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You may already know that the F-150 is the best-selling vehicle in the country. That means there are plenty of trim levels, and nearly all of them have 4-wheel drive. While any 4x4 F-150 will get you in and out of the worksite or take you down a well-worn trail, Ford offers two models for those seeking the particularly rough and rugged. What is the difference between them? Benna Ford explains. The difference can be summed up in their names. Experiencing a tremor is a cause for concern. Experiencing a raptor would be a far more intense experience than anyone who has seen the first Jurassic Park movie will tell you. Tremor The Tremor was originally an option package but has since become its own trim. It starts with having a standard 4x4. Then, including all of the hardware found in the FX4 Off-Road package, including: Locking rear axle Off-road-tuned front shock absorbers Monotube rear shocks Rock Crawl Mode Hill Descent Control Skid plates for the fuel tank, transfer case, and front differential To that, the Tremor adds: Selectable Drive modes Raptor Hi-Lock Transfer Case Trail Control with trail 1-pedal drive and Trail Turn Assist 33-inch all-terrain tires over 18-inch matte-finish wheels Additional Tremor aesthetic trim. Available modular front bumper with two hooks and integrated fog lamps that can easily accommodate an added brush bar or light bar. The Tremor comes standard with the legendary 5.0-liter V8, which produces 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. It is also available in the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which produces 400 horsepower but boosts peak torque up to 510 lb-ft. Power should be no problem with either choice, particularly since the Tremor is best at attacking rough terrain at slow speeds. The Trail Control system facilitates this by acting as an off-road, rough-terrain cruise control and Hill Descent Control, which controls speed down steep hills. Raptor and Raptor R The Raptor is for the less patient. Indeed, this is the primary difference between the two. The Tremor will get you almost anywhere, while the Raptor will get you almost anywhere at absurd speeds. The Raptor is designed to take a beating and, in fact, was the first full-size pickup designed to take jumps. Key features include: 35-inch all-terrain tires Five-link coil spring rear suspension with Panhard rod High-output, gas-pressurized, electronically controlled, continuously variable compression damping FOX Racing Shox™ Heavy-duty skid plates 14-inch front wheel travel and 15-inch rear wheel travel. All this is designed to create a truck that can fly over rough trails at speeds that should perturb anyone invested in self-preservation. Then, the Raptor R takes it a step further with a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 that produces 720 hp @ 6,650 rpm and 640 lb-ft of torque @ 4,300 rpm. The tire size increases to 37 inches, and they are mounted to 17-inch forged aluminum alloy beadlock-capable wheels, which results in a very tall sidewall. There is nothing subtle about the Raptor R's appearance with its own grille, hood vent, and other Raptor R exterior and interior trim. Which Is For You? To conclude, the Tremor is ready to take on just about any terrain you are likely to encounter while still being a comfortable daily driver that can get things done. Its starting MSRP is $64,350. The Raptor is for the truly committed who likes their thrill-seeking at speed, and that velocity sets you back with a starting MSRP of $78,440. The Raptor R package is another $31,925, which brings the MSRP to $113,055. As mentioned, the Raptor R is for the truly committed, but for those so inclined, there is no substitute. Tremors and Raptors are niche products that are not always found in the Benna Ford inventory. If none is found, check with one of our sales professionals to find you one. Keep in mind that Benna also deals with tuner specialists such as Roush, Tuscany, Waldoch, and Shelby, who have their own take on off-road-focused F-150 models. If you like to run off-road, Benna Ford is the place to go.

