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2016 Ford Explorer New Features | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

December 17, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Celebrating 25 years in the market, Ford Explorer is getting a makeover for 2016. The new model, although not fully re-designed, introduces new engines and interior and exterior changes. Introduced in 1991, the Explorer redefined the SUV market and is again setting the bar high. First seen as a concept in the 2014 Los Angeles Auto show, the 2016 Ford Explorer becomes more chic and upscale thanks to its new Platinum trim.

The New Engine

Back in 2011, Ford introduced the four-cylinder EcoBoost Ford Explorer, a breakthrough in SUV performance technology. The 2 liter turbo-charged engine offered the best fuel efficiency with no compromises. Today, after customers asked for more power, Ford is delivering an upgraded version. Developed for the 2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost, the all-new 2.3 liter engine gains 30 more horsepower, for a total of 270.

New 2016 Explorer Platinum

The new Explorer Platinum brings new features only seen on expensive luxury SUVs. Ford’s strategy to expand their trim portfolio and move upmarket has worked very well. The new Platinum trim fulfills consumer demand for more technology and top-of-the-line packages.

The interior features brushed aluminum and real satin-finished ash wood on the instrument panel and on all doors. The heated steering wheel gets the same wood treatment plus a unique stitching over the leather, topped-off with a brushed aluminum Ford oval. The 2016 Explorer Platinum also gets a Sony 500 watt sound system with Live Acoustic Clearphase Technology, which eliminates sounds dispersion and recreates better sound dynamics. At the center of it all, a 10-in digital display controls your music, climate and maps.

The Platinum trim brings Ford’s best safety technology, including active-park assist, lane-keeping system, and rain-sensing wipers. The exterior also gets exclusive LED lighting, a dual-panel moonroof, 20-in wheels and a new chrome exhaust system. The 2016 Explorer Platinum gets an intelligent four-wheel drive, which constantly monitors terrain, speed, throttle position and steering wheel angle up to 20 times per second.

Take a look at the specs for the most popular models:

Base 2016 Explorer

3.5L Ti-VCT V6 Engine
6-speed SelectShift® Automatic Transmission
AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™
SYNC® with MyFord®

2016 Explorer XLT

Base model options plus following
Fog lamps
Reverse sensing system
LED signature lighting

2016 Explorer Platinum

3.5 V6 EcoBoost Engine
AWD
Nirvana leather seats
500 watt Sony audio system
Dual-panel moonroof
Unique LED glow lights

Although the 2016 Explorer won’t be available until next summer, you can take a look at our current inventory here.

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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.

Ford Sync 3: New Infotainment System | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

December 15, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Last week Ford announced it is replacing its widely used MyFord Touch for a more modern, functional version. MyFord Touch is Ford’s current in-dashboard infotainment system, which combines radio, music listening and other commands with a touch screen. After tweaking the platform for several years, the company has decided to migrate to a more widely supported software, making it easier to connect with smartphones and run third-party apps.

Ford is also dropping its long time partner, Microsoft, which provided the base software for MyFord Touch. The new system called Sync 3, will rely on the QNX software, Blackberry’s proprietary platform that powers many other operating systems, including their own smartphones. By using QNX, Ford is able to introduce new features and simpler and more intuitive commands. For instance, the new system will be able to run apps like Spotify and Pandora and has a closer integration with Siri. iPhone users will now be able to control Siri with the touch of a button though a feature called “Siri eyes free.”

Ford is rolling out the new system on some 2015 models and wishes to replace MyFord Touch entirely by 2016. The ambitious plan comes after ratings for the current system weren’t as favorable, so Ford listened to its customers and decided to change course. With over 22,000 customer suggestions and countless research clinics and market surveys, Sync 3 aims to be exactly what Ford owners want. Sync 3 will become the standard system for upscale Ford and Lincoln models and will be available for mid-range trims. AppLink will remain the low-end option for other connected Fords.

