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Two Roush Trucks at Benna Ford in Superior, WI

From Ford Super Duty to ROUSH Beast: How Our 2026 Ford F-250s Became ROUSH Trucks

Two trucks. One legendary platform. A complete transformation built for drivers who want more than stock capability. We’re highlighting two of our 2026 Ford F-250 Super Duty Lariat trucks. These trucks are making the journey from factory-built Ford heavy-duty pickups to fully upfitted ROUSH trucks. ROUSH Performance is known for blending rugged capability with refined performance upgrades. ROUSH enhances the already impressive Super Duty foundation with distinctive styling, upgraded components, and signature design details. These upgrades set the truck apart on the road and at the jobsite. From the moment these trucks leave the Ford production line, ROUSH engineers carefully design every step of the process. Each stage focuses on precision, performance, and presence. Meet Our Two 2026 Ford F-250 Lariat ROUSH Trucks These two 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH trucks represent the perfect blend of factory Ford strength and ROUSH Performance engineering and design enhancements. They are built on one of the most capable heavy-duty platforms in the lineup. Each truck showcases how ROUSH transforms a proven Super Duty into something more distinctive, more aggressive, and more purpose-built. Introducing the Ruby Red 2026 Ford Super Duty Lariat ROUSH at Benna Ford in Superior, WI The 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel engine powers this Super Duty. It pairs with the 10-speed TorqShift® automatic transmission. Together, they deliver serious towing capability and strong work performance. At the same time, the Lariat trim adds refinement with Black Onyx ActiveX seating and premium interior appointments. Upfitted by ROUSH Performance, this truck receives a complete transformation. It features a ROUSH performance suspension system, high-flow illuminated grille, and dual-tip exhaust. It also rides on 20-inch satin black ROUSH wheels wrapped in 35-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires. Aggressive fender flares complete the bold, off-road-ready stance. Additional ROUSH enhancements include signature badging and a serialized interior plaque. They also feature carbon fiber interior trim accents, integrated lighting upgrades, and a full ROUSH graphics package. The result is a 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH Super Duty that delivers unmistakable presence, elevated capability, and a fully custom appearance straight from ROUSH Performance engineering. Introducing the Glacier Gray ROUSH at Benna Ford in Superior, WI Finished in Glacier Gray Metallic, this 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH offers a more subtle and refined take on ROUSH’s heavy-duty design. It builds on the same proven Super Duty foundation as its Ruby Red counterpart. However, it delivers that capability with a cleaner, more understated appearance. This truck delivers demanding towing and worksite performance through the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel engine paired with the 10-speed TorqShift® automatic transmission. Inside, the Lariat trim brings added comfort and technology, highlighted by premium Black Onyx ActiveX seating. The 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH Super Duty features a performance suspension system, illuminated grille, 20-inch satin black wheels, all-terrain tires, and fender flares for a more aggressive appearance. A dual-tip ROUSH exhaust, integrated lighting upgrades, and signature badging enhance its distinctive style. The truck balances capability and refinement with a subtle, purpose-driven design that still stands out on the road. What Is a ROUSH Truck? ROUSH is one of the most recognizable names in Ford performance, founded by legendary racer, engineer, and entrepreneur Jack Roush. For decades, ROUSH Performance has contributed to motorsports, vehicle engineering, and performance development. Those efforts helped establish its reputation for factory-quality upgrades that enhance Ford vehicles with performance, capability, and distinctive styling. Today, ROUSH works closely with Ford to create specialized vehicles. Each one delivers a unique ownership experience while maintaining the drivability and reliability drivers expect every day. Built on a Ford Foundation Every ROUSH truck begins as a Ford vehicle. From there, ROUSH transforms it through a carefully engineered upfit process. For the ROUSH Super Duty, that process includes a comprehensive package of upgrades designed to enhance both appearance and capability. Key features include a ROUSH/Fox performance suspension system, upgraded wheels and all-terrain tires, performance brake components, and a high-flow grille with integrated lighting. ROUSH also adds a custom exhaust system, exclusive badging, and unique interior appointments. Engineering the ROUSH Difference What makes a ROUSH Super Duty unique is that it is more than a collection of aftermarket accessories. Each truck includes a fully engineered package with serialized ROUSH identification, a certificate of authenticity, and integrated performance upgrades. These components preserve towing capability, drivability, and overall functionality. The result is a heavy-duty pickup that distinguishes itself from a standard Ford Super Duty with a more aggressive look, enhanced off-road capability, and the craftsmanship that has defined the ROUSH brand for decades. Benna Ford and the ROUSH Partnership Benna Ford has partnered with ROUSH since 2005, providing customers with access to one of the most respected names in Ford performance. Our team can help you custom order a ROUSH truck or explore our current inventory. The two 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH trucks featured here are the latest additions to our lineup. We continually bring new ROUSH builds to the Northland and update our inventory with the latest models. As a result, Benna Ford has become a trusted destination for ROUSH trucks and performance vehicles. The Journey Begins: Building the Ford F-250 Super Duty Lariat Before a truck can earn the ROUSH name, it begins life as one of Ford's most capable heavy-duty pickups: the Ford F-250 Super Duty Lariat. Ford builds the Super Duty on a fully boxed high-strength steel frame, and the F-250 delivers the strength to handle demanding workloads. It also features advanced towing technology and a range of powerful engine options, including the available 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel found in both featured trucks. The Lariat trim adds a premium touch to that capability-focused platform. Features such as ActiveX® seating, a 12-inch center touchscreen with SYNC® 4, advanced driver-assistance technology, and a refined interior help make the F-250 Lariat as comfortable on long road trips as it is on the jobsite. By combining heavy-duty performance with upscale amenities, Ford creates a truck that appeals