The Future of Ford's SVT Explained...

[YSSMAN]

An interesting bit of news, given that SVT's future was in question for some time...

Recently, Ford's SVT product director Hau Thai-Tang said Ford decided the performance division "still fits," and would not be discontinued as some had thought. In a recent interview with AutoWeek Thai-Tang provided further explanation of Ford's plans for SVT. He said SVT would offer products in three distinct categories…

The first segment, according to Thai-Tang is the performance division as it exists today. As previously noted, Ford currently plans only two vehicles in this category, for the time being. The first is the Shelby Mustang GT500. The second will be a new truck based on the F-150. AutoWeek speculates an SVT Focus could also be in the works, but Thai-Tang makes no reference to it.

The second segment will include "race-inspired" vehicles. Previously, this would have included the Ford GT supercar. Although Ford has discontinued the GT, Thai-Tang's comment make a successor seem likely.

The third segment will focus on "enhanced performance" — appearance packages, minor performance modifications, wheels, and so on. These accessories will be sold aftermarket via dealers. Thai-Tang said past examples from Ford would include the Bullitt and Mach 1 Mustang.

Looks like they have gotten it figured out at Ford. Now if they can bring the European Ford Focus to the US in ST form, they might have a winner in their hands...

 

[harrytuttle]

An interesting bit of news, given that SVT's future was in question for some time...



Looks like they have gotten it figured out at Ford. Now if they can bring the European Ford Focus to the US in ST form, they might have a winner in their hands...

Seriously, it is about time they figured it out. I hope the confusion about SVT disappearing was that someone just mis-spoke. New cars like the current European Focus would bring some needed life to Ford's performance in that segment.

I've never been crazy about the Bullitt, since it seemed more like marketing than actual substance, but it's refreshing to see the Mach 1 continued on. Wonder if they're planning a "Boss" sometime soon. 👍 Wasn't there a V10 test mule called the "Boss V10" a few years ago? Was that V10 ever used anywhere other than the Cobra concept (if indeed that is the same V10)?

 

[JCE]

I would agree with what you just said YSS. SVT is just too good of a company for Ford to kill. The Euro Focus ST is brillaint...actually even the base model is. After all it shares the same platform as some Volvos and the Mazda3. 👍

 

[red70mach1]

Bring back the Mach 1, and the Boss. That test mule harrytuttle mentioned was the Boss 351-V10.

 

[YSSMAN]

...Well, my uncle helped set up SVT in the early '90s, so I'm glad to see it work out allright.

The Bullitt, BOSS, and Mach 1 are all due for a comeback according to Ford as they will be the special-eddition models made for only one model year before the end of the current Mustang's run. Right now, the California Cruiser holds that spot in the Ford lineup.

My guess is that the Bullitt comes next, given how many Ford fans were pissed that they couldn't oder the new model in that color (myself included). But it is a toss-up as to what would come next. With the previous-gen models, I thought the Mach 1 was executed better than the limited-eddition BOSS, but the Bullitt was by-far my favorite.

 

[a6m5]

Seriously, it is about time they figured it out.

No kidding! When I read that "still fits" part in the article, I wanted to punch that guy in the face. Whatever he is making, he is WAY overpaid.

What worries me is that they didn't mention the next SVT Focus. That should be their focus(no pun intended), right there! With the SVT, finally they were getting broader range of people interested in the sporty side of Ford. Ford cars did not interest most young people, especially the compact and import crowd. I believe SVT helped change that with cars like SVT Contour & Focus(before that, SHO). Mustang crowd will always be there, with or without SVT. Lightning's cool, but I want SVT to get cars like Focus and Fusion, done right.

Another thing is the whole Ford Racing Parts. They have ancient distribution system that just does not work. They need a overhaul. Make it more user/retailer friendly. They aren't as bad as Saleen, but that's like saying that you are better than a child molester.

 

[IMADreamer]

That's good news for everyone really. By revamping the SVT division that will keep the other companies in check too. That means better cars and products for all of us. Well all of us American car guys anyway.

As for the Euro focus ST I hope they bring it here. I saw Top Gears review of that thing and said to myself, now that's a Ford I would buy. Cheap, fun, and stylish. Sounds like a good combination.

 

[YSSMAN]

With GM going all RWD power for all of their former W-Body cars, Ford is going to need something to make their cars compeditive on the style and sport side of the given situation. A SVT Fusion sounds like a great idea, one that is long overdue. However, I don't want to see them copy-and-paste the Mazdaspeed6 to create a SVT Fusion. A SVT Focus rebirth would be nice, but it would be absolutely pointless without the next-gen Focus here. But I often wonder about the future of the SVT Lightning. On the one hand, it was a fan favorite and they did sell every model they made, but on the other, how long can they go on making those trucks given our current "gas crisis?"

