretty skimpy.
The ST trim's interior has a bit more style, especially with the available two-tone accent treatment. The optional Recaro sport seats feature large side bolsters that wrap around and hug both front occupants. As such, they hold you securely in place while you're hustling the ST along a curvy road. On the other hand, those aggressive bolsters make getting in and out of the car a little harder, and larger folks may find the seats uncomfortable on long trips.

Driving Impressions

If you're looking for an entertaining driving experience, the 2016 Fiesta will happy oblige. Although the base four-cylinder engine delivers only modest acceleration, we like its refinement at high rpm, and the Fiesta's quick steering and well-controlled body motions keep the fun factor high. Meanwhile, the EcoBoost three-cylinder engine provides a palpable turbocharged punch while also topping the fuel economy charts. As for the ST, its turbocharged four-cylinder is strong enough to put a smile on anyone's face, and its sport-tuned suspension is a blast on the right kind of road.
In everyday driving, the Fiesta's relatively quiet cabin and supple suspension make for an unusually pleasant ride. The potential weak link is the Powershift automatic transmission, which is essentially a manual gearbox with a computer-operated clutch. Ford uses it to maximize fuel economy, and based on the EPA ratings, it's hard to argue. Nonetheless, you may find its behavior odd; for example, it's sometimes slow to respond in stop-and-go traffic, and its shifts can feel rather imprecise.

2016 Ford F-150

In the face of brand-new full-size pickup models from its major competitors, Ford figured it needed to do some truly radical rethinking for its 13th generation of America's best-selling line of full-size trucks. And, from early indications, it looks like the company has managed to do just that with the 2015 Ford F-150.
You won't know how radical the new F-150 is just by looking at it. In a nod to the conservative tastes of many pickup buyers, Ford kept the styling changes fairly subtle. The restyled grille and distinctively shaped headlights are the most obvious visual clues that you're looking at an all-new truck.
Instead, the really big changes are largely hidden from view. Ford engineers have made extensive use of lightweight aluminum in everything from the hood and body panels to the pickup bed to help shave off as much as 700 pounds of weight in the process. Lest you think aluminum is synonymous with flimsy beer cans, Ford says that the military-grade alloys used on the F-150 come in a wide variety of different thicknesses, many of which can be tougher than steel at a fraction of the weight. Underpinning it all is a full ladder-reinforced frame that uses significantly more high-strength steel than the outgoing model.
Advantages to shedding weight are multifold. For a given GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), a lighter truck can handle more payload. The same relationship applies to GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and towing capacity. And a significantly lighter truck will accelerate more quickly and burn less fuel. Efficiency is so good with the truck's new 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine that the two-wheel-drive F-150's combined fuel economy rating of 22 mpg just misses the combined 23 mpg delivered by the more expensive diesel six-cylinder powering the class-leading Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. Of course, Ford is looking to keep traditional truck bragging rights as well, and it says a properly equipped F-150 will be able to tow up to 12,200 pounds with the 2.7-liter's bigger counterpart, the 3.5-liter turbo V6.
Ford has also packed the latest F-150 with even more advanced technology. There are video cameras galore, including a trailer hitch assist version that features a dynamic guide line to make lining up the hitch ball and trailer coupling a quick one-person job, as well as an available top-down 360-degree camera view system to help with navigating parking lots and job sites. Other highlights include a new 8-inch "productivity" screen in the gauge cluster and a host of new safety features, including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
With the seemingly endless number of permutations, there's probably a 2015 F-150 model to suit every person who has ever even thought of buying a pickup. Just the same, there are other trucks you'd be well advised to check out. We're also very fond of the 2015 Ram 1500, which will impress you with its smooth ride, quiet interior and available diesel engine. You can't discount the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 either, considering its well-rounded nature. Both are great trucks, but we think the redesigned 2015 Ford F-150 has enough meaningful improvements to make it a very attractive choice for shoppers. Bottom line: If you're looking for a thoroughly modern full-size pickup in 2015, Ford has just made your decision that much harder.