Here’s the full list of new features available on Sync3 3:

A more intuitive interface, with crisper graphics and pinch-and-zoom gestures
Improved voice recognition, with simpler commands and more natural speaking voice
Increased smartphone connectivity, the system can detect compatible apps and display them on the screen for better interactions
Wi-Fi network integration, for faster updates and smart-home connectivity
Emergency 911 Assist, which automatically dials 911 in case of an emergency, using a Bluetooth connection
Siri Eyes Free, which allows iPhone users to access Siri by touching one button

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Ford F-150 Hybrid In The Works | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

December 10, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ford just introduced the all-new 2015 F-150, which features a re-designed exterior, new LED light technology and a new engine line-up. However, confirmed reports indicate that a new hybrid pickup truck is in the works. Other manufacturers have introduced hybrid trucks with little to no success, but we think Ford can get it right since the new F-150 features an ultra-light all-aluminum body. Here’s what we know.

Raj Nair, Ford global product development chief, said customers can expect a hybrid F-150 “sometime this decade,” which makes sense given the fuel-efficient focus of the company. Since hybrid pickup trucks use smaller gasoline engines coupled with electric motors, they can really benefit from weight reduction improvements. Ford has been working on the aluminum body for years and has put it through some tough tests.

So what can we expect in the meantime? Ford wants to get the hybrid F-150 right and it’s going to take some time before we see it in the showrooms. However, Ford’s strategy for more energy efficient vehicles is underway. They now offer a strong line-up of EcoBoost engines, hybrid vehicles and electric cars.

EcoBoost models are available across the board. In the compact department, Ford offers a 3-cylinder Fiesta and 4-cylinder Focus. Mid-size and full-size sedans come in the shape of EcoBoost Fusion and Taurus, respectively. Ford has even extended this technology to their SUVs and crossovers, giving Explorer, Flex and Escape new engines. EcoBoost engines are designed to maximize power with minimal consumption by the use of a turbo-charger.

The 2015 F-150 adds two EcoBoost engines to its line-up. The first is a 2.7 V6 with 325 horsepower, rated at 375 pounds of torque. The second, a 3.5 V6 with 365 horsepower and 420 pounds of torque, which performs better than competitors’ V8 models.

We hope to get more F-150 Hybrid news in the coming weeks and we’ll keep you posted of any new developments.

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Gas Prices Plummet In Time For Holiday Season | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

December 9, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Thanks Giving drivers were greeted last week with a surprise at the pump: gas prices have been dropping consistently and are now at record lows, which started a driving craze. Now that we’re back at work, the trend seems to keep going. But for how long? Will this drive an SUV and big engine boom, as some suggest? Let’s follow the money and get to the bottom of this.

As you may already know, crude oil production (and a million other factors) dictates refined gasoline prices. So what happens when when there’s an overproduction of oil and a surplus of refined gasoline? Prices go down. So low in fact, that we’re are seeing recession level prices, when demand was low and production was up. So what does this mean for consumers and car manufacturers?

There’s this theory floating around that we might see an increase in SUV and big car sales, which we think is silly to associate it to the gas price phenomenon. For one, Ford’s SUV division has been growing constantly, with or without low gas prices. Second, car buyers moved away from big, inefficient engines not just because of crude oil prices, but because they actually care about the environment. The new generation of drivers has fueled (no pun intended) an increase on powerful yet efficient cars, like the EcoBoost series from Ford.

So in the mean time, let’s not freak out. A quick look at this 10 year average gas price in the U.S. tells us gas prices are historically higher than today. Although it is great for consumers to have access to cheap gas, we need to think about the other side of the coin. Just this morning, some news outlets were discussing oil companies planning on laying-off workers because of this same reason. Also, some lawmakers are in talks to increase gasoline taxes, since prices have dropped. So is there a happy medium?

While every driver would like to pay $2.00 or less for a gallon, others will argue there needs to be a sustainable gasoline market, both for consumers and producers. Remember, you don’t need to sacrifice power and speed to get great fuel efficiency. In 2009 Ford introduced its first EcoBoost, which is a line of small, turbo-charged engines that deliver great power and little fuel consumption. Today, almost every Ford vehicle comes in an EcoBoost configuration, form the sporty 2015 Mustang, to the powerful F-150.

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25 Days Of Christmas | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

November 24, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Today we’re kicking off our annual 25 Day Of Christmas promotion. As a way to build up support and toy donations for Children’s Hospital, for every dollar Lamarque Ford gives away, the dealership will match it in toys.

