In addition to the base price, options include Super Silver Paint ($3,000), an iPod connector ($360) and floor mats ($280). [via AutoFiends]

PRESS RELEASE

2009 Nissan GT-R Supercar Deliveries Set To Begin July 7th,
70 Percent of First-Year Allocation Already Sold

NASHVILLE (June 27, 2008) - Nissan today announced that deliveries of the all-new 2009 Nissan GT-R are scheduled to begin on Monday, July 7, 2008. More than 1,700 of the exotic 480-horsepower GT-R supercars, or approximately 70 percent of the first year allocation for the United States market, have already been spoken for since the announcement of a pre-sale ordering program last January.

The 2009 Nissan GT-R has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $69,850 for the GT-R and $71,900 for the GT-R Premium model. Destination & Handling (D&H) is $1,000. The GT-R is available only through officially certified Nissan dealers that have met a number of strict sales, service and facilities commitments, including dedicating a master technician to GT-R service. A searchable listing of the 671 GT-R Certified Nissan dealers is available to consumers on nissanusa.com.

"After years of speculation and anticipation, the wait for a U.S.-spec Nissan GT-R is over," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "GT-R is one supercar that more than lives up to its promise, with independent testing by the leading auto enthusiasts magazines and online sites producing performance results that only a handful of production cars have ever attained - much less at a $70,000 MSRP."

A 2009 Nissan GT-R, equipped with a standard 480-horsepower, twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 engine and advanced 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, recently set a lap time of 7 minutes 29 seconds at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife, one of the fastest times achieved by a production-spec vehicle to date.

About the 2009 Nissan GT-R
The all-new 2009 Nissan GT-R, the fifth-generation of the legendary Nissan supercar, is a multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of "the ultimate supercar that can be driven by anyone, anytime, anywhere."

It features an all-new 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 producing 480 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, backed by an all-new, paddle-shifted, GR6-type dual clutch rear transmission. The Nissan GT-R is built on an exclusive, all-new Premium Midship platform. This new platform enables the use of a world's first independent rear transaxle ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which places the transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle, optimizing weight distribution and maximizing handling capability.

The Nissan GT-R's functional styling utilizes advanced aerodynamics, evoking the lines of a well-trained athlete. GT-R's hybrid body construction combines steel, carbon fiber and die-cast aluminum, and features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, while achieving high front and rear downforce. GT-R's four-passenger cabin features a sloping "aero blade canopy" roofline and curved C-pillar "sword edge," as well as GT-R's hallmark four-ring taillights, functional rear carbon fiber underbody diffuser, rear spoiler and large, integrated quad exhaust tips.

GT-R's interior balances functionality with a sense of ease and comfort. It features sculpted performance bucket seats for an optimal driving position, a cockpit-style instrument panel with a large center-mounted tachometer and multi-function display - which includes mechanical and driving information, as well as an on-board driving recorder.

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infiniti.com.

* MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice.

6. Fit A Locking Gas Cap

Instructions: Drive an older vehicle with a gas cap and fuel door that don't lock? Aftermarket replacements that do lock are available from most car part stores. Make sure you select one that's designed for your vehicle; this is crucial for safety, security and emissions. Can't find one? Rivet a hasp and padlock onto the fuel door.
Pros: Cheap, simple and effective at making lazy gas thieves think twice about choosing your vehicle for fuel pilfering.
Cons: Doesn't protect you from a thief who isn't lazy and happens to be handy with a lock pick.

5. Swap Diesel And Gas Badges

Instructions: Drive a gasoline-powered car? Swap out all the exterior clues for diesel badges, and don't forget the sticker inside the fuel door. Some vehicles may require a different colored fuel filler. Own a diesel? Do the opposite.
Pros: Cost efficient. Could permanently disable thief's vehicle, encouraging them to go straight.
Cons: Bad for forgetful people. Lending your car to friends could prove expensive. You lose all the cache the original stickers brought. Getting the goo off can be a bitch when it comes time to sell.

