2019 Ford Edge

The Ford Edge midsized SUV went through some major updates for 2019 that will put this Edge in a much stronger position and make it one of the most desirable family movers in its class. 

Several car critics/writers are giving high praise for this new five-seater crossover from Ford.  For example, the trustworthy organization Consumer Reports gave the Ford Edge one of their coveted “Check Marks” for a Recommended Vehicle. But, don't take anyone's word for it and just do your own due diligence with an up close and personal inspection of this new Edge with the friendly folks at Waxahachie Ford located at 2401 N. Interstate 35E in Waxahachie, Texas or by calling the dealership at 972.825.4500 and give your expectations a very pleasant test drive. 

What is causing the most excitement is the new ST model for those motor heads who have children.  This “hot hatch” takes the regular Edge and just pumps it with steroids which makes the Edge ST a thrill ride with the brains to match. 

Under its handsome hood lives a 2.7-liter V6 Turbocharged EcoBoost engine that delivers 335 anxious ponies and produces an amazing 380 lb-ft of asphalt gripping torque.  The powerful six is mated with a smooth shifting 8-speed automatic that has paddle shifters.  This combo in the ST will put you at 60 mph in a blink over five seconds and sounding great in the process.  The other big plus is that the ST Edge comes standard with AWD, stronger suspension, heavy duty monotube shocks, larger sway bar, 20-inch wheels and more goodies.  The finishing touch for this menacing machine is the ST Performance Brake Package that has those sticky summer tires, vented disc brakes, masculine looking red calipers that set the sporty theme. 

This new Ford Edge ST is also great looking with its gentle curves, sleek styling, cat's eye headlamps, black grille and dual-exhaust outlets that makes sure it refuses to go unnoticed.  Sounding great and looking like a brute with its red ST badges.  Inside, this theme continues with the Edge's updated cabin and seats that hold you like your favorite leather gloves while taking on those country curves. 

For your entertainment, communication and safety desires this Edge is outfitted with Ford's highly rated Sync3 infotainment system.  Talking about safety, the Edge has many standard safety features that include the highly popular forward collision warning/braking with pedestrian detection.  Thank you, Ford. 

Now if you are not into that much horsepower, then also test drive the regular Edge with its feisty 2.0-liter turbo inline four that kicks out 250 lively horses.  This Edge achieves a fine balance of comfort and precision, while the ST is for the enthusiast-oriented driver bringing more horses to the party.  Consumer Reports commented recently: “The Edge's quiet cabin, steady ride and agile handling wouldn't be out of place in a luxury car.” 

So, go ahead and find out what all the fuss is about with the new redesigned Ford Edge and the ST model. No better time than now.

2016 Ford C-Max Hybrid SEL Hatchback

When Ford first introduced the European-influenced C-Max in the United States a few years ago and chose to leave the standard internal-combustion models in Europe and bring only a pair of hybrids to the U.S, some people wondered how successful of a strategy this would be. After all, small-and-tall hatchbacks and gas-electric hybrids are two categories that don't exactly set the car market on fire. But if you are shopping for just this type of vehicle, we think you're going to be pretty pleased with Ford's decision.
Take a test-drive of the 2016 Ford C-Max Hybrid and you'll discover that its hybrid system is capable of delivering impressive fuel efficiency. It uses the same hybrid powertrain as the larger Ford Fusion Hybrid, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with an electric motor. It produces a total of 188 horsepower, making the C-Max one of the most energetic hybrids in its class, while still delivering combined city-highway fuel efficiency of up to 40 mpg. At the same time, the C-Max's European roots give it refined driving characteristics and a well-dressed interior that make it substantially more enjoyable to live with on a daily basis than most of its hybrid rivals.

Ford offers the 2016 C-Max Hybrid in two trim levels and with loads of features.

As for those rivals, the main one is the Toyota Prius. It remains the top-selling hybrid, and this year's model promises new looks and even greater fuel economy. There are also some excellent hybrid sedans in the market, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, that will give you a more conventional take on daily transportation. But overall, the 2016 C-Max's responsive handling, smooth ride, sleek interior and long list of features continue to make it a standout in this niche-oriented segment.

