Green Car Journal announced today that it has picked five finalists for the 2010 Green Car of the Year. The winner will be announced during a press conference at the 2009 LA Auto Show on Dec. 3.

2010 Green Car of the Year Finalists:

• Audi A3 TDI
• Honda Insight
• Mercury Milan Hybrid (no idea why it’s not the Ford Fusion Hybrid)
• Toyota Prius
• Volkswagen Golf TDI

Let us know who you think should win by casting your vote in the poll below. Have something to say? Hit the jump to have your voice heard in the comments section.

Press Release:

Five Finalists Announced for the 2010 Green Car of the Year®

Winner to be Announced During an LA Auto Show Press Conference on Dec. 3

LOS ANGELES – Oct. 7, 2009 – Green Car Journal announced today its five finalists for the 2010 Green Car of the Year®, including the Audi A3 TDI, Honda Insight, Mercury Milan Hybrid, Toyota Prius and Volkswagen Golf TDI. For the fifth consecutive year, this prestigious award will be announced during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show press days, Dec. 3.

The Green Car of the Year® award is a program that honors environmental leadership in the automobile field and recognizes vehicles that are readily available to consumers during the award year. Green Car Journal editors perform an exhaustive review of vehicle models to identify the five finalists. The winner is ultimately decided by jurors such as Jay Leno, Jean-Michel Cousteau, Carroll Shelby, Matt Petersen of Global Green USA and the Sierra Club’s Carl Pope, along with Green Car Journal editors.

“We’re seeing the trend for ‘green’ cars emerging at all levels, from entry-level cars to luxury models, and even performance cars and SUVs/crossovers,” said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal and editor of GreenCar.com. “Plus, an array of technologies and fuels as well as strategies like lightweighting and reducing rolling resistance are being applied to the challenge. Greater choice provides buyers a personal stake in lessening environmental impact, and that’s important.”

This year’s finalists reflect this diversity. For the first time an Audi makes the final five with its sporty A3 TDI clean diesel. Volkswagen’s new Golf TDI shows an expanding focus on clean diesel technology in the VW lineup. The Insight is a completely new hybrid sedan for Honda and the 2010 Toyota Prius is a totally redesigned, third-generation version of this popular hybrid model. The Milan Hybrid is Mercury’s application of its advanced-hybrid technology in an upscale mid-size sedan.

About Green Car of the Year®

The GCOY award is an important part of Green Car Journal’s mission to showcase environmental progress in the auto industry. Since 1992, Green Car Journal has focused on the intersection of automobiles, energy, and environment, first with an industry newsletter and then with an award-winning auto enthusiast magazine. Today, the magazine is considered the premier source of information on high fuel efficiency, low emission, advanced technology, and alternative fuel vehicles. Subscription information, along with a downloadable sample issue, can be found at GCJUSA.com. Green Car of the Year® is a registered trademark of Green Car Journal and RJ Cogan Specialty Publications Group, Inc.

About the Los Angeles Auto Show

The 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show will be held on Dec. 2-3 for press and Dec. 4-13 for the public. Media registration is now open. This year, the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA), the world automobile trade association, has officially named the Los Angeles Auto Show as one of its sanctioned international exhibitions. For more information, please visit LAautoshow.com.

- By: Stephen Calogera

According to Ford spokeswoman Angie Kozleski, the last unit of the Mercury Sable will roll off the production line this Thursday. Ford sold only 1,158 Sables last month.

The move will leave Mercury with just four models. The Mercury Mountaineer and the Grand Marquis are both scheduled to die over the next couple of years.

Mercury is scheduled to get a new small car for 2010. While details are still being kept under the cover, we do know that the car will be based on a Ford platform and will be similar in size to the Focus.

Analysts say that Ford decided pass on the new Sable so it could invest more into the new 2010 Ford Taurus, which is built on the same assembly line in Chicago.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Detroit News

Ford has announced the pricing on its 2010 Ford Fusion and 2010 Mercury Milan mid-size sedans. Both cars go on sale later this spring.

