Hybrid and electric cars have increased in popularity over the past few years, with new models popping up every year. Ford has an impressive lineup of electric and hybrid models, encouraging more drivers to choose these options and reduce their environmental impacts. When you choose a Ford model, you can get a reliable, safe, and eco-friendly model that will get you to where you need to go. Impressive Fuel Economy Some of the most popular vehicles from Ford are those that help drivers save at the pump. The 2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid returns an estimated 42 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for your daily commute or your next road trip. Beneath the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter hybrid electric powertrain and a 1.4-kWh lithium-ion battery. The 2018 Fusion is also available with a hybrid engine, with estimates coming in at 43 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. This powertrain uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery. Ford released an all-electric version of its popular compact sedan, the Focus, which goes up to 118 miles in the city and 96 mpg on the highway. This model has a one-speed automatic transmission, along with a 107-kWh motor and a 35-kWh lithium-ion battery. more High-End Features When you choose an electric or hybrid vehicle from Ford, you don't have to skimp on the latest comfort and convenience features. The C-MAX Hybrid comes standard with dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an overhead storage console, keyless entry, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Tech features include a six-speaker sound system with advanced voice recognition, while Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system and navigation are available as upgrades. Within the Fusion Hybrid, features include manually adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a nine-speaker audio system, a 4.2-inch central display screen, active noise control, and rear air vents. The Ford Focus tacks on Ford's MyKey system, which allows parents to set controls on speed and audio system volume for their teen drivers, as well as track the vehicle location and set fences. It's also available with high-end tech options, such as a Sony audio system, smart USB charging ports, and an 8-inch touch screen. Sleek Exterior Styling When you think of a hybrid vehicle, you might imagine a clunky, dated-looking model, but that's certainly not the case when it comes to these options from Ford. In fact, most people can't immediately tell that these vehicles are hybrid or electric-powered. From the outside, you'll spot eye-catching features like chrome accents, LED lighting, exhausts, fog lights, tinted glass, and rear spoilers. The front end of the Focus Hybrid shows off a unique front grille in piano black, while the other models have their own unique features as well. Visit Chestatee Ford to test drive one of these Ford hybrid or electric models, and see how it stacks up against other environmentally friendly vehicles. We'll show you the latest features and help you as you make the decision about which model is right for you. Photo via ford.com
2018 Ford Taurus Versus 2018 Ford Fusion: How to Choose
The 2018 Ford Taurus and Ford Fusion are two brand favorites battling it out in the sedan segment this year. As you shop for your next vehicle, consider this comparison guide to help you decide which of the two — the Ford Taurus or Ford Fusion — works best for you. Trim Variety The Ford Taurus is available in four trims: the SE, SEL, Limited, and SHO. The 2018 Ford Fusion triples that amount with an astounding 12-trim lineup, which includes a mix of standard trims, plus Hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid variants. Both models start for less than $30,000, but the Ford Fusion's base comes in at $5,475 less than the Ford Taurus SE, making it a likelier choice for buyers on a budget. more Exterior Accents The Taurus and Fusion are undeniably attractive in appearance. They both feature similar elements, such as body-color door handles, LED taillamps, an Easy Fuel capless fuel filler, and an optional power moonroof. On the other hand, the Fusion adds an additional paint option to its lineup (Lightning Blue), giving you one extra color choice to consider. Performance Specs The Taurus offers a quieter ride thanks to its cabin and engine insulation, but the Fusion has a shorter turning radius that handles corners and tight spaces like a pro. Fuel efficiency also varies between models. In short, the Taurus SE, SEL, and Limited offer the best model rating at 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Meanwhile, the Fusion Energi trims reach an MPGe of 104 city and 91 highway, a driving range that's hard to beat. Interior Space These sedans both accommodate up to five passengers, though the Fusion's added head and legroom provide a slightly more comfortable fit than the compact Taurus. However, the latter's 20.1-cubic-foot trunk ranks among the largest in its class for cargo capacity, while the Fusion offers 4.1 cubic feet less. Technology Features You don't have to settle for basic tech amenities in these two sedans. Ford's signature MyKey system, for example, offers advanced functions such as allowing you to set speed and audio volume limits for young drivers, reminding you to buckle up before taking off, and alerting you of a nearly empty fuel tank. A SYNC 3 infotainment system is