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Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package

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Tremor shakes things for the Ford Super Duty, but in a good way.

The Ford Super Duty with the available Tremor Package navigates the Sandhills of central North Carolina. Maximized off-road capabilites are its strong suit.

America loves her pickup trucks with millions of units sold annually. The Ford F-150 is the most popular nameplate, but there’s also a Super Duty line comprised of F-250, F-350, and F-450 models. These heavy-duty light trucks offer the largest engines in the segment and come with payload and towing numbers that should meet or exceed nearly every need.

We found out just how capable and big the F-250 is when a Crew Cab model dressed in Lariat trim and outfitted with the Tremor Package appeared for a week’s worth of on- and off-road fun.

2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty

Ford offers six trims with the 2020 F-250, but not all six are available across the board. For instance, the Regular cab comes in XL ($34,035) and XLT ($38,815) trims. Choose the SuperCab and you’ll find three trims: XL ($36,370), XLT ($41,480), and Lariat ($46,930). Add $1,695 for the destination charge. Taxes, tags, and registration are extra.

The Crew Cab pulls out all the stops with XL ($37,625), XLT ($43,310), Lariat ($49,260), King Ranch ($59,335), Platinum ($66,225), and Limited ($83,930) trims. The top trim features the diesel engine. Fully loaded you may see a find price around $90,000!

Our test single-rear-wheel Lariat Crew Cab model with the Tremor Package, four-wheel-drive, and the 160-inch wheelbase came in at just above $71,000.


Exterior

Full-size pickup trucks are huge. The heavy-duty versions are simply massive, especially when dual rear wheels are present. Our test model had a single-rear-wheel-chassis, but it was easily the largest pickup truck we’ve had to date.

Ford still offers three cabin sizes: Regular, SuperCrew and Crew Cab. The Regular cab seats up to three, the SuperCrew five or six, and the Crew Cab up to six. Depending on the chosen cab, you’ll find five wheelbase lengths: 142-, 148-, 160-, 164-, and 176-inch choices. Our crew cab came right in the middle, although the longest wheelbase is also available. The longest wheelbase brings in the 8-foot bed, whereas a 6-foot-, 9-inch bed is standard.

In its longest form, the F-250 measures 266.2 inches long – that’s 22 feet of mass! Compare that to the Smart Fortwo that’s just under 9-feet long and those differences are quite stark.

The Super Duty is a moving slab of sheet-metal. A large chrome grille with menacing daytime running lights are intimidating to say the least. The lengthy profile seems to stretch on and on, but it was the huge side mirrors that caught our attention the most – we could imagine them touching the coasts whenever the truck was faced due north or south. In reality, they’re no bigger than the tow mirrors you find on many pickup trucks. What we appreciated the most about them is that they automatically fold close when the truck is off – at least if you select the right trim package.



Interior

Crew cab models have cavernous interiors and the F-250 did not disappoint. Our test model featured a pair of bench seats. Up front, the 40/20/40 layout affords ample space for three, but we think that with the middle seating position flipped forward with the huge storage compartment exposed is the way to go. In the rear is a 60/40 split fold-up bench seat.

Is the Super Duty luxurious? No, but it does have premium touches worth considering. Its bigly interior alone sets it apart from luxury sedans, but there’s still enough plastic present to remind everyone that this is a mainstream model. At the Lariat level, leather seats come in – they’re cushy and comfortable, but they’re not “nappa” or among many of the other fine hides available. That said, they’re a nice upgrade over cloth.

Move up to the top three trims and the brightwork trim gives way to real wood or brushed metal. This is a better look, but the hard plastics on the bottom of the dashboard, the door inlays, and seats remain. All trims come with carpeting or can be swapped out for vinyl flooring that’s recommended for work crews.


Tech

You need to look beyond the XL trim to find the tech amenities that most people want. The XL serves as the work truck here with few creature features of note.

Begin your shopping at the XLT level and Ford’s SYNC 3 interface kicks in. It’s a vast improvement over the previous systems and nearly on par with the industry’s best, namely Fiat Chrysler’s Uconnect and GM’s Intellink telematics. The domestics offer the best systems among mainstream models in our opinion.

Ford includes a 5-speaker audio system in the Regular cab and seven speakers in the other two cab choices. You’ll also find satellite radio, a 110-volt outlet, and USB ports. Move up the trim range and a 10-speaker B&O audio system is standard. Navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a surround-view camera are also available.

Safety

If you’re looking for crash test scores for the Super Duty you won’t find them. The federal NHTSA and the private IIHS don’t perform tests on big pickup trucks. Certainly, if you are in an accident with one, the sheer size of these trucks will help absorb some of the impact. But don’t rely on girth alone to keep you safe.

Look beyond the base XL trim and the Super Duty features a suite of driver-assist features. These include lane-keep alert, cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control is available. Looking ahead, we believe pickup trucks will offer the same safety features as cars – an all-new 2021 Ford F-150 should presage what a future Super Duty model has on tap.

Performance

For the past decade, the Ford F-250 has been a tale of two V8 engines: a 6.2-liter gas and a 6.7-liter turbo-diesel. Both have performed quite well for the Super Duty line, but this year they’re joined by an optional 7.3-liter V8 engine.

The third engine, the newest in Ford’s arsenal, replaces a 6.8-liter V10 available in the Super Duty through 2010 and more recently in Ford’s E-Series vans and other truck applications. Those vans are no longer available to consumers, as the Transit is the model of choice. You can still buy an E-Series Cutaway to build an ambulance, school bus, delivery, or other commercial vehicle and that’s where the new engine is found.

With the V10 aged and ready to sail away, Ford developed a new engine to cover its super duty light duty trucks, the vans, as well as its commercial Class 6/7 models. Ford might have considered a twin-turbo layout as per its EcoBoost engine line, but it chose a naturally aspirated V8 and went big there.

Why another V8? Figure that Ford wanted a workhorse V8 that wouldn’t rely on turbochargers for added power. That’s probably a smart choice too as the turbos would have been under constant pressure to move, in some cases, tens of thousands of pounds of mass, payload, and towing.

It’s one thing to propel the F-150 for its targeted recreational and light-duty commercial owners. It’s another thing to call on a turbocharged engine to constantly handle the heavy work of a Super Duty model – we doubt that there are turbos in existence that can take a constant pounding.

The new V8 is no slouch as it develops 430 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. That’s just below the maximum 450 horsepower/510 pound-feet of torque in the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 found in the F-150 Raptor, but it’s well above the 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque in the standard engine. And it blows the old V10 away, which produced only 288 horsepower and 424 pound-feet of torque.

Before we move on, the engine upgrades carry a line item extra cost. For the upgraded V8, you’ll pay an additional $2,045 to procure one. With the turbo-diesel, the cost is $10,495. That’s quite a difference, but if you’re looking at long-term ownership, the diesel may be the better deal. The diesel also has the best pulling power of the three, with 475 horsepower and an outstanding 1,050 pound-feet of torque at the ready. Both engine options work with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Our Tremor came with the new engine. After a week’s worth of driving and off-road shenanigans, the new engine’s capabilities came into focus. And we were pleased: the near-four-ton beast moved with authority from a dead stop and seemed to defy physics as it romped down the highway. Kudos to Ford with matching this engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission, its gear-changer of choice in most models these days. Clean shifts under a variety of driving conditions proved its worth. The only question we have is how does this transmission behave under heavy loads? It’s not uncommon for them to hunt for gears when pulling more than 10,000 pounds.

