Edgy 2013 Ford Edge Difficult to Ignore

The bold 2013 Ford Edge is a dynamic vehicle that demands attention. The sleek and aerodynamic SUV is prepared for adventure. Maritime Ford, a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI, offers versions of the sporty Ford Edge.

Designed with remarkable exterior and interior features, the Edge showcases striking design, convenience and functionality. Every element from the instrument panel to the door trim was thoughtfully developed for an exceptional driving experience. The vehicle’s best-in-class space and legroom is a tribute to the Edge’s attention to detail and comfort.

Available with the SEL Appearance Package, the Edge can be outfitted with an array of stylish upgrades. Leather-trimmed seats with suede inserts, aluminum pocket wheels, refreshed head/tail lamps, grille and floor mats are all possible features.

The six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission and 3.5L Twin independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) V6 Engine contribute to the Edge’s efficient, yet powerful ride. Capable of achieving 19 mpg city, 27 mpg hwy and 22 mpg combined, the vehicle keeps performance and eco-friendliness in mind.

Putting the driver and his/her passengers first, the Edge has contains 108.4 cu. ft. of passenger volume. Behind the first row seating there is 68.9 cu. ft. of cargo space, and 32.2 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the second row. There is ample space for camping or soccer gear, skiing equipment or luggage for a long trip. The Edge is ready to take passengers wherever their next adventure leads them.

Among the vehicle’s several attention grabbing features is the innovative MyKey technology. Designed to promote a safer, more responsible driving experience, MyKey can put limits on driving speed, audio volume, as well as implementing Belt Minder, a warning that sounds until all seat belts are fastened. With MyKey drivers are given low fuel reminders sooner to keep the car on the road longer and more safely.

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Fords in Manitowoc, WI. The dealership’s full inventory is available online and on-site today.

New ‘Driving America’ Exhibit Opens at Henry Ford Museum

The Henry Ford Museum recently opened a refreshed exhibit, ‘Driving America,’ that took auto enthusiasts on a ride through the automaker’s history. Starting with the 1895 Roper Steam Carriage, the oldest motor vehicle in the U.S., and ending with the 2002 Toyota Prius Hybrid, the timeline showed the unbelievable evolution of the auto industry. Maritime Ford, a valued Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI, is honored to be a part of the legendary Ford empire.

Founded by auto leader Henry Ford, the Dearborn museum revamped its exhibit showcasing vehicles throughout history. “The exhibit showcases the museum’s rich collection and the enormous influence of the automobile on U.S. culture and daily life,” said USA Today.

After a year of construction, the 80,000-square-foot exhibit is filled with 130 vehicles and more than 60 cases of memorabilia. Some of the most influential and memorable vehicles are displayed showing the advancement in automotive technology.

‘Driving America’ not only displays the iconic vehicles, but also their effect on American culture. Outfitted with a throwback McDonald’s sign, a model of an old Texaco station, and a replica of an early Holiday Inn, the exhibit captures moments of American driving history and culture.

The vehicle lineup is in chronological order, taking guests on a journey through time. Henry Ford’s Quadricycle, the 1896 Model T, brings guests back to the beginning. The exhibit shows everything from early models, to gas guzzling SUVs that ruled American culture, to modern electric vehicles designed for efficiency.

“Since the fortunes of the industry can shift with brutal speed, the museum has readied itself for change. The Henry Ford has installed lifts at each end of the timeline, so that the exhibit can be updated more frequently,” said The Wall Street Journal.

Check out some of the automaker’s iconic vehicles with Maritime Ford. Maritime Ford’s variety of new and used Fords in Manitowoc, WI is second-to-none.

New Ford Slogan Helps Automaker ‘Go Further’

Ford Motor Co. has a new slogan that captures its newfound confidence after its near collapse six years ago. The automaker employs over 166,000 workers worldwide and never allows itself to stop reaching and creating. The new slogan, “Go Further,” shows the company’s desire to avoid complacency and mediocrity. Maritime Ford, a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI, also adopts the carmaker’s fresh words to offer the best new and used Ford vehicles in Wisconsin.

