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
Top Ford Vehicles For Northland Winters
Winters in the Northland are no joke. From lake-effect snow and icy roads to sub-zero temperatures, drivers need vehicles that can handle whatever winter throws their way. Choosing the right vehicle isn’t just about comfort. It’s about confidence, safety, and reliability when conditions are at their worst. At Benna Ford, we know what it takes to drive through a Northland winter, which is why we’ve put together a list of the best Ford winter vehicles that are especially well-suited for snowy roads and cold mornings.
Starting things off with our pick for best overall – the winter ready Ford Bronco.
When it comes to handling the unpredictable conditions of a Northland winter, the Ford Bronco stands out as an exceptional all-around choice. The Bronco delivers rugged capability for winter driving. It comes standard with a robust 4×4 system and multiple terrain drive modes. Its high ground clearance means you’re less likely to get stuck in deep snow, and features like off-road traction control give you better grip when traction is scarce. The Bronco handles Superior’s winter streets with ease. It also delivers the confidence you need for trails and towing when temperatures drop.
Best winter SUV for daily driving – Ford Bronco Sport.
For drivers who want winter confidence in a more compact and efficient package, the Ford Bronco Sport is an excellent choice for Northland conditions. The Bronco Sport uses standard 4×4 capability to handle snow-covered roads and icy winter commutes with ease. Its Terrain Management System, including a Slippery drive mode, helps optimize traction when road conditions change quickly – something us Northland drivers know all too well. With a higher ride height than many compact SUVs and available features like heated seats and remote start, the Bronco Sport offers the right balance of capability, comfort, and everyday practicality for Minnesota and Wisconsin winters.
Best winter SUV for families – Ford Explorer.
The Ford Explorer delivers confident traction with available Intelligent 4WD and selectable drive modes. The Explorer offers a roomy interior and generous cargo space. It easily hauls winter gear for cabins, sleds, and family outings. Add features like heated seats and advanced safety tech, and the Explorer becomes an excellent choice for Northland drivers who want all-season versatility with strong winter performance.
Best winter SUV for towing and heavy gear – Ford Expedition.
For families who need to tow serious winter gear, their best choice is the Ford Expedition. With available Intelligent 4WD, robust ground clearance, and a Terrain Management System built to confidently handle snowy roads and slippery conditions, the Expedition delivers strength where you need it most. Its expansive interior and impressive towing capacity make it ideal for hauling trailers, snowmobiles, boats, or all the winter sporting equipment you require. Whether you’re heading up north for a holiday getaway or navigating packed highways with a full load of passengers, the Expedition combines comfort and confidence for winter driving.
Best winter truck for tough jobs – the legendary Ford F-150.
When you need work‑ready performance in all seasons, the Ford F‑150 earns its place as the best winter truck for towing, hauling, and tough jobs. With available 4×4 systems, selectable drive modes for slippery conditions, and exceptional ground clearance, the F‑150 is built to power through snow‑covered roads, icy backroads, and steep rural terrain. Its legendary towing and payload capacity make it ideal for hauling trailers, boats, snowmobiles, or heavy equipment. Whether you’re a contractor heading to a job site, a weekend adventurer with a trailer in tow, or just want a truck that feels confident on every winter road, the F‑150 pairs capability and reliability when the weather turns cold.
Best winter SUV for town driving – Ford Escape.
Want a compact and efficient SUV that doesn’t back down from winter roads? The Ford Escape is an excellent choice – available with all‑wheel drive to help maintain traction on slick streets and light snow. Its nimble size makes it easy to park and maneuver in snow‑packed lots, and features like available heated seats and remote start add welcome comfort on frigid mornings. With strong fuel economy and a smooth driving experience, the Escape is a smart and practical pick for drivers who need dependable winter performance without the bulk of a larger SUV.
No matter what your winter driving needs are, Ford offers a vehicle built to handle the Northland’s toughest conditions. From the rugged capability of the Bronco to the everyday practicality of the Escape, each of these models delivers confidence, comfort, and safety when the snow starts to fall. At Benna Ford in Superior, WI, we’re here to help you find the best Ford winter vehicles for your lifestyle and all the winters ahead – so you can drive with peace of mind no matter what the season brings.
Sources: https://www.ford.com/, https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/
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.
What Is Ford Connected Navigation?