...If they can push out slightly modified Mustangs that are a step bleow the GT500, I'll be a happy man. Chevrolet and Dodge needs something to play with, and I presume they would be the cars of choise.

 

[Tornado]

I've never been crazy about the Bullitt, since it seemed more like marketing than actual substance, but it's refreshing to see the Mach 1 continued on. Wonder if they're planning a "Boss" sometime soon. 👍 Wasn't there a V10 test mule called the "Boss V10" a few years ago? Was that V10 ever used anywhere other than the Cobra concept (if indeed that is the same V10)?

No, the Boss 351 had a custom-milled and formed 4.6 V8 block turned into a V10. It was only ever used in that and never was approved for production in anything else (or in that, for that matter).

 

[Jim Prower]

I sent in a letter to Motor Trend back when the Cobra concept was out...I suggested Ford make a Neo-Mk. IV GT40 wiht that car's V-10. the letter got published.

 

[JCE]

I sent in a letter to Motor Trend back when the Cobra concept was out...I suggested Ford make a Neo-Mk. IV GT40 wiht that car's V-10. the letter got published.

Got a scan or the entire letter? I'd like to read it and the Editor's response. 👍

 

[Jim Prower]

Sorry...I have the mag, though. it was the one where they announced the GT was go for production.

they said nothing to my letter, though.

 

[Onikaze]

Race Inspired huh.

GT-350R anyone?

Boss, Bullitt, Mach 1...those are nice and all.

I just want the white car with the blue stripes and a snake on the side.

 

[1X83Z]

Here's a plan for SVT: MAKE SOME CARS. They've been denying the fact that they're out of business for about two years, yet in those two years they haven't released a single product. Quit talking about what's in the future and actually release a car or two. Since SVT went out, Chrysler's SRT and Chevrolet's SS line have both expanded infinitely. But Ford? Nope - they just keep talking about what's in the works.

Here's an idea, Hau Thai-Tang:

Crown Victoria SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet, Dodge, and Chrysler are already in this segment)
Escape SVT: 274bhp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (from Mazdaspeed 6)
Expedition SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500)
Explorer SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet and Jeep are already in this segment)
F-150 SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet and Dodge are already in this segment)
Five Hundred SVT: AWD + 292bhp 4.6-liter V8 (from Explorer; Chevrolet, Dodge, and Chrysler are already in this segment)
Focus SVT: 274bhp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cyl (from Mazdaspeed 6; Chevrolet, Dodge, and Saturn are already in this segment)
Freestyle SVT: 292bhp 4.6-liter V8 (from Explorer; Chevrolet and Jeep are already in this segment)
Fusion SVT: 274bhp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cyl (from Mazdaspeed 6; Chevrolet is already in this segment)
Ranger SVT: actually, just cancel it
Sport Trac SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet and Dodge are already in this segment)

It's actually a pretty simple concept, Ford: take a huge engine from a different car. Stuff it in to a car you already make. It takes almost no effort, yet people eat them up. Chrysler's SRT team has been out for less time that Ford has been denying SVT's disappearance, yet they're already building like six vehicles. It's NOT HARD to do this. So... do it. And quit talking about it.

 

[Roo09511]

I LOVE that post. Too bad Bill Ford is too "hybrid-happy" to know what people in this country REALLY want: POWER!

 

[JCE]

Crown Victoria SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet, Dodge, and Chrysler are already in this segment)
Escape SVT: 274bhp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (from Mazdaspeed 6)
Expedition SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500)
Explorer SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet and Jeep are already in this segment)
F-150 SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet and Dodge are already in this segment)
Five Hundred SVT: AWD + 292bhp 4.6-liter V8 (from Explorer; Chevrolet, Dodge, and Chrysler are already in this segment)
Focus SVT: 274bhp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cyl (from Mazdaspeed 6; Chevrolet, Dodge, and Saturn are already in this segment)
Freestyle SVT: 292bhp 4.6-liter V8 (from Explorer; Chevrolet and Jeep are already in this segment)
Fusion SVT: 274bhp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cyl (from Mazdaspeed 6; Chevrolet is already in this segment)
Ranger SVT: actually, just cancel it
Sport Trac SVT: 475bhp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (from Mustang GT500; Chevrolet and Dodge are already in this segment)