When Ford introduced the F-150 Lightning, no one could believe that such a vehicle really existed. The overall design didn’t change, and there was no radical departure from its overall functionality. Customers loved how familiar they were with an F-150, only electrified. There was even a bit of a fight between Ford CEO Jim Farley and Tesla CEO Elon Musk over which company would be the first to bring its all-electric pickup truck to market. Spoiler alert: Ford won. Meet The F-150 Lightning The F-150 Lightning features dual-emotors with all-wheel drive and comes in two different flavors: a standard range and an extended range battery pack. The standard range Lightning has a 98 kWh battery that produces 452 horsepower and 755 lb-ft of torque, while the extended range models have a 131 kWh battery with 580 horsepower and 775 torque. Trims, Pricing, And Range Customers can choose from four different trim levels: XLT, Flash, Lariat, and Platinum. The base trim starts at just $65,090, with the top-line Platinum starting from $88,085. The XLT and Flash trim levels have a driving range of 240 miles, while the Lariat has 320 miles, and the Platinum can drive 300 miles. Meet The Tesla The Tesla Cybertruck is the latest hotness that everyone’s talking about. However, how does it really stack up? With such an odd and unique design, are customers able to utilize the Cybertruck as a real truck? Buyers who have recently gotten their trucks have received the Foundation series, which features a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup with 600 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the Beast trim gets you a tri-motor Cybertruck with 834 horsepower and 740 lb-ft of torque. Towing Capacity, Range, And Price Tesla says the truck can tow a maximum of 11,000 lbs. However, there have been reports of people being frustrated when towing with the Cybertruck due to the range being exhausted very quickly. Many owners have also remarked on how easy it is to mark up the stainless steel panels. Some have stated that it isn’t a serious truck but more of a vehicle that can do light-duty truck things from time to time. The two trim levels are able to achieve 318 and 301 miles of driving range, respectively. Dual motor Cybertrucks have a base price of $99,990, while the Beast has a base MSRP of $119.900. A Tale of Two Frunks The Tesla’s bed length is slightly longer at 6 feet compared to 5’5” on the Lightning. However, because of the odd way the Cybertruck’s bed is shaped, they can both hold about the same amount of stuff. The Ford really shows how brilliant it was to turn a standard gas-powered vehicle into a dedicated EV when you get to the frunk. A space that once held an entire engine is now free to give owners 14.1 cu.ft. of space, the same space as a small or midsize sedan’s trunk. In fact, that is actually bigger than the 12.6 cu.ft. of trunk space in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The Tesla only gives customers 7.1 cu.ft. A BIG Price Difference The Tesla Cybertruck can tow 1,000 lbs more, but the Ford is a lot less expensive. Without any options, the base model Tesla is nearly $35,000 more expensive than the base XLT F-150 Lightning. Even when talking about the top-of-the-line Platinum, it still is a savings of almost $12,000. Oh, and the Lightning can use Tesla Superchargers with an adapter. Edmunds Compared The Ford And The Tesla In a recent test by Edmunds.com that compared the Ford, Tesla, and the Rivian R1T, the team voted the F-150 as the best of all EV trucks and said that in the comparison, it is by far the best at being a pickup with truck usability. That’s precisely why Ben Westby chose the Lightning to own while living off the grid with his family. With 9.6 kW of Ford Pro Power Onboard, owners can easily charge lawnmower batteries, use power tools, operate a mobile business, or even just have fun tailgating with the knowledge that you can power it all from your truck and then drive home afterward. Ford Blue Cruise Doesn’t Lie Where Tesla has gotten in trouble is the marketing around FSD, or Full Self Driving. The claim that the vehicles are self-driving has proven false, and the company has had to change how it defines the feature. Ford, on the other hand, has had great success with Blue Cruise, their hands-free advanced driver assistance system. With over 130,000 miles of roads mapped around the United States, buyers who were skeptical of taking their hands off the steering wheel are now full believers. Driving in traffic and on the highway has never been easier to live with. At Benna Ford, we offer our customers some of the best prices and services. With more than 100 new and used vehicles to choose from, our outstanding sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. Our fantastic service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

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.