“Go Further” will be used in future Ford marketing campaigns, and will replace “Drive One” in North America and “Feel the Difference” in Europe. The new slogan is used to show the automaker’s triumphant attitude and a willingness to overcome past obstacles.

“We are at a different point now in our company’s history,” said Jim Farley, global head of sales and marketing for Ford.

Chief Executive Alan Mulally originally introduced the “Go Further” slogan to Ford’s employees around the world in a New Year’s message, which is now being used in advertisements and on Facebook for Ford in Europe.

There is some resistance behind the new slogan. Justin Wartell, head of brand strategy for Interband of Dayton, Ohio, said the slogan makes sense for Ford engineers, not necessarily for consumers. The challenge is to create a slogan that translates to all audiences.

“Any automaker can use that,” said Wartell. “What makes it Ford? What makes it stand out?”

Elena Ford, the automaker’s global director of marketing, said the slogan reminds employees to aim higher and create better vehicles for consumers.

“We go further so you can,” she said.

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. The dealership’s full inventory is available online and on-site. “Go Further” with Ford and Maritime by researching your next Ford vehicle today.

Ford Racking Up Awards from Cars.com with F-150 and Mustang Boss 302

Maritime Ford is a valued Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. The dealership is proud to announce that the Ford F-150 was named Cars.com’s Work Truck of the Year, and the Ford Mustang Boss 302 was recognized as Play Car of the Year. The automaker continues to receive awards for its consistently reliable vehicles and Maritime is proud to represent the Ford name.

Another year has passed and the Ford F-150 still stands above all full-size pickup trucks as Cars.com’s Work Truck of the Year. For decades the truck has been a best-selling model that keeps drivers active and productive. According to Cars.com, pickups aren’t as popular because of rising gas prices; however, tradesmen, farmers, laborers and tough job-doers continue to be loyal F-150 drivers.

“To be a hard worker, you have to be able to do a lot of different types of work. And probably no other vehicle reflects that spirit better than the Ford F-150. Like a multifunctional tool, the F-150 can be configured in an almost infinite number of ways to meet the needs of commercial, personal or family jobs,” said Ford.

The fresh, retro-themed Ford Mustang Boss 302 has received several improvements for a more stylish, potent performance. Built for a fun, invigorating ride, the Mustang Boss 302 uses its 444-horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 engine to deliver unmatched power.

“The Ford Mustang is already one of our favorite sports cars, but the new Boss 302 knocked us out. Everything you like about the Mustang GT – the power, the sound and the attitude – has been enhanced in the Boss 302,” said Ford.

Both vehicles received two of Cars.com’s most prestigious awards. For more information on Ford’s award-winning vehicles, check out Maritime Ford’s variety of new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. The dealership’s full inventory is available online and on-site today.

Ford Receives Honors in Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards

Maritime Ford is a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. For the second year in a row, Ford Motor Company was given top honors at the annual Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards. The automaker was a repeat winner in the following categories: Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer; Overall Loyalty to Make; African-American Market Loyalty to Make; and Mid/Full-Size Pickup for its F-Series truck lineup, which has been honored in that category 14 out of the last 16 years.

The Ford Escape was recognized in the compact SUV category for its first time. Polk’s Automotive Loyalty Awards are presented to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that demonstrate the ability to maintain relationships and loyalty with car owners over repeat buying cycles.

“The awards represent an OEM’s success in bringing consumers back into their showrooms when they return to market for a new vehicle,” said Brad Smith, director of Polk’s Loyalty Management Practice. “OEMs are more focused than ever before on customer loyalty programs, and those that place high priority on these initiatives are reaping the rewards.”

Polk monitors owner loyalty throughout the year and works regularly with customers to supervise owner loyalty. Through in-depth analysis of automotive shopping behaviors, related market influencers and development of retention strategies, Polk is able to determine loyalty leaders. According to Polk, loyalty is determined when a household that owns a new vehicle returns to market and purchases or leases another new vehicle of the same model or make.