+rep Great post, said everything that I wanted to pretty much. I for one would love to see the Crown Vic SVT...would be interesting. The Focus SVT would just be as simple as bringing the new Focus ST over--2.5L 5cyl Turbo from Volvo putting out around 230bhp. I'm both in favor of stuffing the same V8's in all of your models and I'm not. I think a supercharged 3.9L V8 would fit more towards the Escape and Ranger. The Fusion SVT and Five Hundred SVT would just flat out ROCK...period. Oh and the Freestyle uses the same chassis and drivetrain as the Five Hundred so add your Five Hundred spec to the Freestyle. Americans want power...can't Ford see that? DCX figured it out and so has GM to an extent...so where's Ford? Have your hybrids...but don't count out the horsepower happy public. Give us the damn choice!

 

[Roo09511]

That's right! Add to that that you have to keep a hybrid for like 10 to 12 years to make your money back on gas, and they'll suck the life out of a company.

BUT WAIT! I'M BILL FORD! LET'S STEP UP PRODUCTION TO 250,000 OF THESE RETARDED THINGS BY 2009! YAY FOR RETARDNESSNESS! DEE DEE DEE!


Ford is dead before 2015, I can already see it....

Oh and come to think of it, I do disagree on the Crown Vic SVT. That would make the poice interceptor obsolete. So maybe a supercharged version of the Interceptor would be good, but not a 5.4.

 

[YSSMAN]

A few things about M5Power's list:

1) I like the idea of a SVT Crown Vic, but I'm not sure that it would happen given the questionable lifespan that the car has left. Wouldn't that just be a Marauder with a bigger engine? We'll see I suppose, but as of right now, I don't see it happening.

2) Escape SVT won't happen either, as the chassis is dated and also due for replacement. We would be more likely to see the new Ford Edge come with an SVT version with the 2.3L Turbo from the Mazdaspeed3, not the 6, as the lower power would be more reasonable for a crossover SUV.

3) Expedition/Explorer SVT units were ideas that had come up before (look up the SVT Tunder Prototype) in the previous generation of models, but given the lagging sales of SUVs, the idea might not fly...

4) SVT Lightning (F150) should be in the pipes again given the successes of it's predecessors and the positive comments twards the 500 BHP concept version, but given that the Dodge Ram SRT-10 has effectively been canceled as of today and the successor to the Silverado SS hasn't been announced, there might not be a market for it.

5) Fivehundred/Freestyle SVT again seems like a reasonable idea, but I would think they would just steal the V8 from the Volvo S80 and XC90 that it shares it's platform with and call it a day. Maybe go without making it too sporty, but just more powerful like it should have been in the first place...

6) Focus SVT is a no-brainer, but it would be dumb to do it without the C1 chassis sitting beneath it.

7) The Fusion SVT is allready in the works, and although it would be easiest to just throw the Mazdaspeed 6's running gear beneath it, I think Ford is going to tinker with it and make it FWD instead of AWD, but nothing has yet been made offical.

8) As for the SportTrac SVT, I belive it was allready announced that it wasn't going to happen.

...Ford can't go willy-nilly with the SVT badging on everything, but there are certain models that SHOULD get the SVT treatment. But, I'd rather see Ford spending money on getting a serious RWD platfrom ready for the US market before making an SVT model out of everything. When GM gets it's Zeta/VE game going in the US, it is going to be GAME OVER for the folks at Ford if they don't do something soon.

 

[a6m5]

Sorry, Doug, but I gotta go with YSSMAN. While it would be cool for consumers to have SVT option on every car, I don't think it would be cost effective. With Ford SUVs, I would actually be afraid to drive them that fast. Plus, those parts would get discontinued so fast, it would just end up upsetting the customers.

My game plan would be really similar to YSSMAN's take, and if I did go SVT everything, it would be a upgrade on suspension/handling systems, cosmetics and minor horsepower gain for cheap. Think just couple grand more, per vehicle.

I do kinda like the idea of lowered Expedition with monster V-8 in it though. I really dig the look of the truck.

 

[1X83Z]

My post actually wasn't meant to suggest that ALL of those vehicles should exist, or even that those engines should be the ones to go - just that SOME of them should, and that they already have the cars and the engines, so it's not exactly difficult.

I guess my point is: SVT, get off your DEAD ASS and make some cars.

 

[a6m5]

I guess my point is: SVT, get off your DEAD ASS and make some cars.