4. Don't Use Gas At All; Buy An Alternative Energy Vehicle
Instructions: Segway, Tesla, bicycle: pick your poison. By choosing a means of transportation that doesn't use gas, not only do you become immune to fuel theft, but rising prices too.
Pros: Not having gas that can be stolen eliminates risk of fuel theft. Hippie chicks will dig you.
Cons: Thieves may just steal your vehicle instead. May lower street cred. Hippies don't shave.

3. Remove Your Gas At Night, Store Inside
Instructions: Simply siphon or drain your fuel into jerry cans every time you park. An empty tank means thieves will have no fuel to steal. Store in a safe — and preferably — well ventilated area.
Pros: Sleep safe in the knowledge that your gas is where it's safest: underneath your mattress.
Cons: Sleep may last a very long time due to fumes. Siphoning or draining each and every night can be time intensive. Thieves attempting to drill an empty tank may encounter an explosive surprise.

2. Booby Trap Your Car
Instructions: Mad Max got a lot of things right: First and foremost is a man's right to protect what's his by any means necessary. Wire dynamite to explode should your vehicle be tampered with, but don't forget to include a secret switch to disarm the explosives. Keeping a machete strapped near the switch can provide a way out should you be forced to disarm the booby trap at gunpoint. A "This vehicle is booby-trapped" sticker may be a good idea.
Pros: Really sticks it to the thieves. Street cred.
Cons: Total vehicle loss is an expensive theft deterrent. Risk of accidental detonation is high. Possible legal and liability concerns.

1. Up-Armor Your Vehicle
Instructions: Gather large amounts of thick metal plate (3/4" should do) and liberally weld it all over your vehicle. Don't forget to cover the underside, and leave slits for vision and/or chainsaws.
Pros: In addition to protecting your gas tank, you'll be protecting yourself from IEDs. Deters tailgaters.
Cons: The extra fuel needed to haul around all the armor plate may negate any savings. Negative impact on resale value.

There you have it. We've showed you how to take someone else's gas and how to protect it once you pour it into your tank. You'll probably be okay as long as you practice the basics: Park in a well-lit area at night. Don't drive around with the fuel door open and gas cap missing. And remember that no system, however ill-conceived, can stop a determined thief.

That $103,300 (plus a $1,700 gas guzzler tax) which gets you a bare bones, lightweight interior based on that of the Z06. For an extra $10k Chevy will sell you the 3ZR package, which brings interior upgrades like power adjustable seats, sat/nav, more airbags, ZR1 embroidery etc.

DETROIT - The official Corvette ZR1 numbers are in and they're good. Very good:

* $103,300 MSRP (including $850 destination charge)
* EPA-estimated fuel economy of 14 city and 20 highway
* 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds
* 0-100 mph in 7.0 seconds
* Quarter-mile elapsed time of 11.3 seconds at 131 mph

The Corvette ZR1 also has a top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h), making it the fastest Corvette ever produced and ranking it among the global super cars of commensurate performance. None of those other super cars, however, equals the ZR1's performance-per-dollar ratio.

"The ZR1 is an incredible machine by any measure," said Ed Peper, North American Vice President, Chevrolet. "There's simply no other vehicle in the world that does a better job of balancing performance, price and fuel economy."

Performance perspective
The Corvette ZR1's 0-60 performance is 0.3-second quicker than the already-quick Corvette Z06 and the 0-100-mph performance is nearly a full second quicker - 7 seconds vs. the Z06's 7.9 seconds. It is performance that is equal to or better than many super cars costing substantially more.

"A favorable power-to-weight ratio gives the ZR1 an advantage over the competition and performance that has to be experienced to fully appreciate," said Tom Wallace, Corvette chief engineer. "Of course, on a racetrack, drivers of competitors' cars may appreciate the ZR1 in a whole different manner."

And the racetrack isn't the only place where the ZR1 trumps its super-car competitors - it beats them at the gas pump, too. According to fueleconomy.gov, the ZR1's EPA-rated 14 city and 20 highway mileage ratings beat 2008 competitors such as the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano (11 city / 15 highway); the Lamborghini Murcielago (8 city / 13 highway) and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage (12 city / 19 highway). They're competitive with the Dodge Viper (13 city / 22 highway) and the Porsche 911 GT3 (15 city / 22 highway).