to both hardworking professionals and truck enthusiasts alike. For ROUSH, starting with the F-250 Lariat is a deliberate choice. The truck already possesses the strength, technology, and capability expected from a modern Super Duty. ROUSH then builds upon that foundation with specialized suspension tuning, aggressive styling enhancements, premium interior details, and exclusive components designed to elevate the truck's appearance and presence while preserving the capability that made the Super Duty famous in the first place. Once Ford completes production and quality inspections, the journey is far from over. Instead of heading directly to a dealership lot, these trucks begin the next chapter of their transformation as they make their way to ROUSH for a comprehensive upfit process. The ROUSH Transformation Process Once these trucks leave Ford production and arrive at ROUSH Performance, the real transformation begins. ROUSH does not treat this as a collection of standalone accessories added at random. Instead, ROUSH engineers design a carefully integrated, package-based upfit process that elevates capability, styling, and presence while preserving everything that makes the Ford F-250 Super Duty such a proven platform. ROUSH builds its approach around integration. Engineers design every upgrade to work together as a cohesive system, so the finished truck feels factory-refined while still delivering a bold, performance-driven identity. Exterior Upgrades: Aggressive Design with Purpose The exterior transformation is where a ROUSH truck immediately sets itself apart. The goal is not just visual impact, but functional enhancement. Each 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH receives a signature high-flow ROUSH grille with integrated lighting, giving the front end a more commanding presence while improving visibility in low-light conditions. ROUSH strategically places badging throughout the exterior to reinforce the truck’s identity without overpowering the factory design language. Designers add a full graphics package and model-specific styling cues that highlight the truck’s stance and width. Fender flares finish the build, creating clearance for larger off-road tires while giving the Super Duty a more aggressive, planted look. Wheels, Tires & Stance: Built for Capability A major part of the ROUSH transformation comes from the wheel and tire package. These trucks are equipped with 20-inch satin black ROUSH wheels paired with 35-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires, creating a balanced combination of off-road traction and on-road stability. This setup is not just for appearance - it’s engineered to support real-world use. The wider footprint improves stability under load, while the all-terrain tread pattern enhances confidence on gravel, snow, mud, and jobsite conditions. The result is a Super Duty that feels equally at home towing heavy loads or venturing off paved roads. Suspension Enhancements: Tuned for Control and Comfort The ROUSH performance upgrade starts with a purpose-built suspension system. It improves ride quality while enhancing off-road capability. ROUSH tunes the suspension to improve damping control and reduce body roll. The result is a more confident driving experience, whether the truck is carrying a load or traveling empty. Just as importantly, the suspension preserves the Super Duty's heavy-duty capability. It also delivers the refined ride and control drivers expect from a premium truck. It allows the truck to handle rough terrain and demanding workloads without sacrificing everyday comfort. Interior Upgrades: Performance Meets Refinement Inside the cabin, ROUSH builds on the premium feel of the Ford F-250 Lariat with signature design details and performance-inspired branding. The upgrades include serialized ROUSH interior badging, premium materials, and carbon fiber trim accents. Together, they create a distinctive performance-focused atmosphere. Drivers also enjoy advanced connectivity and infotainment through SYNC 4. As a result, the truck remains highly functional without sacrificing style. While subtle, these enhancements make a noticeable difference. They give the interior a custom-built character while preserving the comfort and technology expected from a modern Super Duty. Badging & Serialization: A Mark of Authenticity Every ROUSH truck carries a unique identity, and that identity is formalized through serialization and official badging. Each 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH receives a serialized interior plaque. This unique identifier marks its place within the ROUSH production process and confirms its authenticity as a ROUSH-built vehicle. This attention to detail helps set ROUSH apart. Rather than relying on aftermarket modifications alone, ROUSH creates fully engineered performance packages backed by decades of motorsports and engineering expertise. From ROUSH Facility to Superior, WI: Arrival at Benna Ford Once the transformation is complete at ROUSH Performance, these fresh 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH Super Duty trucks begin the final leg of their journey - making their way from the upfit process to their new home at Benna Ford in Superior, Wisconsin. Whether they’re headed to a worksite along the Iron Range, towing along the North Shore, or simply turning heads in downtown Superior, these trucks are built to make an immediate impression. By the time they reach our dealership, they are fully serialized, quality-inspected, and complete with all ROUSH-installed upgrades. For our team at Benna Ford, receiving these trucks is more than a typical inventory drop - it’s a continuation of a long-standing partnership with ROUSH that dates back to 2005. That relationship allows us to bring some of the most distinctive Ford performance trucks in the country directly to drivers here in the Northland. From the ROUSH facility to our showroom floor, these trucks complete a journey defined by precision engineering and purposeful design. Now, they’re ready for the final chapter—being put to work by their next owners across the Northland. Ready for the Road Ahead Now that both 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH Super Duty trucks have completed their transformation and arrived at Benna Ford, they’re exactly where they’re meant to be - ready for drivers who want capability without compromise and presence without effort. From this point forward, it’s no longer about the build process. It’s about what comes next: where these trucks will go, what they’ll tow, and the work they’ll handle across Superior, Duluth, and the greater Northland. Whether it’s the Ruby Red turning heads in the city or the Glacier Gray taking on everyday demands with quiet confidence, both trucks are ready to step into real-world use. If you’ve been considering a 2026 Ford F-250 ROUSH of your own, this is the moment to see what sets them apart in person. Sources: https://www.roushperformance.com/, https://www.ford.com/trucks/super-duty/?gnav=header-trucks-vhp

