Archives for June 2014

Meet 2015 Focus ST | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

June 30, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

On June 24, Ford Motor Company revealed the new 2015 Ford Focus ST, which is the sports version of the comfy sedan. With the 2015 ST model, Ford is focusing on the driving experience, power and handling. Hence, the ST comes with upgraded image, performance and driving dynamics only found on more expensive sports cars.

Focus ST Exterior Features

For years, Ford Focus has been available in two different body styles, a roomy four door sedan and a five door hatchback. The 2015 Focus ST uses the hatchback body as it provides a sportier look and smoother body lines. The racing look is accomplished by upgraded front and rear fascias, which have more pronounced angles and wider air intakes than the family sedan. The front of the car is complemented by a pair of HID headlamps and an updated honeycomb grille that give it that mean Ford look. The ST is also closer to the ground for improved stability and handling at high speeds.

As part of the new design, Ford is throwing in 18-inch alloy wheels for the base model, which are uncommon for this vehicle category. For 2015 the Ford ST gains new appearance options like racing stripes, dual tip exhaust and a new color, Magnetic Metallic.

Driving and Engine Features

The engine and driving dynamics upgrades were conceived by Ford’s award-winning European performance division. Since the team set to make driving experience the main objective of the 2015 Focus ST, a new redesigned suspension was in order. The sports suspension in the Focus ST brings in new front springs and a new shock absorber tuning to give it a more dynamic and fun performance. Coupled with an updated electric steering, the new Focus ST is as agile as ever.

Under the hood, the Focus ST packs a powerful turbocharged direct-injection 2.0L EcoBoost. Who said you can’t have power without sacrificing performance? The 2.0 EcoBoost delivers 252 horsepower at 5500 rpms and is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, which guarantees a thrilling ride and great acceleration.

2015 Focus ST Interior Features

Ford team started with a new approach for the center console, which includes a redesigned control panel with a standard rear-view camera and improved finishes. Also new in the 2015 Focus ST is a media bin with a more powerful USB connection for faster charges for your device. Along the sides, new cup holders and storage compartments open up the cabin with more space for the driver and passenger, further improving the driving experience.

The new overall look of the cockpit resembles a small racing car, with new gauges indicating the turbo-charger’s pressure and oil temperature, as well as a flat-base sports steering wheel.

The 2015 Ford Focus ST will be available this fall and promises to be the one of the best cars in its category. Stay up to date and visit Lamarque Ford for more information.

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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.

2015 Ford Edge Redesign | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie

June 28, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The all-new 2015 Ford Edge is seeing a complete redesign and upgrades across the board. Ford has introduced a new global model and will be available in most markets around the world. After its introduction in 2006, Ford took the cross-over market by storm and the Edge grew popular in the Americas, Asia and Europe. The new “One Ford” approach promises to bring unified models that have an international appeal, as the company works with a global team of engineers and designers. Let’s see what the 2015 Edge has to offer from top to bottom.

Exterior

Most notable in the 2015 Ford Edge are its redesigned headlamps and grille, bringing it up to date with the current design language seen in the Fusion, Fiesta and Taurus. Ford has opted for a slightly larger body, with wheelbase measuring at 112.2 in and space added vertically and horizontally. The Edge’s side panels got leaner too, adding a stronger and more athletic deisgn. The rear of the 2015 Edge gets noticeable upgrades, like all-new taillights that mimic those found on more luxurious vehicles like Lexus and Lincoln. Overall, the new Edge has a more sophisticated and upscale look that follows Ford’s new design guidelines.

Interior

For 2015, Ford is retooling their mid-size crossover with a slew of new gadgets and driving assisting technologies. Although the interior layout remains largely unchanged, the 2015 Ford Edge gains about seven cubic feet of space and an all-new console. Here are the upgrades:

Adaptive Steering. This technology allows for tighter turns at low speeds and more dynamic steering on the highway. Adaptive steering accomplishes this by changing the ratio between speed and the steering wheel.
Lane-Keeping System. Ford Edge uses a front camera and ultrasonic sensors to alert the driver if the car drifts off its lane. Although the vehicle won’t take over steering, it will produce a strong vibration on the steering wheel.
BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert. It stands for Blind Spot Information System and it uses two rear sensors to warn the driver when other cars enter the vehicle’s blind spots. It also warns for coming traffic when backing up at slow speeds.
Adaptive Cruise Control. The 2015 Ford Edge can detect traffic ahead and slow down until traffic has cleared.
Active Park Assist. Thanks to its available ultrasonic sensors and cameras, Ford Edge helps you park in most parking situations, parallel or perpendicular.
180º Camera. The new front camera literally lets you see around corners as it can see ahead of every turn.