I do hear that. And when you put it like "on their asses", it's funny that I do think of Ford Motor Company. I don't think about GM or Daimler-Chrysler that way.

Roo09511: Hybrid sales are lagging now, but it was one of the few good ideas that Ford had, IMO. Whether you agree with hybrids or not, it did sell. Ultimately, isn't that the bottomline?.

 

[1X83Z]

Don't even get me started on trash from Ford. Can ANYONE explain why the Five Hundred is LESS powerful than the Fusion? ANYONE????

 

[a6m5]

Don't even get me started on trash from Ford. Can ANYONE explain why the Five Hundred is LESS powerful than the Fusion? ANYONE????

I could be mistaken, but I think Five Hundred is supposed to have a adequate power and pretty good gas mileage. The car sucks though. It doesn't handle and rides crappy. What is the point? I do love the looks of it, however.

 

[1X83Z]

Yes but the Five Hundred is to compete with the Avalon and 300, while the Fusion is against the Camry and Accord. Supposedly - obviously both vehicles are subpar. The question is, why does the larger and more luxurious Five Hundred, then, have less power? It doesn't make ANY sense. Stupid ****ing Ford. Why can't ANY American manufacturer do this right? I haven't got brand bias, but here I am going from a European car to a new European car, because Ford seems to think 200 horsepower makes for a COMPETITIVE large sedan!!!!!

UGH!!!!!!

 

[Roo09511]

Roo09511: Hybrid sales are lagging now, but it was one of the few good ideas that Ford had, IMO. Whether you agree with hybrids or not, it did sell. Ultimately, isn't that the bottomline?.

Sure they sold well at the beginning when nobody realized you had to keep it for over 8 to 10 years to make the money back on gas. And let's face it: Most of the people who buy new cars aren't thinking about keeping it for 10 or 12 years.

And another thing: Ford's advertising SUCKS! They never even MENTION SVT in ANYTHING. Even when it HAD the Focus and the Cobra R and the Lightning it was NEVER mentioned. Whereas Chevy advertises its SS line all the time, that's how you sell cars.

 

[YSSMAN]

Ford would be better off using Volvo technology in their "Blue Oval Sweede" otherwise known as the Fivehundred. It is unfortunate that the car really isn't that great, as it does have a lot going for it. It's road manners are quite civilized, the interior is very quiet, and the best thing about the car is that it has plenty of space both inside the car and inside the trunk.

But what other engine options does Ford have in this situation? They've got the 3.0L Duratec, and although they could tap Volvo for an engine, their 2.5T I5 puts down only 5 more BHP and 29 more ft-lbs of torque.

Yes, the car could have been better if Ford would spend some time working on their engine programs, but they wanted to get a model out, and although it hasn't seen much critical success, they have been selling (slowly) as Ford had predicted.

 

[Onikaze]

The new 3.5 V-6 should fit in the 500.

SVT line I'd like to see.

Steal the Mazdaspeed 3, flat out, and rebody it as a 3 door, stick Focus badges on it, ugly up the face a little, call it sold.

Steal the guts of the Mazdaspeed 6, stick them into the Fusion, call it sold.

Get the Falcon name back into America, stick a 5.4 into it, offer a Police Interceptor package with the old Terminator engine or something similar, call it loved.

Last but not least, for god's sakes, WHERE IS THE GT350?

 

[YSSMAN]

Oops, I forgot about the new 3.5L Duratec V6. That should be an option, if I remember correctly, for the 2007 model year with the 6-speed automatic.

 

[Onikaze]

The 500 Definitely does not need SVT though.

Make more drivers cars.

The GT500 might not be the best handler, but it goes like hell, and has reason to exist, if just to bandy the name around.

The lightning...well, I wouldn't care if every one in existence had their engines removed, placed in more deserving cars, like crown vics, and then all those pickups got crushed.

Screw all this "slap SVT on everything", just steal mazda's brilliant chassis' work, and sell it as a Ford.

 

[YSSMAN]

But none is going to go for that if they get parts-happy with Mazda bits and pieces. If people realise that they are paying more for a blue-oval Mazdaspeed6, they obviously would rather go for the Mazda version.

Ford would be better off using the Mazda bits and pieces and re-tuning them for "American Tastes," making the cars a bit more comfortable but still blazingly fast by comparison to other models in their respective segments. GM seems to have gotten that idea about right with the SS and GXP models, and with the fourthcomming Zeta/VE chassis cars, this war is going to be outrageous when we start talking about REAL Impala SS' with V8s seding power to where it is supposed to go...