The Tremor’s size is a nonfactor on paved roads, but we can imagine it’s a whole ‘nuther thing when tackling off-road trails. In fact, the trail loops in our state are best used by midsize trucks and similar-sized SUVs, such as the Jeep Wrangler and the upcoming Ford Bronco. We don’t see anyone buying a Super Duty for trail fun anyway, but with its huge tires and nice lift, water fording up to 33 inches is possible. Further, if you’re on a country road that turns to mud or sand, the four-wheel-drive system comes in handy – we tackled the Sandhills in our area and the truck wasn’t going anywhere in two-wheel drive. But the moment we activated four-wheel drive, there was no slowing down its forward progress.

So, what makes the Tremor Package special besides its placarding? Several things, beginning with the maximum-traction 35-inch all-terrain tires. An off-road-tuned front and rear suspension, 1.7-inch twin-tube dampers, and the rock crawl and trail control mode are other benefits. Yes, the trail issue comes up again – you may need to buy grille and brush guards if you have trail stomping in mind. These are just a few of the many factory and third-party accessories available with any Ford truck.

Competitive Set

The usual suspects vie with Ford to produce a full-size pickup truck. From GM are the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD twins. Another domestic producer with its hand in the mix is the Ram 2500/3500. Two Japanese manufacturers build their big trucks in the U.S.: Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan. However, neither the Tundra or Titan are available in heavy-duty guise, although the Titan XD comes closest.

Our Recommendation

We don’t see much use for a Regular cab in this segment and we find the SuperCab too confining for tall people. Moving up to the Crew Cab from the SuperCab means a slight bump in cost. You also get the full range of trim features with the Crew Cab and that’s the overarching appeal in our opinion.

Our recommendation means shopping for a Crew Cab with the single rear wheels, but choose the double if maximum towing is your thing. The standard engine is more than sufficient, but opt for the new V8 if you need some extra kick. It isn’t an efficient model by any stretch – we averaged 13.4 mpg over 253 miles – but that’s only slightly below the 15 mpg similar trucks usually average. Only go with the turbodiesel if long-term ownership and top towing capabilities are factors in your shopping consideration, otherwise the spend-up is a hard one for most people to justify.

2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty Specifications

Ford 2020 F-250 Super Duty
Segment Full-size pickup truck
Base Sticker Price $54,140 (including a $1,695 destination charge)
Price as tested (estimated) $71,185
Engine No. 1 6.2-liter, gas V8
Horsepower 385 @ 5,750 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 430 @ 3,800 RPMs
Transmission 6 or 10-speed automatic automatic
Engine No. 2 7.3-liter, gas V8
Horsepower 430 @ 5,500 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 475 @ 4,000 RPMs
Transmission 10-speed automatic automatic
Engine No. 3 6.7-liter, turbodiesel V8
Horsepower 475 @ 2,600 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 1,050 @ 1,600 RPMs
Transmission 10-speed automatic automatic
Seating 6
Curb Weight (pounds) 7,874
Wheelbase (inches) 141.6 to 176
Length (inches) 231.8 to 266.2
Width (inches) 80.0 (SRW); 96.0 (DRW)
Height (inches) 78.8 to 82.2
Headroom (f,m,r…inches) 40.8, 40.3/4
Legroom (f,m,r…inches) 43.9, 33.5 or 43.6
Shoulder room (f,m,r…inches) 66.7, 65.8/9
Hip room (f,m,r…inches) 62.5, 64.7
Storage (cubic feet) 11.6/31.6/52.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 9,900 to 10,800
Towing (pounds) 13-15,000 (std.); 21,700 (5th)
Payload (pounds) Up to 3,110 to 4,260
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 29/34/48
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) NR city/highway/combined
Manufacturing Plant Louisville, Kentucky or Avon Lake, Ohio

See Also — King of all Trucks: Ford F-150 Raptor

2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Jim Farley Appointed Ford President and CEO

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James D. (Jim) Farley, Jr., is the Ford Motor Company’s next President and CEO, and much of the automotive media could not be more pleased. Farley, who left Toyota for Ford in 2007, has proven his mettle in a variety of positions, including as the one-time head of the Lincoln brand. He will succeed Jim Hackett who will step down on Oct. 1, but remain in an advisory capacity until spring 2021.

From Cars to Trucks and Utility Vehicles

Jim Farley, Ford executive.

Farley’s ascendancy comes as Ford transitions away from cars to an almost full utility vehicle and truck fleet, at least in the United States. Hackett was responsible for pulling the plug on several Ford and Lincoln cars, including the Focus RS, Fiesta ST, Fusion, and Taurus, as well as the Lincoln MKZ and Continental. That controversial decision upset not a few fans; Farley, of course, might reverse course or at least bring back a few niche models to fill out the product line.

Nevertheless, Ford is on the verge of releasing its Mustang Mach-E electric SUV and will soon roll out the next-generation F-150, its most popular model. Later this year, the Bronco Sport crossover arrives, followed by two- and four-door versions of the Bronco SUV in early 2021. The Bronco is expected to carve a niche in a segment dominated by the Jeep Wrangler.

Hackett, Stock Value and Profitability

Hackett came to Ford from a furniture company and has received criticism for not elevating Ford’s stock value and profitability. Regardless, Ford did make money in the second quarter, thanks largely to the profitability of its Argo AI unit. That’s opposite the trend of what most of the industry suffered in the second quarter as the global coronavirus pandemic took hold. Analysts expect Ford to make a profit of at least $500 million in the third quarter as production returns to pre-COVID-19 levels.

Farley is admired by many for his interest in vintage racing. Indeed, he owns Cobra and GT40 models that he races for that purpose. His family’s Ford roots can be traced to his grandfather who worked at the Ford River Rouge Plant beginning in 1914.

From Toyota to Lincoln to COO

Farley joined Toyota in 1990 and was responsible for rolling out the Scion brand. His other accomplishments included serving as group vice president and general manager of Lexus, where he was responsible for all sales, marketing and customer satisfaction activities. He also held a VP position with the Toyota brand.

In 2007, Ford hired Farley as group vice president, global marketing and Canada, Mexico and South America. Later, he oversaw operations for that same region. In 2010, Farley was appointed to lead global marketing sales and services. He had additional stints at Lincoln, including overseeing the brand’s launch in China and served as executive vice president and president, Ford Europe, Middle East and Africa. At present, Farley is the company’s Chief Operating Officer and represents Ford on the U.S. China Business Council Board of Directors.

Looking Ahead

Farley’s ascendancy comes as little surprise to industry analysts who have witnessed his grooming for the position early on. The upcoming CEO’s resume may be one of the best in the industry, thus his movement to the top tier of the Ford conglomerate is a natural next step.

