Ford

Take a peek at the new 2007 Ford lineup

"Fix Or Repair Daily." Ever heard this phrase? It refers to Ford's reputation for making poor-quality vehicles - and I have to say that I used to agree with this. The Ford vehicles I had experience with in the past years, such as the Ford Contour, definitely lived up to that reputation. I can't remember a day when something wasn't wrong with that car. Car reviews show that many people have similar complaints regarding Ford, such as getting stuck with lemons or experiencing ongoing mechanical problems. Yet as much as I try to distance myself from Ford products, I can't help but notice their recent efforts in producing higher quality vehicles. If I was ever going to give them a second chance, now would be the time - especially with their vast selection of models featuring hybrid technology.

Ford Motors is stepping up to the plate this year with five award winning new models.

The 2007 Lincoln MKZ, Lincoln Mark LT, Ford Mustang and Mercury Milan are all recipients of the J.D Power and Associates Initial Quality model awards - that's more than any other automobile manufacturer this year. This is a testament to the overall quality improvement of Ford Motor Company. The Initial Quality Study acts as the industry standard for measuring new-vehicle quality.

New Hybrids

With the growing concern for the environment, there has been a demand on the automotive industry to start producing more ecologically friendly vehicles with fuel economy as their number one priority. Ford has definitely got this covered with a full line of hybrids. The Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mercury Mariner are the top two most fuel efficient SUVs of 2007 according to the 2007 Fuel Economy Guide. These two hybrids are perfect for families looking to go green.

Sporting redesigned exterior styling, the 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid can achieve an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. It is capable of electric-only operation at up to 25 mph with seamless starting and integration of the gas engine. The 2.3 liter inline four-cylinder engine is engineered for efficiency, and is able to squeeze out 133 hp. The Ford Escape was the first hybrid SUV, and was named the North American Truck of the Year in 2005. You can own one starting at $25,655.

At a base price of $27,959 the Mercury Mariner Hybrid is just a bit more expensive than its Ford counterpart. Yet like the Escape, the Mariner delivers amazing fuel economy with 33 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. While related to the Ford Escape with the same 2.3 liter four-cylinder engine, the new Mariner has all the Mercury styling cues. At an affordable price, it's looking to be attractive to younger consumers.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

If you love your car, you’ve got treat it right – stock will never do for your hot wheels! Whether it’s for performance or just for the look, aftermarket parts can turn that car you just brought home into your own pimp ride.