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​​Mustang GTD is the Fastest American Production Car to Lap the Nürburgring​

While acceleration times like 0-60 and quarter-mile times are useful and well-established, the ultimate performance metric for a high-performance vehicle is how fast it can lap the Nürburgring in Germany. Benna Ford is pleased to announce that the Ford Mustang GTD has entered an extremely exclusive club by lapping the “ring” in under seven minutes. Only six production models worldwide can claim to be in the “Under seven” club; the Mustang GTD is the only one from America. The specifics are this: On December 10, 2024, the 815-horsepower Mustang GTD, driven by Multimatic Motorsports driver Dirk Müller, completed the 12.9-mile 73-turn lap in 6 minutes, 57.685 seconds. This marks an achievement of a goal stated by Ford CEO Jim Farley at the Mustang GTD’s debut in August 2023. “The team behind Mustang GTD took what we’ve learned from decades on the track and engineered a Mustang that can compete with the world’s best supercars,” said Ford President and CEO Jim Farley. “We’re proud to be the first American automaker with a car that can lap the Nürburgring in under seven minutes, but we aren’t satisfied. We know there’s much more time to find with Mustang GTD. We’ll be back.” Ford has produced several blisteringly fast Mustangs in the past couple of decades, and some Shelby Mustangs even have greater horsepower than the GTD. However, even they aren’t as race-track-bred as the Mustang GTD. It began with the Ford Mustang GT3 race car, developed by Ford Performance and Multimatic Motor Sports, to compete in IMSA endurance races, such as the 24 Hours of LeMans, 12 Hours at Sebring, and 24 Hours of Daytona. The goal was to create a high-performance production car inspired by and derived from the Mustang GT3. This is a more challenging task than it sounds. Not only do production cars need to meet all manner of Department of Transportation and NHTSA safety standards, but the engine can’t be expected to be rebuilt after every long day of driving, as in a race car. At the heart of the Mustang GTD (taking its name from the GT Daytona IMSA class) is a Ford Performance-engineered 5.2-liter naturally aspirated (non-turbo or supercharged) V8 tuned to achieve 815 horsepower.  The engine features a dry sump oil system to prevent oil starvation on fast curves and is the first dry sump fitted to a production Mustang.  The V8 is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transaxle driving and is located between the rear wheels to help produce a 40/40 weight distribution. The chassis features a semi-active suspension with short-long arm geometry up front to handle High-G cornering, while carbon-ceramic brakes slow things down when necessary. Much of the body is made of carbon fiber panels, including the large rear wing, which forms road-gripping downforce at speed. As mandated by the Nürburgring, the production car was fitted with a competition seat with a five-point harness and a roll cage. Ford plans a limited run of about 1,000 Mustang GTDs. With a starting MSRP of about $325,000, it is more than a mere step up from a Mustang GT, so you will unlikely find one in Benna Ford’s inventory. That said, it is a testament to Ford’s engineering prowess and is an example of lessons learned on the track finding their way into production cars.

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Ford Gets Two Class Wins in the Baja 1000

The Baja 1000 is considered one of the toughest races in the world and is unrivaled as the toughest race on this side of the globe. Consequently, Benna Ford is proud to announce that at the event’s end, both the Ford Bronco DR and Ford Ranger Raptor emerged with class wins. It is difficult to overstate how rugged and punishing the Baja 1000 course can be. This year’s course featured thick silt beds, jagged rocks, hard rain and snow, and Baja’s legendary darkness, which tests the driver’s reflexes as obstacles quickly appear in a vehicle’s light beams. “The Baja 1000 is brutal,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “It pushes every part of a truck to its limits and demands everything from the drivers and teams. This isn’t just about crossing the finish line—it’s about proving that our vehicles can take on and conquer challenges as tough as Baja.” Bronco DR Wins Heavy Metal Class The Bronco DR (Desert Racer) took the win in the Heavy Metal Limited class. It is purpose-built as a desert racer, aimed directly at the Baja competition and similar events. The Baja victory marks its third victory out of three competitions for this year. Driver Brad Lovell and navigator Roger Lovell began the first third of the event, followed by Jason Hutter and Paul Blangsted, who helped secure the DR’s August victory at Vegas to Reno. Jason Scherer and Jason Berger took the checkered flag upon completion of the final leg of the 864-mile race. “This year put an exclamation mark on how brutal Baja is,” said Brad Lovell, who has piloted the DR at all races. “It’s said it’s the toughest race in North America, and I do believe that’s true. Having been involved with Bronco DR testing for quite a while, I always wanted the opportunity to race it here in the 1000—it’s what we designed it for, it’s where we made it spirited, lively and fun. To understand Bronco’s legacy in Baja and be part of it is overwhelming. Bronco is utilitarian, a jack of all trades, but it has a special spirit and place in Baja.” Lovel is undoubtedly referring to the Bronco known as “Big Oly,” driven by Rod Gall and Larry Minor. In 1969, it was the first 4x4 vehicle to win the Baja 1000 outright, a feat usually achieved by motorcycles. Ranger Raptor Wins Stock Mid-size Class Possibly even more impressive is the showroom-stock mid-size class win by the Ranger Raptor. The vehicle is far closer to stock than the vehicles in the Heavy Metal class. It meets SCORE’s Stock Mid-sized regulations, which allow only very limited performance and durability enhancements. Driver Loren Healy and navigator Eric Davis started the competition before turning it over to John Williams III and Nate Williams, who drove for the middle section. Bailey Campbell and Bryan Crofts took it across the finish line. Racing as Research “Baja threw everything it had at us this year,” said Loren Healy. “We fought some trials and tribulations last night, but this amazing Ford Performance team put everything—their whole hearts and souls—into this, in the dark, in the cold, in the rain. I’m really proud of everyone here.” The Ranger was equipped with a MoTeC data acquisition system to collect critical performance data during the race. “One of our top priorities is always to gather as much data as possible, and we see so much varied conditions here that helps that,” said Brian Novak, North American Off-Road Program Manager. “We’ve taken insights from this program to enhance our durability testing process. When we take this truck back to Dearborn, we’ll analyze every piece and part in detail to see what we can do to make our consumer trucks better.” Racing improves the breed. You can see for yourself by test-driving the Bronco, Ranger, and Ford’s other 4x4 stars at Benna Ford.