His being a car guy is an attribute that should bode well for Ford. Like Akio Toyoda, whose design and racing background has influenced Toyota tremendously (a sporty Camry and a revived GR Supra are just two examples of his imprint), Farley brings skill and panache to his new role. We can speculate what that might mean, but rest assured his guidance should have far-reaching consequences throughout the company as it attempts to balance electrification and autonomy with the vehicles customers want most.

Photo copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Ford Introduces Its All-New Bronco Family of Utility Vehicles

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New Ford Bronco has the Jeep Wrangler in its crosshairs.

Pre-production versions of the all-new 2021 Bronco family of all-4×4 rugged SUVs, shown here, include Bronco Sport in Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Bronco two-door in Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat and Bronco four-door in Cactus Gray.

On Monday, the Ford Motor Company introduced a new series of Bronco vehicles, capitalizing on an iconic name first launched in 1965. The new Broncos, which are composed of two- and four-door SUVs, and one crossover utility vehicle, are designed to help Ford recapture much of the off-road glory it enjoyed in years past.

Bronco SUVs

Production is slated to begin in early 2021 for the standard Bronco models. Ford says the base version will cost $29,995, plus destination. Buyers can reserve one immediately for just $100. The two-door seats four; the four-door seats five.

Ford is touting the new Broncos through its “Built Wild” campaign, which they say is based on “thrilling experiences” through its “heritage-inspired style, engineering and smart off-road technology, plus innovative features to help outdoor enthusiasts create adventures in the most remote corners of the world.” In other words, the new Broncos capture the heritage and capabilities of the original, while incorporating current engineering practices and technologies.

“We created the Bronco family to elevate every aspect of off-road adventure and equipped them with class-leading chassis hardware and exclusive technologies to raise the bar in the rugged 4×4 segment and take people further into the wild,” said Jim Farley, Ford chief operating officer. “They’re built with the toughness of an F-Series truck and performance spirit of Mustang – and come wrapped in one of the most stunning and functional off-road designs that’s true to the original Bronco design DNA.”

Pre-production versions of the all-new 2021 Bronco family of all-4×4 rugged SUVs, shown here, include(left) Bronco two-door in Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat, Bronco four-door in Shadow Black and Bronco Sport in Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat.

Standard Four-Wheel Drive

The new Broncos will feature four-wheel-drive exclusively, something that’s certain to catch the attention of off-road enthusiasts. Depending on the configuration, the new Bronco will benefit from as many as seven driver-selectable modes including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Sand, with Baja, Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl for off-road driving.

A pair of four-wheel-drive systems are offered on all Bronco models: a base arrangement and a more advanced package. The standard system makes use of a two-speed electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case, while the optional advanced system features a two-speed electromechanical transfer case that adds an auto mode for on-demand engagement to select between 2H and 4H. Ford says power is distributed to a Dana™ 44 AdvanTEK® solid rear axle and Dana AdvanTEK independent front differential unit – both with available Spicer® Performa-TraK™ electronic locking differentials for improved traction over rough terrain.

Powertrain Choices

Ford has a pair of powertrain choices for the 2021 Broncos. The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is a familiar one, as it is utilized in various Ford products, including the Mustang. In the Bronco, it develops 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Also available is a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine with 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

The base engine works with either a 7-speed Getrag manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Getrag unit is especially interesting as it is composed of the six standard forward gears and one crawler gear. As for the V6, it comes with the automatic only.

An available 12-inch SYNC4 system features over-the-air updates along with seamless integration to the FordPass Performance app with off-road navigation.

Off-Road Prowess

The new Broncos will enjoy excellent off-road capability thanks to its available best-in-class 11.6-inch ground clearance, upwards of a 43.2-degree approach angle, a maximum 29-degree breakover angle, and a 37.2-degree departure angle. Ford also says the new SUV will enjoy best-in-class water fording capability of up to 33.5 inches. The Bronco also has exposed tow hooks in the front and rear and available heavy-duty modular steel bumpers with an integrated Ford Performance accessory winch mount.

Strategically placed steel shields will protect critical hardware. On the higher-capability models, these will include an available front bash plate, along with shields for the engine, transmission, transfer case, and the fuel tank. For drivers tackling the most challenging conditions, Bronco’s available side rock rails are designed to support the weight of each side of the vehicle.

“Bronco two- and four-door models leverage the company’s Built Ford Tough durability and performance testing and take it even further off-road with Built Wild Extreme Durability Testing in the harshest possible environments, including the brutal trails of the King of the Hammers off-road competition,” said Dave Pericak, director, Ford enterprise product line management, Icons.

A pair of Bronco two-door models. The 2021 model with retro styling cues and the original 1965 version.

Heritage Design Cues

Although the all-new Bronco shares nothing with the original, many of the earlier design elements are present, offering a recognizable connection that should instantly win fans.

Up front, the BRONCO insignia makes a bold statement showcasing what this SUV is all about. Other features include dual round headlamps, an upright windshield, removable roof, tight overhangs, and frameless doors that are also removable.

Introducing the Bronco Sport

The Bronco SUVs may arrive after the first of the year, but they’ll be preceded by the Bronco Sport, an entirely different model. This one seats five. The Bronco Sport rides on a unibody chassis, while the Bronco SUVs are true utes with a fully boxed frame arrangement. Thus, the smallest member of the family, which is considered a subcompact (to the compact/midsize Broncos) — likely designed with the Jeep Renegade in mind — won’t have the off-road chops of its siblings.

Nevertheless, it won’t be a mere pretender either – Ford says the cute-ute will have a ground clearance ranging from 7.8 to 8.8 inches, depending on the trim and wheel package. Further, it will have a standard 21.7-degree approach angle, 18.2 degrees on the breakover, and a robust 30.4-degree departure angle. Moving up to the top trims, those numbers rise appreciably to 30.4, 20.4, and 33.1 degrees, respectively.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport arrives this fall.

Bronco Sport Motivation

Like the Bronco SUVs, the Bronco Sport features a pair of engine choices. The standard motivator is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. Also available is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque.

Both engines work with an 8-speed automatic transmission. In the upgraded engine this transmission includes manual shifting and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Moving Forward

The Bronco Family represents a sea change for Ford as the company abandons nearly every car model in the states for utility vehicles and trucks. In the Bronco, Ford harnesses a proven and well-respected name, not unlike the Mustang.

Will customers line up for the new models? We think so. We also believe that the Bronco SUVs pose a formidable threat to the Jeep Wrangler which has long enjoyed a near stranglehold on the segment.

The Ford Bronco Sport offers many accessories including this camping kit.

The Bronco Sport should carve a niche, especially as it supplies arguably the best off-road chops in its class, including bettering the Jeep Renegade. Likely, it will do two things:

1), serve as the entry point for the Bronco brand, and

2), introduce more drivers to the pleasure of off-road fun.

Of course, if you’re a trail thumping maven, the standard utility vehicles offer the most appeal. This writer longs for the opportunity to test one on the rugged trails of Uwharrie National Forest in North Carolina, the same place where we drove the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Ranger.

