Archives for September 2014

2015 Ford C-Max Facelift | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 29, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The Paris Motor Show is underway and car manufacturers are ready to show off their latest updates. Ford is introducing the re-designed 2015 C-Max minivan in Europe, hoping to bring the new model to the U.S. later this year. Ford has produced the C-Max since 2003 for the European car market and introduced it in the U.S. in 2012. C-Max has proven to be a success since it attracts environmentally conscious minivan customers as it makes the perfect platform for hybrid and diesel models.

The new version introduces C-Max to Ford’s global design language, with the all-familiar grille and front fascia. The 2015 C-Max also gets upgraded ergonomics and a cabin redesign, including a cleaner and more minimalistic center console. For 2015, Ford got rid excess buttons and incorporates MyFord Touch display, which saves space and makes your Ford easier to use than ever.

The 2015 C-Max also addresses noise and stability updates, which make the new vehicle a pleasure to drive. Ford is also including the company’s latest technology, which features cross-traffic alert, park-out assist, and adaptive cruise control.

The European C-Max is introducing a turbo diesel engine, which promises to deliver 120 horsepower in its 1.5 liter version. Ford is also carrying over the 2.0 turbo diesel and 1.0 three-cylinder EcoBoost, as they offer great efficiency without sacrificing power.

Additionally, the 2015 model comes in a larger version, Grand C-Max. The Grand C-Max seats up to seven passengers and includes all the revisions the smaller model gets. There has been rumors about Ford bringing both versions to the U.S., which will make a nice addition to the small minivan market.

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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.

Buying a New Car? Here Are Some Tips | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 25, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Buying a new car can make for a nerve racking and mentally draining experience, especially if you don’t know what you are looking for. Often people start with only a price range, but that is really only the tip of the iceberg. When it comes to spending big money on a new car, follow these steps to make the best out of your investment.

Get Organized

When looking for a new car, writing down your thoughts can help organize your ideas. Educated purchase decisions become vital, so make sure to do your research. The first step to your purchase is to start with personal allowances. Allow yourself ample time and make sure you are thinking clearly with your head instead of making emotional verdicts. Split decisions when purchasing a car can lead to heartache and costly repairs. Approach every dealership with hope, but allow yourself the ability to walk away. It is good to compare and stack up the competition but it also lets the dealer know you are not desperate.

Do The Research

After you have taken the vow of patience, it is time for the nitty gritty, yet, essential chunk of the operation. Luckily, most of the research can be performed from the comfort of your own home. One of the most important factors in the equation is really knowing the value of your trade in. Do not let the dealership determine this for you. There are many resources online or off, Carmax or Kelly Blue Book are just a couple of examples. Begin your search by emailing various dealerships with a list of what you are looking for. This will help you conserve energy when it comes to the actual footwork,a s it will help you grasp a better idea of what you’re looking for. And before you even go in, make sure you are financed. Often times your bank will offer you a better interest loan than the dealership’s bank and knowing ahead how much money is available to you makes for a much smoother process.

Test Drive

Once you are ready to start meeting your potential next new car, take full advantage of the test drive. Test drives are a privilege that can really help you get a feel from a particular vehicle. Enjoy it. Use that filled gas tank and explore the city. A prolonged test drive is recommended so you can really get a feel for that acceleration, braking, throttle, engine noises, smells, gas mileage, working accessories, etc. Take your time.

Safety First

When choosing a vehicle and its equipment, much of it boils down to personal needs and opinions. Safety, however, should still be one of your top concerns. Look for built in front and side air bags, an alarm system, anti lock brakes, an anti-skid system and power locks. Navigation system is also a nice addition, making it easier to follow directions and look up information without having to access a separate unit.

Read The Fine Print

Once your selection has been made, research it. Do your homework and know how much you should pay and where you might find a better local deal. Make sure to get an itemized list from each prospective dealer that includes the vehicle sale price, tax, title and tags, as well as the vehicle’s specific vin number. By doing this you can really compare finalized notes and numbers. When you do finally sign that paperwork, make sure to read all the fine print.