The 2010 Ford Fusion and the 2010 Mercury Milan start at $19,995 and $21,905 respectively - including delivery and destination. The 2010 Fusion is available in SE and SEL trim levels with prices starting at $20,545 and $23,975 respectively. Those looking for more power can opt for the Fusion Sport equipped with a 263-hp 3.5L V6 with prices starting at $25,825 for the FWD model and $27,675 for the AWD model. The V6 2010 Milan starts at $27,800.

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid will start at $27,995 and $31,300 respectively. Customers who by the hybrid models by March 31 will qualify for a $3,400 tax credit. After that and until Sept. 30, 2009 customers will get a tax credit of $1,700. From Oct. 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 those who buy the two hybrids will be eligible for a $850 tax credit.

Follow the jump for the press release and the high-res image galleries.

2010 Ford Fusion:

2010 Mercury Milan:

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid:

2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid:

Press Release:

2010 FORD FUSION: AMERICA’S MOST FUEL EFFICIENT MID-SIZE SEDAN OFFERS BEST VALUE, STARTS UNDER $20,000

- Base price of $19,995, including delivery and destination (D&D), offers best-in-class fuel economy of 34 mpg highway for new 2.5-liter I-4 engine, bold styling and smart technologies
- Hybrid model starts at $27,995, including D&D, offers best-in-class fuel economy of 41 mpg city, 36 highway, besting Toyota Camry Hybrid by 8 mpg city, 2 mpg highway
- 2010 Mercury Milan starts at $21,905; Milan Hybrid starts at $31,300, including D&D
- Fusion and Milan Hybrid models qualify for the highest available federal tax credit of $3,400

DEARBORN, Mich., March 2, 2009 – The new 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, America’s most fuel-efficient mid-size sedans, offer the best value in their segment with starting prices of $19,995 and $21,905, including delivery and destination, respectively.

The gas engine-powered and hybrid-electric models leapfrog the competition in every area that counts:  fuel economy, power, technology and overall value.

“We’ve priced Fusion to beat the competition as is does in every area that matters most to customers,” said Chantel Lenard, Ford group marketing manager, Global Small and Medium Cars. “This vehicle does more than compete; it aggressively positions Ford to take back its share of the mid-size car segment and sets the tone for the upcoming Taurus and Fiesta launches.”

Dollars and Sense
The front-wheel-drive Fusion S, with a new fuel-efficient 2.5-liter I-4 engine, has a base price (including $725 destination and delivery) of $19,995; the SE trim level is $20,545; the SEL is $23,975.  An optional 3.0-liter V-6 engine also is available on SE and SEL models.

Performance-minded buyers can opt for the Fusion Sport equipped with a new 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 263 horsepower and 249 ft.-lb. of torque.  Fusion Sport FWD starts at $25,825; AWD at $27,675.

The Mercury Milan ranges from $21,180 (including destination and delivery) for the FWD model with the I-4 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, to $27,800 for the well-equipped Milan Premier AWD model with a fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V-6 engine.

Fusion and Milan’s value is further bolstered by stronger residual values.  According to Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG), a California-based consulting and data-gathering firm, the base 2010 Fusion is projected to retain 50 percent of its original value at the end of a conventional three-year lease term.  That’s a six-point increase overall since the Fusion launched for the 2006 model year.

More Value:  Tax Credits for Hybrids
Fusion and Milan deliver class-leading fuel economy of 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.  Fusion Hybrid has a base price of $27,995 (including destination and delivery), which is less than a $3,300 price differential for a similarly equipped Fusion gas-engine powered I-4 SEL model.  Meanwhile, the well-equipped Milan Hybrid is priced at $31,300.