Photos copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Lincoln Axes the Continental

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Ford’s luxury brand goes all-in on utility vehicles.

The last Lincoln sedan goes away this December.

The Lincoln Continental is one of the most storied models for Ford’s luxury marque, a big sedan with outsized styling, generous amenities, and class-leading comfort. In 2016, Lincoln resurrected the Continental to critical acclaim. Alas, its revival came as consumers eschewed sedans for utility vehicles, effectively ensuring that the latest Continental would serve only the smallest audience.

Production Ends in December

North American consumers will not see a Continental for the 2021 model year as Lincoln announced on Wednesday that production would cease by end of the year. Those models built this fall will be allocated exclusively for China where large sedans have a stronger following. Nevertheless, Ford’s Flat Rock, Michigan, assembly plant will finish producing Continentals in December.

Lincoln revived the Continental nameplate by unveiling a concept with center-hinged doors at the 2015 New York International Auto Show. Just over a year later, the all-new Continental rolled out for the 2017 model year. It replaced the previous and comparatively anonymous MKS, sitting on a stretched and modified version of the platform underpinning the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ.

An Outlier Among Luxury Sedans

With standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, the current Continental competed in a segment dominated by rear-wheel-drive models. That said, customers could upgrade from the standard front-wheel-drive model with a naturally aspirated V6 engine and go with one of two turbocharged V6 engines with all-wheel drive.

We reviewed a Black Label model in 2017 outfitted with the larger of the two turbo engines and lauded its performance. Although we couldn’t call it a “Hot-Rod Lincoln,” its performance credentials were certainly noteworthy.

Sedans Give Way to SUVs

With the Continental following the MKZ to the defunct model playground, Lincoln will rely on its quartet of utility vehicles to advance the brand. These models are the full-size and traditional SUV Lincoln Navigator, a pair of midsize models – the three-row Aviator and two-row Nautilus, and the compact Corsair. We may yet see additional models although the planned all-electric SUV built with upstart Rivian will not happen.

Lincoln may point to the decline of sedans as a good reason to cancel the Continental, but its competitors aren’t giving up on them. Indeed Cadillac, its arch-rival domestic competitor, currently offers a trio of sedans although the largest of three, the CT6, is slated for cancellation. The CT6 is a near competitor to the Continental and rides on a rear-wheel-drive platform as do the smaller XT4 and XT5 models.

Hyundai’s Genesis luxury brand has effectively demonstrated that building quality sedans still finds a ready audience. It, too, has a trio of sedans for the offing (we’re currently reviewing the G70) and will soon at its first SUV this fall. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi are also deeply invested in sedans even as demand for SUVs soars.

Ultimately, it comes down to investing priorities – Ford has cast its lot exclusively with SUVs, following the pattern that has made Land Rover the respected brand that it is.

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Trail Hopping With the New Ford Ranger

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We test the latest-generation Ranger pickup truck.

The Ford Ranger is back, giving the blue oval brand a midsize complement to the full-size and segment-leading F-150. The latest version rolled out in 2019, ending an 8-year hiatus. The current Ranger is the largest we’ve seen thus far and is no longer available in a regular cab configuration. Instead, buyers have a choice of extended (SuperCab) and CrewCab layouts.

2020 Ford Ranger Review

Ford offers the 2020 Ranger in XL ($24,410/$26,810), XLT ($28,460/$30,635), and Lariat ($32,500/$34,675) trims. The listed prices reflect SuperCab (extended) and SuperCrew cab designs, respectively. Add approximately $4,000 for four-wheel drive and another $1,195 for the destination charge. Ford lent us a Ranger Lariat SuperCrew with the FX4 package that cost about $45,900.

Now in its second year, the fourth-generation 2020 Ranger features light changes to the equipment offerings. An FX2 package is new this year.

Exterior

Forget everything you think about the Ranger when examining the current model. This one is larger in every way, with a footprint that’s about 90 percent the size of the full-size F-150. The original truck was truly a compact, then grew slightly later. Even so, it was always smaller than the competition, but that doesn’t mean it was any less of a truck.

We like the look of the Ranger, from its high beltline to its sleek design. It goes beyond the slab-side design common to all pickup trucks, adding curves and substance along the way. Importantly, the Ranger is not an F-150 derivative – it’s based on its dedicated ladder-frame and has a distinctive look.

Ford equips the base XL with halogen headlights, front tow hooks on four-by-four models, blacked-out trim, and 16-inch steel wheels. It’s a basic arrangement with several upgradeable packages available.

Move up to the XLT trim and Ford adds LED taillamps, power-controlled side mirrors, keyless entry, and 17-inch painted aluminum wheels. The top-of-the-line Lariat replaces the blacked-out trim with body-colored touches. You’ll also find more chrome, LED lights (headlights, fog lamps, and cargo lamp), heated side mirrors with security approach lamps, and 18-inch machined aluminum wheels.

There are a pair of packages worth considering and they’re available on all three trims: FX2 (for two-wheel drive) and FX4 (for four-wheel drive). Both build on the STX Package (including halogen fog lamps, upgraded wheels, and tow hooks). The FX2 brings in an off-road-tuned suspension system, an electronic-locking rear differential, off-road tires, special decals, and an upgraded instrument panel. The FX4 builds on this, adding underbody protection, including a steel bash plate, skid plates for the fuel tank, transfer case, and steering gear, and a terrain management system.

Interior

The two cabin choices give customers much to consider when examining the 2020 Ranger. The SuperCab seats four with a pair of rear seats with removable cushions. Furthermore, customers have the option of deleting the rear seat.

Shoppers will find hard plastics in abundance throughout the interior with the Lariat featuring a stitched dashboard. Most competing models offer nicer materials, so you’re getting a basic package here regardless of the trim.

As for the SuperCab model, this one seats five. Behind the front bucket seats is a three-passenger bench seat with a fold-down center armrest and two cupholders. Although three can sit back there, the narrow hip room makes it ideal for two. Both cabs come with rear under-seat storage.

Among the standard features you’ll find black vinyl flooring, cloth-trimmed seats, a manual tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and a vinyl steering wheel with audio controls. Work crews may substitute the cloth seats for vinyl. Features such a remote keyless entry, power door and tailgate locks, and cruise control are bundled within an upgradeable package.

Move up to the XLT trim and Ford includes carpeted flooring, an overhead console with sunglasses holder, dual-zone climate control, and power door and tailgate locks. At the Lariat level, the Ranger comes with leather touches, ambient lighting, power-controlled and heated front seats, and a manual sliding rear window.


Safety

Beyond the standard safety features, including the rear-view camera with dynamic hitch assist, all Ranger models have pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking.

Bundled under the available Ford Co-Pilot360 banner are additional driver-assist features. These include: pre-collision assist with automatic high-beam headlamps, automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot information system, a lane-keeping system with alert, and a reverse sensing system.

These are the kind of safety features we’re seeing on nearly all new vehicles these days, including pickup trucks. But not all competing models offer them, including the Nissan Frontier.