“We are honored that our customers continue to choose our products. Each day, Ford endeavors to gain their loyalty and advocacy by providing choices, fuel economy, smart technology and safety,” said Ken Czubay, vice president of sales and service for Ford.

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. The dealership’s full inventory is available online and on-site.

Ford Bringing iHeartRadio to Vehicle Lineup

Maritime Ford is a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. Ford announced at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show that it plans to bring iHeartRadio to its vehicle lineup, allowing drivers to access the radio service by voice commands.

Ford’s SYNC AppLink provides drivers with hands-free voice control capability of smartphone apps. More drivers are streaming radio from their mobile phones. The automaker is now offering access to iHeartRadio, which features more than 800 of the top broadcast and digital-only stations in the U.S.

With wheel-mounted controls or SYNC’s voice command, drivers will be able to listen to unlimited amounts of music with much more ease and safety. Drivers can create custom stations, start and stop songs on the local station, find traffic reports based on the phone’s GPS system and share music with friends on their Facebook pages.

“Smartphones now account for half of all new mobile phones and people increasingly expect to take control of when and where they listen to their media,” said Julius Marchwicki, SYNC product manager. “With the AppLink-enabled version of iHeartRadio, Ford drivers can listen to their favorite stations even if they aren’t local, get recommendations and share what they listen to through Facebook.”

iHeartRadio is one of several apps linked with SYNC AppLink that Ford unveiled at this year’s tech event. Now available in 10 Ford vehicles, SYNC AppLink will be bringing convenience and functionality to several 2012 Ford vehicles. iHeartRadio featuring SYNC capabilities is available for download from the iTunes App Store, BlackBerry App World and will soon be available to the Android Market.

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. Check out the dealership’s full inventory online or on-site today to purchase your own SYNC AppLink-capable Ford vehicle. Stay updated with Maritime Ford for more information on iHeartRadio.

The Blue Oval Gets Greener With MyFord Mobile

Maritime Ford is a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. Ford Motor Company is pairing its new Focus Electric and social networking with its new MyFord Mobile app, promoting an even greener driving experience.

At the 2012 International CES, taking place Jan. 10-13 in Las Vegas, the automaker will demonstrate the first-ever beta versions of the new technology.  Drivers will also be able to share, learn and teach smart driving by getting involved with MyFord Mobile forums. Leaderboards, unique achievements and social networking are among the website’s features. When the car becomes available in the first half of 2012, users will be able to upload driving achievements to social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.

“The MyFord Mobile app and the Focus Electric work together to coach drivers to be more efficient and maximize the benefits of the electric vehicle experience,” said Kelley Zechel, MyFord Mobile product manager. “We wanted to help drivers get more miles out of every charge and have some fun along the way.”

MyFord Mobile enhances the driving experience with gaming and social sharing components. Drivers can earn achievements based on how far they drive and how much CO2 they save by not using gas. Achievements may also be earned by engaging in the online MyFord Mobile community forum. Drivers help one another answer questions or provide helpful tips, in turn receiving achievements for their suggestions and interactions.

“Driving the Focus Electric will be a fun experience; with MyFord Mobile, the enjoyment continues after the vehicle is parked and charging,” said Bill Frykman, Business and Product Development Manager. “We are offering a new way of sharing your driving experiences to create a cool factor with the goal of educating new Focus Electric drivers on the perks that come with an electric vehicle lifestyle.”

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. Check the dealership’s full inventory online or on-site today.

2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible to Show-Off at 2012 Detroit Auto Show

Maritime Ford is a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. Originally revealed at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 turned heads. The Shelby GT500 convertible, however, is going to be presented at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in a few short weeks.

Shown originally as a coupe, the Shelby GT500 has been refined and modified to add even more power and style to the convertible while staying close to the vehicle’s original design. Packing an unbelievable 650 horsepower, the Shelby GT500 is surpassing all expectations. According to Motor Authority the vehicle has brand new supercharged V-8 engine capable of producing 600 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful production V-8 in the world.