Navigation systems have clearly changed the way we get from place to place. The process of unfolding, reading, and attempting to re-fold maps has about as much relevance to the most recent generations of drivers as slide rules have to engineers. Most of us have navigation apps on our smartphones, and if your car was new within the past five years or so, you could likely put that app on a center touchscreen. That being the case, Benna Ford finds there are good reasons to have Ford’s Connected Navigation system in your vehicle.
With Ford’s Connected Navigation system, you no longer need to connect your phone to your car. You don’t have to worry about its battery state of charge; in fact, you don’t have to have your phone with you at all. Most importantly, however, you don’t have to depend on cell phone reception. You don’t have to travel too far south into the Wisconsin farmland or west into the Minnesota farmland before cell reception becomes spotty.
Guidance from Above
The Ford Connected Navigation system bypasses cell towers and picks up its signal directly from satellites above, so your system will always be connected. The cloud-based system remains current with real-time traffic updates and any rerouting due to weather conditions, road hazards, or slowdowns from traffic accidents.
If you had one of the early in-vehicle navigation systems, you would be happy to know that physical updating with DVDs or some other form of physical data transfer is a thing of the past. The cloud-based database is automatically updated, so the system will automatically know if a particular location has moved or gone out of business or if a newer franchise has opened closer to you. The system is also voice-activated, so you can issue a destination verbally (and safely) without having to stop and punch in numbers and letters.
You can also store your favorite and frequently traveled destinations. You may already know where they are, but the system can tell you the best way to get there from any location, while considering traffic and possible detours when applicable.
Towing Assistance
If you tow, Ford’s Connected Navigation system can be particularly beneficial. By entering your trailer profile, including size and weight, you can avoid conditions such as narrow roads, tight turns, weight-limited or low bridges, and overpasses, making trailer towing that much easier.
EV Integration
If you have one of Ford’s electric models, Ford’s Connected Navigation is even more useful, as the system can interact with your range information and battery system. The Intelligent range feature will give you real-time updates based on traffic and route conditions. If you are towing with your EV, it can take the trailer’s weight and wind resistance into account as well. The system can help you find your next public charging station. The system is also integrated with your Ford EV’s battery conditioning system so that it will know when the charging station is close and warm or cool the battery as needed to enable peak charging performance when you arrive.
When you purchase your Benna Ford model equipped with the Ford Connected Navigation system, you will have a complimentary 90-day, 1-year, or 1-year trial subscription, depending on the model and model year. After that time, the subscription is just $80 a year. Visit Benna Ford and see the benefits of Ford’s Connected Navigation system.
The Ford SupportBelt for Mastectomy Patients
Ford’s research and development goes beyond the already complicated business of creating vehicles. It looks into all aspects of driving, including having a division dedicated to investigating how driving or riding can be made more practical and comfortable for those with special needs. From there, it created the SupportBelt for breast cancer patients. Benna Ford gives you the details.
Ford states that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes. Unfortunately, that leads to more than 100,000 breast cancer patients having mastectomies every year. Among the many physical and psychological hardships posed by these surgeries, one of them is the pain of using a shoulder harness, which applies pressure over wounds and scarring chemo ports. It keeps many mastectomy patients from wearing their belts or wearing them properly.
One cancer patient interviewed describes how she tried to place a shaw between the belt and herself with poor results; others describe dreading driving and not using a belt at all because of the pain involved.
Ford has dedicated more than $139 million to breast cancer research over the last 30 years, but in this area, Ford figured it could do the work itself. The last thing these patients need is to suffer the increased injury from not wearing a seat belt during a collision.
The project was given to the Ford Human Centered Design team. After extensive research, the team developed the SupportBelt, which is designed to be attached to the shoulder harness portion of the seat belt. At its heart is a comfortable foam core designed to provide comfort over the chest area. Protecting the foam is a leather outer skin, which includes two straps that wrap around the belt and fasten with Velcro. The side that comes in contact with the wearer has soft suede-like surface material, 40% of which is derived from recycled PET plastic from water bottles. It is similar to Ultrasuede and other surfaces used in car interiors that feel like suede but are much more durable and can withstand the wear that vehicle interiors encounter.
To ensure the SupportBelt is available to those who need it, Ford offers it at no cost to mastectomy patients in the U.S. who reserve it. Ford is also licensing the design to allow other automakers to adapt, design, and manufacture their own.