Under the carbon-fiber hood
A new LS9 6.2L supercharged small-block engine powers the ZR1's performance capability. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components support high-rpm performance, while a new, sixth-generation supercharger (and complementing charge-cooling system) helps the LS9 make big power and torque across the rpm range. The engine is hand-assembled at GM's Performance Build Center, in Wixom, Mich.

In addition to the LS9 engine, the ZR1 is a technology powerhouse, designed with lightweight and unique components that reinforce its performance with a confidant feel on either a highway or road course.

Options
The standard ZR1 comes with accoutrements based on the Z06, including lightweight seats and lightweight content. The available uplevel interior package includes power-adjustable, heated and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); side air bags; Bose premium audio system; navigation system; Bluetooth connectivity; power telescoping steering column; custom leather-wrapped interior available in four colors and more. Chrome wheels are the only other available option on the ZR1. Detailed pricing noted below.

* $103,300 Base MSRP including destination
* $1,700 Gas guzzler tax
* $10,000 Option package
* $2,000 Chrome wheels

Report on Business reports that while US auto sales are projected to fall to 14.9 million this year - the lowest level since 1997 and down from 16.1 million last year - Canadian sales are projected to hit 1.645 million, only a slight decrease from last year's 1.653. The strong market there is being credited to strong job creation.

The paper goes on to report that vehicle prices in Canada have fallen about 5% so far this year, due in part to widespread publicity about vehicle price disparities between the two countries. This despite the stabilizing exchange rate between the two currencies during the same time period. But this correction only goes a small way to addressing the higher prices Canadians are asked to pay for vehicles, which, as evidenced here, are often 20% more than their US equivalent.

Saab's Press Release announcing Canadian pricing follows:

Saab's Turbo X and Innovative New Cross Wheel Drive Technology Take Vehicle Handling and Control To New Levels

Oshawa, Ontario (April 9, 2008) - General Motors of Canada today announced pricing on the new, limited edition 2008 Saab Turbo X 9-3 variant. The all-black Turbo X takes Saab "back to the future," evoking the iconic appeal of the first black 99 and 900 Turbos while introducing Saab's cutting-edge "cross wheel drive" (XWD) technology, with pricing starting at $54,995 for the Sport Sedan version and $56,305 for the SportCombi. Saab's advanced new XWD system is also available as an option on 2008 9-3 Aero models, in both body styles, for $2,340.

Turbo X
Saab celebrates three decades of leadership in turbocharging by launching the 2008 Saab Turbo X, a driver-focused performance car that sets new standards of performance and capability for the brand. The Saab Turbo X has enhanced aerodynamic performance and a distinctive appearance, including specially designed 18-inch alloy wheels that have a grey, titanium-like finish and draw on Saab's classic three-spoke design. The "black turbo" theme is continued in the uniquely equipped interior which includes premium leather.

The Turbo X is the ultimate performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range. It delivers levels of driver involvement and dynamic chassis control never experienced before from Saab. To exploit the full benefits of Saab XWD technology, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered 10 mm and the springs and dampers optimized to minimize body movement. To maintain a constant ride height, self-leveling dampers are fitted at the rear.

Stopping power is also increased with larger brake discs fitted: internally ventilated, 345 mm-diameter (13.6-inch) at the front; and externally ventilated, 292 mm (11.5-inch) at the rear. Standard 235/45 R18 tires ensure excellent grip for the 18-inch alloy wheels.

XWD driving experience

Developed in Sweden with Haldex of Stockholm, the Saab XWD "Cross Wheel Drive" system is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. It is offered in the 2008 Saab Turbo X and Aero versions of the 9-3 Sport Sedan and SportCombi, in combination with an uprated 280hp, 2.8L V6 turbo which now delivers almost 15% more maximum torque (295 lbs./ft.) to exploit the greater traction available. Engine design features include a lightweight, all-aluminum construction, with a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks for perfect balance; variable-inlet valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. XWD is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

The state-of-the-art all-wheel-drive system on the Turbo X includes two innovative features: pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels to optimize traction at take-off; and an active rear limited-slip differential (eLSD), allowing variable torque transfer between the rear wheels.