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Ford Earns Multiple Certified Pre-Owned Awards by Vincentric

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs offer used car shoppers a welcome bridge between the lower cost of used cars and the product confidence in a new car. An extensive inspection program backed up by a manufacturer’s warranty is common among these programs. The manufacturer operates most CPO programs, and much of the actual legwork is done at the dealer level.  Outside the inspection and warranty, the programs vary by what other benefits they offer, which vehicles qualify as CPO vehicles, and other program details. Which CPO models have the greatest value is something that automotive industry data and analysis firm Vincentric has taken it upon themselves to discover. Benna Ford is proud to inform you that they like Ford’s CPO program and CPO models very much. Vincentric is a privately held automotive data compilation and analysis firm that has made a name for itself in measuring vehicle cost of ownership using eight factors: depreciation, fees and taxes, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, opportunity cost, and repairs.  They have been judging the value of CPO programs and vehicles for 12 years.  For 2024, they voted on Ford Company as having the brand award for the Best CPO Value in America in the Truck and Van categories.  Individual Ford models earned Vincentric CPO awards in six additional categories.  It is also worth noting that in all cases, the brand and its models have earned this award multiple times.  Here is the complete list of Ford’s Vincentric Best CPO awards: Ford – Best CPO Value in America: Truck Brand category (fifth time, second consecutive) Ford – Best CPO Value in America: Van Brand category (ninth consecutive) Ford Maverick ® Hybrid – Best CPO Value in America: Small/Mid-Size Pickup segment (second consecutive) Ford F-150® Lightning ® – Best CPO Value in America: Full-Size 1/2-Ton Pickup segment (ninth time for F-150) Ford Super Duty ® F-250 ® – Best CPO Value in America: Full-Size 3/4-Ton Pickup segment (second time) Ford Super Duty ® F-350 ® – Best CPO Value in America: Full-Size 1-Ton Pickup segment (third time) Ford E-Transit™ 350 – Best CPO Value in America: Large Cargo Van segment (seventh time for Transit) Ford Expedition ® – Best CPO Value in America: Large SUV segment (fifth time, third consecutive) "Vehicle cost of ownership is important to our customers,” said Jim Baumbick, Vice President, Ford Product Development Operations and Quality. “Earning Vincentric’s CPO Value Awards for our trucks, vans, and SUVs is a testament to our engineers and their dedication to designing durable, cost-effective vehicles that help minimize operating costs to help hold their value over time.” Ford’s dominance in these awards shouldn’t be surprising, as these are all areas where Ford excels. Ford has been America’s best-selling truck manufacturer and the best-seller in commercial vans and commercial vehicles for 39 consecutive years. New or used, private or commercial, you can’t go wrong with a Ford truck or van, and you will find them at Benna Ford.

New Ford F-150 Hybrid Front View Towing

Green Car Reports Reviews the F-150 Hybrid

Electric vehicles are the wave of the future, and many consumers are finding ways to include the new technology in their lives in many different ways. Partial electrification sales, in the form of hybrids and plug-in hybrids, are surging at an amazing rate.  More and more people are finding the combination of both gasoline and electric power to be a win-win.  That said, the hybrid take on America’s best-selling vehicle – full-size pickup trucks – remains relatively low.  However, recent changes to the F-150 hybrid may bring about a welcome change. Green Car Reports reviews the updated F-150 Hybrid, and Benna Ford tells you what they found. Smoothing  Things Out With a name like Green Car Reports, you expect them to be pretty favorable to a hybrid pickup truck, but they actually had a few issues with the F-150 Hybrid when it first launched in 2021. As it does now, the 2021 model featured a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 combined with a 35-kW (47-hp) electric motor located between the engine and 10-speed transmission. Power is plentiful, with total system power of 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. While the electric motor did a fine job of filling in on acceleration while the turbocharger spooled up, the transition between motor and engine on the 2021-2023 models could cause a shuddering in the drivetrain, particularly between the 1-2 and 2-3 gear changes. New powertrain software smoothed out the roughness for the 2024 model year. It also simplified the system by eliminating a second starter integrated into the accessory belt drive. Green Car Reports found the fix to be effective, with barely noticeable motor-to-engine transitions. More Power, Better Efficiency Most everything else remains the same. The fact that the hybrid system was paired to the 3.5-liter rather than 2.7-liter engine tells you Ford was less interested in achieving the lowest viable fuel economy and more interested in providing more power without a fuel mileage penalty. On that, they succeeded.  With standard 4x4, the F-150 hybrid has an EPA city/highway rating of 22 / 24, beating the 2.7-liter powered 4x4 truck significantly over its 18 city rating and slightly over its 23 highway rating even as it delivers 105 more horsepower and 170 more lb-ft of torque. The 5.0-liter V8, which still doesn’t match the hybrid’s power figures, is rated at 16 in the city and 24 on the highway in 4x4 form. Green Car Reports found that when loaded with four adults and their fishing gear, the truck achieved its EPA-estimated figure, or precisely 24.4 mpg throughout 686 miles of primarily highway driving when keeping it at 65 mpg. At 70 mph, the figure dropped to 20.4 mpg, so speed matters. Helpful Tech Outside the drivetrain, they praised the 12.0-inch touchscreen interface, which they described as “one of the best.” They specifically called out its ability to split screen and show two separate apps even when using the wireless Apple CarPlay. In addition, the hybrid’s 1.5-kWh lithium-ion battery, which powered the available 7.2 kW external power system, proved useful in powering devices at their fishing location. Hybrids are improving the performance and efficiency of all vehicle categories now, and those advantages apply just as well to the Ford F-150. Visit Benna Ford and check out how the Ford F-150 can add power and efficiency to your daily life.