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2015 Taurus SHO Specs | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 24, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

For years, Ford has released an SHO version of the Taurus, which is a top-of-the-line performance and technology trim. The 2015 SHO Taurus is an amazing example of a fully equipped full size sedan, with a powerful engine, a sporty feel and an executive interior. Here’s a look at the best features the SHO model’s got to offer.

Taurus Design

Ford is calling the all-new Taurus a perfect combination of looks and performance. Bold lines and a sporty stance make the Taurus SHO look menacing yet refined, and the exclusive Piano Black front grille adds a final touch of sophistication. The front, coupled with HID headlamps and a dropped down fascia showcase Ford design at its best. Down the sides, the lean and agile body opens up to fit giant 20 in machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets that compliment the black contrast across the Taurus.

The 2015 Taurus SHO offers an exclusive interior with two seat options: leather-trimmed seats with Miko suede inserts or all-black leather embroidered with the SHO logo. Both options are eligible for Multi-Contour seats with lumbar massage.

SHO Performance

SHO stands for Super High Output, and Ford made sure this Taurus lives up to its name. It all starts with a direct injection turbo-charged V6, which produces an incredible 365 horsepower, more than the V6 and EcoBoost Mustangs. The SHO is then coupled with AWD, which allows for fast acceleration and best traction in all situations. The standard AWD constantly monitors tire traction and distributes power where is needed.

To improve stability and handling, Ford added a sports-tuned suspension to the Taurus SHO. The new system includes redesigned shock absorbers and a multi-link rear suspension for better dynamic control.

Best Technology Package

The 2015 SHO Taurus gets tech updates in almost every area. The transmission is upgraded to a six-speed SelectShift automatic, which includes shift paddles and a sport mode setting. The exterior also gains standard HID headlamps and LED tail lights. Inside, Taurus SHO gets dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, power-adjustable pedals, MyKey, remote keyless entry, integrated remote start and a rear-view camera.

For 2015, Ford Taurus’ entertainment system comes standards with SiriusXM Satellite Radio, CD player with mp3 capability and am/fm radio. The main console is equipped with MyFord Touch, and 8 in. LCD touch display for easy access to music and other controls, and SYNC, Ford’s own voice-activated command system.

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2015 Mustang Performance | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 22, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

With the all-new 2015 Mustang scheduled to hit dealerships in December, the final specs are rolling in. Several car magazines have done their own tests and they all agree on one thing: the new Mustang is awesome! The 2015 Mustang comes in three engine configurations: a 3.7 liter V6 , a 4-cylinder turbo-charged Ecoboost, and a 5.0 GT.

The standard entry level engine is a 3.7 V6, and it was the first to introduce twin Ti-VCT technology to the Mustang lineup. The V6 produces 300 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft of torque, which ensure a fun ride. However, the best features are its standard equipment, which for 2015 include an independent-rear suspension, 17″ aluminum wheels, HID headlamps with signature lighting, dual exhaust, LED tail lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel and hand brake, and more. The V6 is definitely a great options for first time sports car buyers.

Next comes the four-cylinder EcoBoost, which produces more power and torque than the V6 while getting better gas mileage. The 2.3 is Mustang’s first EcoBoost as it now joins the rest of the Ford family. EcoBoost engines are designed to perform better than bigger legacy engines while reducing emissions. Thanks to its twin turbo-chargers and a new exhaust system, the EcoBoost Mustang hopes to be the most popular model.

Finally, we meet the powerful 5.0 V8. This GT model tops at 435 horsepower and 400 lb. of torque, thanks to improvements like a new intake manifold. The GT’s performance package includes 19 in wheels, a larger radiator, Brembo brakes, and updated suspension for better stability.

Remember to stop by Lamarque Ford and test drive the all-new Mustang next month.

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Ford’s Police Car Gets Smarter | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 19, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

In today’s day and age, compromising situations are present everywhere. All too often, a person won’t know that they are in danger until it is too late. That is why Ford is now extending our Surveillance Mode technology to be used in military applications as well as to the general public, including competitor automobile manufacturers.

