Ford to recall over 197,000 US vehicles over risk of back seat occupants being trapped, NHTSA says
June 19 (Reuters) - Ford Motor (F.N), opens new tab is recalling 197,432 vehicles in the U.S. due to a risk of back seat occupants getting trapped due to inability of entering or exiting the vehicle in case of an emergency, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Thursday.
The company is recalling certain 2021-2025 Mustang Mach E vehicles, NHTSA said.
The company is also separately recalling about 2,272 vehicles of certain 2025 Bronco variant due to an air bag deployment issue.
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Times
2 hours ago
- Times
Ford Ranger PHEV review — plug into the pick-up revolution
T he world of cars has become stupidly complicated. Every niche seems to have been filled, and some vehicle types seem to have been shoehorned in between two traditional categories for no obvious reason. Think of the coupé SUV, for example: hulking great vehicles taking up the same amount of space as a small house but with the back sliced off in a vain attempt to improve the looks and aerodynamics. In reality it does little to either, but does have the effect of reducing the car's potential for carrying luggage. Better to have two cars: a gorgeous lightweight sports car for fun and a small van or estate for load-lugging. Perhaps a 4×4 for those adventurous families who like to get off the beaten track at the weekend. • Read more expert reviews, news and insights on cars and motoring Better still is one vehicle that can do it all. A pick-up truck, for example. Some see these types of vehicle as the automotive equivalent of a mullet, except instead of being 'business at the front, party at the back' a pick-up is business during the week and party at the weekend. With a double cab (five-seat) version, small business owners can throw their tools in the load bed, collect colleagues on the way to a worksite and treat it roughly from Monday to Friday, then head to the beach with the family on Saturday and go mountain biking on Sunday. A four-wheel drive model adds go-anywhere flexibility. Ford has added a PHEV version to the Ranger, which is the bestselling vehicle in its class in the UK and across Europe Which sounds appealing, but which to go for? Of the many pick-up options out there — Toyota Hilux; VW Amarok; Isuzu D-Max; KGM Musso — the Ford Ranger is the one most buyers gravitate towards. It's the bestselling vehicle in its class in the UK and across Europe, while in Australia they love Ford's 'ute' so much that it outsells every other vehicle full stop. Fair dinkum. And now there's a new version that Ford reckons is going to further its appeal: the Ranger PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle). This combines a 2.3-litre Ford Ecoboost petrol engine — proven in Rangers outside Europe and found in the UK under the bonnet of non-V8 Mustangs — with a 75kW electric motor and a lithium ion battery, which can be charged up by plugging into a power socket or by the petrol engine during use. Why? Well, there are a number of claimed advantages for the owner, which we'll come on to. But it surely can't have escaped your attention that car makers are being made to reduce the overall CO₂ output of their combustion vehicles while also increasing the proportion of fully electric options for consumers. And going plug-in hybrid means Ford can continue selling the Ranger until 2035, five years after sales of new cars powered by more traditional petrol and diesel engines are banned. The Ford Ranger PHEV can tow up to 3.5 tonnes Not that Ford mentioned any of that on the vehicle launch, of course. Instead we were simply told about how, in developing the Ranger PHEV, the engineers wanted zero compromises compared with the existing powertrains, and that, in fact, the PHEV outperforms the rest of the Ranger stable in almost every regard. To look at, it's business as usual. Same length, same wheelbase, same ground clearance and overhangs as the other Ranger double cabs (you can't get the PHEV in single cab configuration). There's a small reduction in load-bed capacity, as the 11.8kWh battery pack sits under the floor, raising it by 20mm. But you barely notice, and the Ranger PHEV has all the same capabilities as the diesel Ranger — a payload of up to one tonne (and resulting business tax breaks); the ability to tow up to 3.5 tonnes; and four-wheel drive with a low-range gearbox. Inside the Wildtrak version I tested, there's a pleasing mix of digital screens and proper buttons (actual dials for the temperature and volume controls!), with a reassuringly chunky drive select lever and more physical controls for the drive modes and off-road settings. The cockpit is well organised, and the digital display features a 12in vertical touchscreen We'll knock marks off for a slightly low-rent rotary dial for those drive modes (Normal; Eco; Sport; Tow; Slippery; Mud/Ruts; Sand), which had a distinctly bargain bin squeak when you turned it, but it did function properly, and the multiple camera views and 4×4 info available on the touchscreen was top notch. While some of the controls might not be 'premium' in feel, there's a high level of sophistication to the ride of the Ranger PHEV. Out on the road, it feels more like a car than a commercial vehicle, with