Summary Body Styles

No Video Content

Read Review Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options Performance

The 2016 Ford C-Max Hybrid is a five-passenger, four-door hatchback/wagon available in two trim levels: SE and SEL. A plug-in version, the C-Max Energi, is reviewed separately.
The SE trim comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, a height-adjustable driver seat, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, the Sync voice command system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, smartphone app integration (including Pandora Internet radio) and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and a USB interface.
Major options on the SE are bundled together in equipment groups 201A, 202A and 203A. Equipment group 201A adds rear parking sensors, a power liftgate and ambient interior lighting. The 202A group further adds satellite radio and the new Sync 3 touchscreen interface with an 8-inch touchscreen. The 203A combines both previously mentioned packages and adds a navigation system.
All of the above come standard on the SEL, with the exception of the power liftgate and navigation system. Additional perks of the SEL include foglights, automatic wipers, heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, an eight-way power driver seat (with power lumbar), leather upholstery, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The 188-horsepower Ford C-Max Hybrid uses a gas-electric powertrain to deliver impressive pep and fuel economy.

The SEL also has three main equipment group options: 301A, 302A and 303A. All get the navigation system and a nine-speaker Sony sound system with HD radio. The 302A further adds a rearview camera and an enhanced power liftgate that allows you to open it simply by swiping your foot under the bumper. Equipment group 303A includes all of the above, plus front parking sensors and an automatic parallel parking system.
A Cold Weather package adds heated seats and mirrors to the SE. Options packages for both trim levels include Cargo Management (a cargo net and a soft, foldable cargo organizer) and Interior Protection (all-weather floor mats and cargo protector). Stand-alone options for both trim levels include a panoramic fixed glass roof, remote engine start and keyless touchpad door locks.

Read Review Performance

Body Styles Powertrains and Performance Safety

A 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine is paired with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. Combined, they send a total of 188 hp to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
In Edmunds performance testing, the C-Max Hybrid went from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds. That's quicker than the 2016 Prius and its 9.8-second 0-60-mph sprint.
The Prius tops the C-Max for fuel economy, though. According to the EPA, you can expect 40 mpg combined (42 city/37 highway) in the C-Max compared to 52 mpg in the Prius.

Body Styles Safety

Performance All 2016 C-Max Hybrids come standard with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag. Also standard are 911 Assist, which when paired to your smartphone can automatically call for emergency services in case of airbag deployment, and MyKey, which allows owners to set certain speed and stereo volume parameters for valets or teen drivers. Rear parking sensors are optional on both trim levels, and the SEL model can be equipped with front parking sensors and a rearview camera.
In Edmunds brake testing, the C-Max Hybrid came to a stop from 60 mph in 134 feet, about 10 feet longer than average in its segment.
In government crash tests, the C-Max Hybrid received four out of five stars for overall protection, with four stars for overall frontal protection and five stars for overall side protection. The C-Max Hybrid received the best possible rating of "Good" in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-crash and roof-strength tests, as well as a "Good" rating for its seats and head restraints (whiplash protection). The C-Max Hybrid received the second-highest score of "Acceptable" in the IIHS's small-overlap frontal-offset test.

Performance Special Features

Safety Interior Design and Special Features Driving Impressions

The 2016 C-Max Hybrid's cabin will feel familiar if you've driven a Focus or Escape, which is a very good thing, as those cars all incorporate top-notch materials, solid construction and eye-catching design. The C-Max's supportive, high-mounted driver seat gives you a slightly more commanding view of the road than you'll get in most wagons and hatchbacks.

The 2016 C-Max Hybrid features a quality interior designed to put all gauges and controls within easy reach of the driver.