Ford Pro Helps Streamline Fleet Management

Ford Pro™ Fleet Management Software Helps Construction Firm Keep Building

Managing a fleet of vehicles is a complex affair. Ford knows that and has developed Ford Pro Fleet Management Software to simplify and bring order to the process. To illustrate what this software can do, Benna Ford offers this case study about an organization known as HomeTown Services. Creating one Company out of 26 The company was formed as a cohort of 26 separate residential HVAC, plumbing, and electrical service providers in the South-central United States. The entire nature of the business involves sending technicians in commercial vehicles to locations, and overall, HomeTown Services operates over 1500 vehicles, including Ford Transit® vans, E -350 box trucks, and F-250® Super Duty® trucks. Managing a fleet of this size across multiple states would challenge any business, but how HomeTown was formed from many separate businesses brought additional complexities. “Our oldest brand was founded in 1961,” said Del Underwood, Vice President of Purchasing and Fleet. “Even the youngest is at least ten years old.” When they were independently operated, each business had its own fleet management process, and much of it was done manually. “Fleet management was happening largely without software support,” Underwood said. Recognizing the need to organize these disparate, often paper-based systems, HomeTown Services turned to Ford Pro™ to guide them through software adoption and implementation. Streamlining Vehicle Purchases It is a growing business that can purchase up to 250 vehicles annually.  They already know what they need, so the most important factor is making the process quick and straightforward. Brian Harbison, Ford Pro™ FinSimple™ Commercial Business Development Manager, was called upon to set up a Commercial Line of Credit (CLOC) so that vehicles could be easily added by applying the total amount financed for each vehicle to an existing balance. Underwood and his team work closely with Harbison to ensure a sufficient balance to match their fleet growth projections. Managing Different Forms of Maintenance Maintaining such a fleet is a huge task, but the Ford Pro™ Fleet Management Software helps Underwood and his department stay on top. “Some branches have in-house mechanics, some use car dealers, and others use mechanic shops,” Underwood said. The software allows him to accommodate these different maintenance and repair processes, which allows each brand to maintain its individuality while ensuring HomeTown has an overall view of the fleet’s status. “In our industry, downtime is a killer,” Underwood said. “We look at a vehicle and technician as a ‘unit.’ Whenever a service unit is down, it costs us up to $12,000 per day, while the revenue losses from a down installation unit can be as high as $22,000 per day.” Knowing When to Say Goodbye The Ford Pro™ Fleet Management Software also provides advice as to when a vehicle may need to be replaced. “It might sound counterintuitive, but you don’t want to drive a vehicle until the wheels fall off,” Underwood said. “At some point, its total cost of ownership will start to rise to a point where it makes more financial sense to bring in a new vehicle.” Any fleet manager can recognize all these issues. Hopefully, this introduction has given a hint of how the Ford Pro™ Fleet Management Software can help them from purchase through the entire lifecycle of every fleet vehicle. Contact Benna Ford to see how the Ford Pro™ Fleet Management Software can help you with your fleet.

2024 Ford F150 Regular Cab XL Front Side View

Single Cab Battle: Ford F-150 vs. Chevrolet Silverado

It used to be that the most common pickup truck configuration had only two doors and a bench seat. Luckily, they do exist. The Ford F-150 is still available with a regular cab. It can have one with a 6.5-foot or 8-foot box powered by a 5.0-liter V8 or one of two EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6s. Ford is not alone in making half-ton regular cab pickup trucks. General Motors can also sell you one from either Chevrolet or GMC. The CarBuzz website recently did a comparison between the Ford-F-150 Regular Cab and its GM rivals. What they found out in this comparison was what we knew all along: We can still make a Regular Cab pickup truck that gets down to work. Numbers are part of the equation with the F-150. The maximum towing capacity for a regular cab with an 8-foot box, four-wheel drive, and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is 11,000 pounds. For payload, a Regular Cab with an 8-foot box in rear-wheel drive and the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine can carry up to 2,445 pounds. Four-wheel drive models with the same configuration can also haul up to 2,180 pounds. The F-150 Regular Cab is available in the work-ready XL trim. Yet, it is not as “stripped down” as work trucks used to be. For example, a FordPass 5G LTE Modem is available to connect to your home office to receive work orders and transmit sign agreements. Your productivity is enhanced through a 12-inch touchscreen powered by SYNC 4. The expansive camera views can assist in making sure your F-150 is parked right at the job site. Air Conditioning is standard, keeping you cool and warm throughout the year.  As will the standard cloth seats that are split 40/20/40. If it is just you or another coworker, you can fold down the center backrest for a console. Keeping you safe are available Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 technologies. They are developed to keep you and your F-150 Regular Cab safe and secure from harm. You can also add more to your F-150 XL Regular Cab. There are plenty of Ford Accessories that we can install for you when you purchase your pickup truck, from bed mats to Foldable Box Bed Extenders for better cargo management where it counts. Plus, there are many more to add to your pickup truck. These accessories can also help with your resale value when it comes to trading it in for a new one down the line. If all you need is just a pickup truck without the extra doors, extra seats, and a work ethic to boot, contact us at Benna Ford to see about getting an F-150 Regular Cab XL pickup truck for your work – or even yourself – soon.