accurate steering and suspension that is pliant over bumps but not overly rolly in corners. Ford has always had a knack for this stuff, and it makes the Ranger amazingly adaptable — capable of handling pretty tricky off-road terrain, potholes and road humps, while also being pleasing to steer on silky-smooth asphalt. There's a reassuringly chunky drive select lever and more physical controls for the drive modes and off-road settings The drivetrain is smooth, too, despite having two power sources, four wheels to send that power to, and eight gears to send it through. Hybrids are nothing new, it's true, but this is a particularly sophisticated set-up, despite the Ranger's workhorse roots, and the way the car switches between electric and petrol is almost seamless. You barely even perceive the engine and gear changes most of the time, so creamy is the management of it all. The new Ranger's seats are plush and comfy, and the vehicle is perfect for taking the family out at the weekend Ford told us at the press briefing that Ranger customers are small business owners who like to balance work with play, using their vehicle for jobs during the day and then for taking the family out over the weekend. Well, the engineers nailed it, because it's a beast on the rough stuff (we tried it out off-road in Iceland), with a tough chassis and hard-wearing materials inside, yet the seats are plush and comfy and the refinement in the cabin is SUV-like. That includes hushed noise from the tyres, wind and engine. There was even a Bang & Olufsen sound system in our bright orange Wildtrak test car. Obviously the ability to run without pumping out exhaust emissions for up to 27 miles could be an advantage if you need to access a zero emission zone. But perhaps more useful for owners is the fact that the electric motor results in more torque (twisting force) than even the diesel models produce. That's not only about bragging rights on a building site; it genuinely makes a difference when it comes to negotiating tricky terrain while fully loaded, or towing heavy trailers. The load bed can be divided to facilitate careful packing There's some very clever tech associated with the towing abilities, too, with smart regenerative braking that senses the weight of the payload and helps to control speed while also recouping armfuls of energy to the high voltage battery. It can then deploy that on the next uphill section of road. Even cleverer — and we got a demonstration of this — is what Ford calls Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which automatically steers trailers of all sizes into spaces behind; you don't touch the steering wheel, and instead simply use the pedals and direct the trailer left or right by twisting the drive mode dial on the centre console. Even Clarkson could back up a trailer accurately with this tech. Perhaps the biggest selling point, though, is the ability to power electrical devices directly from the vehicle, using the high voltage battery pack. There's a 2.3kW system that Ford says is ideal for 'powering weekend trips to the trails' and can comfortably charge 'multiple e-mountain bikes and a portable fridge', or a more powerful 6.9kW system designed for heavy-duty equipment and work tools. The higher power on comes with two 15A outlets in the load box that have the capacity to power a compact cement mixer, angle grinder and flood lights simultaneously. There's no danger of running out of juice, either, as you can run the engine as a generator, if required. The 6.9kW Pro Power system is enough to run a compact cement mixer and angle grinder at the same time WILL DRON (TIMES MEDIA) There's more, because Ford claims the plug-in hybrid powertrain could save you money. In a purely dreamt-up scenario, the company said a German owner could save €850 (£726) a year versus the 3-litre V6 diesel Ranger, although that does come with caveats: charging off-peak every day and having a commute of 80km, for example. A UK business owner will have to do their sums, but it probably won't take long: that 3-litre V6 is actually more expensive up front, at £49,291 before tax in Wildtrak trim, while the Ranger PHEV in the same spec costs £46,241. The diesel also has less power, less torque, is slower to 62mph, and uses more fuel while creating significantly more CO₂ (officially). It's a no-brainer, mate. The new Ford Ranger PHEV is a great all-rounder But beyond the numbers is something less quantifiable. What Ford has created here, whether as a cynical future-proofing exercise or not, is a sensational all-rounder. More rugged than any vehicle you're likely to need, more practical than most cars, and more versatile too. If you could only buy one vehicle to do everything, it would be this. In other words it's the antithesis of the niche-within-a-niche cars being snapped up by people with more money than sense, which don't seem to have a point at all.
Reuters
2 hours ago
- Reuters
US highway safety officials reviewing Tesla's robotaxi deployment plans
WASHINGTON, June 20 (Reuters) - Tesla (TSLA.O), opens new tab has responded to a letter the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sent last month asking questions about its plans to deploy its self driving robotaxi, the agency said on Friday. The auto safety regulator is reviewing Tesla's response, it added.