If you are a mastectomy patient or know a patient who could benefit from the SupportBelt, contact one of Benna Ford’s sales professionals. They can show you how to make a reservation and let you drive or ride comfortably again.
What the Expedition Split Tailgate Can Do for You
The Ford Expedition and Expedition Max will arrive with several innovative features. Amidst the high-mounted 24-inch panoramic display, flex power console, and off-road-ready Tremor model, it may be easy to overlook the split tailgate. After all, your grandfather may remember when station wagons had dropping rear tailgates with lift-up windows. First introduced for the redesigned Lincoln Navigator, Ford brought back this old feature with plenty of new tricks, and Benna Ford is happy to tell you about them.
To start, anyone who has packed his or her SUV cargo area to the gills will appreciate that if you found one or two more items to place on top, you can just open the window section while the lower tailgate stays closed to keep everything in place. Once lowered, the tailgate is rated to hold 500 pounds. Not only does that help you slide in something weighty, but it can also act as a bench for two sizable adults, much like that on the rear of a pickup.
Making tailgate sitting better than that of a pickup is the versatile cargo manager that can slide in vertically to become a seatback. Not only do you have a place to sit, but you can do it comfortably. The cargo manager can also be placed horizontally to provide two-tiered loading so items below won’t bear the weight of the items above. This can also act as a cover to hide items when the vehicle is locked up. If that wasn’t versatile enough, the cargo manager also has extendable legs to stand over the tailgate at an excellent height to serve as a workspace or a serving table during tailgate parties.
To further enhance your work or play, there are multiple outlets on the cargo area walls for lights, tools, and other devices. When the activities extend past sundown, the Expedition is available with multi-zone lighting. This provides light all around the vehicle, making it perfect for when you arrive at your camping location a bit later than planned.
Such features cause the Expedition to be more than just a big three-row SUV that can comfortably carry up to eight people. “For Expedition customers, family is at the center of everything they do,” said Trevor Scott, General Manager of Ford Utilities. “We spent more than 1,100 hours talking with customers about their everyday lives. And with those insights we’ve rethought and redesigned Expedition to help customers make the most of their precious time with family and to make life easier – before, during and after every trip they make.”
There is much to see on the Expedition when it arrives in the spring of 2025. You can be among the first to see these features by having one of our Benna Ford sales professionals notify you when the first 2025 models arrive.
BlueCruise Use During the Holidays
It is not news that the holiday season brings many long drives, mostly for families to celebrate and enjoy the holidays together. At that time, we can expect many Ford users to use their BlueCruise to make the trip more relaxing for the driver. Ford gathers data about BlueCruise usage, and this blog from Benna Ford shares some of what they found.
First, one might think that the days before and after Thanksgiving or Christmas have the highest levels of BlueCruise usage. But in 2023, the most significant driving holiday weekend was actually Labor Day, followed by Thanksgiving and then Christmas. During last Thanksgiving, BlueCruise usage rose by 2.2% compared to non-holiday travel. While that may not seem like a large increase, the data also shows that BlueCruise usage was utilized for longer-distance trips. This indicates that while most BlueCruise owners often use the system for their daily commute, they trust this innovative hands-free system to take charge of their extended holiday driving when the holidays arrive. They also calculate that over 3 million miles were BlueCruise operated across the two weekends, bookending the Thanksgiving holiday. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, the average usage was 13.9 miles. That represents 203 hours of relaxed driving.
Such data may seem to confirm the obvious, but Ford finds it useful. Most notably, it led the company to offer BlueCruise service for single-month periods in addition to single- or multi-year subscriptions. This allows those who might otherwise not see the need for the service in their regular daily routine to take advantage of BlueCruise for specific holidays or vacation trips.
It should be noted that all of this data is fully anonymous and is only collected from BlueCruise customers who have opted to share it with Ford.
In addition to collecting data about when BlueCruise is being used and for how long, it also shows where it is being used. In 2023, the states where it was used most are:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- Michigan
- Ohio
- North Carolina
- New York
- Virginia
- Washington
- Arizona
They have also tracked that the most traveled highway with BlueCruise users last Thanksgiving was I-75 through Florida and Georgia. This is in contrast to the most used highway during non-holidays, I-96 in Michigan, which Ford suspects is the commuting of its own employees.
