F150 Vs Silverado

The trusted and prestigious car publication, US News, recently published an article on the classic battle of Ford vs Chevy to find out which truck is better, the F150 or the Silverado. Here is the overview of the battle of the 2017 models:

Basic Trims

Starting with the basics both vehicles are similar in size, seating capacities, and horsepower, as they both offer a basic trim that seats three, and come with V6 engines that produce up to 300 horsepower.Point for both trucks.

Pricing

The Ford F150 wins the pricing competition, as it has a starting MSRP of just over $26,500, which Chevy cannot undercut.Even if you upgrade to the four-door truck, the Ford still beats the Chevy in price by about $4,000. Point for Ford

Safety

When it comes to safety both trucks received five stars from the NHTSA in overall rating, frontal crash, and side crash. Both trucks also received four stars in the rollover protection test. However, the Insurance Institute gave the F150 a rating of “Good” in all five of their categories, while it gave the Silverado a “Good” rating in only four of their five safety categories. Point for Ford again.

Technology

As pick up trucks go you’re not going to find the same amount of technology that you would in a 2017 Audi. With that in mind, the basic standard features do not contain as much in the way of gadgets and gizmos. Of course, when you go up in pricing options you will find plenty more, but for the purpose of this article we are only looking at the starting package, and in that category the Silverado beats the F150 by a USB  port. Point Chevy.

Comfort

When it comes to seat comfort US News gave the F150 the nod, citing versatile seat positions and leg room, even in the rear. They gave the point to Ford.

Cargo Space

With respect to the bed of the truck, the F150 has the advantage in that it offers BoxLink, a system of movable tie-downs to allow the driver to have different configurations of storage capabilities in the cabin. The Silverado does not. Point Ford.

Towing

Here’s where we are going to deviate from the US News article. They gave the point to Chevy because the maximum towing capacity of the Silverado is 300 pounds heavier: 12,500 versus 12,200 for the F150. But we at McKie Ford think that the driver assist features in the F150, which the Silverado does not have, like the Dynamic Hitch Assist and Trailer Sway Control, more than make up for it. So we give the point to Ford here.

Fuel Efficiency

The turbochoargers that the F150 feature really help in the category of fuel economy. The 2.7 liter twin turbo V6 engine provides of up to 26 mpg on the highway. That beats the best from Silverado, which is 24 mpg. This one is clear to see. Point for Ford.

In the end we can objectively say that unless you are looking for interior technology from your pickup truck, you should get the 2017 F150. You will be more happy with its comfort, cargo space, towing abilities, fuel efficiency, and price!

Advertisements

Better and Tougher Than Ever – 2017 Super Duty

2017 Ford Super Duty at McKie Ford

Ford never stops reinventing their brand. It’s difficult to not hear the Ford name and desire any one of their Ford Tough vehicles. But it’s this year, that Ford has again stepped up their Ford truck game by bringing you an even better F-Series. We had the Ford Raptor, the Ford F-150, and of course, another favorite, the 2017 Ford Super Duty. If you are out there looking for the best work truck, or you simply like big trucks, the Ford Super Duty is the best bet here.

The Super Duty is generally seen as a work truck, but that didn’t stop Ford from adding all the extras to keep you interested and honestly to keep you happy when you are driving down the road. You may feel a little more awesome driving the down road with a killer SYNC 3 system posting up on your dashboard and playing your favorite tunes.

For 2017, the Ford Super Duty’s exterior took advantage of the LED lighting, which dominates the driving lights and the quad-beam headlamps now present. The Super Duty joined the 2017 Ford F-150 in dropping a significant amount of weight. Ford added the all-steel frame, one that is 24 times more rigid than the 2016 Ford Super Duty model. The Super Duty’s cab body is also made with military grade aluminum meaning its takes a lot more for you to dent and ding this beast.

The trim levels regular cab, SuperCab, and CrewCab are no longer available but the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum options were added, and they are ones you will absolutely love. If you are looking just for a standard work truck, opt for the XL and the XLT trim levels. We know you secretly want to choose the Lariat, King Ranch, or Platinum. In that case, we think we should just go for it. For 2017, the Super Duty also incorporates the trailer-brake controller and moved it closer to the driver while also adding integrated auxiliary switches into the overhead console. Ford also flattened out the floor on the second row so you can handle your cargo a bit better.

We know probably the biggest reason of all for even considering this truck is the towing, and we plan to focus on that. Ford added seven cameras to improve visibility in your surroundings when towing around heavy cargo behind you. Adaptive steering to reduce wheel-input for low-speed operation is also included and steering sensitivity is reduced when the truck runs at quicker speeds. The Super Duty also has adaptive cruise control and automatic braking functions, in-cab tire-pressure monitoring, lane departure warning, and the SYNC 3 with the 8.0-inch infotainment system.

As you would know, Ford definitely doesn’t skimp on the powertrains, because why would they? There is a 6.7-Liter Power Stroke V-8 turbo-diesel, and the 6.2-liter gas engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. We promise, with powertrains like this you’ll be towing more than you can imagine.