While the base model's radio controls are somewhat complicated to use, the new optional Sync 3 system should be a big improvement compared to the previous MyFordTouch interface. The touchscreen features a revamped menu system and recognizes smartphone-like gestures like swipe and pinch-to-zoom.
The C-Max Hybrid has more cargo capacity than a compact sedan or hatchback, but falls short of similarly priced wagons and SUVs. The rear-mounted battery pack is stored beneath the cargo floor, raising it close to a foot. It doesn't intrude on passenger space, though. Rear seat space and comfort are strong, with generous legroom and plenty of headroom for adults.
The trade-off is that there are only 24.5 cubic feet available behind the rear seats -- about the same as in a Focus hatchback. Lowering the rear seats, however, yields a useful 52.6 cubic feet of space. That's much better than a Focus, but still shy of the Prius V wagon or a typical small crossover SUV.

Safety Driving Impressions

Special Features Driving Impressions

The 2016 Ford C-Max Hybrid doesn't feel like a soulless penalty box, as do many other hybrids. Instead, attention has clearly been paid to how the suspension is tuned to provide both responsive handling and a refined ride. While that ride isn't exactly cushy, there's a substantial feel to the way the C-Max goes down the road. The cabin is also notably quiet, and the Ford's communicative steering is another comparative strong point.
The C-Max's hybrid system is also worthy of praise. The ability to run in electric-only propulsion mode at relatively high speeds helps the C-Max Hybrid post its impressive fuel economy numbers. Acceleration is strong for a hybrid, and highway passing will feel similar to that of equivalent gasoline-powered wagons.           

2016 Ford Edge SE SUV I-4 cyl

The 2016 Ford Edge gains a new optional infotainment system called Sync 3. Variable-ratio steering is now available on the Titanium trim and standard on the Sport, which also gets a standard power-adjustable steering wheel and hands-free power liftgate. On the powertrain front, the 3.5-liter V6 is no longer available on the base SE, the four-cylinder engine gains an automatic start-stop function (FWD only), and the Edge Sport now comes standard with all-wheel drive. Every 2016 Edge receives a noise-reducing windshield and keyless entry and ignition, with the Edge SEL adding a standard power passenger seat.

Read Review

Summary Review Body Styles

Dodge Sprinter? No. Ford Aspire? You must be joking. Chevrolet Celebrity? Please vacate the premises. There are plenty of automotive names that don't fit the character of the car. In fact, you might even say that's the norm. But the 2016 Ford Edge bucks the trend. The name fits because the two-row Edge balances neatly between segments, providing more interior space than a small crossover without being a three-row behemoth like its Explorer and Flex stablemates. Naturally, that gives the Edge an "edge" in the marketplace, as there just aren't many crossovers that can match it across the board.

The 2016 Ford Edge is available in an array of eye-catching colors, including Electric Spice, shown here.

Despite its midsize footprint and generous passenger and cargo room, the Edge feels tidy and maneuverable on the road. That's due in no small part to the improvements Ford made to the body structure and suspension when it fully redesigned the Edge in 2015. The result is a crossover that exceeds 2 tons but manages to drive more like a tall sedan. Throw in the all-wheel-drive Edge Sport's turbocharged V6 and you've got a seriously speedy crossover that can challenge some luxury-branded models.
For 2016, the Edge also gets a new Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system that improves on its polarizing MyFord Touch predecessor with a simplified interface and faster response times. Even so, there are a few competitors that keep the Ford from being the decisive victor in this segment. The recently redesigned Nissan Murano includes bold exterior styling, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a fuel-efficient diesel V6 engine and awesome off-road prowess. The Kia Sorento one-ups the Edge with an optional third-row seat, and it comes in a wide variety of trim levels to suit different budgets. But if you're looking for a midsize two-row crossover that hits the sweet spot in most respects, it's hard to beat the aptly named 2016 Ford Edge.