Engines

The 2015 Ford Edge engine lineup is kind of a big deal. It is the first time Ford is offering its EcoBoost technology standard for the entry level model, which speaks volumes on the confidence the company has found with these engines. The base model EcoBoost sports a 2 liter, 4 cylinder design with a twin-scroll turbo that delivers enough power and fuel efficiency for a comfortable ride. Next is the most powerful offering, a V6 2.7 liter EcoBoost with 300 horsepower and impressive handling, thanks to its turbo-charger and direct injection fuel system. The 2015 Edge also carries over the 3.5 V6 which delivers 285 horsepower.

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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.

EcoBoost 1.0-Liter Engine Explained | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

June 27, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Earlier this week, the Ford EcoBoost 1.0-liter engine won the 2014 International Engine of The Year Award. The prize is given to the best engines in different categories and are judged on fuel economy, smoothness, performance and drivability. The 1 liter Ecoboost excels in just about every category, with its punchy acceleration and remarkable fuel efficiency, this three-cylinder engine can take on any competition. Other runner-ups in the Ecoboost’s category included BMW, Volkswagen, Fiat and Renault. Let’s take a closer look at the engineering behind the Ford Ecoboost engine.

Why EcoBoost?

Ford designed the EcoBoost technology from the ground up to bring power and torque to small displacement engines, resulting in improved fuel efficiency of up to 20%. Although Ford offers many engine sizes as part of their EcoBoost line, they’ve found great success in the small car market with its tiniest configuration: a one-liter, turbocharged three cylinder engine. With its introduction in 2012, 1.0 liter EcoBoost has set a new bar for performance and efficiency.

Seen by many as a laggard in fuel economy by the turn of the century, Ford has completely repositioned its brand and strategy as the American option for the green consumer. After the market flooded with Japanese and Korean fuel efficient competitors, many car manufacturers got caught off guard and realigned their priorities for the American market. Ford has been selling smaller engine cars in Europe for decades, but those vehicles never appealed the United States consumers until very recently.

1.0-Liter EcoBoost Engine Features

As we mentioned before, the engine is built around one key premise: better torque and power without sacrificing fuel economy. To get the most out of this tiny engine, Ford Team worked hard to rethink the purpose of each part. The build starts with a cast iron engine block, which some might point out as old-school or heavy, as aluminum is the trend on lighter cars. However, Ford engineers assure that since the engine is so small (less than a foot long), the cast iron works on its favor since is stronger and more rigid. Aluminum is used for the redesigned cylinder heads to improve fuel-to-air ratio. The main feature of the 1.0 Ecoboost engine is its turbocharger. The turbocharger acts as a turbine that forces more air and gasoline into the engine, thus producing more power at the same revolutions per minute than a car without it. The engine also uses a proprietary cooling system attached to the cylinder heads, which lowers exhaust temperatures and improves the fuel-to-air ratio. Since the EcoBoost produces so much power in such a small engine, a great amount of friction is generated in the piston chamber, which could negatively affect performance. Ford engineers, however, had an answer for this and redesigned the pistons, adding a special anti-friction coating, low-tension piston rings and low-friction crank seals.

What Cars Use 1.0 EcoBoost?

The smallest EcoBoost engine is found in a wide range of Ford vehicles, including some only available in international markets. The models include Focus, C-Max, B-Max, Fiesta, Ecosport and Mondeo. In the U.S., the 1 liter EcoBoost is best known in the Ford Fiesta, as it has the perfect combination of a small body with a powerful engine. The EcoBoost Ford Fiesta is already in dealerships and you can test drive one today at Lamarque Ford.