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 has been producing Power Stroke diesel engines since 1994. In those 30 years, the engines have been used in various applications, including light trucks, HD trucks, commercial trucks, and agricultural equipment. Over the years, the Ford Power Stroke family of engines has grown to where there are currently five Power Stroke engines available. Ford has a reputation for producing reliable diesel engines that can withstand the rigors of heavy use. Many owners report getting over 200,000 and sometimes over 300,000 miles out of their engines with proper maintenance. But proper maintenance is key. Benna Ford offers these suggestions to keep your Power Stroke diesel working for you for a long time. Three elements in Power Stroke maintenance are keeping to the schedule, using the right parts and fluids, and being aware of whether your vehicle is undergoing “Special Operating Conditions.” The most notable Special Operating conditions include: Frequent or extended idling (over 10 minutes per hour of normal driving) Frequent low-speed operation Sustained traffic speeds of less than 25 MPH. (One hour of idle time is equal to approximately 25 miles of driving.) Sustained vehicle operation in ambient temperatures below -10°F (-23°C) or above 100°F ( 38°C) Operating in severe dust or off-road conditions Towing a trailer over 1,000 miles Sustained, high-speed driving at or near the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Use of any Biodiesel (B5 is the maximum allowable blend for Power Stroke Diesels, except the all-new 6.7L) After determining which conditions your Power Stroke engine operates within, you can choose the following service schedule below for your regular maintenance. Normal Operating Conditions Ford Recommended Maintenance Levels Power Stroke Engine 6.0-liter 6.4-liter 6.7-liter 6.9-liter & 7.3-liter Change Oil & Oil Filter Every 7,500 miles Every 10,000 miles Change according to message center in instrument cluster Every 5,000 miles Change Fuel Filter Every 15,000 miles Every 20,000 miles Every 3rd Oil change or 22,250 miles, whichever comes first Every 15,000 miles Inspect / Change Air Filter Inspect filter minder every 7,500 miles Change is needed Inspect filter minder every 10,000 miles Change is needed Inspect filter minder every 10,000 miles Change is needed Inspect filter minder every 5,000 miles Change is needed Check / Change Coolant Every six months, with initial change at 100,000 miles Subsequent changes every 45,000 miles Every six months, with initial change at 100,000 miles Subsequent changes every 50,000 miles Initial change at 105,000 miles or 72 months Subsequent changes every 45,000 miles Every 15,000 miles Check Coolant Nitrite Strength Optional check at 15,000 miles or 600 engine hours Optional check at 20,000 miles or 800 engine hours Check at 15,000 miles or 600 engine hours Every 15,000 miles Special Operating Conditions Ford Recommended Maintenance Levels Power Stroke Engine 6.0-liter 6.4-liter 6.7-liter 6.9 & 7.3-liter Change Oil & Oil Filter Every 5,000 miles or 200 engine hours Every 5,000 miles or 200 engine hours Change according to message center in instrument cluster Every 3,000 miles or three months Change Fuel Filter Every 10,000 miles or 400 engine hours (every other oil & oil filter change) Every 10,000 miles or 400 engine hours (every other oil & oil filter change) Every 5,000 miles Replace as needed Every 15,000 miles Inspect / Change Air Filter Inspect filter minder every 5,000 miles. Change is needed. Inspect filter minder every 5,000 miles. Change is needed. Inspect filter minder every 10,000 miles. Change is needed. Inspect filter minder every 3,000 miles. Change is needed. Check / Change Coolant Check every 15,000 miles or 600 engine hours. Change every 45,000 miles or 1,800 engine hours. Check every 20,000 miles or 800 engine hours. Change every 60,000 miles or 2,400 engine hours. Initial change 60,000 miles or 2,400 engine hours Subsequent changes every 45,000 miles or 1800 hours Change every 15,000 miles Check Coolant Nitrite Strength Optional check at 15,000 miles or 600 engine hours Optional check at 20,000 miles or 800 engine hours Check every 15,000 miles or 600 hours Every 15,000 miles For regular maintenance of your Power Stroke engine, Ford recommends its line of Motorcraft brand filters, oil, coolant, and Cetane and anti-gel fuel additives, all of which are designed and formulated specifically for Ford Power Stroke engines. You can find all these maintenance supplies at Benna Ford’s Service Department. If you have any maintenance questions, don’t hesitate to inquire with the Benna Ford service professionals.

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.

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.