Summary Body Styles

No Video Content

Read Review Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options Performance

The 2016 Ford Edge is a midsize five-passenger crossover SUV offered in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Titanium and Sport.
Standard features of the SE model include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, dual exhaust tips, active grille shutters, an acoustic windshield, rear privacy glass, LED taillights, keyless entry and ignition, air-conditioning, 60/40- split folding and reclining rear seatbacks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with shift paddles, cruise control, a 4.2-inch infotainment display in the center stack, a height-adjustable driver seat, a rearview camera and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and USB and auxiliary inputs. Also included is Ford's Sync system, which features voice recognition, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, 911 Assist and the ability to run apps such as Spotify and Pandora through a smartphone.
The SEL adds LED headlight accents, heated exterior mirrors with puddle lamps and integrated turn signals, rear parking sensors, an exterior keyless entry pad, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, upgraded cloth upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat (with power lumbar), a six-way power-adjustable passenger seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and satellite radio.
The SEL is available with Equipment Group 201A, which adds the Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, two configurable screens in the instrument cluster and an additional USB port. Also included in this package are leather upholstery, heated front seats and a nine-speaker audio system.
The Titanium gets the above equipment as standard plus 19-inch wheels, a hands-free liftgate, an LED taillight bar, noise-reducing front windows, upgraded interior trim, ambient interior lighting, front sport seats, an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat (with power lumbar), driver memory settings and a Sony 12-speaker audio system with HD radio.

The aggressive lower fascia and rhombus-shaped exhaust outlets help set the 2016 Ford Edge Sport apart from the lower trims.

To the Titanium's equipment roster, the Sport adds the turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine, 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, unique front and rear styling, variable-ratio steering, a power-adjustable steering wheel, sport-themed interior trim and perforated leather-and-suede upholstery.
Some of the fancier standard items are available on lower trim levels as options. The Technology package for the SEL, Titanium and Sport adds an auto-dimming driver side mirror, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, remote start, a navigation system and a 110-volt power outlet. The same three trims are also eligible for a Cold Weather package that includes a heated steering wheel and all-weather floor mats.
For the Titanium, Equipment Group 301A includes the Technology package and adds ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a panoramic sunroof, while Equipment Group 302A throws in a lane-departure warning and prevention system, xenon headlights with automatic high-beam control, automatic wipers, second-row outboard inflatable seatbelts, a 180-degree front camera and an automated parking system. The Titanium Driver's Package borrows the variable-ratio steering and power-adjustable steering wheel from the Sport, also adding adaptive cruise control and a forward collision warning system.
The Ford Edge Sport is available with Equipment Group 401A, which largely mirrors the Titanium's Group 301A but lacks the panoramic sunroof and inflatable rear seatbelts, both of which are available separately. Also on tap for Sport buyers is a set of 21-inch wheels (with optional summer tires).
Optional on every Edge is a rear DVD entertainment system. Other stand-alone options, depending on trim level and configuration, include roof rails and a tow package.

Read Review Performance

Body Styles Powertrains and Performance Safety

Several engines are offered for the 2016 Ford Edge, all paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard on every trim but the Sport is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available at extra cost. An automatic engine stop-start function is standard with FWD to help save fuel.
Expect the Edge 2.0T to return 24 mpg combined (21 city/30 highway) with FWD and 23 mpg combined (20 city/28 highway) with AWD.
In Edmunds track testing, an Edge 2.0T with AWD sauntered to 60 mph in a leisurely 8.3 seconds. Still, that's better than the Kia Sorento 2.0T AWD, which needed 8.7 seconds. The Nissan Murano, however, drops to the mid-7-second range with its standard V6.
SEL and Titanium buyers can opt for a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 that makes 280 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. This engine is rated at 21 mpg combined (18 city/26 highway) with FWD and 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway) with AWD.
The Sport comes exclusively with AWD and a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine that churns out a stonking 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. It's rated at 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway).
The 2.0-liter and 3.5-liter engines can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, but Ford limits the Sport's 2.7-liter V6 to 2,000 pounds because it's not eligible for the tow package.