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2015 Mustang Features| Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 25, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The all-new 2015 Mustang is scheduled to make its debut later this fall and we couldn’t be more excited. Rumors keep rolling in that Ford is ceasing manufacturing of the current model as it readies production lines for the 2015 Ford Mustang, so we decided to give you an in-depth look at the latest version of the legendary car. We’ve already covered a few key aspects of the vehicle, like the 2015 Mustang aerodynamics and the celebration surrounding its 50th anniversary, but today we’ll wrap-up the official information from the company. Find out what makes the new Mustang so special and why we’re so thrilled about this legendary muscle car.

Mustang Design Features

The 2015 Mustang shares little with its predecessors, as the new car has been completely redesigned. The most noticeable change comes to the front of the car, as the hood has been lowered significantly and the headlights came forward. This affects the whole silhouette of the car and it projects a more aggressive look, giving the Mustang a longer hood and more recessed cabin. From front to back, the bold lines chiseled on the side panels take you to the Mustang’s slimmed down ‘hips’, which have as much taste as they have an aerodynamic purpose. The rear wheels, however, are offset twenty millimeters outwards on each side, giving the 2015 Mustang a wider back fender which complements the muscle car look.

Despite the full redesign, the 2015 model is unmistakably a Mustang. The new silhouette and roof line helped modernize the car, while giving it the fastback profile reminiscent of the 1964 and 1965 models. The design team also set to give Mustang a more three-dimensional look, which is visible on the surfacing of the taillights and the side panels.

Performance

Although the company has been mum about horsepower and fuel rating, details about engine configurations and trims are readily available. The base model sports a 3.7 liter V6, similar to the current 2014 offering that achieves 305 horsepower with a manual transmission. New to the line-up is a 4 cylinder Ecoboost Mustang, with a 2.3 liter engine and the signature turbocharger seen across these fuel efficient engines. Ford assures that the high-capacity direct injection system and the twin-scroll low-inertia turbocharger will give Mustang Ecoboost an improved time-to-torque and exhilarating driving dynamics. As always, a 5.0 liter V8 joins the party with a promised increase in performance.

Technology Improvements

Ford has designed the 2015 Mustang completely around the driver’s needs, hence all the new features serve the daunting task of enhancing driving experience. All 2015 Mustangs come standard with intelligent access / push-to-start button technology, which means that as long as the key is on you, you can unlock and start the car without reaching into your pocket. Blind Spot Information System is also available, a system that warns you when vehicles are approaching you from blind spots.

The Convertible

The Ford Motor company has in essence designed two different 2015 Mustangs, the fastback and the convertible. Ford claims the 2015 drop top was conceived from the ground up to be a convertible, and its lines and styling show just that. Whether the top is up or down, the 2015 Mustang has a great character and an undeniable Mustang look.

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2015 Ford Explorer Features| Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie

June 23, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ford is bringing big upgrades to the 2015 Ford Explorer, as the manufacturer readies new changes across its whole line-up. From the all-new redesigned 2015 Mustang, to the powerful 2015 F-150, Ford is getting serious about staying atop of the competition. Consumers looking for a roomy third-row seater should keep the 2015 Ford Explorer in mind, as it offers excellent comfort and fuel efficiency. Let’s look at what the new Explorer has to offer.

Engine Specs

The new Ford Explorer offers three engine options, all of which deliver outstanding fuel economy and power. The base model is a 3.5 liter V6 with 290 horsepower, giving drivers enough muscle for a fun ride, smooth acceleration and quick lane changes. Next is the 2.0 liter Ecoboost, a surprisingly powerful four-cylinder engine that delivers 240 horsepower. Thanks to its direct injection and turbo-charger, the 2.0 Ecoboost has claimed the best-in-class fuel economy with 23 combined mpg. The 2015 Ford Explorer is also available in the top of the line 3.5 liter Ecoboost: a six-cylinder beast with 365 horsepower, standard Intelligent 4WD and a twin turbo-charger.

2015 Explorer Trims

For the new 2015 Ford Explorer the manufacturer is introducing the Sport edition, a new trim level that redefines the term “fully loaded”. For starters, the Sport trim is the only way to get V6 Ecoboost goodness and standard Intelligent 4WD, which constantly monitors several driving factors to give you the best torque on each wheel. Aside from the leather trimmed seating surfaces, rear-view camera and reverse sensing system, the Explorer Sport boasts a sport-tuned suspension and PowerFold third row seat. The last option allows consumers to fold down the last row of seats with the push of a button. An additional equipment package upgrades your 2015 Explorer Sport to inflatable rear seat belts, voice-activated navigation system, heated/cooled driver and passenger seats and a power lift gate.