When it comes to full-size SUVs, the biggest players in every sense of the word are the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Suburban. Both of these vehicles offer the promise of seemingly limitless capability. They can carry large quantities of family and friends and their stuff, tow big toys, and, with available 4WD, plow through snow-covered and unpaved roads without a care in the world. Benna Ford compares these two big boys. Size Starting with these model’s obvious attributes, the Suburban is clearly much larger. Fifteen inches shorter, the Expedition is actually closer to the Chevrolet Tahoe in size, while the stretched Expedition MAX approaches the Suburban’s length, though it is still 3.8 inches shorter. The Suburban’s size means that it will not fit into many single-family home garages. The Expedition XL is a five-seater, but all other trims have a third row to seat eight. Most Suburbans also seat eight, though there is a seldom-ordered option to replace the front bucket seats with a bench for a total seating capacity of nine. While the Expedition MAX closes the gap, the Suburban still has greater cargo space: Cargo Space (cubic feet) Behind: 3rd row 2nd row 1st row Expedition 19.3 53.6 104.6 Expedition MAX 34.3 79.6 121.5 Suburban 41.5 93.8 144.7 The difference is diminished when it comes to passenger space. The Expedition and the MAX have the same passenger space, and when comparing legroom against the Suburban, both 2nd-row and 3rd-row legroom differs by about half an inch. Drivetrains The Expedition counters with more modern engines. The Suburban offers 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8 engines as well as a V6 Duramax Turbodiesel. Generally, each Suburban trim offers two of the three engine choices. All Expeditions are powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 in three available states of tune, which are determined by the trim level. V8 power may seem as American as apple pie, but the turbocharged V6s are the stars in this group. Expedition 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Horsepower Torque (lb-ft) XL, XLT, STX 380 @ 5,000 470 @ 2,250 Limited, King Ranch, Platinum 400 @ 5,000 480 @ 2,250 Limited Stealth Performance, Timberline 440 @ 5,000 510 @ 2,250 Suburban 5.3L V8 355 @ 5600 383 @ 4100 6.2L V8 420 @ 5600 460 @ 4100 3.0 Turbo Diesel V6 277 @ 3750 460 @1500 As seen above, the base engine of the Expedition has significantly more horsepower than the base Suburban engine. Its torque is greater than all available Suburban engines, including the diesel. Higher-tune Expedition engines increase the torque differences. At the same time, the Expedition provides greater fuel economy than both Suburban V8 engines. As the Superior, WI area is very much 4x4 country, the 4X4 figures are shown: Expedition 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 EPA city/hwy/comb. mpg XL, XLT, STX (4x4) 16 / 22 / 18 Limited, King Ranch, Platinum (4x4) 16 / 22 / 18 Limited Stealth Performance, Timberline (4x4) 16 / 19 / 17 Suburban 5.3L V8 (4x4) 15 / 18 / 16 6.2L V8 (4x4) 14 / 18 / 16 3.0L Turbodiesel V6 (4x4) 20 / 26 / 22 The Suburban’s diesel engine has the best mileage of all, though this is somewhat mitigated by the higher price of diesel fuel. The greater torque of the Expedition engines contributes to greater towing capacity. Again, focusing on 4X4 models, the Expedition has a maximum towing capacity of 9,200 lbs., dropping to 9,000 lbs. for the MAX model. By contrast, the maximum towing capacity for a 4x4 Suburban is 8,000 lbs. with the 5.3L V8, 7,900 lbs. with the 6.2L V8, and 7,800 lbs. with the diesel engine. Interior and Technology Both models range from basic accommodations with cloth seats to absolute indulgence bathed in soft leather. For the Suburban, which starts at $64,195 with 4WD, basic accommodations include an 8-inch infotainment screen bumping up to 10-inch for the rest of the model line, analog gauges with a 4.2-inch information screen, a 6-speaker audio system, 10-way power front seats, and tri-zone climate control. The Expedition starts at $57,660 for an XL STX with 4WD, though that only includes seating for five. The 8-passenger XLT with 4WD starts at $62,635, and the MAX version starts at $65,695. All three come standard with a 12-inch center screen, beating the largest on the Suburban. Also standard are 8-way power front seats, tri-zone climate control on XLT, analog gauges with an 8-inch information screen, and power-folding 3rd-row seats. A very large 15.5-inch center screen that can be seen throughout the cabin is an option on upper trim levels. At the top of each model line, along with soft leather, panoramic roofs, and 360-degree camera systems, the Suburban High Country offers a 10-speaker Bose ® Surround Sound audio system. Still, the Expedition outclasses it with a standard 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system on King Rang and Platinum models. Safety and Driver Assistance The Suburban and Expedition both carry standard automatic emergency braking, active lane control, and automatic high beams. The Expedition also has a standard blind-spot monitor, which you can use on vehicles of this size. The Expedition has an Overall 5-star rating from the NHTSA, including 5-star ratings for all impact tests. The Suburban has a 4-star overall rating, scoring less on frontal crash and rollover tests.  At the top of the model range, both models offer a hands-free highway driving system based on pre-mapped roads. For North America, GM claims over 400,000 highway miles for its Super Cruise, while Ford’s Blue Cruise claims coverage of 97% percent of controlled access highways. Either will probably be suitable for your long trips. Super Cruise does have automatic lane change, which Blue Cruise lacks. Expedition is a Winner Both models have their strengths. The Suburban is bigger, but the Expedition really stands out with better powertrains, gas efficiency, greater towing capacity, big touchscreens, and better safety scores. Take a closer look at the Expedition and Expedition MAX at Benna Ford in Superior, Wisconsin.