Body Styles Safety

Performance Safety Special Features

The 2016 Ford Edge comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, Ford's Curve Control, front knee airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a rearview camera. The standard Ford Sync system includes an emergency crash-notification feature that automatically dials 911 when paired with a compatible cell phone. Also standard is Ford's MyKey, which can be used to set electronic parameters for secondary drivers such as teens or valets. All but the SE also have rear parking sensors.
Optional safety equipment includes inflatable outboard rear seatbelts, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a lane-departure warning and prevention system, and a forward collision warning system with brake support that pressurizes the brakes for maximum stopping power when it detects an imminent collision.
In government crash tests, the 2016 Edge earned a perfect five-star overall rating, with five stars for total frontal-impact protection and five stars for total side-impact protection. In crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Edge earned a top rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset impact test and a second-best "Acceptable" in the small-overlap frontal-offset impact test. The Edge earned a "Good" rating for side-impact, roof-strength and whiplash protection (seats and head restraints) tests.

Performance Special Features

Safety Interior Design and Special Features Driving Impressions

The 2016 Edge's interior is covered with soft-touch materials on most surfaces. In fact, the dash, doors and center console are all soft to the touch from hip level and up. That means that just about every surface the driver interacts with has a quality feel. The exception is the center stack, which in standard form is adorned with hard plastic, a small display and rather basic controls. Thankfully, the optional Sync 3 infotainment system transforms that whole section of the dashboard into a sleek, modern interface.
Speaking of Sync 3, we haven't tested it in the Edge yet, but our experience with the system in other Ford vehicles is that it's both easier to use and faster to respond than MyFord Touch, its much-maligned predecessor. Although the touchscreen still measures 8 inches, MyFordTouch's quadrant-based layout has been ditched in favor of a more conventional layout with clear virtual buttons arrayed at the bottom. If you're into the latest technology, Sync 3 is a no-brainer upgrade over the standard configuration, but bear in mind that you'll need at least the SEL trim level to get it.
The Edge's cabin is expansive, with plenty of room for all passengers. Front-row occupants sit in supportive bucket seats, and the rear seats provide comfortable accommodations for adults. The Edge is also wide enough to make three-across second-row seating a viable proposition for families of five.

Whether or not the rear seatbacks are folded, the 2016 Ford Edge offers one of the roomier cargo areas in this segment.

Cargo space is similarly impressive. With the rear seats up, the Edge has a useful 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space available. With the seats down, that expands to 73.4 cubic feet. Both of those figures are at or near the top of the class.

Safety Driving Impressions

Special Features Driving Impressions

The 2016 Ford Edge has a controlled, carlike character from behind the wheel. It truly feels like a raised sedan, with a composed ride, direct steering and little body lean by crossover standards when going around turns. We're also impressed with the Edge's low levels of wind and road noise. There's enough refinement here to give Lincoln MKX shoppers pause, as the Edge's upscale platform-mate is, of course, considerably pricier.
The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is smooth and offers respectable passing power when required, but it's a bit sluggish off the line and clearly designed more for efficiency. The 3.5-liter V6 packs a stronger punch, but given its lower fuel economy and extra cost, we'd just stick with the base four-cylinder. If you really want power, the turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 is the way to go, delivering a serious wallop when your right foot asks for it. It sounds pretty cool, too. If we have one complaint about the Edge's powertrains, it's that the six-speed automatic transmission is sometimes reluctant to downshift when more power is needed.

We would like to invite e

We would like to invite everyone to join us on Saturday on October 29th for an all day long Trunk or Treat! #HappyHalloween

FORD EDGE

The trustworthy folks at Consumer Reports remarked, after testing the new redesigned Ford Edge that, “The Edge's handling is reminiscent of an Audi Q5, while also providing ride comfort approaching a Lexus RX.  For those unfamiliar with suspension engineering, this is an almost impossible feat.”  Not for those Ford engineers and they didn't stop there; they made the 2016 Ford Edge one of the most popular mid-sized crossovers on the highways.  But don't take anyone's word for this sporty Edge.  Do your own due diligence with a visit to Waxahachie Ford located at 2401 N. Interstate 35E or call them at 972.825.4500 and take an enjoyable test drive. 