2023 Ford Super Duty F-250 Tremor Off-Road Package_ F-350 Limited_ F-350 Lariat_ XL STX Appearance Package_converted

Ford Pro is Helping You to Streamline Fleet Management

No matter how big or small your fleet is, Ford Pro has a solution to streamline its management. It is a series of solutions. They include integrated software that will help you track expenses towards meeting your bottom line, as well as financing management of your fleet. These are just a few solutions Ford Pro offers its customers. To provide an opportunity to invest in your fleet with up-to-date vehicles, Ford Pro offers a Commercial Line of Credit or CLOC. A CLOC is an agreed-upon level of credit, and once approved, fleets can easily add vehicles by applying the total amount financed for each vehicle to the existing balance. Whether you need to add a Maverick or an E-Transit to your fleet, Ford Pro’s CLOC can work with you to meet your needs within the balance of your account. To make sure your fleet is running and meeting the bottom line, Ford Pro offers a suite of solutions where fleets can simplify processes, increase uptime, and gain a comprehensive view of their total cost of ownership. It is called Ford Pro Intelligence. Part of this suite is the Ford Pro Fleet Management Software. This important electronic tool captures cost-related data, vehicle maintenance history, activity, and more in a convenient on-screen dashboard. From the software, you can create and assign work orders—and then track those work orders from start to finish. This software is also connected to your entire fleet. Ford Pro vehicles are equipped with an onboard modem to connect with the Ford Pro Intelligence software, which tracks maintenance and energy usage while potentially lowering your cost of ownership. For example, you can receive vehicle and charger alerts to stay on top of proactive maintenance. You can also schedule service directly within the software so you can keep your fleet on the road and on the job. Ford Pro also has an easy-to-read display that provides insights on your vehicles, chargers, and daily fleet activities all in one system. Another key software solution for your fleet is Ford Pro Telematics. This can provide a real-time window into your fleet and help optimize your business. Ford Pro Telematics can monitor vehicles and evaluate driver performance with live GPS. It can also analyze fuel consumption, EV range, idling time, and more. You can add dashcams to your fleet and have them feed video data into Ford Pro Telematics. Feedback from the dashcams can provide insights to help protect against false claims and help boost productivity by monitoring driver performance, such as speeding, harsh braking, and distracted driving. This can assist fleet managers in helping their drivers make needed adjustments. Ford Pro Telematics is available through a subscription. This subscription includes In-Vehicle Coaching, an audible alert system that monitors driver behavior in real time. Once you’ve enrolled eligible vehicles, you can customize driver parameters, such as speeding threshold, idling duration, acceleration sensitivity, etc. All of these pieces together can help you grow and update your fleet, keep up with maintenance, and improve your productivity and uptime. Benna Ford can work with you to help add this layer of management to your fleet while keeping you informed of new opportunities for your business and your fleet. Contact us today to find out more about Ford Pro’s line of fleet management services!

2023 Ford Super Duty F-250 Tremor Off-Road Package_ F-350 Limited_ F-350 Lariat_ XL STX Appearance Package_converted

JD Power Names Ford SuperDuty Most Appealing Heavy-Duty Truck

You don’t purchase a heavy-duty truck because you like big things. You buy them because you expect them to carry out major work. It may be heavy payloads, towing heavy trailers, or both, but you expect your heavy-duty truck to carry it out without a hiccup. Costing more than ordinary pickup trucks, it is a significant investment, and you expect satisfaction. Benna Ford is happy to announce that the 2024 Ford F-Series Super Duty is the most appealing large heavy-duty pickup in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. Unlike the Quality Index studies, which measure things gone wrong in various stages of ownership, the J.D. Power APEAL study measures owners' emotional attachment and level of excitement with their new vehicle. The Study asks owners to consider 37 attributes of their vehicles, ranging from the sense of comfort they feel when climbing into the driver's seat to their exhilaration when they step on the accelerator. Vehicle owners' responses to queries about these attributes are aggregated to compute an overall APPEAL Index score. "The Ford Super Duty ranking as the most appealing Large Heavy-Duty Pickup shows Ford’s commitment to building vehicles that go above and beyond their customers’ expectations,” said Frank Hanley, Senior Director Auto Benchmarking at JD Power. Ford can place the J. D. Power trophy next to one that named the 2021 Super Duty the most dependable large heavy-duty pickup, and the four that named the 2024 Ford F-Series ® Super Duty ® the North America Truck of the Year for four consecutive years.  Special features include available best-in-class diesel horsepower and torque, the industry’s first Tailgate Down Camera, and the available Pro-Power Onboard with five times more exportable power than any other heavy-duty pickup. “For the people, businesses, first responders and communities that build America, Super Duty is more than a truck. It’s a tool they rely on to get the job done,” said Andrew Kernahan, Super Duty Chief Program Engineer. “There’s no better recognition than one that comes from the people using the truck every day. We are honored and proud to serve our Ford Pro customers with a Built Ford Tough truck that helps to keep our country moving forward.” If you are in need of a heavy-duty pickup truck, the top of your shopping list appears obvious, and you can see several examples for yourself at Benna Ford in Superior, WI.