2024 is the Mustang’s 60th birthday. As it turns out, the car in Mustang GT3 form gave us the present with a podium finish in its first run in the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. The No. 88 Mustang GT3, driven by Dennis Olsen, Giorgio Roda, and Mikkel O. Pedersen, hit the 24-hour mark third in the LMGT3 category. The No. 44 car, driven by Christopher Mies, John Hartshorne, and Ben Tuck, finished close behind in fourth place. This Benna Ford blog post elaborates on this achievement. It is generally understood that you don’t go to Le Mans the first time to win. You go with the hope of just finishing. You then lick your wounds and determine what you need to do to actually win. Even the now Hollywood-famous Ford GT failed to finish in its first run at LeMans in 1964, only to have its legendary 1-2-3 win two years later. While there is nothing like taking first place, reaching third and fourth in a car’s first LeMans run is quite the accomplishment. As an additional victory, all three Mustang GT3s that entered the race finished it 24 hours later. 2024 is not only the Mustang’s 60th anniversary. It is also the 60th anniversary of the nameplate’s first racing win in France when the freshly born 1964 Mustang won its class in the 1964 Tour de France, another automotive endurance race that is now better known as the multi-day bicycle race of the same name. Of the 117 cars that started that race in 1964, only 36 finished. The winner of the Touring 3.0-liter+ Class was the 1964 Mustang, which snatched a victory from Jaguar’s sedans, which had won the class for the previous four years. The third Mustang GT3 entered the 2024 LeMans was #77, driven by Ryan Hardwick, Ben Barker, and Zacharie Robichon. The car experienced early challenges on the track during the race but completed the 24 hours in the 17th class position. They had a victory earlier in the week when they recorded the fastest qualifying lap on Thursday, advancing to the Hyperpole, a pre-race ceremony of the fastest cars in each class to qualify. It also marked the first lead qualifying position by a Mustang GT3 after four rounds of WEC racing so far in 2024. “Today’s podium performance shows that Mustang can come and compete on the global stage against the best sports cars in the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “It is such a fantastic feeling to be able to do it in the first outing for Mustang at Le Mans. It’s a great testament to our company, our employees and all our fans who are celebrating Mustang’s 60 th anniversary this year and all the great partners we have with Proton Competition, M-Sport and Multimatic Motorsports. We’re racing and winning all around the world, but to have a podium here at Le Mans is such a special moment.” “It’s always great to be on the podium and especially at Le Mans,” said Christian Ried, Proton Competition Team Principal. “But also, in the first year of a new car, and in the 60th Anniversary of Mustang, there are just so many things that came together to make today possible. It’s unbelievable. We saw that this was a good car at its debut in Daytona, and we’ve since taken all the steps in order to make this work in its first season. From Daytona, Sebring and Long Beach, to Qatar, Imola and Spa, we felt like we could bring a car here after those six months that could fight for the win. To finish on the podium in third is amazing. I’m proud of everyone.” While the Mustang GT3 is heavily modified to compete in the GT3 class, all GT3 competitors must be based on production models. Redesigned for its 60th year, the production Mustang is quite impressive in its own right. Even the smallest 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces 315 horsepower, over 100 horsepower more than the V8 of the original model. The 4th generation Coyote V8 is rated at 480 - 486 horsepower in the GT, while the Dark Horse model achieves 500 hp. Benna Ford invites you to take a close look at this winning vehicle in its street-legal form.