Redesigned 2015 Body

With the introduction of the Sport trim, the 2015 Explorer refresh focuses on a more youthful and sportier look. As part of the new package, the new Explorer gains 20-in machined aluminum wheels, a black-body side cladding, roof rack rails and an Explorer hood badge. The interior also gets a revamp with new leather trimmed seats with Miko suede inserts, two LCD screens, two USB ports and a card reader.

Here’s the wrap-up of the new features the 2015 Ford Explorer has to offer:

New appearance package for Explorer XLT which includes:
- Grille and mirror caps painted Magnetic Metallic
- New Explorer hood badge
- Roof rack rails
- 20-in machined aluminum wheels
- Black body-side cladding
- SYNC with MyFord Touch
- Two 4.2-inch color LCD screens for the instruments cluster
- 8 inch color touch LCD
- Two USB ports
- SD card reader
- Leather trimmed with Miko suede inserts
18-in machined aluminum wheels standard for base model
Three new colors:
- Magnetic Metallic
- Caribou Metallic
- Bronze Fire Metallic Tinted Clearcoat

Visit Lamarque Ford online to view our current 2015 Explorer inventory and take one for a spin.

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Quick Lane Car Service: Auto Repair, Oil Change and More | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

June 18, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for the best place to get your car serviced, look no further. Lamarque Ford of New Orleans offers Quick Lane, an extraordinary service center for car maintenance, windshield replacement, oil change and more. Quick Lane’s auto shop has the best factory-trained experts and latest technology to get the job done right, the first time. Other auto repair shops use generic brands and inferior parts, but Quick Lane is committed to the highest quality available for any make and any model. Also, Quick Lane understands you might have a busy schedule, so we’re open weekdays from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm and Saturdays from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm, no appointment necessary!

Aside from outstanding customer service and the highest quality parts, Quick Lane’s auto body shop offers a wide range of services for all brands. Take a look:

Air Conditioning System. We carry the best parts from Motorcraft® and perform all a/c services like tune-ups, flush, replacing and repairing of hoses, and the inspection of all of the cooling system’s components.
Alignment. If you live in the New Orleans area, you most likely drive through pot holes, which can damage your vehicle steering and alignment system. We’ll perform a road test to determine what’s causing your vehicle to pull right or left and restore your car’s alignment for improved fuel efficiency and handling.
Alternators & Electrical Service. Today’s cars wiring is complicated and delicate. Let the professional auto mechanics at Quick Lane take care of your vehicle’s electric system.
Batteries. A faulty battery can damage your car’s alternator or computer, so don’t wait until it is too late. Quick Lane offers fast battery test and replacement, no appointment necessary.
Belts & Hoses. Belt and hose failure can cause major problems in your vehicle, like overheating, loss of steering and electrical problems. We’ll perform a thorough hose inspection for leaks and belt tension test.
Brake Services. As we’ve said it before, your vehicle’s brakes are vital for your safety. Bring your car to Quick Lane to do a brake check-up and ensure your brake shoes, pads, rotors and drums are in working order.
Cooling System Maintenance. It’s summer time New Orleans, which means 100º weather is the norm. Your radiator and cooling system can take a hit, so be sure to monitor your temperature gauge. Visit us to have your radiator and fans inspected by factory-trained technicians.
Lamps & Bulbs. A burned-out headlamp or taillight can not only earn you a traffic ticket, but it can cause a serious car accident. Don’t put off replacing a light bulb and stop by Quick Lane today. We carry most replacements in stock.
Oil Change & Essential Maintenance. Getting your oil changed is the easiest way to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Our car maintenance center uses quality filters and the best oil grade to improve fuel economy and engine performance.
Suspension & Steering. Quick Lane’s comprehensive suspension inspection looks at worn shocks, struts, and steering components. In addition, we’ll check all fluids and lubricate the ball joints.
Tires. We offer a great selection of tires from the best manufacturers: Michelin, BFGoodrich, Uniroyal, GoodYear, Dunlop, Kelly Tires, Continental Tire, General Tire, Hankook, Pirelli, Bridgestone, Firestone, Yokohama and many more. Quick Lane at Lamarque Ford also rotates, balances, and install your tires.
Transmissions. Our auto repair shop provides scheduled maintenance for transmissions, which include thorough inspection, new fluids, and new filters. Come see Quick Lane if you’re experiencing shifting problems, as a poor lubricated transmission can lead to expensive repairs down the line.
Wiper Blades. Rain season is upon us and visibility is key. Stop by our car maintenance center for a quick inspection and we’ll determine if your wiper blades need to be replaced.