Technology

Ford equips the XL trim with a basic 4-speaker audio system with Bluetooth. But to get other features, such as a 4.2-inch center console screen and USB ports, requires a package upgrade.

Move up to the XLT and Ford rolls out the features most consumers want, including an 8-inch touch-screen display with the company’s useful SYNC3 infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility, satellite radio, and two USB ports. The Lariat is also where shoppers gain a 6-speaker audio system. Also, they can opt for an equipment group upgrade that includes a 10-speaker audio system with HD Radio.

As for navigation, this feature becomes available at the XLT level. Ford also offers a 110-volt power outlet with the Ford Co-Pilot360 system.

Performance

Buyers looking for a choice of engines in this segment typically will find just one and that’s a stark contrast to their full-size counterparts.

Powering every 2020 Ranger is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission routes power to the rear or all four wheels.

This engine is a gamer and one of our favorites in the segment. The turbo spools quickly, then delivers large V6-equivalent power. Where step-off acceleration is competent, the Ranger’s passing power is fantastic. We found the transmission up to the task, as it quickly fired off cogs and did so without hunting for gears.

With a trail-busting FX4 on hand, we set out to Uwharrie National Forest to put it through the paces. This version is replete with a torque-distributing electronic rear differential – power travels to the wheel that needs it most. The FX4 package also adds off-road traction modes for powering down trails at preset speeds. It’s the off-road version of cruise control.

Uwharrie features eight trails featuring varying degrees of difficulty, with all operating under the Badin Lake OHV Trail Complex banner. Last year, at nearly the same time, we put a Jeep Wrangler through the paces, choosing the Dickey Bell TR 91 trail for our experience. That trail is rated “difficult” and we soon found out why – it features a steep drop off near the end. We didn’t finish the course, but we covered most of it.

See Also — Notes From Uwharrie: 2019 Jeep Wrangler

For the Ranger, we decided to find the easiest trail, not wanting to navigate anything too rigorous, especially as our test model came with side steps. We knew that the Dickey Bell and the equally challenging Dutch John were out. And certainly, the extremely difficult Daniel trail was not on our list.

The meat of the trail network is composed of a quartet of moderate-rated trails: Falls Dam, Rocky Mountain Loop, Saw Mill, and Slab Pile. We considered those, but settled on the “easy” Wolf Den for trail exploration.

Like the other Baden Lake trails, the Wolf Den still requires careful navigation. A boulder here, a rut there, and then suddenly a challenge presents itself. We navigated the first quarter-mile with ease, then faced our first obstacle: a trio of berms.

Taken alone, the berms were challenging, yet passable. But the issue we soon faced had everything to do with the side steps – we just couldn’t risk damaging them even with careful axle articulation. While the approach and departure angles seemed doable, the breakover was the biggest risk especially as the bottom of the side steps touched the top of the first berm

Deft wheel play enabled us to move forward, but the subsequent berms were too close for comfort. Removing the side steps would have quickly resolved the problem, but we had neither the tools nor the permission from Ford to do so.

Within 15 minutes of starting our voyage, we abandoned the trail.

Despite not completing even one Uwharrie trail, we decided to navigate the main gravel road that rings the lake. It presented its own challenges in various places, but the tires gripped, and we passed through a few mud sloughs along the way. The Ranger performed as we expected. We only wish it came without the step rails.

Off the trail, we like the Ranger’s weighted steering and precise handling. It’s not the most comfortable truck in its class, however, as we felt more bounce than what we’d prefer or expect. That said, the current Ranger is an improvement over the previous generations in many ways – it has a more solid feel and is designed to take more punishment. But it isn’t especially efficient as it averages about 20 mpg. On the other hand, its robust 7,500-pound towing capacity makes it a gamer.

Competitive Set

The midsize pickup truck segment was just about dead a few years back when the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon twins revived it with their 2015 return. Today, there are several models to consider, including the segment-leading Toyota Tacoma.

Other trucks in this category include the Nissan Frontier, Jeep Gladiator, and the Honda Ridgeline. The Ridgeline is the only car-based model among them, but it should be suitable for anyone who isn’t looking for off-road grit.


Our Recommendation

We can’t see buying a base Ranger as this model is too minimal for most needs. Also, our pick is the CrewCab, which is ideal for anyone who expects to carry more than two adults at any time. The SuperCab’s back seat is suitable for small children or additional storage, but it isn’t an ideal environment for adults.

An XLT SuperCab with four-wheel drive is the most sensible model in our book. This one goes for $36,475. We’d encourage anyone to opt for the FX4 Off-Road Package ($1,295), which brings your cost to just under $38,000. A $495 Tow Package is a must for anyone desiring the Ranger’s maximum towing capabilities.

2020 Ford Ranger Specifications

Ford 2020 Ranger
Segment Midsize Pickup Truck
Price Range $24,410 to $32,500
Destination Charge $1,195
Standard Engine 2.3-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower 270 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 310 lb.-ft. @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission 10-speed automatic
Seating 4 or 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 4,145 to 4,441
Wheelbase (inches) 126.8
Length (inches) 210.8
Width (inches) 85.8
Height (inches) 71.1
Headroom (f,r…inches) 39.8, 38.3
Legroom (f,r…inches) 43.1, 34.5
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 56.7, 56.3
Hip room (f,r…inches) 55.8, 53.5
Storage (cubic feet) 6-foot (SuperCab) or 5-foot (SuperCrew) bed
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 6,050
Towing (pounds) 7,500
Payload (pounds) 1,560 to 2,080
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 18
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 21/26/23 (2WD)
Manufacturing Plant Wayne, Michigan

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — Ford Ranger Fun Facts
Photos copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Coronavirus: An Industry Under Siege

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Car manufacturers are finding different ways to support Americans during the pandemic. Here, a technician administers a COVID-19 test for a passenger at a drive-thru testing center. This particular center is the Children’s Hospital in Washington, DC. Hyundai supplied $4 million in grants through its Hyundai Hope On Wheels program to help underwrite testing (photo copyright Hyundai Motors).

Two months in and the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic shows little signs of ebbing. Sure, we’re seeing the number of new cases fall in many of the earlier hotspots, but in other areas of the country as well as in the world, the scourge seems persistent and ever-expanding.

Trillions of dollars of commerce have disappeared, with the federal government countering with trillions more in financial relief to assist small businesses and taxpayers. In the middle of it all is big business, including the automakers who depend on a steady stream of customers to keep their enterprises afloat.

Deep Losses Abound

To the surprise of no one, the U.S. auto industry’s sales have plunged, with some manufacturers, such as Honda, reporting losses above 50 percent. Manufacturing plants the world over have shut or are operating at reduced capacity. Also, the supply network is on hold, while consumers are more concerned about putting food on their tables, obtaining unemployment assistance, and holding off landlords, mortgage companies, and utility companies in an effort to stay afloat.

Yet, in these distressing times there remains a glimmer of hope. Americans are practicing physical distancing, virus testing and tracing continues to expand, and businesses are figuring out ways to reach consumers going forward.