For added savings, customers who purchase a new Fusion or Milan Hybrid by March 31, 2009, may qualify for a $3,400 tax credit on their 2009 federal income tax return.  This is the highest hybrid credit available.  Between April 1, 2009, and Sept. 30, 2009, customers who purchase a 2010 Fusion or Milan Hybrid are eligible for a partial credit of $1,700.  Between Oct. 1, 2009, and March 31, 2010, an $850 credit applies. 

Meanwhile, competing hybrid sedans from Toyota and Honda no longer are eligible for tax credits.
Initial demand for the Fusion and Milan Hybrid is strong with nearly 80 percent of early retail orders being hybrids.

Steeped in Quality
Fusion and Milan have unsurpassed quality, ranking better than Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Nissan Altima for initial quality, according to Global Quality Research System (GQRS) survey data from 2008.

In early drive reviews, consumer publications have begun touting the 2010 Fusion and Milan Hybrid models as the new industry benchmark:  “Fusion is without equal among hybrids,” wrote USA Today, Feb. 5, 2009.

FoMoCo announced today that its 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and its 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid are available of a $3,400 tax credit from the federal government. The tax credit is the highest credit amount ever offered for hybrids purchased after Dec. 31, 2005.

Power for both FoMoCo models comes from a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that makes 155-hp with maximum torque of 136 lb-ft. Both average an EPA certified fuel-economy of 41/36 mpg (city/highway) and are able to travel more than 700 miles on a single tank of gas.

Note: If you want the full tax credit amounts on the Fusion and Milan Hybrids you better act quit. After March 31, 2009, customers who purchase a hybrid vehicle will only be able to claim a partial tax credit as described in the table posted after the jump.

The tax credit amounts available for 2009 and 2010 model year hybrid vehicles are as follows:

Tax Credit Amount

Tax Credit Update
Customers who purchase a Ford or Mercury brand hybrid by March 31, 2009 will remain eligible for the full tax credit amounts.  Beginning April 1, 2009 customers who purchase a hybrid will only be able to claim a partial tax credit as described in the table above.

Since Ford Motor Company reached the 60,000 vehicle threshold in the 4th quarter of 2008, the tax credit amounts are reduced by 50 percent beginning in the second quarter of 2009 and by an additional 25 percent beginning in the fourth quarter of 2009.  No tax credit amount is available for hybrids after March 31, 2010.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid:

2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid:

EPA has released official fuel-economy ratings for the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. According to the EPA, the 2010 Fusion Hybrid gets a certified 41/36 mpg (city/highway), making it America’s most fuel efficient mid-size car topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway. The Fusion Hybrid even beats the Honda Civic Hybrid by 1 mpg in the city and is able to travel more than 700 miles on a single tank of gas.

Ford engineers spent the past three years working on the next-generation hybrid system which allows the Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids to travel up to 47 mph on pure electric mode, faster than any other hybrid currently on the road.

Power comes from a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that makes 155-hp with maximum torque of 136 lb-ft which is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The engine is coupled to a new smaller and lighter nickel-metal hydride hybrid system which produces 20 percent more power than Ford’s previous hybrid systems.

Of course you also have the new SmartGauge Teaches Eco-Driving that teaches you how to get the most “greenness” out of your Fusion or Milan Hybrid. Pricing for 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid starts at $27,270.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid:

FoMoCo has told dealers to take in their final orders for the Ford Taurus X SUV and the Mercury Sable sedan before the two vehicles end production in spring of 2009. Ford spokesman Mark Schirmer told Automotive News today that Ford will stop making the Taurus X in March and the Sable in April.

Both vehicles, which are made at Ford’s Chicago assembly plant, have been slow sellers for Ford with the Taurus X selling 22,141 units through November, down 40.7 percent, and the Sable selling 15,586 units, down 20.7 percent.

Schirmer confirmed that the 2010 Ford Taurus will go into production in spring and will be on sale at the end of June. It is expected to make its debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month.