A general rule with EVs is that they work best when you can charge them at home. When you leave home fully charged, you will have 200-300 miles to cover your day’s travel, and when you get home, plug it into the home charger and do the same the next day. But deep in the rocky mountains, Ben Westby and his family have turned that completely around. Ben has an F-150 Lightning and lives in a house off the electric grid. This Benna Ford post describes his experiences, and explains how this truck fits into his lifestyle. Ben is an elementary school teacher who also worked in China for seven years. In addition to his wife and two pre-teen daughters, the family has fostered 13 children over the years and raises goats and chickens. Finding a big enough house and plot of land for their large family that was also affordable sent him 9,000 feet into the mountains to a home outside the electric grid. A previous Tesla owner and EV enthusiast, Ben set his sights on the F-150 Lightning from its first reveal and finally traded in his ICE vehicle for one in September 2023. He wishes he could have made the move sooner. “ the utility of the F-150 plus the benefits of the battery. Being off-grid in the Rockies is an extreme case for owning an EV, but we're maximizing it. We're absolutely loving it.” Obviously, Ben doesn’t charge his Lightning at home, but he can charge it at work. Since his round-trip commute is significantly shorter than the Lightning’s range, Ben has plenty of electricity from his truck to use at home. It isn’t the home’s sole source of electricity. The home is fitted with solar panels and an additional propane generator. Days can go by without sunlight or with snow covering the panels, and the propane generator is expensive to run and quite noisy in the otherwise silent mountain woods. Ben speaks of when one of his solar inverters failed. Using the Pro Power Onboard system, he was able to run the “refrigerator, microwave, coffee machine, all of our essential devices off the F-150 Lightning.” He is also a fan of the truck’s Zone Lighting. Deep in the woods, there are no street lamps, and Colorado can get dark early in the winter. The vehicle’s lighting helps him with the outdoor after-work chores that come with raising goats and chickens. He also uses the Pro Power Onboard system for various cordless electric tools, such as his electric snow blower and chainsaw. He has even used it to charge the kids' phones and devices before a significant snowfall. Ben Westby and family may not be typical EV owners, but they demonstrate how versatile the F-150 Lightning can be and that you don’t need to have the perfect setup to be a happy EV owner. If you think there is even a chance that the F-150 Lighting can become a companion in your life, come to Benna Ford, take one for a drive, and learn all of what Ford’s big, versatile EV can do for you.

Today, we compare the benefits of owning your very own 2024 Ford Escape or 2024 Ford Bronco. These two SUVs are great vehicles, but which is right for you? Here at Benna Ford, we are going to uncover the amazing features of each and determine which will suit your specific needs and lifestyle. Pricing, Packages, and All Those Desired Features There is so much to talk about when it comes to the Ford Bronco. This SUV is known to be a crowd favorite with its adventurous spirit and rugged appearance. The Base Model is around $33,000, which is a little more than the Ford Escape at $31,000. If you are looking a vehicle you can supe up, the Bronco has many additional features available with the Outer Banks Package and the Badlands Package. With these packages, you will receive a more powerful engine, all-terrain tires, 18-inch wheels, a black roof, power front seats, front tow hooks, and even a front view camera that enhances each drive. The Ford Escape Base Model has a front wheel drive system, Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, cloth seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, and a power tailgate that is perfect for those times when you have your hands full. If you want that all-wheel drive system, the Active Lands is a great option. It includes the all-wheel drive system, adaptive cruise control, a 13.2-inch touch screen display, and an updated audio system that enhances the sound of all your favorite audios and tunes. Experience the Best Performance The Bronco Sport has an 181 hp turbocharged 1.5 liter 3-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. If you are looking for a more robust engine option, try the Badlands Package, which has a 245 horsepower turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Bronco is made to dominate all types of terrain with features like advanced 4x4 systems, G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) modes, and Terrain Management System. Choose the turbo 3-cylinder engine, and you will get 25 city/28 hwy/26 combined, and with turbo 4-cylinder you will receive 21 city/26 hwy/23 combined. The Escape focuses