also available with the 2018 Ford Taurus and Fusion. This interactive hardware features a touch screen that's highly responsive and user-friendly. You can easily access features such as smartphone integration for Android and Apple devices, turn-by-turn navigation, satellite radio, and a variety of voice-activated functions. Safety Systems The 2018 Ford Taurus and Ford Fusion both received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. That says a lot about these two models, but so do the many driver-assist features they offer. These include adaptive cruise control, individual tire pressure monitoring, and AdvanceTrac electronic stability control. Where we see a difference in advanced safety measures is with the Fusion's available inflatable rear seat belts, a first for the mid-size sedan segment. They reduce the amount of crash force to the head and neck following a collision. Whether you're shopping for your first sedan or upgrading from a previous model, we hope this guide has helped you decide which of these two Fords, the Taurus or Fusion, is right for you. Photo: " Fusion " by Shawn Nystrand licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 | Cropped from original
5 Things Reviewers Love About the 2018 Ford Taurus
The 2018 Ford Taurus is a strong contender in this year's auto market. Reviews rave about its affordable base price, performance hardware, cargo space, user-friendly infotainment system, and cutting-edge safety. Here's your guide to the 2018 Ford Taurus' impressive features. Starting MSRP Budget-conscious buyers gravitate toward this sedan for its modest MSRP. The base SE trim starts at $27,690, one of the lowest you'll find in this segment. However, if your budget allows for some wiggle room, consider stepping up to the next-level SEL, which starts at $30,120 and adds a few tech upgrades you won't find with the base. Either way, the Ford Taurus is ideal for those who want comfortable amenities without making a deep dent in their wallet. more SHO Performance Package Available for the top-level SHO trim, this performance package adds advanced specs that border on bold and brilliant. If you're able to splurge on this package, expect to drive away with enhanced road power. This performance boost is courtesy of a fine-tuned suspension system and improved coil springs and stabilizer bars, plus larger brake rotors and adjusted brake pads. You can also enjoy greater responsiveness with electric power steering and greater control over uneven terrain with AdvancTrac electronic stability control, which lets you switch between True Off and Track Mode. Finally, the SHO's tires offer peak performance in the summer. They're paired with a handy inflator for optimal air levels and a sealant kit for seamless tread wear repair. Trunk Volume Need a vehicle with ample cargo room? The 2018 Ford Taurus has you covered. This sedan jumps on the market with a cargo capacity that rivals most in its class. Exactly how much? You'll find 20.1 cubic feet of trunk space, perfect for a large grocery haul, all your road-trip luggage, and bulky possessions. On top of that, fold down the 60/40 rear seatbacks to reach even more cargo storage potential. SYNC 3 Infotainment System A worthy upgrade to this sedan's standard display, the 8-inch touchscreen and available SYNC 3 infotainment system brings user convenience right to your fingertips. Even if you aren't tech-savvy, this touchscreen is highly responsive and easy to operate. It lets you manage audio settings, remote services, and smartphone features, to name a few. Specifically, this interactive suite offers SiriusXM satellite radio, 911 emergency assistance, smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and Siri Eyes Free for hands-free calling on your iPhone. Additional perks include voice-activated navigation and Travel Link for real-time weather updates, fuel rates, and sports scores. Safety All vehicles boast their own set of safety features, but not every model receives a five-star overall crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The 2018 Ford Taurus earned this status with its sturdy body frame and top-notch air bags. It also impresses with several driver-assist features designed to boost road safety and awareness. These include a safety-belt reminder, parallel and rear parking assistance, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep technology, and adaptive cruise control with four preset distances. The 2018 Ford Taurus is a practical sedan in today's market, and it's clear to see why it has earned positive reviews in these five areas. Photo via Ford.com
4 Reasons Adventure Seekers will Love the 2018 Ford Bronco