Yes, we were a little disappointed that some of the models from the 2008 Paris Motor Show didn’t make it over the the 2008 LA Auto Show, but the City of Angels had its own reason to shine with some outstanding model debuts. While we would’ve loved to see the Lamborghini Estoque, 2010 Volkswagen Golf GTI, BMW X1  and the Toyota iQ we were more than satisfied with the world debut’s of the 2010 Ford Mustang, 2009 Nissan 370Z, Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible and many others.

Click through to see our list of the Top 10 2008 LA Auto Show Debuts that stole the show.

10. 2009 Nissan Cube:

9. 2010 Mazda3 Sedan:

8. Honda FC Sport Concept:

7. 2010 Lexus RX 450h:

6. 2009 Porsche Cayman S/2009 Porsche Boxster S:

5. 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible:

4. Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder:

3. 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid/2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid:

2. 2009 Nissan 370Z:

1. 2010 Ford Mustang:

• •  Both hybrid models beat the Toyota Camry Hybrid by at least 6 mpg in the city.
• •  2.5L 4-cylinder making 175-hp and a peak torque of 136 lb-ft.
• •  Both are capable operating up to 47-mph on pure-electric power.
• •  700 mile on one tank of gasoline.

Ford is not shy at all to call out the Toyota Camry Hybrid as its main rival for its two new mid-size sedans unveiled here at the 2008 LA Auto Show. The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid are powered by a two-motor hybrid system developed by Delphi Corp. and Ford’s new 175-hp, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine.

Ford has put in quite in effort to differentiate the Fusion Hybrid and Milan Hybrid from its gas-powered siblings including a its signature “road and leaf” badging on both sides and the rear of the vehicle, 17-inch eight-spoke wheels, seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials; and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

The 2010 Ford Fusion hybrid and the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid will arrive in showrooms in the first quarter of 2009. Stand by for pricing info.

Follow the jump for high-res photos from the 2008 LA Auto Show.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid/2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid – Live from 2008 LA Auto Show:

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid:

2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid:

So now that we’ve handed you all the details about the 2010 Ford Fusion and the 2010 Mercury Milan, it’s finally time to discuss the hybrid variants of both new models. For 2010 Ford comes out strong saying that both hybrid models beat the Toyota Camry Hybrid by at least 6 mpg in the city while offering new technological features like SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide that helps drivers maximize fuel efficiency.

Power comes from a new 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that makes 155-hp with a maximum torque of 136 lb-ft mated to an e-CVT (electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission). Ford says that the 2010 Fusion Hybrid and the 2010 Milan Hybrid are both capable of operating up to 47 mph in pure-electric power – that’s twice as fast as its competitors. City driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The new SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two high-resolution full-color LCD screens on both sides of the analog speedometer and can be configured to show different levels of information including battery power, average and instant miles-per-gallon.

Drivers can choose one of four data screens to choose the information level displayed during their drives:

• Inform: Fuel level and battery charge status
• Enlighten: Adds electric vehicle mode indicator and tachometer
• Engage: Adds engine output power and battery output power
• Empower: Adds power to wheels, engine pull-up threshold and accessory power consumption

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid will both arrive in showrooms shortly after their gasoline versions.

Follow the jump for the high-res image galleries.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid:

2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid:

Along with the 2010 Ford Fusion, Ford has unveiled its Mercury sibling - the 2010 Mercury Milan. Besides the all-new hybrid model, the 2010 Mercury Milan will be offered in two fuel-efficient gasoline engine choices unlike the Fusion which will be offered with three.

The entry-level 2010 Milan will be powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder unit making 175-hp mated to an electronically-controlled variable transmission – better known as e-CVT. As with the 2010 Fusion, the 2010 2.5L Mercury Milan also gets 3 mpg better fuel-economy than the Honda Accord and 2 mpg better than the Toyota Camry. The range-topping 3.0L V6 models sees an improvement of 19-hp for a total of 240-hp.

The 2010 Mercury Milan will arrive in showrooms alongside the 2010 Fusion in spring 2009. We’ll bring you live images from the 2008 LA Auto Show later today.