No Video Content

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2015 Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup offered in regular, extended (Supercab) and crew cab (Supercrew) body styles. There are three bed lengths: 5.5 feet, 6.5 feet and 8 feet. The new F-150 is also available in five trim levels, including XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum.
Standard equipment on the entry-level XL model starts with 17-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, 60/40-split rear seats (extended and crew cabs), a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, manual mirrors and windows, manual locks and a four- or six-speaker sound system with a 4.2-inch display and four speakers (six speakers in crew cab models).
The main option for the XL is Equipment Group 101A. That includes the XL Power Equipment Group that adds automatic headlights, daytime running lights, power mirrors and windows, power door and tailgate locks and keyless entry. Also part of the 101A package are cruise control, a 4.2-inch information display, Ford's Sync voice control and smartphone integration system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and USB and auxiliary audio input jacks for the sound system.
There's also a long list of stand-alone options that include appearance packages, skid plates, running boards, tailgate and box side steps, a spray-in bedliner, an integrated trailer brake controller, a power-sliding rear window, a rearview camera, a CD player, satellite radio, rear parking sensors, different axle ratios and towing packages.
The next step up is the XLT trim level, which adds the content of the 101 package plus 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, chrome exterior trim and extra interior storage. Option groups on the XLT include a 301A package that adds heated mirrors, driver-side and rearview auto-dimming mirrors, a rear window defroster, a Class IV trailer hitch, an eight-way power driver seat (with power lumbar), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, rear under-seat storage, a rearview camera and a seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio. A Luxury Option Group 302A adds to that with remote engine start, a power-sliding rear window, LED bed lighting, rear parking sensors, heated 10-way power-adjustable front seats, 110-volt household-style power outlets and the MyFord Touch interface that includes an 8-inch central touchscreen display.
Noteworthy stand-alone options on the XLT (besides the XL options listed above) include 20-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable heated mirrors, mirror-mounted LED spotlights, trailer towing mirrors, the FX4 Off-Road package, a fuel-economy boosting SFE package, a sunroof, front bucket seats with a center console, inflatable rear seatbelts, a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, Crew Chief fleet-based telematics and a navigation system.
The upscale Lariat is similar to the XLT with the 302A package but also includes dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch gauge cluster information display, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, driver seat memory settings and keyless ignition and entry. Many of the XLT's stand-alone options are also available for the Lariat. The Lariat's 502A package goes all out with LED headlights and taillights, automatic high beam headlight control, second-row heated seats (crew cabs only), a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel and a 10-speaker Sony audio system.
On the Lariat you can also get the Technology package (lane-keeping assist and a 360-degree top-down camera display with dynamic hitch assist), power-retractable running boards, adaptive cruise control with frontal collision warning, and automatic parallel parking assist.
The top-of-the line King Ranch and Platinum models share most of the above features along with higher-grade interior materials. Choosing between the two comes down to a preference for western flair or more sophisticated uptown styling.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2015 Ford F-150's base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that generates 283 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. The next step up is the new turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 that produces a healthy 325 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque. Those needing more muscle for heavier payloads or towing can opt for the 5.0-liter V8 engine that's rated at 385 hp and 387 lb-ft or a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that pumps out an impressive 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque.
Dropping so much weight with its new aluminum body was supposed to help vault the new-generation 2015 F-150 to the top of the heap in terms of fuel economy. It has, although in some F-150 configurations, the efficiency boost is comparatively modest.
With so many trim levels and engines to choose from, there are several EPA estimates for the 2015 Ford F-150. Starting with the standard 3.5-liter V6, two-wheel-drive versions of the 2015 F-150 are EPA rated at a combined 20 mpg (18 city/25 highway); the same engine with four-wheel drive drops to a combined 19 mpg. These are basically the same ratings that you get from Chevy and Ram. Move up to the optional (but smaller) 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6, and 2WD models yield a combined 22 mpg (19/26), while 4WD-equipped models with the same engine have a combined 20 mpg rating.
During Edmunds testing, a 4WD SuperCab F-150 with the 2.7-liter engine went from zero to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, while a 4WD SuperCrew with the same engine did the sprint to 60 in just 6.4 seconds. Both are impressive times for the segment.
Get the 5.0-liter V8 and a 2015 F-150 with 2WD has a combined rating of 18 mpg; adding 4WD to models with the V8 drops the combined rating to 17 mpg. Finally, the 3.5-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 earns a combined 20 mpg (17/24) with 2WD and a combined 19 mpg in 4WD form.
All four engines come mated to a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with both Sport and Tow/Haul modes. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case is available as an option.
Maximum towing capacities start from 7,600 pounds with the base V6 engine and climb to 8,500 with the 2.7-liter V6. For heavy lifting, the 5.0-liter V8 can tow 11,100 pounds, while the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 can pull trailers up to 12,200 pounds when properly equipped. (These tow figures comply with the SAE J2807 standard, which makes it easier to compare truck tow ratings equally.)