The holidays are a time for family, giving, and togetherness. Whether you celebrate one tradition or the other the holidays bring the best in us and help us look back and appreciate what we have. Lamarque Ford wants to thank the New Orleans community for choosing our dealership.

The promotion consists of daily $100 gas card giveaways for 25 days straight (except Sundays). Participants can enter through Lamarque Ford’s Facebook page by clicking on the Sweepstakes tab or following the link on the post pinned to the top. Every day new winners will be selected and the contest will start all over again.

Again this year Ronnie Lamarque, Owner of Lamarque Ford and Mercedes-Benz of Mobile, will visit Children’s Hospital and deliver gifts to the patients and their families. Staci Arceneaux, Assistant Director of Development at Children’s Hospital, said “I am very thankful to Lamarque Ford for thinking of the young patients and their families that we serve during this holiday season!”

Remember toys can always bring a smile to a kid’s face. The holidays arrive whether we are sick or healthy, wealthy or poor, and details like this can really make a difference in a kid’s life. We hope you have a wonderful holiday and join us to participate in 25 Days Of Christmas.

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Ford Police Interceptors Tested | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

November 21, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

We’ve already talked about Ford’s efforts in the law enforcement segment, and how Ford Police Interceptors offer a great deal of options and dependability. However, this time real-life police agencies tested the vehicles and their results are impressive. Both the Michigan State Police and Los Angeles Sheriff Department agreed on one thing: Ford Police Interceptors perform better than their competitors. Let’s take a look at their findings.

Michigan State Police

Michigan State Police found the Ford Police Interceptor sedan to be super fast. Both the all-wheel drive and EcoBoost models out performed their V8 competitors, clocking at 5.8 seconds and 6.17 second respectively. This comes as no surprise, since the EcoBoost engine uses a 3.5 V6 which delivers an impressive 365 horsepower. Let’s not forget the Police Interceptor uses two turbochargers to eliminate any turbo lag, giving it that extra boost needed in pursuit mode.

The State police in Michigan also tested 0-100 mph performance, and again, Ford came out atop. It is impressive to see these highly efficient vehicles, a V6, flat out beat larger engines one would think can be faster. It only took the Ford 14.19 seconds to reach the 100 mile mark, and, when considering all the weight and equipment they carry, it is quite an accomplishment. The Ford SUV interceptor was also tested and deliver similar results, beating vehicles with larger engines.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

The LA Sheriff’s Department conducted a similar set of tests, and again, Fords won by a large margin. Both the sedan and SUV proved to be better than equally equipped and bigger engined competitors. Not only did Fords performed better in terms of speed and acceleration, they also had better breaking distances than other interceptors.

Ford Police vehicles were specifically tuned and refined to better serve our police force. The engine and transmission were programed for pursuit driving, and will deliver better response. The transmission gearing itself tracks the driver’s maneuvers to improve performance and drivability. Ford also included heavy duty 18-in wheels and tires, and are tested for 24 hours of pursuit driving, a reinforced front suspension and a giant 220-amp alternator.

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2015 Ford Flex Vs 2015 Ford Edge | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

November 20, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ford offers an exceptional line-up of utility vehicles, from full- size SUVs like Expedition to compact ones like Escape. They also include a nice selection of cross-overs, which we’ll be covering today. The 2015 Flex and 2015 Edge offer alternative looks and space configurations. Since cross-overs are built on car platforms, they generally attract different type of customers than SUVS. However, they’re still great family and passenger cars. Let’s take a look.

Both the Flex and Edge are recent additions to the Ford brand, as they only go back to 2009 and 2007 respectively. Ford introduced the Edge as a way to jump start declining SUV sales. After seeing great consumer reception, they then introduced the full-size Flex, to address the whole market.

Interior Space

Ford Flex offers more space, with seating available for up to seven people and the much-needed third row seating. Flex is the bigger sibling, and it offers first-in-class leg room and lots of smart storage space. The third-row seat is completely foldable, creating a flat surface; choose from carrying more passengers or loading bigger items. Did we mention there’s 10 cup holders?