After missing in action for over two decades, the Ford Bronco is finally poised to make a comeback in 2020. Known as a multi-purpose vehicle, the Bronco was a popular alternative to other SUVs on the market during its production. The new Ford Bronco will be the first version of this bold 4x4 since 1996. Here are a few reasons that adventure seekers will love the new model. Redesigned for Adventure Ford has stated that the latest incarnation of the Bronco will sport a bold new look that respects the rugged roots of its heritage. There's some speculation as to exactly what this might look like. Some industry insiders have guessed that it will be based on Ford's own Everest SUV, which is itself an offshoot of the Ford Ranger. more An anonymous Ford employee let slip that the new Bronco might resemble the Troller T4, a vehicle that Ford manufactures for the Brazilian market. If these early reports are any indication, the new Bronco will be designed from the ground-up to compete with the most distinctive SUVs on the market. Performance and Power It's a safe bet that the new Bronco will live up to its name by providing drivers with high-end, adventurous performance. There are likely to be several trims of the new Bronco available when it arrives in 2020. The entry-level configurations are expected to have a 2.3-liter or 2.7-liter V6 engine capable of generating around 250 horsepower. The higher levels of trim may have an engine as big as 5.0 liters, which could deliver about 435 horsepower. Ford has also recently incorporated EcoBoost technology into most of its engines, so the Bronco's engine will probably be turbocharged and utilize a direct injection system. Classic Design Elements You probably remember the Bronco as a two-door vehicle, but the modern incarnation of the vehicle is expected to only be available as a four-door version. Despite this design change, the new Bronco will retain many of the classic elements that have made it the perfect vehicle for adventure seekers for years. All prior versions of the Bronco have had a removable top, and reports indicate that this feature will carry over to the new Bronco. And like Broncos of the past, the new version is expected to be fully capable of tackling rough terrain in four-wheel drive mode. The difference is that the new Bronco may only be available as a four-wheel drive model. Versatile Driving Ability The Ford Bronco was always famous for its ability to deliver a smooth highway drive just as easily as it could crawl over rocks and through thick mud. With four-wheel drive capabilities and a powerful engine, it seems like the new Bronco will carry forth that legacy. If you're an adventurous driver, you're sure to appreciate the new Bronco's ability to transition between paved road and dirt track without missing a beat. There are lots of questions about the upcoming Bronco, but it's safe to say that Ford has piqued our interest. We're eagerly keeping our eyes on any details about the new Bronco, but it's shaping up to be a comeback to remember. Photo: " Ford Bronco concept " by dave_7 licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original
5 Reasons You'll Love the 2018 Limited Edition Ford Focus RS
The 2018 Ford Focus RS is a limited-edition vehicle. Entering its last year of production, this limited time Ford Focus will no longer be produced after 2018. Here are the most exciting features of the last version of the Ford Focus RS. Powerful Engine The 2018 Ford Focus RS definitely does not lack in power. With a 350 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it offers a satisfying sporty and powerful performance. The unique 6-speed manual transmission will also improve the overall drive. Drivability In addition to a consistently powerful engine, the performance is also enhanced with a 2.3L EcoBoost® system. This system uniquely controls how much torque goes to each wheel, improving control, traction, and overall drivability. Drivers can also manually switch between four different driving modes, with a new track and drift option. The Focus RS also gives drivers the ability to adjust suspension and stability control for ideal operating conditions. more Exterior Trim Almost as a dedication to the end of this sporty line, Ford has completely renovated the exterior of the 2018 Ford Focus RS. The exterior mirrors have black trim, the spoiler has an upgraded black accent, and the RS decal is completely changed from earlier models. Drivers can also choose a Race Red color in the 2018 model, which is an addition to the single color Nitrous Blue that was previously offered. The 19-inch forged painted wheels will also now come standard in both models. Although minimally changed, the aerodynamic design of the exterior will also improve drivability with efficient speed. The unique exterior trim of the 2018 model is sure to give you a unique vehicle that is easily recognized by Ford Focus enthusiasts. Interior The interior also saw a significant change in this year's final model. The seats come standard with RECARO® leather heated materials. The mirrors and steering wheel are also heated. The navigation system has upgraded voice activation and easier than ever to use. The Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system has a larger 8.0-inch monitor. Safety Features Not much has changed in terms of safety, but the 2018 Ford RS will still offer a solid safety package. Drivers can feel safe despite road conditions with the dual-sided airbags, safety canopy system, and belt minder feature. Passengers can also adjust their seatbelt based on height, for a more secure fit. The LATCH system and child-safety rear locks improve safety for families with young children. Finally, the rearview camera and tire pressure monitoring system are both standard on both models. Drivers can also rest easy knowing that their exclusive vehicle has protection built-in. Security features include a remote keyless entry, a passive anti-lock system, and a perimeter alarm system. The 2017 Ford Focus RS did not see any significant changes. The 2018 Ford Focus RS, however, is completely revamped for its last year in production. There will only be 1,000 of these exclusive RS vehicles made, so make sure you stop by your local dealer before this car is no longer available. Photo via Ford.com