Weighing in at a mere 3,850 pounds, the lightweight Shelby GT500 is designed for speed and performance. Although Ford has yet to release specific performance figures, the car is expected to reach over 200 mpg.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes made to the Shelby GT500 was to the gearing. “Nearly every gear on the 2013 Shelby GT500 was revised to manage the torque and use more of the power in a way that makes it more driver-friendly,” said Motor Authority. Ford engineers ultimately designed a configuration that delivers less torque through the wheels to the ground while allowing the car to achieve fuel economy targets.

Other improvements made to the GT500 include a more sleek and edgy exterior and interior, as well as 19-inch from wheels and 20-inch rear wheels. “Nearly every vehicle system found on the car has been optimized, from the powertrain, to the brakes, to even the gearing, suspension and aerodynamics,” said Motor Authority.

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. Check the dealership’s full inventory online or on-site today.

Ford Employees Test New MyFord Touch Upgrade to Ensure Customer Satisfaction

Maritime Ford is a premier Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. Ford plans to launch its major upgrade to MyFord Touch on 2013 models per customer requests, delivering a faster, simpler and easier experience. Approximately 1,000 of the automaker’s employees were randomly chosen from the Ford management lease vehicle population in Southeast Michigan to beta-test the new software for a month.

Ford customers will reap the benefits of the newly designed and tested MyFord Touch software. Planned to launch for 2013 models, the software upgrade will be a part of a new, innovative approach to ensure a high-quality launch of the improved system, according to a Ford Motor Company press release. The new Ford Escape, Taurus and Flex will be equipped with the upgraded system, and updates will be made to existing systems in the Ford Explorer, Edge and Focus.

Infotainment, Ford Electronics and Electrical Systems Engineering Chief Engineer, John Schneider said, “Employees are a great source for quick feedback, and the best part is that they are eager to help.” Schneider continued, “Employees who have been MyFord Touch users since it was first launched will test the new upgrade on employee lease vehicles so they can provide us real-world feedback, helping us polish the final product before it goes to our customers.”

The automaker values its customers’ opinions, suggestions and feedback, which was the initial driving force in upgrading the current MyFord Touch system. Ford designers and engineers want to guarantee that the upgrades will satisfy customers before sending the software into production.

“Ford has been listening and learning from our customers about their ownership experience in order to continuously improve it,” saud Schneider. “The new upgrade exemplifies the importance of customer feedback and showcases the flexibility and speed we now have by leveraging software to evolve Ford technology.”

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. Check the dealership’s full inventory online or on-site today.

All-New Ford Explorer Redesigned for Optimum Performance

Maritime Ford is a premium Ford dealership in Manitowoc, WI. The automaker has completely redesigned the 2012 edition of Explorer for the 2011 model year. The Explorer is the first Ford to offer the new 4-cylinder Eco-Boost engine.

The Explorer capitalizes on V6-like engine power in an eco-friendly, fuel-efficient smaller engine. The vehicle’s EcoBoost technology adds a new dimension to the Explorer’s advancement.

Last year the Explorer’s redesign elevated the vehicle from being a heavy truck utility vehicle to a new lighter, more rigid Explorer. Still a full-sized utility vehicle, the Explorer is equipped with supple fully independent suspension, an improved all-wheel-drive system option and standard seating for up to seven occupants.

A 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine is the base power unit and provides 20 percent better fuel economy than the previous generation V6. Power output is an impressive 290 horsepower and 255 lbs.-ft of torque and it’s mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Compact, fuel-efficient and powerful, the new EcoBoost is the first in a new series of high-efficiency gasoline engines outfitted with direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger. It can deliver 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 270 lbs.-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm.

The Explorer also runs on regular gasoline, an its turbocharger harnesses energy normally wasted in the engine’s exhaust and uses it to pressure air going in to the engine. The engine’s power output is significantly increased, and direct injection as well as electronic engine management eliminates the disadvantages of boosting. The freshly styled, higher performance vehicle, the Explorer is also a safer ride prepared to hit the highways in style.

Maritime Ford offers several new and used Ford vehicles in Manitowoc, WI. Review the dealership’s full inventory online or on-site today.