Ford Edge also features some of the best passenger space, including best-in-class second row legroom. Edge features a more refined and luxurious interior, as it mimics the more modern design elements from the exterior. The panoramic VistaRoof, which features a large sunroof and a rear skylight, allows passengers to enjoy nature of the city from a new perspective.

Engine Configurations

Flex features two powerful configurations: the 3.5 V6 engine with 287 horsepower and the 3.5 EcoBoost, a turbo-charged beast producing up to 365 horsepower. Both offer Active All-Wheel Drive technology, and comes standard with the EcoBoost. The Ford Edge features three engines in its line-up: 3.5 V6 (285 horsepower), 2.0 4-cylinder EcoBoost (240 horsepower) and the 3.7 V6 (305 horsepower) for the Sport version.

Edge Sport

The Sport trim is only available in select Fords, and is not available in the Flex. However, Ford Edge enjoys this amazing top-of-the-lne trim and is packed with great features. First, customers get the most powerful Edge engine, rated at 305 HP coupled with a 6-speed SelectdShift transmission with paddle shifters. Ford also added a sports tuned suspension, re-designed headlights and tail lamps, 22-in aluminum wheels and 4-in chrome dual tip exhausts.

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Winter Traveling Tips | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

November 19, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Why would we post a blog on winter car tips if Louisiana is known for its extreme hot summer and mild to temperate winters? Truth is, many of us travel up North to visit family and friends, and soon discover cold weather actually exists. Not only will our cars suffer dearly if we don’t care for them, it could also save our lives. Many places in Louisiana do experience below freezing temperatures, which is when our car needs help the most. Let’s take a look at what to do to get ready for winter.

Plan Maintenance Ahead

Although this is true for any season, those of us who travel know being stranded during winter is a terrible idea, even a dangerous one. Belts, hoses, water pumps and spark plugs are particularly susceptible to failure during winter, so make sure you have all maintenance and repair done before your winter trip. Your local dealership offers multi-point inspections and will make the best recommendations after a diagnostic.

Keep Your Car Winter Clean

During fall and winter trees will cover our cars with leaves, twigs, sticks, and just about anything wind and rain will bring down. While we all appreciate the falling foliage, your vehicle doesn’t. Clear your car from these debris as they can clog up areas where water or air are supposed to flow. Also, meticulously clean headlamps and tail lights in case weather gets nasty.

Tires and Tire Pressure

While you most likely won’t be driving on the snow, if you do or plan on doing it during your trip, get your self a set of snow tires. They will make all the difference when it comes to traction and stability. However, if you’re staying on regular roads, be sure to check your tire pressure regularly, as it tends to vary with temperature changes. If your car is a 2008 model or newer, it comes equipped with a tire pressure monitor readily available on your dashboard. If not, you’ll have to manually monitor tire pressure with a gauge.

Cooling System/Antifreeze

If you follow a regular scheduled car maintenance, you shouldn’t worry much about it, as your mechanic will know when is time to use it. However, if you’re traveling in much colder weather, you’ll need to increase the antifreeze to water ratio. Most brands recommend a minimum mix of 50/50 and a maximum of 70 antifreeze/30 water. Antifreeze keeps water used by the radiator from freezing, which would cause some serious problems.

Other things to consider are to check your battery charge, as batteries tend to act funny during winter. Also, inspect your wiper blades and rear and front de-frosting systems, as fog and condensation will become a problem.

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2015 Ford Mustang Praise and Awards| Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

November 17, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

As you know, the 2015 Ford Mustang is coming this Spring and is promising to be the best Mustang yet. Feature packed with EcBoost engine, full new redesign and other amazing specs, the new Mustang sure is generating a lot of buzz. Let’s look at some of the awards it has received so far.

Esquire Car Of The Year

That’s right, the popular men’s magazine is calling the all-new 2015 Mustang GT “one of the most approachable performance cars on the planet.” Esquire goes on to point out the popularity of the Mustang, not just today but throughout the years, even with popular competitors like Camaro and Charger. Each year, Esquire looks at a handful of cars that are attractive, affordable, and of course, fast. Like many others, the magazine praises the addition of the long-needed independent rear suspension, powerful V8, and overall feel. Esquire summarizes the 2015 Mustang GT as “affordable, stylish, and a riot to drive.”