Consumer Reports gave the Ford Edge one of its coveted “Check Marks” for a Recommended Vehicle. That is not an easy task as the Edge had to have high scores in Reliability, Satisfaction and most importantly Safety.  Once you slide into those comfortable seats you will think you are sitting in one of those pricier European SUV's.  The Edge's very roomy cabin is just bursting with an upscale interior that is loaded with premium features.  It is also equipped with high quality and tech superior systems that relate to your entertainment, communication and security.  It's bright and easy to read gauges are easy to see and reach with Ford's new Sync 3 infotainment system.  All those modern “bells and whistles” are available to keep in touch with the outside world.  Available features include leather, heated and cooled front seats, navigation, safety systems and much more. 

Your friendly Sales Pro will gladly go through the features that are standard and available.  What may be under the hood for your test drives could be the new and energetic 1.6-liter turbocharged four cylinder or the stronger 2.0-liter turbo four.  They will definitely keep you ahead of traffic with great fuel economy.  Want some more zip in your trip, then test drive the Edge with the 3.5-liter V6 or with the Sport trim that has the very aggressive twin turbocharged 2.7-liter V6.  This twin-turbo is one fun car to spend time in and to really light your fire, do take a test drive in the Ford Edge Sport.  Every power plant for the Edge comes with a smooth and quick six-speed automatic transmission and yes, All-Wheel Drive is available. 

So, if you want a stylish five passenger crossover SUV that has more than enough room for your golf foursome and delivers a quiet and comfortable trip to a family reunion, then head on down and find out why the Edge is so popular. There is an Edge for everyone's taste and budget.  It really does look as good as it drives and to be seen in.  You will drive away with a smile, not only because you brought back the “Fun Factor” in the drive time, but for the great deal you received.  Visit http://www.waxahachieford.com for more info today!

2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty First Drive

Right off the bat, the Super Duty’s drivetrain made a big impression. “Keep it in 4 High and drive up the hill,” Ford’s off-road driving expert instructed. I was impressed with the 2017 F-250 Super Duty diesel’s ability to get traction to the ground on the steep ascent—with nary a hint of slip and without low-range gears. Our ride was Ford’s new Super Duty King Ranch Crew Cab 4×4 that sits on a wheelbase of 159.8 inches and tips the scales at over 3 tons.

“Now, when you can’t see forward on your own anymore, we’ll turn on the 180-degree front camera so you can continue with a clear view. Then stop, engage 4 Low and the e-locker, and you can drive to the crest of the next slope, where we’ll actuate the hill-descent control. Make sure you look at the graphics on the off-road screen to see the truck’s steering angle, wheel placement, and the degrees of slant on the inclinometer. Following that, you can drive as fast as you’d like around the upcoming winding track and through the large mud hole.”

Yee-haw! Fun? Indeed. Frivolity? To the contrary. This was only one exercise of many that included towing evaluations, maneuverability comparisons while hauling a weighty payload, plus acceleration and braking assessments against competitors. It was part of a two-day deep dive into Big Truck waters that have been stirred and shaken by Ford’s all-new-from-the-ground-up 2017 Super Duty. The magic in the miracle of our slo-mo crawl and high-speed prowess? A massive 925 lb-ft of torque under our belly—the segment’s best. Then again, the pickup’s updated gasoline engine and its best-in-class 430 lb-ft completed the course with ease as well.

 

 

Ford set up a base camp at Denver’s Mile High Stadium with drive routes into the foothills of the Colorado Rockies to campaign the highlights of its new Super Duty. It will hit this road this fall as the “toughest, smartest, and most capable” with more than 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, says Ford. What does that mean for you? It’s safer, more competent, comfortable, and user-friendly on the road and off the pavement. You can haul your race cars with greater ease and less fatigue, and, if you have a fleet of collectibles to ferry to Pebble Beach or Amelia Island, you’ll have a bank of information at your fingertips with data on your truck’s performance, as well as individualized stats on up to 10 different trailers from an IP productivity screen. Think of it like this: Some of the world’s most intelligent driving assistance technologies onboard today’s cars have been injected into Ford’s beefy work trucks. Add to that bigger cabins and beds, features that provide a higher level of creature comfort, and creatively crafted stowage to convert your truck into a rolling office to carry and power your laptops, goods, and gear; plus, there are hidden and lockable bins to stash your valuables.