Saab XWD is a fully automatic, on-demand system capable of sending up to 100 percent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels, whenever necessary. While offering drivers sure-footed handling in low-grip conditions, the system's sophisticated operation also enhances the sporty driving experience in all road conditions. Fine balancing of the drive torque between the front and rear axles raises the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered, providing more scope for closer driver involvement.

At take-off, a torque transfer device (TTD) is initially activated engaging the rear drive module. This pre-emptive function is a valuable improvement over current technology, which requires the detection of wheel slip before the TTD is activated. For the driver, the enhanced functionality gives maximum traction immediately for smooth, strong acceleration from rest without the possibility of any initial hesitation.

On the open road, drive torque is seamlessly and continuously varied between the axles by the control of a valve in the TTD. When cornering, Saab XWD rewards the driver by providing enhanced, more finely balanced chassis dynamics through the application of rear drive to balance oversteer and understeer characteristics, improving stability and road holding.

In highway cruising conditions, when traction or optimum grip is not an issue, only 5- to 10-percent of engine torque is typically transmitted to the rear wheels providing a greater measure of stability while helping to save fuel.

The Turbo X also features an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential (eLSD), which uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40 percent of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip. It represents the first application of an electronically controlled, rear limited-slip differential in the segment.

The eLSD also gives the driver enhanced control when cornering hard or completing a high-speed maneuver, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels. This yaw damping effect can keep the car better balanced and more tightly controlled, without requiring "outside" intervention from electronic stability aides.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles - more than any other auto company right here in Canada. Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide. GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 732 dealerships and retailers across Canada. Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.

They claim that cargo ships will use obscene amounts of diesel fuel. We're sure they will, but the thing is, they run on diesel already, just of the nasty high-sulphur variety. You see, Technology for Sustainable Future Shipping Group is run, in part, by BP Krystallon and MES, who make scrubbers to clean high-sulphur diesel's naughty emissions. If cargo ships switch to low-sulphur, they'll loose money. By issuing the sensationalist release you see below, they hope to raise public fears, pressuring the shipping industry to stay high-sulphur. Let's hope other media-outlets don't fall for it.

PRESS RELEASE: Maritime Fuel Switch Could Drive Diesel Prices

LONDON, UK— A ship industry proposal to switch the world's merchant fleet to diesel fuel will send oil soaring through the $150-a-barrel mark, stoking fears of higher petrol prices and rampant inflation, an environmental technology group said on Thursday. It will mean even higher prices at British petrol pumps, with the GBP10 gallon a distinct possibility as demand begins to outstrip supply. Consumers will also feel the knock-on effect of higher food and energy bills.

Shipping circles are debating how to reduce harmful sulphur dioxide emissions, which cause acid rain, respiratory illnesses and heart problems.

Part of the industry, led by the independent tanker owners' organisation Intertanko, wants a total ban on high-sulphur marine fuels in favour of lower sulphur diesel fuels.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO), the UN agency responsible for preventing pollution from ships, will consider the controversial fuel proposal when its Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meets in London Monday (31 March).

The switch to diesel at sea would be equivalent to one and a half times the annual automotive diesel consumption in Europe.

Robert Clarke, spokesperson for the Technology for Sustainable Shipping Group said the idea "did not make any sense" environmentally or economically.

"It is not a cost-effective way to improve the environment," he said. "The oil market impact alone would likely more than double the cost of marine fuels and substantially increases prices of diesel, aviation jet fuel and heating oil on land.

Refineries would need to produce an extra 250 million tonnes of distillate fuels a year to meet the new diesel at sea demand, requiring around one billion tonnes per annum of crude.

"That's more than double annual production of Saudi Arabia," Clarke said. "The increase in the cost of crude oil is also likely to spell bad news for the economy as costs and prices rise. And the development poses a major threat to international economies, which are already suffering from the global credit crunch.

Clarke also said the ship industry proposal to switch to diesel risked raising carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the manufacturing process.

The Technology for Sustainable Shipping Group is an informal forum designed to communicate the benefits of emissions reduction technology. Members of the forum include The Torvald Klaveness Group (Norway), BP Krystallon (UK), Marine Exhaust Solutions (Canada) and Wärtsilä (Finland).