2023 Ford Super Duty F-250 XL STX Appearance Package_02_converted

KBB compares the Ford Super Duty to the Chevy Silverado 2500HD

A significant percentage of full-size pickup trucks may have become “lifestyle” or family vehicles, but heavy-duty trucks are meant for work. They can still be plush inside because even a hard-working tradesman appreciates a bit of comfort, but underneath, they are all about heavy payloads and/or towing large trailers. Kelley Blue Book ( KBB) did a quick comparison of the Ford F-250 Super Duty and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, and Benna Ford gives you the highlights. Powertrains The Silverado offers two 6.6-liter engine choices: one gas-powered and the other diesel. The gas-powered engine produces 401 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque. The Duramax turbocharged diesel is more powerful on both counts, with 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission. WT, Custom, LT, and LTZ models have standard rear-wheel drive with 4-wheel drive as an option. ZR2 and High Country models are 4WD only. The Super Duty doubles the number of powertrain options with two gas engines and two turbo-diesel engines. The entry engine is a 6.8-liter V8 producing 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. The 7.3-liter V8 is a step up for the gas engines. It is the most powerful gas V8 in the class, with 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. The Super Duty also offers two turbo-diesel engines, though both have a displacement of 6.7 liters. The 6.7L Power Stroke features 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. Note that none of the Chevy engines reach four figures in torque. The High Output version of the same engine produces a massive 500 horsepower and a class-leading 1,200 lb-ft of torque. All four engines are connected to essentially the same 10-speed automatic as the Silverado, which Ford and Chevy developed together. Each transmission varies slightly according to the engine it is attached to. RWD is standard, with 4WD optionally available. Body Configuration The Silverado is available with a regular 2-door cab, a Double cab with a second seat and pair of doors, and a proper 4-door crew cab. Bed choices are 6’ 8” and 8’ long. The Regular and Crew Cabs are only available with the long bed, while the Double Cab is available with either. The Ford Super Duty is also available in three cab sizes. Like the Silverado, the regular cab has two doors and can seat three with a bench seat. The Super Cab remains a 2-door but extends the cab for a second bench seat or extra cabin storage. The Crew Cab is a full 4-door model. The two bed sizes match those of the Silverado at 6’8” and 8’. The Regular Cab is only available with a long bed while the two other cabs offer a choice. Towing Capacity Towing capacities vary significantly by engine, axle ratios, cabin, and drivetrain. We won’t list them all, but on the Silverado, they range from 14,500 - 16,000 pounds for the gas engine and can go as high as 22,500 pounds with the Duramax diesel with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch. The Ford F-250 with the 6.8 V8 ranges from a low of 13,800 pounds with a 4x4 Crew Cab and long bed to 17,300 on a 4x2 Regular Cab with the short bed. With the 7.3-liter V8, the range is from 16,200 to 18,200 pounds. The 6.7 turbo diesel ranges from 15,500 with 4x2, the big cab and long bed, to 22,000 lb. with the SuperCab and long bed. Finally, there is the 6.7-liter High Output Turbo diesel, the range of which is as low as 18,200 in multiple configurations and rises to 22,000 in various configurations. Special Features KBB calls out some specific special features for each model line. The Silverado is available with the Multi-flex tailgate, which can be configured in six different ways for various cargo and loading needs. There are also off-road-focused ZR2 models, which are big things to throw around the rocks and streams but are certainly strong. The Ford Super Duty is recognized for its more practical and work-oriented features. They start with the Pro Power Onboard 2-kilowatt electrical system with multiple outlets, which enables it to power lights or power tools—a feature the Silverado does not offer. The tailgate-down rear camera is also given a shout-out, along with the onboard scales, which inform you of vehicle payload on the spot. KBB recognizes that many heavy-duty trucks are bought by experienced pickup truck owners who often select out of brand loyalty. That said, they give the nod to the Ford Super Duty due to its edge in practical technology. The Superior, Wisconsin area is full of people doing hard work, and thus, there is a generous supply of Super Duty trucks on hand at Benna Ford for you to see how well they will work with your needs.

Ford F-150 Tremor

The Car Connection Samples the F-150 Tremor and Hybrid

The Car Connection wanted to look at the changes Ford made to the 2024 F-150 and chose to do it through two of its more interesting models: the Tremor and the hybrid model. Benna Ford gives you the highlights of what they found. General changes for the 2024 F-150 model line are not drastic but significant enough to noticeably improve your ownership experience. It starts with a new Pro Access tailgate design with a side-swinging door. The door covers about the middle third of the tailgate and swings for an opening on the driver’s side. The Pro Access tailgate is a practical addition. It not only allows you to access your load without reaching over a closed gate or across an open one but also lets you access the bed while towing. The mid-door hinges are designed to hold open at 100, 70, or 37 degrees, with the smaller number set specifically for towing, ensuring it holds open without encountering any part of the trailer tongue. The tailgate drops down either manually or by power as it did before, maintaining its user-friendly nature. A grab handle in the bed replaces the former retractable handle, and a retractable step plus a wider center bumper step helps you climb into the bed. The Car Connection summarizes these changes this way: “It’s a cleaner, more functional design that makes getting things in and out a lot easier.” The other exterior change is a revised grille and headlight combo that wraps around the corners for a less brick-like front-end appearance. Now available is a front modular bumper that enables the attachment of accessories such as an LED light bar, an available factory-installed 12,000-pound winch, or other accessories. All 2024 F-150s are equipped with a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen in the cabin and an identical-sized digital gauge cluster outside. All but the hybrid model now get a 36-gallon fuel tank and a standard Class IV hitch. The Tremor is the off-road-focused F-150 that is just one step on the reasonable side of the gonzo Raptor, and The Car Connection found that if you didn’t buy your truck just to beat the heck out of it and aim for high jump records, the Tremor might be the most well-rounded choice in the lineup. The ground clearance increases by 1.6 inches over a standard F150 to 9.8 inches, and the rolling stock is 33-inch General Grabber A/TX tires wrapping black 18-inch wheels. The 4x4 system includes a locking rear differential and Hill Descent control. It also comes with Trail Turn assist, which locks the inside rear wheel to enable tighter turns, to “ essentially shrink the wheelbase,” as the site describes it. It will get you anywhere on the farm or construction site, even after a rain, and can tow up to 13,000 pounds compared to 8,300 for the Raptor. While it has an inch-wider track than a standard F-150, it is still a half-foot narrower than the Raptor, giving you a little more room in the parking spot or garage. It also costs $14,180 less. The Car Connection describes its off-road capability like this: “I tested the new model on a switchbacking access road up and down a mountain, deep in off-the-grid territory, ascending over rocky ruts and descending into terrain too tough for Subarus or soft-roaders. It impressed me enough to recommend it as the F-150 to buy. “ The F-150 Hybrid remains one of only two full-size hybrid pickup trucks on the market. All Hybrid models are 4x4 now and start with the XLT trim level. The powertrain remains unchanged: a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 combined with a 35-kW motor fed by a 1.5-kWh battery pack, with 430 total system horsepower running through the model line’s standard 10-speed automatic transmission for heading out to all four wheels. The most significant mechanical news is that the belt-integrated starter has been eliminated in favor of simply starting the vehicle from a 12-volt battery and a conventional flywheel-mounted starter. It seems like a simple thing, but Ford says the change involved 300 software enhancements to make the change. The Car Connection made a note of this change: “(the previous model) could feel uncertain in low gears, as if the system didn’t know when to use the engine, motor, or dual power at once. Now, on roads leading to the highway, it felt quieter, calmer, and overall less noticeable, which is what I want out of any hybrid powertrain.” The strength of the fuel mileage is manifest in city driving, with a figure of 22, while all other F-150s range across the teens, from 19 for the 2.7-liter 2WD to just 10 for the V8 Raptor. The hybrid highway mileage is 24 for a combined 23 figures. The Car Connection found all of the 2024 changes to be quite welcome and summed up their experience this way: “Add up all of these small changes, and it’s easy to see how the Ford F-150 continues to lead the pickup truck segment in America.” If you are considering a new full-size pickup truck, shopping for the F-150 has always been a must, and now it is even more so. We invite you to do just that at Benna Ford in Superior, Wisconsin.