 

Pickups are big business and the largest of the land. Ford’s Super Duty, GM’s Silverado/Sierra HDs, and Ram’s HDs are in a perennial war of numbers that rivals the battle to become the U.S. president. This fight is purely political for some buyers with party or brand loyalty, but for the truck purveyors, bragging rights and ways to win votes are centered on supremacy of sales, peak payload, and top-most towing.

Ford rules when it comes to numbers: Since 1998, when the Blue Oval launched this line of heavy dutys for the ’99 model year, Ford has sold more than 12.5 million F-Series pickups (including the smaller F-150) and moved more than 460,000 in the first half of 2016. These sales numbers have given Ford bragging rights for 39 years. As for the Super Duty, it claims more than 40 percent of country’s heavy-duty market share, according to Doug Scott, Ford’s Truck Group marketing manager.

 

The revamped pickup is built with high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy topside and high-strength steel underneath, netting a weight savings of up to 350 pounds. Engineers reinvested the weight, adding more robust components that have paid the dividend of increased towing and hauling ability, and boosted horsepower and torque by augmenting the gnarly bits, including the driveline, chassis, and suspension, to support the increases. The pickup now beats the competition with a collection of best-in-class numbers and technologies. Other significant upgrades are a new transfer case, larger DEF tank capacity (7.5 gallons), plus bigger axles and brakes and larger fuel tanks on the heftiest models.

The all-new, fully boxed frame is more than 95 percent high-strength steel and up to 24 times stiffer than the previous version, while the aluminum-alloy body shared with the all-new 2016 F-150 has proven to be more dent and ding resistant than the steel body it replaces. In a move of efficiencies, Super Duty shares the half-ton’s cab from the A-pillar rearward and wears a familiar family face up front.

We drove a variety of the trucks and found the 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline (it’s E85 Flex Fuel capable with CNG/propane prep) as likeable when towing a 10,000-pound trailer as the surprisingly quiet, second-gen 6.7-liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V-8 (B20 biodiesel capable). Both are mated to a Torq Shift six-speed auto transmission, which is a new version on F-250 models and carryover on others.

 

Three new driver assistance features added a wow factor while making the truck feel safer and lighter on its feet: adaptive cruise, which controls acceleration and slows to keep pace with traffic using preset distances and adding brake support, even when tugging a trailer weighing more than 32,500 pounds; adaptive steering, which reduces steering input needed for slow speed, smooths steering at higher speeds, and is especially helpful for towing stability arching the truck and trailer on a straighter cornering line; and the Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage, which uses sensors in the outside mirrors to provide cross-traffic alerts and detect objects behind your truck and trailer.

Among the positive takeaways from our drive were the ease of access to get in and out of the truck with deployable running boards, the ergonomics of reaching pedals (adjustable pedals are available but not needed, even for our 5-foot-2-inch driver) as well as controls and knobs (they’ve been designed for use with gloved hands), and the comfort of the upgraded interior with multi-contoured seats that kept us snug through all our evaluations—unlike some of the competitors’ seats.

 

Our top surprise and delight features are a collection of new technologies for those who tow. There are seven cameras available for driving guidance, including a 360-degree view; some will direct you to a perfect hook up of your gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailer. Side-view mirror cameras and rear cameras work in tandem to project images on your interior monitor or provide information from the “smart towing assistance technologies,” Jackknife Warning, and Straight Line Backup Guidance, which has a dynamic steering wheel icon with arrows to indicate the direction of turn. You too can be an expert at the boat ramp, horse show, or RV campground.

Another feature of note: The truck’s trailering platform extends under the frame of the truck, eliminating the need for a weight-distributing hitch; it will now accommodate large boat trailers and pintle hitches, with the added bonus of new 2- and 2.5-inch receiver inserts included and nestled into the 3-inch receiver.