Each year, Ford offers BlueCruise on more model lines and trim levels of those lines, enabling relaxed cross-country driving to more and more drivers. If you have a BlueCruise-equipped vehicle but haven’t activated it, try it out for your next holiday or road trip. You can activate it directly from the FordPass smartphone app. If you don’t have BlueCruise but are interested in seeing it operate, visit Benna Ford and test drive It before your next long trip.
The 2025 Ford Bronco: What’s New?
Job #1 when developing the return of the Bronco was to make it as off-road capable as possible, with models within the lineup ranging from very to extremely capable. Having succeeded in that, Ford has responded to customer requests to make the Bronco a more congenial companion on the road. In response, Ford has produced a package or two that are sure to find audiences. Benna Ford gives you the rundown of Bronco changes for 2025.
“Our customers asked for a smarter, better equipped, and more stylish Bronco that was more livable everyday and just as capable of off-road adventures,” said Bronco Brand Manager Jason Hyde. “We responded with new standard technology and comfort features, heritage-inspired trims and options, and a durable exterior protection option, all so Bronco remains unmistakable on the road.”
Bigger and Better Tech
Topping the list of the new standard technology is that all 2025 Broncos now have the 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster introduced in the 2024 Bronco Raptor. Replacing the previous 8.0-inch display, the new display features vivid graphics, dedicated animations for each G.O.A.T. mode, and a more attractive presentation of basic driving information. Now all Broncos feature dual 12.0-inch display screens.
The previous 10-speaker audio system has been replaced by a Bang & Olufsen system featuring a more powerful amplifier, 12 high-quality speakers, and a new subwoofer. All four-door models now have air conditioning vents for second-row passengers. Additional interior lighting and sound insulation also improve the quietness of the ride. Even Sasquatch-equipped models can be quieter on the road with new 35-inch Goodyear Territory rugged terrain tires, which are quieter at highway speeds than the previously offered tires—without impacting off-road capability. The 2025 model line expands with the return of the base trim, a Stroppe Special Edition, and new packages to spice up existing models.
Stroppe Special Edition Brings the Baja 1000 to Your Driveway
The Stroppe Special Edition recalls the Stroppe Baja Broncos of the 60s and 70s that were tough and often victorious in the Baja 1000. “When you purchased a Stroppe Baja Bronco in 1971, it rolled out of Bill Stroppe’s factory ready to tackle the Baja 1000,” said Jason Hyde, Bronco brand manager. “That capability was at the core of our development process for the new Bronco Stroppe Special Edition, including Fox Internal Bypass Dampers designed for performance and improved control during high-speed desert running, a standard EcoBoost 2.7-liter V6 engine, and Baja G.O.A.T. Mode.”
Like the original, the Stroppe Special Edition is exclusive to the two-door model and includes modern off-road features the originals would have loved, such as Stabilizer Bar Disconnect, High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension 3.0 (HOSS 3.0), and 35-inch Goodyear Territory RT tires. The Edition has a modern take on the color scheme of the original, using an Atlas Blue roof, Code Orange sides, and Oxford White sandwiched in between, including the grille with Code Orange BRONCO lettering. Also, like the original, the hood is matte black to diffuse reflections from the desert sun.
Matte Finish for All Exterior Colors
You can now have a matte finish on every color the Bronco offers thanks to a Matte Clear Film that can be applied to any external color. There is also a new Black Package that features a black removable hardtop and applies molded-in black to:
- Fender flares
- Door handles
- Mirror caps
- Grille (with white BRONCO lettering)
The Black Package also adds gloss-black painted aluminum wheels with a black beadlock ring when combined with the Sasquatch Package.
Get Bold with the Free Wheeling Package
If you prefer more color on your Bronco, check out the wild Free Wheeling Package. Inspired by Ford’s Free Wheeling graphics on trucks, vans, and Broncos of the 70s and 80s, this package applies bold graphics on the sides, featuring a gradient from dark red through reds and oranges to golden yellow. The colors reappear on the seatbacks, with additional red trim on the dash and wheel rims. Upfront, the package features a unique silver grille with BRONCO in red-outlined lettering.
“Bronco has always been about fun and capability since day one and Free Wheeling’s looks kick that up a notch with its sunset inspired beach vibes,” said Steve Gilmore, Ford Vehicle Personalization chief designer.
Even more than before, there is a Bronco for every off-road adventurer, and you can find or order yours at Benna Ford.
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 4×4 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 4×4 stars at Benna Ford.
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.
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