Auto Blog
3 hours ago
- Auto Blog
6 Vehicles With the Most 3rd Row Legroom
Plenty of space to comfortably stretch out Three-row SUVs and minivans exist for a reason: big families with tall people need space to stretch out. Not every three-row vehicle, however, is suited for these duties. Remember afterthoughts like the now-dead Lexus RX 350L? It had a mere 23.5 inches of third-row legroom—way too small for any adult to sit comfortably. Even worse is the current Mitsubishi Outlander, which offers a paltry 18.7 inches of legroom in the third row. Gah, what's the point? Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:00 / 0:09 Audi A5 replaces A4: So, what's changed? Watch More Thankfully, there's good news: there are truly spacious choices on the market today that can comfortably accommodate a normal-sized adult in the third row. Whether you're ferrying teenagers to sports practice, loading up for a long road trip, or just need room for the occasional extended family gathering, these six vehicles stand out for their generous third-row legroom. 2025 Lincoln Navigator 2025 Lincoln Navigator 3rd Row Legroom: 43.5 inches The 2025 Lincoln Navigator ($99,995) is one of the premium luxury American SUV offerings today, and it's at the front of the pack when it comes to power, technology, and downright cavernous space for all. The Lincoln Navigator doesn't just impress with its luxury trimmings and commanding street presence—it also offers a best-in-class 43.5 inches of legroom in the third row. It also happens to have the most third-row legroom in the industry. That's enough for even the tallest passengers to relax without feeling crunched in the back. Plus, its plush seats and high-quality materials ensure that comfort extends beyond sheer space. Every Navigator is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine good for 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. 2025 Toyota Sienna 2021 Toyota Sienna XLE AWD — Source: Toyota 3rd Row Legroom: 38.7 inches The 2025 Toyota Sienna ($39,185) stands head and shoulders above the rest of the minivan segment thanks to standard hybrid power, available all-wheel drive, and 38.7 inches of legroom in its third-row seats that can comfortably seat the tallest kids and adults. It remains one of the best minivan people haulers out there and a brilliant shuttle for your kids and their teammates when you've got a full post-game gang to move. Standard features like 17-inch alloy wheels, dual power sliding doors, an 8-inch color touchscreen (12.3-inch optional), wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, and Toyota's Safety Sense 2.0 suite that includes great tech like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning with steering assist make the Sienna a tremendous overall package. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. 2025 Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL 2025 Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL — Source: Chevrolet 3rd Row Legroom: 36.7 inches At nearly 19 feet long, the enormous 2025 Chevy Suburban ($62,000) and its twin, the 2025 GMC Yukon XL ($67,200), had better have some serious space inside—and they absolutely do. With a sprawling 36.7 inches of third-row legroom, these full-size SUVs offer more room in the way back than some vehicles provide in the second row. If you need cavernous cargo space and the ability to seat seven or eight adults in comfort, the Suburban and Yukon XL deliver. The 2025 Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL get a swath of engine choices: a 5.3L V8, a 6.2L V8, and a 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel inline-six, all paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. 2025 Cadillac Escalade ESV 2025 Cadillac Escalade ESV — Source: Cadillac 3rd Row Legroom: 36.6 inches The Cadillac Escalade ESV isn't just big; it's all about American grandeur that combines opulence with incredible real-world utility. Longer than the standard Escalade, third-row passengers in the ESV are treated to a whopping 36.6 inches of legroom, way more than the standard Escalade's 34.9. Even tall grown-ups and your oversized offspring can ride in comfort on long trips, so there should be no grumbling from back there. With its luxurious appointments and high-tech features, the Escalade ESV makes third-row seating a genuine pleasure rather than a punishment like so many other would-be three-row SUVs. All gas-powered Escalades get a 6.2-liter V8 engine under the hood that churns out 420 horsepower and can tow up to 8,100 pounds. 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer — Source: Jeep 3rd Row Legroom: 36.6 inches The 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer ($91,945) is the brand's big dog, but it's not just about off-road capability. The Grand Wagoneer redefines American luxury with its refined exterior and upscale cabin. But it doesn't skimp on practicality either. With 36.6 inches of third-row legroom, this Jeep ensures that adults in the way-back won't feel like an afterthought. It's a seriously capable family hauler with plenty of style to match. Standard features include 22-inch wheels, perimeter approach lights, power remote tilt-down exterior mirrors, power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, heated/ventilated 1st- and 2nd-row seats, power-adjustable pedals, 19-speaker premium audio, and 12-inch central touchscreen infotainment system. Every Grand Wagoneer gets a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine under the hood that delivers 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque, so it'll move all three rows of passengers with authority. 2025 Chrysler Pacifica 2025 Chrysler Pacifica — Source: FCA 3rd Row Legroom: 36.5 inches The Chrysler Pacifica might be the only model in the brand's lineup right now (the Voyager is just a lower-trimmed version), but it's worthy thanks to tremendous space and ride comfort. The sole American minivan in the running has long been a go-to choice for families, and it's easy to see why. With 36.5 inches of legroom in the third row, it's ready to handle carpool duty, vacation trips, and everything in between. The Pacifica's Stow 'n Go seating system only adds to its practicality, offering flexibility that's hard to beat. The Pacifica can also be had in plug-in hybrid trim with optional all-wheel drive, making it even more practical. Engine choices include a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission good for 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and the PHEV with a V6 engine combined with electric motors for a total of 260 horsepower. Final thoughts There's not much point in having a three-row vehicle if there isn't enough space for more than just small kids. Those kids are going to grow, and you will also need to transport adults at times. A spacious third row can make all the difference between suffering and comfort. The good news is that many automakers recognize this need, and there are excellent choices out there. Whether it's a huge SUV or a hybrid minivan, 36+ inches of rear legroom transform the third row into a desirable spot versus automotive nosebleed seats that are for those who draw the short straw. About the Author Amos Kwon View Profile