Click through for the high-res image gallery and the press release.

2010 Mercury Milan:

Press Release:

2010 MERCURY MILAN: NEW HYBRID MODEL, CLASS- LEADING FUEL ECONOMY, SOPHISTICATED DESIGN

• For the 2010 model year, the Mercury Milan lineup expands to include an all-new hybrid that offers class-leading fuel economy, besting the Toyota Camry hybrid by at least 6 mpg in the city; innovative new SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide coaches hybrid drivers to maximize fuel efficiency
• Milan will offer two fuel-efficient gasoline engine options for the 2010 model – Ford’s all-new Duratec 2.5-liter I-4, producing 175 horsepower as well as an enhanced 3.0-liter V-6 with 19 more horsepower than its predecessor; Milans equipped with the 2.5-liter I-4 engine are expected to deliver at least 3 mpg better on the highway than the Honda Accord and 2 mpg better than the Toyota Camry
• The 2010 Mercury Milan will be available in dealer showrooms in spring 2009

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 19, 2008 – The Mercury Milan builds on a strong foundation of quality and reliability, adding to the mix for the 2010 model year an all-new hybrid model, more fuel-efficient gasoline powertrain options, class-exclusive technologies and a more refined, sophisticated design.

“The Milan has been a strong part of the Mercury lineup since its initial launch and has helped attract more consumers to dealer showrooms,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford, Lincoln Mercury Marketing. “For sophisticated consumers looking for a stylish hybrid, the Milan now offers them the most fuel-efficient hybrid sedan in its class.”

Chief designer Darrell Behmer and his team had the advantage of working from a vehicle that’s been lauded by consumers and consumer groups. “Our approach was to build upon the Milan’s strengths – to improve rather than reinvent,” Behmer said. “From a design standpoint, we wanted to clarify the design, making it cleaner and more modern.”

The changes to the exterior design were focused on the grille, fenders, hood, and front and rear fascias. The chin was pulled forward and the fascia was pulled down to give the 2010 Mercury Milan a wider, sportier look. Those changes as well as substantial underbody work made for a cleaner, more aerodynamic car.

With all models, the interior design team created a more contemporary, technical look with metallic new finishes on the instrument panel that carry through on the center console, doors and steering wheel. The all new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin and has much less hard plastic than Japanese competitors. A redesigned leather wrapped steering wheel with form fitting palm swells, and new shifter, and wrapped and padded armrests have been added, increasing the Milan’s sportiness and comfort at all key driver touch points.

The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Milan even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.

The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new “welcome” sequence that makes the Milan seem as if it’s coming to life.
Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.

The two-tone look on the interior continues as a Milan signature, with satin-aluminum accents and a wood finish around the center stack. The Milan features Dark Charcoal Black, Medium Light Stone and Camel as interior choices through the Premier Series, which includes embossed leather.

An improved seat design with a new perforation pattern has been added as well. The seat contour itself was revised, with more side support to help create a softer seat overall.

All-new hybrid model
For the 2010 model year, the Mercury Milan adds an all-new hybrid model. The Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids join the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, doubling both the size and volume of Ford’s hybrid lineup.

“Offering consumers more fuel-efficient vehicle choices, including improving and increasing our hybrid vehicle offerings and improving our high volume gasoline powertrains, is part of Ford’s broad plan to deliver technology solutions for affordable fuel economy for millions,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president for Global Product Development.

“With the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at a greater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motor and gasoline-driven engine,” he said. “These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts – fuel efficiency, comfort, convenience and drivability.”

The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy.
Additionally, the propulsion system for the Mercury Milan and Ford Fusion hybrids transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

The overall system upgrade allows the Mercury Milan and Ford Fusion hybrids to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The next-generation hybrid system features:

• New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
• Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
• A wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
• A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
• An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
• A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
• Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use and maximize comfort.
• The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
• A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

“Because our hybrid can run at a much higher speed in electric mode, you can do so much more in city-driving situations,” said Gil Portalatin, Hybrid Applications Manager. “Under the right conditions, you can drive in your neighborhood or mall parking lots without using a drop of gasoline.”

