Next Generation Ford Focus

[bombloader]

Originally Posted by PaleMelanesian

The problem with most manual transmissions these days is they have these high-revving gear ratios. The autos often have lower-rpm ratios, which offsets the inherent inefficiency of an automatic. If the ratios were the same, the manual should/would rate higher on the epa test.

True. I assumed an "all other things equal" in autos vs. manuals. Two reasons for the ratio differences spring to mind. One, sticks may be marketed more for performance so they're geared for acceleration. Two, carmakers are compensating for the fact that autos typically have lower effective ratios at the torque converter stall speed. I do know that sticks still rule in over the road trucking where FE is critical to make money. Eaton actually makes manuals with automatic clutches now.

[gascort]

Sweet! Maybe my wife and I can agree on this car! She wants a Fusion, but I want 40+ mpg for her 40 mile commute to work and for traveling as a family. This has both (well, not a fusion, but similar styling quality - just a pinch smaller.)

[beatr911]

Sticks have shorter gears than the auto because with cruise control it can maintain speed or accelerate while stuck in top gear. The auto can downshift while in cruise if it needs to.

Now, I can see an aftermarket segment for tall freeway gears for those that realize that thier shifting arms and legs aren't broken once they reach freeway speeds.

The newest Focus looks great now. I hope it looks just as good when it comes to market in the US.

Didn't some Civics and Accords come with thermostatically controlled grilles?

[gone-ot]

...anybody remember (from way back during the "good ole days") the "add-on" tailshaft overdrive units?

...I had one installed on my '53 flathead Ford Crown Vickie!

[NeilBlanchard]

They should not hamstring the manual *unless* you order it with cruise control! I want tall gearing, and I almost never use cruise control, damn it!

I'm curious to know what these cars weigh, and what the Cd is...

[beatr911]

Neil, I hear ya!

If they don't offer an MPG optimized model, Ford Motorsports or someone should offer a taller final drive or 5th or something.

I see some sort of aftermarket segment potential directed at this. Sort of like what the Metro crowd has done.