Next time your car is up for service keep Quick Lane at Lamarque Ford in mind. Our services also include free vehicle check-up report and free tire and battery inspection. Also, the first Saturday of every month we offer new owner clinics, to get the best out of your new Ford. Come experience great customer service as you wait for your vehicle, even on Saturdays!

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2015 Ford Flex Features | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 12, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The 2015 Ford Flex retains its spot as the go-to vehicle for trendy families. Since its introduction in 2009, Flex has redefined the family car segment as it brings new options to the table. With its classic yet refined looks, the Flex is a great SUV or minivan alternative, as it can seat up to seven passengers comfortably. For the 2015 model year, the crossover comes in three different engine/drive train combinations, three trims and dozens of other options from navigation to roof color.

Engine Specs

The 2015 Ford Flex offers three engine/drive configurations: a base V6 front-wheel drive, a V6 all-wheel drive, and the famed Ecoboost engine. The entry level option provides an exceptionally well balanced engine, giving drivers unmatched power and fuel economy as the standard option for all trims. For those who prefer, Ford is offering an all-wheel drive variation of the same engine, allowing consumers to take the Flex off-road. Optional on the Flex Limited is the top of the line V6 turbo-charged Ecoboost, which delivers 365 hp.

New Interior Features

Overall, the 2015 Flex has an attractive modern design and a roomy layout, as it carries over the versatility of the previous version. The front console is equipped with a standard stereo system with an input jack and SYNC with MyFord, which is upgraded to a responsive touch screen on the SEL and Limited versions. Tech lovers are going to enjoy the enhanced features of the Flex Limited, as it includes a 12 speaker Sony audio system, Navigation with Sirius XM and HD radio technology, and standard rear-view camera.

Tech features aside, the base model Flex SE comes standard with delicate cloth power seats, auto-fold second row and temperature control. Limited and SEL trims get an upgrade to leather seats and automatic climate control. For 2015, Ford is including some awesome family-minded features like grocery bag hooks, cargo nets, extra storage pockets and cup holders, even an optional refrigerated console for drinks and snacks. Remember to test drive the Ford Flex today and keep it in mind as your next family ride!

Exterior Features

Here’s where 2015 Ford Flex shines, retaining its classic and stylish design which set it aside from the competition. What other family vehicle comes standard with reverse-sensing system, halogen headlamps and integrated blind spot mirrors? Competitors’ SUVs and crossovers will make you pay dearly for these features, if they offer them at all. An upgrade to the SEL trim will get you a myriad of practical features like a power liftgate, fog lamps and cross-traffic alerts system.

If you’re in the market for a family hauler, check out the 2015 Ford Flex personally, as it offers top of the line features and a stylish wagon design. Ford has put in a lot of effort to make the Flex stand out and provide both drivers and passengers the best comfort and experience.

Trim Comparison

Lastly, here’s a short recap of what each 2015 Ford Flex has to offer:

Ford Flex SE

Only engine option is 3.5 V6 FWD
Six shift SelectShift Automatic transmission
Front-wheel drive
17-in aluminum wheels
6-way power driver seat
SYNC with MyFord

Ford Flex SEL

Same options as SE plus:

Available AWD engine/drive configuration
Standard 18-in aluminum wheels
10-way power driver seat
Optional leather-trimmed seats
Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control
Standard SiriusXM Satellite radio
SYNC with MyFord Touch
Standard wood appearance appliqués
Garage door opener
Standard Cargo net
Heated front seats
Optional rear-view camera

Ford Flex Limited

Same options as SEL plus:

Optional turbo-charged V6 Ecoboost engine
Available AWD
Standard 19-in painted aluminum wheels/available 20-in
Standard perforated leather seats
Standard Sony audio system with 20 speakers
Available DVD entertainment system
HD Radio technology
Standard ambient lighting
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Memory for driver’s seat and mirrors
Laminated front door glass
Available second-row console
110v inverter outlets
Standard rear-view camera
Optional adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning
Push-button start
Optional cooled front seats
Standard power liftgate
HID headlamps
Body color exterior mirrors
Rain-sensing wipers
More exterior color options

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2015 Ford Fiesta: New Features | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

June 10, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Today, the Ford Fiesta has become the go-to model for a growing number of Americans that care about the environment but don’t want to sacrifice a fun ride. With the 2015 Ford Fiesta rolling out soon, here are some features and specifications to look out for in the upcoming model including a turbo-charged Ford Ecoboost engine.

Features: What’s New?

Following the Fiesta’s facelift in 2014, the 2015 Ford Fiesta remains virtually unchanged for the upcoming model. However, reports suggest a new color and a small price reduction might be on their way. Even when left untouched, the Fiesta retains its spot in the top five affordable small vehicles. Year after year, Ford has proven to have a strong contender in the Fiesta, as it carries over an impressive engine lineup and options only found in bigger sedans.

Exterior

The 2015 Ford Fiesta will return with two available body configurations, a hatchback and a sedan, and three engine options. The base model is an efficient 4-cylinder engine, offering up to 120 horsepower and 31 mpg combined. Entry level buyers should remain confident as the base Fiesta S offers enough punch and comfort to rival other cars in its price range. Ford will also be offering two turbo-charged Eco-Boost engine options: a 3-cylinder for the SE and Titanium models and a 4-cylinder performance option for the speedy ST version.

Interior

The interior of the new 2015 Ford Fiesta will feature AppLink capabilities for voice control function along with Ford SYNC for a complete hands-free experience for navigation and listening to music. The upcoming model will also feature an emergency assist system that notifies emergency services if a car accident occurs. For added safety, the 2015 Fiesta will also feature a driver knee airbag in addition to the standard dual front airbags.

Benefits of a Compact Car?

Although the Ford Fiesta is an affordable compact, it is not necessarily targeted at low-budget consumers. Anyone looking for great fuel economy should make the Fiesta an option. Reviewers of the sporty Fiesta ST praise its maneuverability and fast throttle response, and the fully-equipped versions stack up well against entry level luxury cars. Let’s also remember the engine offered in the ST model is the same found in the larger Ecoboost Ford Fusion, a 3,400 lb. vehicle (the Fiesta ST weighs 700 lbs. less!). Ford has found the perfect balance in the Fiesta with world-class fuel efficiency and a small-car, big-engine approach for the thrill-seeking driver.

Competition

In today’s crowded car market, competition has many names. Virtually every car manufacturer today offers subcompact models, from Honda’s Fit, the Fiat 500, Mazda 3 and Kia Rio, consumers have more options than ever. Still, Ford Fiesta stays ahead of the competition and shines where others don’t. Let’s recap and look at all the options Ford has to offer:

Hatch back/sedan options
Ecoboost technology and ST sport models available
World-class fuel efficiency
Fun to drive (many other compacts fall short here)
Latest technology available, like MyFord Touch, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic temperature control, sport seats, etc.
Top-of the line design

Let’s hope Ford surprises us for 2015 with more extra features or a new diesel engine, as the manufacturer already offers clean diesel versions of the Fiesta in Europe. In the meantime, let’s enjoy what the current model has to offer and head to your local Ford dealership for a test drive.

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Ford Lightweight Concept Announced | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie

June 6, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For the last few years, The Ford Motor Company has invested heavily in new technologies and it has paid off. Next year, the company will be introducing a redesigned Mustang and F-150, which show Ford’s fast paced implementation and commitment to research. As with most models, concept cars and prototypes become part of the learning process in which engineers understand the actual pros and cons of new materials and manufacturing processes. Last week, Ford introduced a new prototype model to explore the lightweight technologies future models will use.