Introduced in 2014 and designed specifically for the Ford Police Interceptor, Surveillance Mode technology has won the NOBLE Executive Award for convenience and safety. NOBLE, which stands for National Organization of Black Law Enforcement, is a public service institution that denotes it’s time to the enhancement of law enforcement through security and issue management.

The fine tuned mechanics of Surveillance Mode operating system are designed specifically for the busy police officer, sitting in their vehicle, buried in paperwork and unaware of his or her surroundings. The system is activated through an existing radar and rearview camera when a person approaches the vehicle from the outside. When the sensors are alerted, a chime begins to sound immediately. If the transport driver seat window is down, it will instantaneously roll up, the vehicle will lock all doors within and the exterior lights will begin flashing.

The technology was the product of collaboration between Ford Moto and InterMotive, a company rooted in Auburn, California. InterMotive specializes in the technological advances of control systems, warranting mobility and safety for various vehicle applications especially emergency response. Both parties are excited to extend the Surveillance Mode licensing to outside sources, creating a safer climate for a larger sample of the population.

Ford constantly develops cutting edge safety technology, which then makes available to other manufacturers. Last year, the company developed inflatable seat belts and the knee air-bag, both of which can be found on competitors’ vehicles.

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Ford’s Driver Assist: Ford F-150 | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 17, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ford has always found ways to bring the best driving experience to their vehicles, and 2015 will be no different. As part of their effort to bring meaningful changes to the automotive market, Ford is delivering Driver Assist package to F-150. Driver Assist, already present on many Ford models, is an interplay of sensors, cameras and computers that make driving safer than ever. Here are the ten most amazing features of Ford’s safety system.

Active Park Assist

Park Assist allows drivers to parallel park with no effort and is especially helpful when driving a large vehicle like the F-150. To achieve this, the system uses two ultrasonic sensors to measure the prospective parking spot, then determines the steering angles so the user can accelerate or break when needed.

Blind Spot Information System

Also known as BLIS, this system uses radar sensors to determine if on-coming traffic is on adjacent lanes. Located on the head-lamps, these sensors send signals to the rearview mirrors’ lights to alert the driver if a moving object is on their blind spot. Additionally, these sensors can detect moving objects when a driver is slowly backing up.

360 Degree Camera

Thanks to a set of four exterior cameras in the F-150, the Driver Assist package brings a birds-eye view of the vehicle right on your center console. That’s right, the system creates a virtual plane where Ford customers can see the top of their truck and any objects surrounding it. Getting out of a tight spot? We’ve got you covered.

Collision Warning And Cruise Control

This system measures the speed and distance of objects ahead of the vehicle, and automatically decreases speed, brakes, or alerts the driver when needed. It also works in concert with the cruise control to maintain adequate distances.

Curve Control

Curve Control was developed by Ford engineers to reduce the likeliness of turn-related accidents, which are more prone in trucks. The system works by measuring speed, steering and curve angle, and can reduce torque and apply breaks when it finds it necessary. Ford’s Curve Control can reduce a vehicle’s speed by up to 10 MPH in one second.

Smart Trailer Module

The 2015 F-150 Driver Assist package includes a system that notifies drivers when trailer lights aren’t working. This can potentially avoid citations and extra actions from drivers to replace light bulbs.

Multi-Contour Seats

Ford is calling these available seats the “antidote to a hard day on the job site.” The multi-contour massaging seats are available in the 2015 F-150’s Driver Assist package.

Lane-Keeping System

A small camera located between the windshield and rearview mirror constantly monitors the road and its lane markers. If the system detects lane changing, the driver is alerted by visual and audible signals, and can even use steering torque to correct the problem.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Although tire pressure monitoring is required in all vehicles by the NHTSA, Ford goes a step further and includes an individual tire monitor, which allows drivers to easily spot the pneumatic in need of air.

Hill Descent Control

This new technology builds on anti-lock brakes and assists the driver by slowing down the truck at a set speed, making safety and comfort a priority.

