Ford set to improve 2013 hybrid software

Ford said on Monday that it would recall its 2013 Fusion, C-Max and Lincoln MKZ hybrids, but not for the reason you might think. Like your cell phone software, the car’s software systems are getting an upgrade. Starting in August, owners of those cars will be notified of their option to bring the cars in for a software enhancement that will help even out the variability in mileage.

Ford C-Max & Grand C-Max 2015 FACELIFT revealed – debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show

Ford C-Max & Grand C-Max 2015 FACELIFT revealed Ford has been busy grafting their new grill on to cars across their range recently, and the latest models to get the ‘Gaydon Grill’ (and other tweaks) are the C-Max and Grand C-Max – Ford’s 5 and 7 seat MPVs based on the Focus – revealed today ahead of a debut at the Paris Motor Show next month. As you’e expect, the changes amount to pretty much what we’ve seen with the Ford Focus facelift, so there’s a new grill to make the Ford statement accompanied by new headlights and bonnet. Round the back the tailgate has been given a slicker, simplified makeover, there’s a new bumper and smaller lights.

Land Rover Defender Challenge by Bowler – the Defender goes rallying

The Land Rover Defender goes rallying (pictured) with Bowler modifications The venerable Land Rover Defender – now reaching the end of its shelf life – may not seem the perfect rally car. But a Defender tweaked and fettled with some Bowler Fairy Dust is another matter, and that’s exactly what’s happening with a new, one-make Defender Challenge by Bowler – and backed by Land Rover – which is aiming to put up to fifteen Defenders in to UK forest stage rallies and hill rallies in 2014. The Defender in question is a Defender 90 Hard Top with the usual 2.2 litre diesel, but sorted by Bowler to deliver 170bhp and 323lb/ft of torque (up from the regular 122bhp/266lb/ft) with a standard six-speed manual ‘box, MSA roll cage, fire extinguisher and Khumo tyres.