The new Super Duty comes with three cab choices, five trims, and several frames, engines, and drivelines. “There are up to one billion configurations,” said Scott. “More buyers choose 4WD and diesel powerplants, and the trend today is toward more upscale trims, as our buyers use their trucks for work but are seeking comfort and luxury, so we have tried to accommodate their needs. We even have buyers that still want a manual transfer-case shifter and manual locking hubs and, although that’s a small percentage, we have made a model available for them. But, the number one purchase decision for our buyers is towing. Nine of 10 buyers use their truck to tow.”

 

While the F-Series truck dates to 1948, as a stand-alone model line, the 2017 Ford Super Duty is the fourth-generation Super Duty to join the F-150 lineup in 1998. It was engineered with different mechanics and designed with unique cosmetics, whereas today’s new truck borrows the cab and many of the winning technologies and features from the smaller pickup. It will be built at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant. The gauntlet has been thrown.

17 for ’17: New class-exclusive features

1.  Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support
2. Adaptive steering
3. Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage
4. BoxLink with premium locking cleats
5. Factory-installed customer-placed trailer camera
6. Inflatable rear outboard safety belts
7. Multi-contour front seats with Active Motion^®8. Power-deployable running boards
9. PowerScope power-telescoping and power-folding trailer tow mirrors
10. Remote tailgate release with power lock
11. Standard flat load floor on SuperCab and Crew Cab
12. Stowable loading ramps
13. SYNC 3
14. Tailgate step
15. Trailer Reverse Guidance16. Trailer tire pressure monitoring system
17. Utility lighting system (LED side-mirror spotlights)

 

2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty Specifications

On Sale:	Now
Price:	$32,535/$77,125 (F-250 XL /F-450 Platinum) (base)
Engine:	6.2-liter V-8/385 hp @ 5,750 rpm, 430 lb-ft @ 3,800 rpm; 6.7-liter diesel V-8/440 hp @ 2,800 rpm, 925 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm; 6.8-liter V-10 424 hp, 288 lb-ft
Transmission:	6-speed automatic
Layout:	2-4-door, 3-6-passenger, front-engine RWD/4WD truck
EPA Mileage:	N/A
L x W x H:	N/A
Wheelbase:	N/A
Weight:	5,683-8,590 lb
0-60 MPH:	N/A
Top Speed:	N/A

2017 Ford Fusion

The Ford Fusion sedan has been around a few years now and it has been an instant hit.  The thing that continues to impress me about Ford is they don’t rest when a vehicle is popular, they continue make it better.

Semi-autonomous features, which can take over for a driver in more limited ways and have been available for years in some luxury cars, are making their way into mainstream vehicles. Some midrange cars will automatically brake if they sense an imminent collision, steer back into a freeway lane if the driver allows them to drift, and guide themselves into tight parking spaces.

"We're definitely in a state right now where we're starting to see these features become more common in mainstream cars," said Ed Kim, who keeps tabs on automotive trends as an analyst for Auto Pacific, an automotive research and consulting firm.  All of the self-driving technologies that Ford makes available on its Ford or Lincoln models -- which include automatic braking, advanced adaptive cruise control, assisted parking and automated lane keeping -- are available as options on the Fusion Energi and come standard on the top-of-the-line model.

In testing the various semi-autonomous features on the Fusion, I was struck by how much they varied in terms of usability, polish and reliability.The most impressive function by far was its advanced adaptive cruise control, a new feature with this year's model. Adaptive cruise control will try to maintain a set speed, but will automatically slow down if the cars in front of you decelerate and will accelerate back when they speed up.

The Fusion's system takes this technology a step further, because unlike those on other cars, it will continue to work in stop-and-go traffic. Using radar and a camera system placed behind the rearview mirror to detect vehicles in front of it, it will bring you to a complete stop in a traffic jam and then re-accelerate as traffic resumes.

Come see what makes the Fusion special at Waxahachie Ford 2401 N. Interstate 35-E Waxahachie, TX or give us a call at 972-825-4500 today!