On the small size, you can pick up a 2008 Suzuki SX4 for around $15K. That gets you AWD and 143-horsepower. The Porsche Cayman S seems like a steal when compared to loaded Cayennes and Boxsters. The Factory Five GTM race version is only $47K for Z06 power.

We could go on forever, but it's more fun when you all do it. What is, currently, the best performance value in a car (no bikes)?

The Technology Package includes:
- Lexicon Discrete Audio System
- Six-disc in-dash DVD changer navigation system
- Reversing camera
- Driving Information System
- Multimedia controller
- HID, Auto-levelling headlights
- Adaptive cornering headlights
- Parking sensors
- Cooled driver's seat

The Volt engineers have apparently had to dump a lot of money into redesigning the audio set-up, windshield wipers and similar systems so that they won't drain the Volt's super magnificent lithium-ion 40-mile battery. See, what happpens when you ditch the alternator, kids? All hell breaks lose and GM's gearheads get stuck in triple-overtime with Bob Lutz's hot breath on their necks. [Autopia]

2007 FORD EDGE WILL DEBUT UNDER $26,000; CROSSOVERS POISED TO BECOME INDUSTRY'S LARGEST SEGMENT

* All 2007 Ford Edge models feature standard side curtain air bags, AdvanceTrac with RSC , best-in-class 265 hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine and fuel-saving 6-speed transmission.
* Front-drive models to begin under $26,000, including destination, with all-wheel drive available for less than $28,000.
* Paced by new entries like the Ford Edge, CUV segment is expected to grow into the largest segment in the industry with sales of 3 million units by the end of the decade.

CHICAGO, Sept. 20, 2006 - Ford Motor Company [NYSE: F] will launch its all-new and highly anticipated 2007 Ford Edge crossover with a sticker price below $26,000, Cisco Codina, group vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, announced today at a meeting of the Midwest Automotive Media Association.

At the meeting Codina reaffirmed that between now and the end of 2008, 70 percent of the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup by volume will be all-new or significantly freshened. That includes strong new vehicles in new segments like the Ford Edge, which goes on sale in November, as well as a new 2008 Ford Super Duty pickup, which will be revealed next week at the State Fair of Texas and will go on sale in January.

"Each new product will be a milepost on Ford's road to recovery," Codina said. "Inside and outside the company, we have called the Edge launch the single most important launch for the company this year."

The Right Product at the Right Time

The five-passenger 2007 Ford Edge has a bold design with a stylish, functional and clever interior. It features a fuel-saving powertrain, with Ford's all-new 3.5-liter V-6 engine with best-in-class 265 horsepower mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Its highway fuel economy is anticipated to be in the mid-20s. Edge also features standard side curtain air bags and standard AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control). A laptop-friendly center console and standard MP3-player input jack also are included.

In addition to optional all-wheel drive, the Edge is available with innovative features including a class-exclusive, all-glass available panoramic VistaRoof which gives a grand view of the sky and can open for a sense of freedom that front and rear passengers can enjoy.

Anticipation Grows

The new Edge already is generating excitement among consumers. Since the vehicle was unveiled in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, more than 930,000 consumers have visited the Edge Web site at www.fordvehicles.com/edge Traffic on the Edge Web pages has jumped more than 125 percent since June, after Ford added a "crossover" tab on the fordvehicles.com home page. Driven by the Web, auto shows and other marketing activities, more than 45,000 consumers have asked for more information about the Edge and 3,200 have shared information from the Edge Web site with a friend.

Two distinct trends have helped spur crossover growth: car buyers seeking more spacious and flexible interiors along with the confidence of AWD, and traditional SUV buyers looking for more fuel-efficient and maneuverable vehicles. This year, crossovers are expected to outsell the traditional SUV segment for the first time ever. Through August, industry crossover sales are up 8 percent at 1.62 million units. Already the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the United States, crossovers are expected to be the largest segment in the industry with sales of about 3 million units by the end of the decade. By 2009, the segment is expected to include more than 70 CUV models.

