Ford's 2011 F-150 pickup with Ecoboost engine has the potential to perform better and use less gasoline than its competitors. The Ecoboost engine adds $1,750 to the F-150's sticker price and is available in standard, extended, or crew-cab models. However, one analyst says Ford's Sync voice-recognition system seems to have deteriorated while its drive-train technology has taken a giant step forward.
With record-breaking temperatures across the U.S., drivers should take a look at their car's cooling system, tires, and other parts under stress in hot weather. Checking the coolant level is most important followed by tire pressure and transmission fluid. The air-conditioning compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-dryer and other parts should be checked annually to ensure passenger comfort. Drivers are urged to carry plenty of water and never leave children or pets unattended in the car.
Many advanced safety technologies are already available on high-end vehicles that slow or stop cars if drivers don't act quickly on their own. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is releasing evidence that these brakes are keeping cars from crashing and is also studying other advanced safety features. IIHS estimates these crash-avoidance features have the potential to prevent or at least lessen the impact in 1.9 million crashes a year and help prevent one out of three fatal crashes.
Vehicle manufacturers must comply with features that are mandated by the government for safety, environmental, or other reasons. They include electronic stability control and new roof crush standards. Although not mandated, other features consumers should consider are the capless fuel cap, automatic up and down windows, Bluetooth connectivity, three blink blinkers, and blind spot detection. These are all inexpensive, useful, and make driving easier and safer.
Environmental impact and fuel economy are only part of the equation when considering a hybrid purchase. The Union of Concerned Scientists found many hybrid models do not save consumers as much money as they might expect. Some hybrid engines deliver strong fuel efficiency while others increase the engine's power, resulting in less improvement in fuel economy and environmental benefit. Consumers should consider the time required for fuel savings to make up for the hybrid's premium price over its conventional counterpart prior to making their decision.