Mustang Mach-E Rally Driving on a Forest Trail Front View

Motor Authority Drives The New Mach-E Rally

Rallying is one of the most challenging competitions in motorsports. Vehicles run on-road, off-road, in all kinds of terrain and weather conditions, and the driver often doesn’t even know what is ahead but for turn-by-turn commands from their human navigator. Yet rallying has never really caught on in the states as other motorsports have, possibly because it is not very television-friendly. It is a point-to-point event, making it hard for cameras to cover it adequately. Plus, entrants compete for time, not position, so you don’t have vehicles closely battling for a lead. So, to make a rally edition of the Mustang Mach-E may pose a marketing challenge. However, Motor Authority found the vehicle itself to be nearly brilliant. This Benna Ford review follows their findings. Motor Authority leads their review with a general truism: “ The fastest, most powerful models in any lineup can often end up as one-trick ponies.” This is particularly true for performance-focused model lines, where the pursuit of the lowest quarter-mile time or highest lateral-G on a slalom often leads to sacrifices that compromise the car when it is out of its element or asked to perform the more mundane duties of providing transportation. The multiple talents required of a rally-focused vehicle help mitigate that for the Mach-E Rally. The basic go-and-stop components of the Mach-E Rally match the Mach-E GT’s with the latter’s 480 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque from motors at the front and rear and the 15.0-inch Brembo front brake rotors. Unlike the GT, the Rally is all about having fun and plenty of speed off the road. Thus, it sits about an inch higher, and the MagneRide magnetic damping system - also found in the GT - has been tuned for both on- and off-road action. There is more wheel travel and quicker rebound while reducing the chances of bottoming out. Also retuned is the power distribution between the front and rear motors, which have the advantage of responding with electronic rather than mechanical quickness. This is most noticeable when you switch to RallySport drive mode, which, as Motor Authority describes: “...makes the accelerator more linear, and it ramps up the steering boost—because you might need to go opposite-lock at any moment.” Ford tested the Mach-E on an unpaved course in Michigan and sought input from rallycross drivers. Both an advantage and a challenge in terms of control is the instant torque of electric motors, meaning that 700 pound-feet can be accessed at any given moment. The Motor Authority author had rally experience, which included putting the hammer down early so as to have the torque built up to where you need it when the moment comes. With the Mach-E, you must recalibrate to bring on the power precisely when needed. Front/rear power distribution can go as far as 20:80, and with 700 pound-feet at your foot, swinging the tail on an unpaved surface is not a challenge. While the Mustang Mach-E Rally is designed for off-road performance, it also excels in everyday highway driving. The magnetic dampers, known for their ability to reduce road harshness, ensure a comfortable ride even on rough roads. Plus, with its all-wheel drive system, the Mustang Mach-E Rally offers excellent traction in rain and snow. The is notably not rally-car spartan but instead features flagship model comforts like ambient cabin lighting, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, memory settings, a power tailgate, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, which, thanks to the quiet electric powertrain, can be enjoyed even at high speeds. The Mustang Mach-E Rally is instantly recognizable by its unique design elements. The raised height is accentuated by white rally-style 19-inch wheels wrapped by Michelin CrossClimate2 tires and a front “grille panel” with integrated fog lights. The front splitter is reshaped for a better approach angle, enhancing the vehicle's off-road capabilities. Another general truism of a model line’s performance model is reduced efficiency. Internal combustion engines manifest this in fuel efficiency. With EVs, the metric is operating range. The raised height and rugged tire/wheel combo knock just 15 miles off the GT’s 280-mile range, though, of course, neither performance model approaches the 320 miles from single-motor Mach-Es. Such is the price to pay for rally-style fun, and as Motor Authority concludes: “In an era when driving fast often involves merely pushing the accelerator to the floor while electronic nannies do all the work, it’s refreshing to feel a system that acts primarily as an aid to the driver in a vehicle that feels like it channels a kind of all-electric fun that hasn’t been emphasized enough. It’s certainly not a one-trick pony.” The Mustang Mach-E Rally is now the flagship for the Mach-E model lineup and a must-see for anyone who enjoys off-road performance and appreciates the advantages of EVs. If you are interested, check in and see if Benna Ford has one in inventory, and if not, ask one of our sales professionals to find one for you to try out.

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