Ford Motor Company outpaced the competition in CUV growth in 2005 and will stake an even stronger claim over the CUV market with the introduction of the new Edge, along with the new Lincoln MKX. As vehicle segments continue to shift in the marketplace, Edge will play a critical role in retaining existing Ford customers as well as drawing new customers into Ford dealerships. Ford expects that approximately 45 percent of Edge buyers will be customers who are new to Ford Motor Company.

"The success of the Edge will prove that we can bring the same customer-focused intensity we have in trucks to new segments of the market," said Codina. "The total Edge package - design, flexibility, fuel economy, fun-to-drive character and value - gives us high confidence that we will win new customers."

Exceptional Value

The 2007 Ford Edge SE features a base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $25,995 for the well-equipped front-wheel-drive model and $27,645 for the all-wheel-drive model.

Key standard features of the Ford Edge SE include:

* Bold exterior styling
* Best-in-class 3.5-liter V6 mated to 6-speed automatic transmission deliver 265 hp and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. (Fuel economy is expected to be in the mid-20s for highway driving.)
* Front-wheel drive
* Rear spoiler
* Dual exhaust
* Center console with class-leading flexibility
* Second-row 60/40 split fold-flat seats
* Class-exclusive MP3 audio input jack
* 17-inch painted aluminum wheels
* Class-leading standard safety features including: industry leading AdvanceTrac with RSC , ABS, Safety Canopy with rollover sensor, front- and front seat side-impact air bags, occupant classification system, adjustable head restraints and LATCH system

The Ford Edge SEL offers many additional appearance, comfort and convenience features, including chrome tipped dual exhaust, a 6-disc CD changer, Convenience Package, body color rear spoiler and fog lamps. It starts at $27,990 for front-wheel drive models and $29,640 for all-wheel drive models.

Option packages available on the Edge SEL include:

* Premium Package - Dual electronic temperature control with particulate air filter; exterior puddle lamps; heated seats and heated exterior mirrors; leather trimmed front and second row seats; memory seats; memory exterior mirrors and steering wheel climate controls
* Seating Flexibility Package - 6-way power passenger seat, front-row passenger fold-flat seatback; second-row EasyFold remote release seatback; leather trimmed front- and second-row seats; memory seats.

Options exclusive to the Edge SEL include:

* 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels or 18-inch painted aluminum sport wheels
* Audiophile sound system with CDX6, nine speakers and steering wheel controls
* DVD-based Navigation system with Audiophile sound system
* Reverse sensing system
* Rear-seat DVD Entertainment System
* Class-exclusive two-panel panoramic VistaRoof with dual power shades

Options available on all Edge models include:

* All-wheel drive
* SIRIUS satellite radio with six-month subscription
* Class II Trailer Towing (for up to 3,500 lbs. maximum towing capability)

Way Forward Commitment: Deliver Outstanding Customer Value

Ford is accelerating the rollout of many of the technologies featured on the Ford Edge across the Ford and Lincoln Mercury product lineup.

"The Ford Edge's success will validate many of our key product strategies - including better design, higher quality, more safety, added content, lower prices and higher performance," Codina said.

* Stability control - By the end of 2009, all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury retail cars and trucks will feature standard electronic stability control. AdvanceTrac with RSC is now standard on traditional SUVs and will be standard on all CUVs by the end of 2008.
* Side air bag protection - All retail products will have side impact protection by the end of 2009. All SUVs and CUVs will be equipped with rollover-protecting side air curtains.
* 3.5L V6 engine - this engine will eventually power one out of every five Ford Motor Company vehicles in North America
* All-wheel drive - Ford Motor Company will have 28 vehicles with AWD technology this year
* 6-speed automatic transmission - Ford plans to produce about 1.3 million 6-speed transmissions annually by 2008
* DVD-based navigation system - For 2007, Ford is doubling the number of products with an available navigation system
* SIRIUS satellite radio - For 2007, Ford is quadrupling the number of products with available SIRIUS satellite radio
* Auxiliary audio jack - Ford is increasing the number of models with auxiliary audio jacks from zero to nearly half of its lineup

Related:
Hi, I'm Dave: Ford's New Design Direction [internal]