Car and Driver 10 Best List

This one comes as no surprise, since the publication has been talking about it for a while. Again, like Esquire, a lot of praise comes from the independent rear suspension. Let’s set this straight though: although independent rear suspension is nothing new, Ford Mustang was known stubbornly keeping a solid rear axle, which made sense in drag races but really affected day to day drivability. Hence, what seems to be the one feature everyone is talking about, it was only really a mater of time. Moving on.

Unlike Esquire, Car and Driver really looks at the overall car performance and specs, going well beyond looks and style. However, they point out the uniqueness of the interior and how the combination of stitching and aluminum give the 2015 Mustang a feel “absent from mainstream American cars.”

Detroit’s Best Production Car Award

After appearing in the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, the 2015 Mustang won this prize. Although a controversial new design, the pony car won the hearts of attendees with its bold lines and strong muscle car presence. However, this was no easy feat, as the 2015 Mustang was up against Corvette Z06, Lexus RC-F and BMW M4.

AutoGuide.com Reader’s Choice Car of the Year Award

AutoGuide focuses on the introduction of the EcoBoost engine as a more powerful option than the V6. The new EcoBoost, a 4-cylinder turbo-charged engine, produces more power while consuming less fuel, which is an amazing feat. Unlike the other publications, AutoTrader asks its readers to vote on their favorite vehicles.

We wouldn’t be surprised if the 2015 Mustang keeps getting more attention from the media and other publications, as it is truly one of the best cars of 2015.

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2015 Ford Explorer: New Engine, New Trims | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans

November 14, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Earlier this year we discussed the specs of the 2015 Ford Explorer, and while most of it remains unchanged from 2014, we found out this week about new features coming to the SUV. After making its official global debut at the Los Angeles Auto show, Explorer enthusiasts were excited to learn about a new engine and trim that position the high-end SUV as a luxurious and high performance beast. Let’s find out what Ford Explorer, America’s best selling SUV for 25 years, has to offer.

2015 Explorer: A New Definition Of Performance

For the 2015 model year, Ford engineers focused on making Explorer more capable and decided to give it a new engine, the 2.3 liter EcoBoost. Although it is still a four-cylinder engine, the new configuration outperforms its predecessor, now producing 270 horsepower and at least 300 lb. of torque. 2015 Explorer customers now get an all.around better engine, improving on horsepower by 12 percent, torque by 11 percent, and highway passing times by 10 percent. Hence, the new EcoBoost engine is a winner on the highway.

So how does the 2015 Explorer achieves this? Besides the .3 liter increase in the engine’s displacement, Explorer uses a unique technology that allows it to optimize performance in real time. The active oil control system acts as a regulator and allows more or less oil pressure as needed; the engine uses a higher compression ratio, which burns fuel efficiently at a higher pressure; an active wastegate allows for better fuel consumption when carrying lighter loads.

Other engine configurations carry over from 2014, including the 3.5 liter V6 with its 290 horsepower, and the 3.5 V6 EcoBoost, standard in Explorer Spot and Platinum. The V6 EcoBoost produces 365 horsepower and its coupled with the latest in transmission technology: a six-speed SelectShift Automatic.

2015 Explorer Platinum: Luxury, The Ford Way

Throughout its whole line-up, Ford defines the most luxurious models as Platinum, and they truly elevate the looks and feel to a new level. After seeing most Explorer Sport customers purchased the highest trim available, Ford decided to give them the next luxury level. Explorer Platinum introduces significant changes to both exterior and interior. Let’s take a look.

The exterior gets a new continuous lighting look for its LED headlamps, along with a two-panel moonroof and silver painted elements. Explorer Platinum also gains 20-in wheels with bright machine face pockets. The new integrated exhaust, although beautiful in appearance, was designed to reduce the amount of soot to keep it bright and shiny.

Explorer platinum gets an amazing new interior: multi-contour micro-perforated leather seats, specially quilted stitching, a new aluminum and wood look throughout, leather-wrapped steering wheel and for the first time, an all-new 500-watt Sony Audio System with Live Acoustics and Clear Phase technology, which eliminates unnecessary sound dispersion.

By far, this is the most luxurious Explorer ever, and it will come to Lamarque early next year. Visit us today to look at our inventory.

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