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Ford and Automatic Bring Siri To Cars | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 15, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

As in-car technology advances, not only can we control vehicle functions from our home, but we can now control our home components from our car. The Ford Motor Company is excited to announce the collaboration with Automatic Labs, manufacturer of the smart phone mobile driving assistant app. The acquisition will introduce Siri and an app called IFTTT, to affiliated vehicles both old and new.

Automatic Labs, a San Francisco based company, prides itself in creating an app and accessory that allocates automobile technology of the future to older cars. The accessory connects to a car’s data port, and makes available vital information that gives the driver feedback and score, to help them become more consistent in braking, accelerating and cruising. It also records driver history, MPG, and keeps track of gas prices. The app has a crash alert feature that alerts loved ones and emergency services in the event of an accident and it has a do not disturb feature which silences the user’s phone in route. The app also retrieves check engine codes and presents a list of nearby mechanics. It is used to help drivers remember where they parked and even assists in road trip mapping, visualization and expense tracking.

With Automatic Labs newly formed relationship with Ford, however, the technology is taking user experience to a whole new level. Siri integration allows Lincoln and Ford drivers to access all the familiar personal assistant commands through a push-to-talk button located on the steering wheel. This enhances safety and driver experience by allowing one to surf the web, send a text message, launch music playlists, respond to email or make calls, all while keeping both hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road.

Connectivity with IFTTT, an app which name is short for If This Than That, allows users to create conditional commands between services and devices. Users can program IFTTT to pull information from different sources and create what the app calls a “recipe.” Each recipe contains a trigger and then an action. For example, a user can program their vehicle with the trigger of pulling into driveway and then the action of alerting friends and family that they have arrived to their destination safely. Another example is to signal the vehicle that you are driving home and your thermostat in your house will automatically adjust itself to preferred climate.

According to sources, the app will be introduced at $99.95, and it will roll-out as an iOS 8 only app, grandfathering Ford and Lincoln models 2011 and newer. The app will reportedly be available online in October or November of 2014.

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2015 Ford Fusion Energi | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 11, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Riding on the success of its gasoline-only sibling, the 2015 Fusion Hybrid Energi is a serious choice for buyers considering plug-in vehicles. Ford is adding new technology and interior features for 2015, as the Fusion remains atop as the most comfortable an technologically advanced mid-size sedans. Here’s what the 2015 Ford Fusion Hybrid Energi has to offer.

Unique Hybrid Technology

The Fusion Energi pairs a powerful four-cylinder 2.0 gasoline engine with an electric motor, and can be driven as electric only, gas only or a combination of both. While most hybrids perform this way, the Fusion Energi can be charged by plugging it in to a home station and get extended range. On electric power alone, the 2015 Energi can travel up to 19 miles and reach speeds of up to 85 miles per hour.

Fusion’s Tech and Standard Features

For 2015, Ford has upgraded Fusion’s available standard features and now include a rear-view camera, SirusXM satellite radio, SYNC with MyFord Touch, LED tail lamps, and SmartGauge, amongst others. SmartGauge is Ford’ innovative way to provide real-time information about your driving and efficiency, and it features a dual LCD screen right on your dashboard for instant feedback. Ford has also developed a smartphone app to stay in touch with your car at all times, as it allows a user to schedule charging, start Fusion Energi remotely and more.

Ford Safety

As part of the Fusion’s standard features, Ford is including the latest safety technology. The Fusion includes front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and knee airbags, paired with Ford SYNC’s notification system that alerts 911 when a crash is detected. Other features like anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control are also standard equipment. Additionally, Ford’s optional safety features include BLIS blind spot monitoring system, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and inflatable rear seatbelts. The 2015 Ford Energi Plug-In has earned five stars for crash and side crash protection from the NHTSA.

2015 Fusion Energi Design

After its 2012 redesign the Ford Fusion stays virtually the same. 2015 offers some new improvements like LED taillamps, which glow brighter than conventional lights and have a longer lifetime, and projector laser-cut headlamps, which complement the contemporary design and have a bolder look.

