What Lincoln and Mercury Will Look Like in 2010

Earlier we took a peek at what Ford’s future lineup is expected to look like after today’s announcement about integrating European models into the U.S. sales channel. Ford also announced that it would stand behind its Lincoln and Mercury brands. There had been rumors that at least Mercury might meet its maker thanks to Ford’s tough economic times, but now it’s slated to get a unique small car in 2010. Below is our look at what the two companies will field in the near future.

Recall Alert: 2008 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX

Ford is recalling 142 model-year 2008 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers with all-wheel drive due to a faulty fuel tank. This is a relatively small number of units for a recall, but because the issue could lead to fuel leakage and fire, we felt it should be highlighted. 

Through June, Ford has sold 68,727 Edge and 17,563 MKX crossovers this year.

To find out if your vehicle is involved in the recall, contact Ford at 866-437-7332.

Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX 2008 Models Recalled (US Recall News)

Ford Announces Sync Strategy, Price

Ford’s new Microsoft Sync in-car entertainment and communication system has a price tag, and it’s not that bad. For $395, buyers will be able to add the option onto selected Ford and Mercury vehicles and it will be standard equipment on Lincoln models.

Besides Lincolns, higher-end trims of Ford and Mercury vehicles will eventually come with Sync standard. The first models to get Sync will be the 2008 Ford Focus, Fusion, Taurus, Taurus X, Edge, Explorer and Sport Trac, and the Lincoln MKX and MKZ. Sync should start becoming available on those models before the end of the year. 

Sync has Bluetooth capability and integrates peripherals like MP3 players into the system using voice recognition software. That means you can surf through your iPod’s playlists with voice commands. It also will read text messages from your phone aloud, even translating abbreviations like LOL. Plus it’s multilingual for English, French and Spanish speakers. Check out the video below for Ford’s promotional take on the new technology.

And on a personal note, as a Zune owner, I’m excited to finally see a press photo with something other than an iPod in it.

Cars.com Reviews the 2007 Lincoln MKX, 2007 Infiniti G35

The other day, I was sharing a ride with Mike Hanley when we both noticed a new Lincoln MKX on the highway in front of us. We hurried to catch up to the “creme brulee” SUV. From the rear it really is a looker, with one of the most distinctive designs around. It made me sad that I didn’t get any seat time when it was in the Cars.com fleet. Luckily, Joe Wiesenfelder gives us a thorough look at Lincoln’s latest.

Joe’s been a busy guy, as he also posted his review of the new 2007 Infiniti G35 last week. His take on the updated luxury sedan is right in line with my thoughts in the recent Urban DINK post, after I spent some time with the G35x in snowy Chicago.

2007 Lincoln MKX Review
2007 Infiniti G35 Review

IIHS Names Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX Top Safety Picks

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the new Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX SUVs Top Safety Picks, the group’s highest award. To get the nod, both SUVs had to earn the top rating of Good for frontal, side- and rear-impact crash tests. The Edge is already seeing brisk sales and adding such a highly regarded safety rating will certainly help future sales.

The Ford Fusion sedan was revamped slightly so it could be retested after earning a poor grade in side-impact tests without airbags and only Acceptable with optional side airbags. Now, the Fusion comes with standard side airbags which have been upgraded and the Fusion is now rated Good in side impact tests as well as frontal tests. Only a marginal rating in rear impacts kept it from being a Top Safety Pick.

Source: IIHS

Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX Delayed

In an unexpected move, Ford is delaying the launch of its most anticipated model of the year, the Edge SUV, along with its Lincoln sibling, the MKX, by two weeks. The move is meant to give more time to ensure proper assembly and manufacturing of the all-new vehicles at the Canadian plant where they’re built. Dealers were expecting the two models to arrive by the end of this month; instead they’ll be waiting until mid-December for delivery.

There are two ways to look at the move. In the short run it hurts Ford, which is in need of more hot products; the Edge looks to be a strong seller, like the Fusion sedan. In the long run, taking time to tackle quality control before the product hits those influential first adapters — folks who always want to be the first on the block with the latest and greatest — who can make or break a new product is extremely important.

Hopefully, Ford fixes all it needs to fix and the Edge follows the Fusion’s route as a reliable product.

[Ford Pushes Back Edge, MKX launch, The Detroit News]

Related:
Consumer Reports Applauds New Vehicles From Ford and GM