The Milan Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford’s SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, average and instant miles-per-gallon. Growing leaves and vines track and reward the driver’s efficiency.

EcoGuide uses a multi-layered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency. A tutorial mode built into the display that helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower.

For instance, drivers can choose one of four data screens to choose the information level displayed during their drives. They are:

• Inform: Fuel level and battery charge status
• Enlighten: Adds electric vehicle mode indicator and tachometer
• Engage: Adds engine output power and battery output power
• Empower: Adds power to wheels, engine pull-up threshold and accessory power consumption

All levels can show instant fuel economy, fuel economy history, odometer, engine coolant temperature, what gear the car is in and trip data (trip fuel economy, time-elapsed fuel economy and miles to empty). The engine coolant temperature indicator turns green when engine conditions are warm enough to allow engine pull-down.

Several other elements help differentiate the Milan Hybrid from its gas-powered sibling, including unique hybrid “road and leaf” badging on both sides and the rear of the vehicle; unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels; eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials; and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

More horsepower, better fuel economy
Both the inline four-cylinder and V-6 engines are upgraded, with the four-cylinder engine increased to 2.5 liters and the 3-liter V-6 increasing its horsepower rating from 221 to 240. Each engine improves fuel economy as well, up to 4 or 5 mpg depending on the model.

The 2.5-liter I-4 engine, which improved its 0-60 mph time by more than 1 second to achieve best-in-class performance, is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, up from five speeds.

“The gear ratios and the overall span of the transmissions allow us to have a more-efficient shift schedule,” said Matt Hettenhouse, powertrain team leader for the Milan. The first gear can be made a little deeper, which provides smoother acceleration. At the top end, a higher gear allows the engine to run slower in highway conditions, which also aids fuel economy.

The innovative Easy Fuel™ capless fuel filler system also is standard. This industry-exclusive feature helps to reduce evaporative emissions that create smog and global warming. When fueling is completed, and the fuel pump nozzle is removed, the system automatically seals shut.

Better handling in a quieter, more-comfortable ride
Bringing a premium driving experience to the Mercury Milan was one of the goals for the team. For the 2010 model, strides were made in steering and handling, turning circle (better by about 1 foot) and an improved brake pedal feel. Upgraded 17-inch painted aluminum wheels are another performance and appearance enhancement standard on the Premier.

The 2010 Mercury Milan team also took a look at how to improve the comfort of the car. “We made a major improvement on interior quietness,” said Chief Engineer J.D. Shanahan. Hood insulators, inner and outer dash absorbers, new carpet, revised ceiling baffles, additional sound deadening in the trunk, new interior material and new headliner material are among the improvements made.

In addition, improved body and door sealing defends and improves upon Milan’s best-in-class standing in wind noise. Reductions in wind noise and road noise gives Mercury Milan drivers the level of quiet luxury they demand.

With design refinements to the exterior creating a sportier look as well as upgraded technology and materials inside, the 2010 Mercury Milan expands on the value package that makes it a leader in the mid-size car segment.

Staying connected
New technology features available on the 2010 Milan include:

• Blind Spot Information System (BLISTM) with Cross Traffic Alert, which can help provide extra confidence to drivers in parking lots by alerting drivers sooner of nearby traffic while backing out. It uses two multiple beam radar modules, which are packaged in the rear quarter panels. The radar detects moving objects within a 65-foot range from either side of the vehicle. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding side-view mirror providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well.
• SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities – plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.
  • 911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.
  • Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer’s paired and operable mobile phone.
• Voice-Activated Navigation, which integrates several functions including voice recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS satellite radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch-screen display. The navigation system’s text-to-speech function calls out street names while in route to a destination and reads incoming text messages when the system is linked to SYNC. The integrated DVD player is capable of reading CD-Audio, MP3 CDs, DVD, DVD-Audio and DVD-ROM (for digital map updates). A music jukebox function stores more than 150 hours of music. The screen even can be customized with personal photos.
• SIRIUS Travel Link™, an industry-leading technology that, when combined with the voice-activated navigation system will provide users with real-time traffic data with accident and incident information, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions and five-day forecasts, and fuel price information for over 120,000 gas stations. Travel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movie theaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.
• Reverse Camera System, which mounts a small camera on the spoiler that is activated when Milan is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle.
  The video image is displayed in the optional navigation screen on Milans equipped with that option or in the self-dimming rearview mirror vehicles without navigation.

All Mercury Milan models will be built along side the Ford Fusion at Ford’s Hermosillo (Mexico) Stamping and Assembly Plant and will be in dealer showrooms in spring 2009.

If you’re crazy about owning an electric car than you’ll love what FoMoCo has to offer with its 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid sedans when they enter production in Dec. and hit the markets in early 2009.

The two hybrid sedans are said to be the most technically advanced production vehicles FoMoCo has ever made. Besides the SmartGauge with EcoGuide feature that we saw yesterday, the 2010 Fusion Hybrid and the 2010 Milan Hybrid will be able to travel at a top speed of 47 mph on electric power alone. That’s twice as fast as the current Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner hybrid crossovers. The two sedans will be able to do 8 miles on battery power alone before the engine kicks in.

Both hybrids sedans will be powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that makes 155-hp. According to Ford’s director of sustainable mobility and hybrid programs, the two hybrid sedans will get 5 mpg better than the Toyota Camry Hybrid in city driving and will also beat it on the highway. The Toyota Camry Hybrid gets 33/34 mpg (city/highway).

The 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan will reach full production next year and FoMoCo is planning on doubling its output of the sedans from 25,000 to 50,000.

2010 Ford Fusion:

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

According to the government’s 2009 Fuel-Economy Guide the 2009 Lamborghini Murcielago is the worst choice if you’re worried about spending a lot of green at the pump. According to the federal government the Murcielago, which gets 8/14 mpg (city/highway) has an annual fuel cost of $6,450.

The 2009 Toyota Prius come in at number for the third year in a row with 48/45 mpg. Honda’s Civic Hybrid came in seconds rated at 40/45 mpg followed by the Nissan Altima Hybrid rated at 35/33 mpg. Ford’s Escape, Mariner and Mazda Tribute Hybrids came in at number four with 34/31 mpg. Smart’s ForTwo also joined the list rated at 33/41 mpg.

Volkswagen’s 2009 diesel Jetta came in the top 10 rated at 30/41 mpg with a manual transmission and 29/40 mpg with an automatic.

EPA states that all consumers are eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $3,400 for hybrids and diesels.

Source: InsideLine

Mercury is expected to add a small car to its lineup by 2010 and according to Ford of Europe’s CEO John Fleming, it may be developed and engineered in Europe. Ford hasn’t given any details on the car but says that it will be similar to the Focus and will be based on a Ford vehicle, like most Mercury models.

According to Fleming, FoMoCo will likely produce the car in Europe because his division is responsible for C-car vehicles.

Well at least you can expect your next Mercury to have sleek European styling, good engineering and reliable quality.

Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required)

We’ve heard rumors of a Ford Capri revival before, but now CARandDRIVER reports that Ford is planning a Capri Concept for 2009 to celebrate the model’s 40th anniversary.

The concept will hint at a future successor to the Ford Capri (previously sold as Mercury in the U.S.) and will be built on the next-generation global Focus platform. Styling is expected to be influence by the Ford Visos and Iosis concepts with a hint of Ford’s European Mondeo.

A production model is expected to hit the U.S. roads in 2010 with Mercury badging and we hear this will be the first major hint at Mercury’s new compact-car future.