Safety

Standard safety features on the 2015 Ford F-150 include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, trailer sway control, front-seat side impact airbags and full-length side-curtain airbags. In the event of a crash, the Sync system can use a paired cell phone to summon help from the authorities.
Single rearview and 360-degree multi-view cameras are available, along with rear parking sensors. Advanced safety technologies including forward collision warning preparation (it primes the brakes for maximum effectiveness), a lane departure warning system and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts. Inflatable rear seatbelts are also offered as an option.
In Edmunds performance testing, a 4WD SuperCab F-150 with the 2.7-liter engine came to a stop from 60 mph in 126 feet, while a SuperCrew (also with 4WD and the 2.7-liter engine) stopped in 129 feet. Both distances are a few feet shorter than average for a full-size pickup.

Interior Design and Special Features

There's an unmistakable trend at work in the pickup world: turning these traditional workhorses into something more akin to gussied-up show ponies. Of course, work truck buyers can still get bare-bones XL models fitted out with vinyl floor coverings, roll-up windows and a simple AM/FM stereo. But the farther you go up through the trim levels, the nicer the furnishings and the more desirable the amenities become. This new F-150's interior has a classy look and feel, and materials used in those top trim levels are on par with a lot of upscale sedans. Everything in the interior is ergonomically designed in such a way that there's a padded armrest exactly where you'd want it, and frequently used controls are located right where your hand would instinctively reach for it.
On the gauges front, the available 8-inch productivity display screen can be customized to show an array of other user-selected variables from off-roading info to tire pressures. Ford has also added a refreshingly intuitive center stack control layout with physical volume and tuning knobs and radio station presets logically arranged above similarly old-school knobs and buttons for the climate control system. It can make it seem like there are an awful lot of buttons, but this redundancy should alleviate any concerns you might have about operating the otherwise useful MyFord Touch touchscreen interface that's available on the upper trim levels.
Front seats offer a commanding view and good comfort, especially the 10-way power-adjustable models with built-in heating and ventilation found in top trim levels. Rear seat passengers in crew cab models don't get much extra head- or legroom in the redesign, but the fact that the cab is 2 inches wider this year does mean everyone has a little more room to spread out.
There's a fair amount of storage available, whether you choose the standard 40/20/40-split front seat with cubbies built into the folded-down center section, or front bucket seats separated by a sizable center console. Rear seats in both extended and crew cab models flip up to reveal hidden storage for valuable tools or toys.

Driving Impressions

One of the first things you notice when driving the 2015 Ford F-150 is that it really does feel lighter, more agile and less-trucklike, you might say, than its predecessor. With the turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 under the hood, there's plenty of acceleration on tap and the brakes feels strong and solid. But if you want to upgrade, the V8 and bigger turbocharged V6 feel quite potent in this lighter F-150.
The ride quality is relatively firm, which could be related to the new F-150's lightweight body and the higher payload it enables; the difference between empty and fully loaded has widened, so the rear suspension calibration necessary to shoulder the load can make an empty F-150 feel a bit bound up. Still, the F-150 is solid and predictable when driving around turns and it's quiet on long highway drives as well.