Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Ford

We've noticed that 2013 Ford Fusion configurator has been updated with dollar values for each of its four models, however, we're not so sure the pricing is that black-and-white. Ford has also updated the disclaimer at the bottom of the page, to read, "Prices and features are for survey purposes only and are subject to change and features may become unavailable at the time of vehicle introduction." In other words, don't get too fixated on the numbers, as they're not locked down yet. And by playing with the configurator, you're likely serving as a FoMoCo lab rat - after all, this is the company that never met a focus group it didn't like.

It's worth noting that Ford has not issued an official press release on pricing yet. But for now, it seems like the base Fusion S will start at $22,495, though we're not sure whether that includes destination or not. Stepping up to the SE at $24,490 will upgrade the steel wheels to alloys, add heated, lighted mirrors with turn signal indicators, and get you body color rocker panels. Inside, the SE has a power driver's seat and a better stereo, and backseat passengers get an armrest and their own HVAC ducts. The SE also allows you to order other stuff, including navigation and start/stop, or opt for a different engine than the base-spec 2.5-liter four-cylinder with automatic transmission.

The 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder is available with a manual or automatic on the SE for $25,290, while the start/stop-equipped version (automatic only) is $25,585. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost with automatic is $26,745 when ordered in SE trim. Ford lists a number of different packages and options, but they seem to be offered on a sliding scale, such that the packages are more expensive on the lower-priced models. For instance, the Luxury Package with leather and heated seats, among other equipment, is $1,505 on the 1.6-liter EcoBoost but only $1,050 on the 2.0-liter EcoBoost.

On the SE Hybrid, which starts at $27,995 and is equipped with a non-EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a CVT, the same Luxury Package is listed at $2,000. Apparently if you're saving all that money on gas, you can afford to pay double the guy with the most powerful engine.

At the top of the Fusion price list, of course, rests the Titanium, which offers a lot of the optional stuff standard for $30,995. It's also the only way to get all-wheel drive, which will set you back $32,995. Note that the Titanium is exclusively powered by the 2.0-liter EcoBoost and is not available with a manual, so you won't be configuring your Fusion as a dual-use weekend rally car.

But then again, Ford will likely change this all tomorrow.

Pricing added to 2013 Ford Fusion configurator originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

I'm pretty sure Julie Andrews would have to change her underwear after seeing these pictures. I know for a fact that my pants are alive with the sound of this alpine 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL roadster. Sploosh. More »

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

We've seen weirder camouflage. But despite the fact that this next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class prototype looks like it drove through a garbage bag warehouse, we now have a very clear glimpse at some of the new car's details - namely, the shapely front fascia.

Merc's new flagship takes many of its new design cues from the F700 concept that debuted back in 2007, specifically the larger, more upright grille and the redesigned headlamps that now incorporate LED running lights (just like what we've seen on the new SL and GL models). The big sedan's overall shape doesn't change too much from the car that's currently on sale, though things seem to be a little swoopier for this new generation.

Under the hood, we can expect Mercedes' latest engines to be on tap, including the 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 as well as some V6 options. Naturally, an AMG model will follow suit, likely using the new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S63 AMG.

Look for the redesigned S-Class to officially bow later this year.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class ain't no bag lady originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Filed under: Cadillac, Luxury

Maybe it's just having downloaded 50-plus images of the new full-size Cadillac, but the 2013 Cadillac XTS is starting to grow on us. And not like a fungus, but like a jumbo CTS - one fitted with Magnetic Ride Control and HiPer Struts, all-wheel-drive and Brembos. And a trunk that's enormous enough that GM says the XTS "is in a league of its own," promising "room for five or more suitcases."

So maybe that enthusiasm might be premature - or better reserved for the ATS - but we've got someone driving the big Caddy this week. We'll have a full report soon.

Cadillac releases trunkload of new XTS images originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Earlier in the month Porsche and Turn 10 teased us with this one, but now it's finally available. Trade in 1600 Microsoft Points ($19.99) and you'll get access to 30 new Porsche vehicles that you probably should have had...

If the late Big Willie Robinson taught us anything, it's the simply elegant joy of "run whatcha brung." That tenet works equally well in motorcycling, as Wes Siler found out on his first flat-track outing at Ventura Raceway. Watch out for that chopper, Wes! More »