more on everyday drives, whether it is a trip to the office or to the grocery store. You can choose from the available engine options: a 1.5-liter EcoBoost, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost, and hybrid options as well. With any of our models, you will be able to make fewer stops at the gas station when driving the Escape. See below for a breakdown in gas mileage depending on which model you decide to choose. Front Wheel Drive 27 city/34 hwy/30 combined All Wheel Drive 26 city/32 hwy/28 combined Turbo 4-cylinder 23 city/31 hwy/26 combined Hybrid 42 city/39 hwy/36 combined If you decide not to use any of that battery, you will get about 40 MPG combined, turn on your electric juice, and drive at least 37 miles pure electric. Ford recognizes the need for a more sustainable environment and is moving forward with the electric movement by creating more hybrid and electric options. With You in Mind Ford knows the importance of keeping you and your loved ones safe and makes sure to put top-notch safety features in every vehicle design. Both vehicles passed the IIHS Safety Test with flying colors and received five stars on the NHTSA Safety Test. They both host a variety of safety systems that give our drivers peace of mind. Check out the 2024 Ford Escape Features in comparison to the 2024 Ford Bronco: Ford Escape Emergency automatic braking Lane Keep Assist Blind Spot Detection Monitoring Adaptive Cruise Control Rear Cross Trafficking Breaking Pedestrian Detection Ford Bronco Trail Control Front Stabilizer (for ultimate terrain articulation) Emergency automatic braking Lane Keep Assist Blind Spot Detection Monitoring Adaptive Cruise Control Rear Cross Trafficking Breaking Pedestrian Detection Which is Best? We'll Let You Decide Are you looking for more adventure? Are you looking for that perfect family vehicle? In some ways, you will get a little of both with each, slightly more of that outdoorsy feel with the Bronco and a little more family-friendly feel with the Escape. It’s up to you to decide which suits your lifestyle and needs better. Come on down to Benna Ford, where our friendly staff is prepared to help you. If the Escape or Bronco did not have what you were looking for, be sure to ask about our inventory. Here at Benna Ford have many different types of vehicles and are sure we can find the perfect one for you. Contact us today to schedule a test drive!

As we take a closer look at the Mustang Mach-E Rally, we see an all-electric SUV designed for optimal performance on city streets or off-roading excursions. The engineering that went on behind the scenes to make the Mach-E is something to be celebrated as Ford takes an innovative leap into the Electric SUV segment. Pushing the Boundaries When thinking of the design in early 2022, Peter Schultz and Craig Migliori were racking their brains to create a rally version of the Mach-E. What is a true rally version, you ask? A rally version can withstand harsher weather conditions and rough terrain and includes various competitive motoring elements. The new build was put to the test at Ford’s Michigan Proving Grounds and confirmed that the Mach-E had triumphed in creating a Mach-E rally model. Chris Berchin is Ford’s off-road attributes engineer, and Jay Kistler is a vehicle engineering supervisor. Together, they put the Mach-E Rally to the test with a 500-mile torture test. To determine if the vehicle was rally-approved, they consulted rallycross drivers to create a rallycross testing course. Once completed, the Mach-E Rally passed the test with flying colors, proving that it was not only rally-worthy but also a cut above. Enhancing Every Drive While designing the Mach-E Rally, there were some major things to consider to make it rally-ready. It would need great suspension and tires built to handle rugged terrain, so they added one inch to the suspension, rally crossed-tuned shocks and springs, 19-inch wheels, and CrossClimate2 tires. When off-roading, things can get messy, and rough terrain can damage a car if it is not properly equipped. Underbody protection was added to keep the vehicle in good working condition, no matter the obstacle. Lastly, we need that rally look and feel! To enhance the appearance of the Mach-E, contrasting elements were added: a front splitter, body moldings, a rear spoiler, and rally fog lights. Come on Down Here at Benna Ford, we are excited to present this new Rally version of the Mach-E. The original Mach-E was already a leap in innovative design, but the Mach-E Rally takes it a step further with its incredible capabilities and rally-approved stance. Electric vehicles are becoming the way of the future, and the Mach-E Rally is an excellent example of what EV vehicles are truly capable of. Are you looking for a capable, durable, and thrilling EV vehicle? The all-electric Mach-E Rally is the perfect vehicle for you! Contact us today at Benna Ford to learn more about the Mach-E Rally and see all that Benna Ford has to offer!