Early on, manufacturers set out to console consumers, including those who were already financing or leasing their vehicles. Auto Trends received copies of various alerts, informing owners of options available, including deferred payments. The last thing anyone wants to see is a massive repossessing of late-model cars and the financial carnage that would cause.

Special Financing and Cash Back Deals

Besides reaching out to current owners, the automakers quickly updated their financing and leasing schemes to reach new-vehicle shoppers. Fiat Chrysler led the charge, rolling out 0-percent financing for up to 84 months, an uncommonly long timeframe. Besides its novel financing approach, the cashback deals are also better. Our internal survey shows savings of $7,300 to more than $10,000 on the Ram pickup trucks alone.

Other manufacturers joined in, delivering a variety of offers. For example, Toyota offers 0-percent financing for 60 months on three models: its midsize Camry sedan, compact RAV4 crossover, and Tacoma pickup truck. Hyundai rolled out 0-percent financing for 84 months on its compact Elantra sedan and compact Tucson crossover. Moreover, well-qualified Hyundai buyers enjoy a 120-day deferment on their first payment.

Canceled: Electrified Lincoln SUV

Beyond consumer assistance, the manufacturers have responded in various ways by delaying the introduction of new models or scuttling a planned vehicle completely. For an example of the latter, the Ford Motor Company canceled the planned all-electric SUV for Lincoln. The company cited the coronavirus crisis as the reason for canceling the SUV. Ford will, however, continue with its plan to release a Ford-brand pickup truck based on Rivian’s platform.

Manufacturing plants across America endured weeks of shut down, beginning in March. By early May, several plants in the southern U.S. resumed operation, including facilities owned by BMW, Hyundai, and Kia. All three follow Volkswagen, which restarted production at its massive Chattanooga plant at the end of April.

None are operating anywhere near full capacity as manufacturers maintain distancing, while also testing the veracity of their fragile supply chains.

Looking Ahead

The current downturn easily rivals the losses experienced during the Great Recession of 2008-2009. But the unemployment numbers today are far higher, with the rate spiking to an estimated 16.1-percent when the figures become known on Friday. As the states relax their various shutdown edicts, we expect that number to start to drop. Still, it could be many months if not longer before unemployment returns to an acceptable level.

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, there are deals to be had. This writer exchanged his 2017 RAV4 for a 2020 Corolla, in April as the lease on the crossover came due. Opting for another lease, we lowered our monthly payments by selecting a lower-cost car and took advantage of incentives to save more money. Likewise, savvy consumers able to swing a new vehicle purchase should also garner an outstanding deal.

But there is one problem on the horizon: dealer stock is falling and, in many cases, won’t see replenishment until manufacturing resumes. Therefore, look for spot shortages until then, with pickup truck stock shrinking the most.

See Also — Auto Industry Reacts to Coronavirus Threat

U.S. Auto Sales:
A Pandemic Race to the Bottom

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dealers

March 2020 U.S. auto sales drop through the floor.

As expected, the U.S. auto sales numbers for March 2020 reflect what we already knew: a substantial correction, resulting almost entirely from the COVID-19 pandemic. Every manufacturer and brand posted losses in March, as the country went through an expanding area of “stay at home” orders covering most of the nation. The full impact of the coronavirus outbreak is not yet known, but consumers are staying away from showrooms.

More than 3 million Americans were suddenly left jobless by the third week of March, effectively removing a source of consumers who might show interest in purchasing a new vehicle. In some states, dealerships shut down, while in others they stayed open under local “essential services” rules.

All three of the major domestics – GM, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler – reported losses. The Big 3, as they are colloquially known – stopped reporting monthly sales figures, choosing to share quarterly data only. With the first quarter done, nearly every brand showed net losses. Ram was the lone exception; Korean make Kia also came out on the plus side.
GM’s quarterly sales fell 7 percent, while Fiat Chrysler slid 10 percent. Ford’s numbers were not available as of this writing, but losses rivaling its chief competitors is in order.

Other automakers reported their March sales, which give a stark picture of what happened last month. Subaru, which has seen a steady increase in sales since the last recession, registered a 47-percent drop in March. The loss snapped a month-over-month streak that spanned more than eight years. Indeed, Subaru is facing the end of 11 consecutive years of growth that have transformed this niche automaker into an important player in the U.S. market.

In no particular order, sales numbers culled from manufacturing data is as follows:

Kia sales fell 22.9 percent for the month, but remain up slightly for the year. Two strong months to begin the year have kept this Korean manufacturer in the black, although we expect that’ll change during the first week of April. Hyundai’s sales fell 43 percent of the month, thus it sold fewer cars than Kia, its sister brand.

Mitsubishi reported a 42-percent sales drop, while Mazda’s sales plunged 42.8-percent. Mazda enjoyed strong sales in January and February, thus it is only down 4.9 percent for the quarter.

Porsche’s quarterly sales dropped 20.2 percent, with every established model registering double-digit losses. Porsche also started delivering its Taycan all-electric model, with 221 units sold in the first quarter.

Volkswagen sales dropped 42 percent for the month and are down 13 percent for the year. The automaker rolled out the new Atlas Cross Sport model during the first quarter.

Toyota sales fell nearly 37 percent for the month and are down 8.8 percent for the first quarter. New models counted during the January-March period include the GR Supra sportscar and the Yaris Hatchback.

Nissan Group sales, inclusive of the Infiniti and Nissan brands, are down nearly 30 percent for the quarter. This automaker had already experienced a significant downturn ahead of the coronavirus crisis with its sales falling the steepest amongst the major manufacturers.

Honda experienced one of the largest month-over-month drops of any manufacturer with March 2020 sales down 48 percent compared to March 2019. For the quarter, Honda sales – inclusive of the Honda and Acura brands – are off 19.2 percent.

Other manufacturers, including Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW will report today or Friday. All three will share substantial losses for March.

Looking Ahead

April 2020 sales will continue to fall as the COVID-19 pandemic worsens across the United States. With various “stay at home” directives in place, consumers won’t be visiting showrooms in many areas. For lessees, opting for an extension may bide them some time, otherwise inventory turnover should be light for the second quarter, perhaps rebounding in the second half of the year as the pandemic eases.

See Also — Auto Industry Reacts to Coronavirus Threat

Auto Industry Reacts to Coronavirus Threat

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General Motors and Ventec Life Systems are partnering to convert the GM Kokomo, Indiana ERC building for the production of Ventec ventilators in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo GM Corp.)
COVID-19 is turning the world upside down, with nearly every country and region reporting cases, including deaths. “Business as usual” is no longer the case as companies large and small adjust or in some cases shut down.
The auto industry is no exception and has, in fact, seen production stopped at most plants scattered across the United States. We examined the impact earlier this month (see Coronavirus Strikes; Industry Reacts). Today, the picture has changed with the major players doing their part to fight the battle.