Ford Lightweight Concept

The Ford Lightweight is a concept car that builds on existing technologies developed for the all-new 2015 Ford F-150. The vehicle’s body seemingly resembles a Ford fusion, except it weighs in at only 700 lbs. Ford has achieved this through a new process for manufacturing high-strength steel for the frame and a new aluminum alloy for the body. The result? A full-size sedan that weighs as little as a Ford Fiesta.

Future Development

Ford’s new blueprint for sustainability means the company is focusing on better performance, improved fuel efficiency and less carbon emissions. With their latest push in materials research, Ford has found that weight has as much to do with fuel efficiency as does the engine and driving habits. Hence, the benefits of a lighter, stronger car are immense.

Additionally, Ford has found great success in prototype development as it’s currently enjoying increasing sales around the world and an array of new models coming next year. Prototype vehicles are used by car manufacturers as a learning medium and give them the flexibility to test different materials, engines and production techniques before

Other Prototypes

Prior to announcing the 2015 F-150, Ford introduced the “Atlas” concept, a full size truck with a bolder design, LED headlights and an aluminum and steel body. Ford engineers used the design to test and refine elements that eventually led to the F-150. Throughout the process, Ford research team was able to determine whether or not the aluminum alloy would withstand extreme conditions, such as construction sites and long hauling trips.

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Ford Certified Pre-Owned: Best Used Cars | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

June 3, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

If you’re in the market for a car, you’re probably looking at both new and used vehicles. While we understand a new car will offer the best bang for your buck, used cars are a more viable option when on a strict budget. However, used cars tend to have a bad reputation as there are many unknowns, like the car’s service history, accident reports, hidden problems and the overall state of the engine, transmission and frame. Fortunately, there’s Ford Certified Pre-Owned (Ford CPO), a testing and inspection program that ensures you get the best quality Fords out there. Let’s take a look at the basics.

Testing and Inspection

As part of the Ford Certified Pre-Owned program, Ford thoroughly tests and inspects each certified pre-owned model to meet only the highest quality standards, covering a wide range of items. Each test specifically targets common known problem areas of wear and tear and addresses them by repairing or replacing the parts affected. In addition, all certified Fords have been driven for less than 80,000 miles, which guarantees engine and other parts are in great condition before even being inspected! Here’s an overall look at the inspection process:

Vehicle’s History. It addresses VIN inspection, service or manufacturer’s recalls, scheduled maintenance and emissions stickers.
Road Test. Focuses on the actual drivability of the vehicle. Items like engine starts, acceleration, cruise control, break performance, shocks, cabin noise and dashboard gauges are checked.
Vehicle Exterior. This is your car’s first line of defense against the elements and it requires a comprehensive inspection. Certified Ford technicians look at body panels, bumpers, doors, handles and their operating mechanisms. Mirrors, windshields and lights are also tested during this part of the process.
Vehicle Interior. In this step, everything from the air conditioning to the stereo system are inspected. We pay especial attention to the vehicle’s safety features like airbags and seat-belts, so you can rest assured your Ford will retain its safety rating.
Diagnostics. Aside from visual and mechanical inspections, we run a self diagnostic for all CMDTCs (Continuous Memory Diagnostic Trouble Codes).
Underhood. All the vehicle’s fluids are checked, flushed and replaced if needed. The engine’s belts, hoses, moving parts and wiring are inspected, along with the cooling, fuel and electrical systems. As you can see, nothing in our certified cars goes unnoticed.
Underbody. From bumper to bumper, we look at the used car’s underbody and determine its frame strength and transmission and exhaust performance. We also look at a vehicle’s most important (and often overlooked) safety features: your wheels, tires and breaking system.

Benefits

Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are more than just a used car. As you learned, Ford takes quality very seriously and it’s confident on its testing process. That’s why every Ford CPO comes with a 12-month/12,000 mile comprehensive limited warranty coverage and a 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, which covers engine, transmission, steering, electrical components and much more. See the full list of Ford CPO limited warranty coverage. Ford also offers 24/7 roadside assistance for the whole duration of the limited warranty coverage.

Where Do I Get One?

We’re glad you ask. Lamarque Ford of New Orleans offers a great selection of used vehicles, including Ford Certified Pre-Owned. From Mustangs to F-150s, you’ll find just the Ford you’re looking for. Come visit us today so we can show you our current inventory and experience the Lamarque customer service.

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