Source: CARandDRIVER

According to a company document reviews by The Detroit News, FoMoCo plans to half production of the Mercury Sable and the Ford Taurus X crossover starting next year. The current Ford Taurus, which is built on the same platform, will continue production. All models are built at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant, which also produces the new Lincoln MKS.

Speculation has it that Ford may eventually end production of both models since sales are down and they don’t fit with their respective brands new image.

Sales of the Ford Taurus X were down 25 percent this year and Mercury Sable sales were down 8 percent from last year. Ford sold a total of 2,044 Taurus X models in July, down from 2,705 from 2007. Mercury Sable sales were down 2,589 units from the year before.

We know that Mercury is going to be focusing more on smaller cars and fuel-efficient crossovers – so the Sable sedan isn’t fitting in well with the brand’s new vision. The Taurus X crossover also makes little sense with the new Flex crossover getting much of the attention.

Source: Detroit News

After all the speculations that the brand will eventually die , Mercury dealers are celebrating after Ford finally unveiled a new strategy for the struggling brand.

So far Mercury is expected to get a new small car 2010 . Ford hasn’t given out any specifics on the model but the car is expected to be similar to the Focus and will be a derivative of a Ford vehicle, continuing Mercury’s current strategy.

"Contrary to all of the news articles I’ve been reading for the past six months, Mercury’s not dead," Michael Adamson, chairman of the Lincoln Mercury National Dealer Council told Automotive News . "I think it’s a great start."

Clearing up Mercury’s future models, Mark Schirmer, a Lincoln – Mercury spokesman, said that the brand will not be limited to small-car, but will rather focus on good fuel-economy. Expect models like the Milan and Mariner to stick around long-term. The future of the Sable, Mountaineer and Grand Marquis is still unclear.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Ford is expected to make some significant announcements along with its quarterly results this Friday. Along with the announcement of retooling U.S. plants to produce its European models , The New York Times reports that Ford will also announce a drastic shift to build more small cars.

According to sources, FoMoCo will announce that it will completely convert three of its North American plants from trucks to cars. Ford will also realign factories to produce more fuel-efficient engines and will produce six of its next European cars for the U.S. market.

The New York Times also reported that Ford’s struggling Mercury brand will play a major roll in its new small-car strategy. Figures why there hasn’t been any word recently on future Mercury models .

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

While FoMoCo executives keep saying that Mercury is a very important brand of the company’s portfolio, dealers are worried mainly because execs have yet to give them a straight answer on future products and future strategy. Well, Ford has shined some light onto what it has planned for future Mercury models. However, with no future vehicles planned or any updates after the 2010 model year, the future for the sluggish brand doesn’t seem very promising.

The Mercury Milan will be updated for the 2009 model year along with the Milan for the 2010 model year. As we all know, Ford has planned a Mercury Milan hybrid for 2010 as well.

Mercury’s Sable model seems to be dying a slow death. Ford will introduced a redesigned and re-engineered Taurus for 2010 but the Sable, which shared the same platform, will not see any changes. According to sources, execs refuse to say whether Sable will receive any changes and the model could die as early as next year.

The Grand Marquis is expected to be phased out early next decade along with the Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car. In May, Ford told CAW that it will keep the St.Thomas, Ontiario plant, where the trio are built, open until 2011.

Ford is planning a huge change for the Escape and Escape hybrid. Sources say that Ford will use its European Ford Kuga as the basis for the next-generation Escape. Again, nothing is planned for the Mariner, which is Escape’s Mercury sibling. Ford is expected to drop the Mariner when it updates the Escape in 2012.

Last but not least – the Mercury Mountaineer will most likely be dropped when the next-generation Ford Explorer rolls around. The new unibody Explorer is expected to enter production in 2011. Suppliers and industry sources claim that Mountaineer will end production by 2010.

Well it seems like everything is dying in the Mercury pipeline – so why even debate if the brand will live?

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)