Here are the latest updates from key original equipment manufacturers:

GM will build critical care ventilators. GM is not currently building vehicles as its production facilities remain shuttered following the COVID-19 outbreak. But one plant, it’s Kokoma, Indiana, manufacturing facility will soon come back online, as it launches production of critical care ventilators> for Ventec Life Systems. Ventec, based in Bothell, Washington, is unable to meet demand at its lone facility. With GM’s help, the companies will produce the ventilators needed by hospitals in the United States and abroad. A second GM plant, this one in Warren, Michigan, will soon assemble Level 1 masks. Within two weeks, GM should produce 50,000 masks per day, potentially doubling that number.

The 2020 Detroit Auto Show is canceled. The North American International Auto Show was last held in January 2019 and was supposed to move to a late spring/early summer schedule this year. Indeed, journalists marked June 2020 on their calendars, expecting to head to the Motor City for a warm-weather preview of new cars and concepts. The show, however, will not go on as the city will instead turn the host Cobo Center into a temporary hospital for the duration of the coronavirus crisis. The show’s organizers have already updated their page to reflect the next show, which is scheduled for June 11-26, 2021.

Dealerships reel under local “stay-at-home” directives. Tens of thousands of car dealership employees are on furlough as various “stay-at-home” edicts shutter showroom doors. The Penske Corp. has avoided layoffs so far as senior staff accepts pay cuts and Roger Penske and the company’s president, Rob Kurnick, forgo their salaries for the duration of the crisis according, to Autoweek. Dealers throughout the country have reduced hours or temporarily closed down and laid-off employees.

Plant shutdowns extend into April. March 30 was supposed to be the day for manufacturers to resume production, but that isn’t going to happen. GM, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler were among the first companies to shutter their plants and each will stay closed for at least another week. Volkswagen says it’ll restart production on April 5, while Toyota says it’ll bring its plants back online on April 20. These resumption dates, however, will likely change especially as President Trump extended the national pullback through April 30. That said, each state has its unique directives in place.

Manufacturers and lenders give consumers a break. With millions of new unemployment claims filed in March, many consumers are suddenly experiencing financial trouble. With finance and lease payments due, some people are unable to make their next payment. Fortunately, manufacturers are responding through their financing arms to give consumers a break. Depending on the company, payment deferrals and lease payment extensions are in place. That said, in some cases only consumers with top credit ratings are eligible. We’ve surveyed various schemes in place from Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, and others. Auto Trends recommends affected consumers contact their respective lender for guidance. Tell them your story and work out an agreement that’s right for you.

After COVID-19

At some point, the COVID-19 threat will be gone, with businesses returning to a new normal. Most American citizens will see some relief in April as unemployment checks arrive and as the IRS distributes $1,200 to $3,400 to eligible households. The industry will endure a deep sales slump in March and April, with the likely rebound beginning in May. We may see record sales by July as consumers who have delayed their purchases flood dealer showrooms. Again, all this is predicated on how the crisis plays out.

Coronavirus Strikes; Industry Reacts

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It was only a matter of time before the U.S. auto industry reacted to the coronavirus pandemic, as both domestic and foreign-based manufacturers announced plans this week to thwart the spread of the contagion. The action taken varies from automaker to automaker, but ultimately a full production shut down ranging from a few days to up to two weeks, perhaps more, is occurring.

Following positive COVID-19 test results from one or more plant workers, companies such as Fiat Chrysler, GM, and Ford are idling their plants for at least 10 days. The companies responded to union pressure to shut down their plants, following Honda’s decision to take a six-day break of its own.

Honda workers are not represented by a union.

The industry-wide shutdown is unprecedented and will go beyond the pullback manufacturers faced in 2008 as a result of a deep recession. Then, all three U.S. manufacturers faced collapse with Chrysler and GM ultimately walking through bankruptcy. After that, Chrysler merged with Fiat, and all three companies restructured and built vast reserves of cash to weather the next cyclical downturn.

After years of anticipation, that downturn is here, driven largely by a pandemic that’s shaken much of the world.

Nissan will shut its plants from March 20 to April 6, while Hyundai closed its Alabama plant and is disinfecting the same following a positive COVID-19 result for one of its workers.

Toyota plans a two-day pause on March 23 and 24 for all its North American locations, allowing for special cleaning as well as to readjust production for lowered demand. The company says it will resume production on March 25.

Mercedes-Benz has yet to announce plans for its Alabama plant, but it is likely to shut it down as part shortages loom. According to Bloomberg, the company is experiencing a parts shortage as the European Union is amid a 30-day closure. Italy, Spain, and France are all hard-hit with virus cases in Germany and other countries increasing sharply. Mercedes imports engines and transmissions from Europe, which power two utility vehicles built stateside.

As of this writing, Kia has no plans to scale back production or temporarily reduce worker headcount at its West Point, Georgia, manufacturing plant. The automaker told the LaGrange Daily News that it has a COVID-19 response team tasked with monitoring the situation and minimizing risks. These include restricting public access and shutting down the facility’s fitness center.

BMW intends to keep its Spartanburg (Greer), SC, plant operational, at least for now. The company ordered many of its office employees to work from home, but it will keep its plant running.

Responding to a Fox Carolina inquiry via Twitter, BMW said, “In regard to closing Plant Spartanburg, we continue to monitor the situation in South Carolina daily and are in close alignment with both state and local government officials. We recognize that we are in a dynamic situation and we are prepared to adjust quickly based on the daily analysis of the current environment. In parallel we have implemented numerous measures to protect the health and safety of our employees.”

Auto Trends has learned that other automakers with a manufacturing or business presence in the U.S. are also responding to the crisis.

For instance, Tesla plans to temporarily reduce its workforce from 10,000 individuals to 2,500, although a timeline hasn’t been announced. The company finds itself in an unusual position as the area is under a mandatory three-week shelter-in-place directive.

But employees who are going to work are violating the edict, which only makes allowance for essential personnel to travel. The Alameda County Sheriff’s Department contends the plant must shut down, although it may permit a smaller workforce to remain for non-production work only.

See Also — 9 Winners and Losers of 2019

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay.

Top-Down Verve:
Ford Mustang Convertible

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The 2020 Ford Mustang Convertible in Velocity Blue.

What is that we like about the Ford Mustang? Well, everything! The Mustang reached iconic status long ago, but we think the last two generations have solidified its place in pony car lore. The current Mustang features select classic styling cues, such as sequential turn signals, while adding contemporary attributes that make it more aerodynamic. Offered in hardtop and convertible styles, the 2020 Ford Mustang is a winner.

2020 Ford Mustang Review

Ford offers the 2020 Mustang in hardtop (fastback) and convertible configurations. The fastback starts at $26,670, while the convertible begins at $32,170. Add $1,195 for the destination charge. The Mustang, a rear-wheel-drive model, comes with a standard 6-speed manual gearbox. If you upgrade to the 10-speed automatic, you’ll pay an additional $1,595.

Ford offers the Mustang in fastback and convertible configurations.

Exterior

We’ve heard so much about the Mustang down through the years, especially the current-generation model that debuted in 2015, marking this pony car’s 50th anniversary. The changes since then have been mostly modest, even subtle, as Ford stays true to its timeless look.