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Ford’s Zero Waste-to-Landfill Facility | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 8, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ford’s Oakville Assembly plant in Canada is achieving a manufacturing milestone: zero waste-to-landfill status. Back in 2011, the Ford Motor Company set a goal to reduce global waste-to-landfill in their manufacturing facilities by 40 percent through 2016. As laid out in their sustainability and electric car strategies, Ford has come a long way and their efforts to build global-leading manufacturing operations are paying off. But what does it mean to achieve zero waste-to-landfill status and how is this accomplished? Let’s find out.

The Oakville Assembly plant sends zero operational waste to landfills, which means everything used in manufacturing gets either turned into a product or reused and recycled. This is no easy feat. Oakville manufactures the Lincoln MKX, Ford Flex, and Ford Edge, and is also Ford of Canada’s biggest manufacturing facility.

So Where Do We Start?

The first step, says Plant Manager Will Cowell, was to reduce the amount of materials used every day at the Ford facility. This includes less water consumption, less shipping packaging, less energy usage, etc. In other words, by finding a smarter way to use resources, the plant produces less waste, which is easier to manage.

Reusing and Recycling

In addition, the Ford facility reuses thousands of plastic bins and containers every day and recycle cardboard, wooden pallets and paper. Last year alone Oakville recycled almost 2,000 tons of materials, saving more than 8 million gallons of water. Also, the Ford plant filters the water used at the facility and sends the sludge collected to a power generating company.

The Future of Sustainability

As mentioned before, Ford has committed time and resources to ensure its facilities operate at a higher standard than others. Can you imagine if all manufacturing plants were zero waste-to-landfill? One single factory is already having a great beneficial impact on resources conservation and energy saving. Ford’s way to move forward is to plan ahead and work with communities to make this possible.

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2015 Ford Focus Electric | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

September 2, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

The 2015 Focus Electric is Ford’s zero emissions vehicle that builds on the most popular nameplate in the world. Ford Focus Electric was first introduced in 2012 and was Ford’s first fully electric vehicle. Focus has evolved into a real option for daily commuters looking to drive a comfortable and powerful green car. The 2015 Focus Electric takes on competitors like Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf with its updated features and always impressive range. Let’s look at the specs and upgrades that make the new Focus such a compelling option.

2015 Focus Electric New Features

While most of the design features stay the same, 2015 Focus Electric offers customers some exciting updates to last year’s model. MyFord and MyKey are now standard, as these help drivers have a more enjoyable driving experience. MyKey is a great tool for parents to encourage safe driving on teens, as it can be programmed to restrict speeds, radio volume and encourage seatbelt use. As part of the standard technology package, Focus Electric includes a rear-view camera, hill start assist and HD radio. The interior also gets an upgraded leather-wrapped parking brake and an all-new center console with two USB charging ports and easy access climate controls.

The new Electric Focus almost completely shares its exterior with its gasoline sibling. A few cosmetic changes to the grille, rear lamps and tailgate differentiate the electric model from the rest of the line-up.

A Great Platform

With an all-electric powertrain and a single speed automatic transmission, the 2015 Ford Focus Electric is a great option for most drivers. Based on the fuel-powered 2015 Focus, the electric model gets a tried and tested frame that customers around the world already trust. As part of this great platform, Ford Focus Electric inherits the best safety features, like seven standard airbags, electronic traction and stability control, and integrated hands free.

Remote Control? Check

As long as you have access to your Ford app and an internet connection, you can be in touch with your Focus Electric. The app allows owners to communicate with the vehicle in different ways, such as locating it by GPS or by remotely locking or unlocking the doors. It also allows for the app to receive vehicle information like charge level and alerts, even to pre-condition the car so owners can step in to their desired temperature.

Range Extended, Charge Time Reduced

The 2015 Ford Focus Electric gets an impressive 76 mile range on a single charge, allowing most city commuters to take daily trips to and from work with ease. Additionally, with the available 240-volt charging station, a full charge takes only 3.5 hours.

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