Our test model, though, came in one of the Mustang’s more eye-catching colors – Velocity Blue. It’s a fetching patina, one that draws attention to the vehicle, while offering a handsome contrast to the black convertible roof.

But the car is the most stunning with the roof down. Here, its silhouette becomes more graceful with every corner, line, and curve accented. Or at least it seemed that way. In all, the top-down Mustang makes for a stunning look, one the Dodge Challenger cannot match and that the Chevrolet Camaro doesn’t pull off nearly as well.

Interior

We’re accustomed to sport coupes such as the Ford Mustang offering excellent room in the first row and awful space in the second row. Nevertheless, the Mustang is a 2+2 model – you’ll simply want to use the second row for additional storage space or perhaps ask your guests to pull their legs up to their chests as you drive around town.

Across the board, we’ve found every Mustang driver’s seat to be comfortable, supportive, and supplying varying levels of bolstering. It’s very much a driver’s car with the instrument panel dominated by a pair of circular dials for the speedometer and tachometer, and a centered digital information center.

Rear seat access is simply by jumping in with the roof down.

Above the display panel near the top of the dashboard are two additional dials for the oil pressure and temperature. Clean lines, an uncluttered center stack, and useful door pockets are features of note.

The standard cloth seats give way to leather on the Premium trim. Our model also had leather touches on the steering wheel, center stack, and the armrest. Yes, Ford even utilizes carbon fiber or something that looks just like it at the top of the console.

Tech

A base Mustang has a 4.2-inch display screen, Ford’s standard SYNC infotainment system, two USB ports, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a six-speaker audio system. That’s the standard package with a screen that’s a bit too small for our tastes.

Happily, there are upgrades available, thanks to the Premium Package that’s available with both engine choices. Here, you’ll find an 8-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, satellite radio, and an impressive 1,000-watt B&O Play audio system. Among the options available are a navigation system and a digital instrument cluster.

Offered standard for this year is FordPass Connect. The way this works is through a smartphone app, where you can remotely locate, start, lock and unlock the car, as well as check fuel levels and mileage. Remote start is standard with models equipped with the automatic transmission, but it isn’t available with the manual transmission.

A digital instrument is optional, but most models have the traditional display.

Safety

Sport coupes are typically behind other models in terms of safety features That’s one of the trade-offs for choosing performance first.

But the Ford Mustang does offer several driver-assist features, although they’re not standard – you’ll have to pay to get them. Among the available features are active lane control, driver attention alerts, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

In crash testing, the Ford Mustang performs relatively well, with the IIHS assigning the coupe with its top scores in most categories, except for an acceptable score in the small overlap front: driver-side test. Not all tests are conducted on the convertible.

Performance

A Ford Mustang with a four-cylinder engine? Seriously? We haven’t seen one since the 1990s, what was then a 2.3-liter motor powering the Mustang SVO. That engine has an output of up to 205 horsepower, depending on the year.

Beginning in 2015, the Mustang gained an all-new turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four, joining a 3.7-liter V6 and a 5.0-liter V8 as the middle entry in a three-engine lineup. Beginning in 2018, only the turbo and V8 engines remained as Ford dropped the V6. Like the V8, the turbo works with either a standard 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission.

What’s important to know about the base engine is that it is no slacker. Indeed, the naturally aspirated V6 produces 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. That’s not too shabby for a V6. But the inline-four had the power edge and that’s why it was an engine upgrade.

The Mustang’s top drops down in about 10 seconds and
neatly folds itself behind the rear seat.

As before, the turbo four produces 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of twist. Further, a high-performance version as supplied in my test model swelled its output to 330 hp. That equals the top-end of the performance spectrum for today’s most powerful V6 engines.

The other choice is, of course, a 5.0-liter V8 engine. Here, this one has long served as the performance mainstay for the Mustang, a naturally aspirated motor that currently develops 460/480 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. Robust numbers, indeed!

As for the engine at hand, it rises to the occasion. Our test model had the dual exhaust with four tips, which purred and bellowed as the RPMs rose and fell. It offers quick off-the-mark acceleration and sufficient passing power. With the six-speed gearbox to play with, the gear movements came easy and clean. Turbo lag was imperceptible; it might be noticeable with the automatic, but I didn’t find it that way with the manual.

Typically, about once each year a Mustang shows up in my test fleet. As the first four-banger Mustang I’ve ever driven, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Besides its laudable performance characteristics, this pony car supplies wonderfully weighted steering, spot-on handling, and imparts much fun on twisty roads and while pulling out of corners. The Mustang seems like a throwback to another era when cars were fast, fun to drive, and not crossovers. Sadly, the Mustang represents a dying breed of car styling – we hope Ford has the presence of mind to keep this vehicle alive in both hardtop and convertible configurations.

Competitive Set

The Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro are the two closest competitors to the Ford Mustang. Only the Camaro offers a convertible. Like the Mustang, the Camaro has a small rear seat. However, the Challenger is the space leader of the three, as it can easily hold four adults.

Other models to consider include the Nissan 370Z and the Toyota GR Supra. If you don’t mind four doors, then the Dodge Charger and Kia Stinger are worthy competitors as well.

Sequential turn signal lights are quad tip exhausts give this Mustang its verve.

Our Recommendation

Should you choose a turbo four or naturally aspirated V8? That’s the choice before you. We know enthusiasts will gravitate to the latter, which begs for further upgrades including various performance packages ($5,195 or $6,500). These include summer tires, Brembo brakes, an enhanced damping system, track-inspired features, gauge pack, and other performance enhancements.

We can, however, recommend the base engine configuration for anyone who doesn’t place performance above everything else. Certainly, by starting at the Premium trim you’ll have many of the features you’ll probably want in America’s pony car.

2020 Ford Mustang Specifications

Ford 2020 Mustang
Segment Sport Coupe
Price Range From $26,670 (coupe); $32,170 (convertible)
Destination Charge $1,095
Engine No. 1 2.3-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower 310/330 @ 5,500/6,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 350 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
Engine No. 2 5.0-liter, V8
Horsepower 460/480 @ 7,500/7,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 420 @ 4,600 rpm
Transmission 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
Engine No. 3 5.2-liter, V8
Horsepower 526/726 @ 7,500/7,300 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.) 429/625 @ 4,750/5,000 rpm
Transmission 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT
Seating 4
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,535 to 4,171
Wheelbase (inches) 107.1
Length (inches) 188.5 to 189.7
Width (inches) 75.4 to 76.6
Height (inches) 54.3 to 53.6
Headroom (f,r…inches) 37.6, 34.8
Legroom (f,r…inches) 45.1, 29.0
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 56.3, 52.2
Hip room (f,r…inches) 54.9, 47.4
Storage (cubic feet) 13.5 (coupe); 11.4 (convertible)
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 15.5 or 16
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 21/31/25 (2.3L) 16/25/19 (5.0L) 14/21/16 (5.2L)
Manufacturing Plant Flat Rock, Michigan

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — Charmed, Then Snakebitten by a Shelby GT350

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.