It seems Ford isn’t in competition with anyone but themselves. Ford trucks continue to be the most sold trucks throughout the world, meaning, you should get down to your local dealer as soon as possible and learn how to make one yours today, tomorrow, and for the rest of your life. Choose Ford and always Ford! They have the most reliable trucks on the market.

To learn more about the Ford Super Duty, call or visit McKie Lincoln to see our selection of the 2017 Ford Super Duty models.

Ford Bronco and Ranger Come Off the Bench

Ford Brings the 2020 Bronco Back to Life

Ford Motor Company’s plans to cancel the $1.6 million-dollar plant down in Mexico hasn’t stopped them from moving forward in their efforts to bring the world the best vehicle on the market. While it was a big decision for Ford and many rumors about President Elect Donald Trump’s influence on Ford Motor Company have been circling, CEO Mark Fields believed this was the best decision for the sake of future production in the United States. Regardless of such difficult decisions, Ford will push forward and continue producing one of the most sold brands of vehicles in the world.

Currently, Michigan is harboring some big plans for the next year and the next three years. The new Ford models are carving their way through the year 2017, but they don’t just have new hybrids and improved Ford trucks on the way. Ford is also planning to take two Ford models off the bench for a little playing time, and we can’t wait to tell you more about it.

Along with the three improved Ford vehicles on our doorstep, Ford plans to revive the mid-size pickup, Ford Ranger by 2019, which is already circling in other foreign markets, and the Ford Bronco by 2020. According to USA TODAY, Ford Motor company will be manufacturing these revivals in Wayne, Michigan where they will replace the Ford Focus. The Ford Focus will be sent down to the plant in Mexico to help save 3,600 jobs at its existing plant. There is still hope for Mexico!

The Ford Bronco, which began production in 1966, was discontinued 30 years later after the news had reported OJ Simpson’s escape vehicle was the Bronco. The Bronco was replaced with the Expedition, therefore, suspending the model until further notice. The Bronco is still a two-door concept car but has significant upgrades to headlights and the grille as well as created a boxier front end, and a more rounded back end. It has 4×4 capabilities and will be ideal for those people into extreme off-roading or simply a joyous ride to their next destination. It is rumored this vehicle will have a base price of $30,000.

We like what we see, and there is no question this is a handsome vehicle, but hold your horses, it’ll be three years before the Bronco comes off the bench to play with other competitors.

The Ford Ranger, which will be in competition with other pickups like Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado, and GMC Canyon, has one of the most incredible facelifts we’ve ever seen since its last model rolled off the assembly line in 2011. We still don’t know about the exterior and interior features offers, but at least we know this one is a good looking mid-size pickup. Thankfully, the Ford is staying careful with the Ranger to make sure it doesn’t outdo its captain, the Ford F-150. Sales for the new Ford Ranger will begin in late 2018 and rumors says the pickup will cost less than $25,000 once released to the market – but this is just a rumor. The Ranger concept will be developed in Australia meaning the body design and style may change drastically over the next few years.

Ford Brings Back the 2019 Ford Ranger

Ford decided to bring back some of Ford’s greatest vehicles to awaken the faithful Ford enthusiasts who have long remembered such classics. Fields stated in an interview with USA TODAY that part of their strategy is “keeping our core business healthy.”

With the demand for high-performance, eco-friendly vehicles, Ford keeps up with their mantra of “Build Ford Tough” by creating heftier vehicles and vehicles with improved gas efficiency. There is much to speculated about these two vehicles, which have a long way to go before being released to the market, but there is no doubt they will be quick sellers come 2019 and 2020.

McKie Ford in Rapid City, South Dakota, can give you the news you need about the new Ford vehicles looking to hit the market in the near future. They also offer a wide selection of 2017 Ford vehicles, like the Ford F-150, which continues to outdo all other automotive competitors.

To learn more about our selection of vehicles or how you can stay up to date with the latest in Ford News, visit McKie Ford today!

A New Ford Truck For Your Off-Roading Needs

Outside, the sky is a dark gloom, the trees are wrapped up in the whirlwind of rain pounding into the soft earth. You glare out the window at the weather inconveniencing your day before a smile stretches across your face. Rain means mud, and mud means taking your brand new truck out to get it dirty. Once the rain subsides, and the dew from the rain rests ever so delicately on the blades of grass in your front yard, you whip those keys off the hook and head for the garage and there it sits, your new 2017 Ford F150 Raptor.

The day you bought it, while the man at the dealership talked about the specs and features of the Raptor, you sat there drooling over its aluminum body and sleek black paint job, oblivious to what he was saying. You were already sold. Now this truck is yours, and you’re more than ready to see what this baby is made of, and as you climb into those smooth leather seats, you begin the off-roading adventure with the touch of the Push Button Engine Start.

It’s difficult to ignore that sense of confidence and power you experience at the helm of your Ford Truck. It hugs the road like a dream, and as for mud, you can’t help but find the next road off the beaten path to drench every inch of your truck with the earth.

Half the joy of driving a truck is having a feeling of control over the road. It’s hard not to feel a sense of confidence and power when you’re the captain at the helm of a truck loaded with incredible force. The new 2017 Ford F150 Raptor will more than give you that feeling, in fact, we guarantee it.

Ford highlights the fun you’re sure to encounter if you buy a 2017 Ford F150 Raptor by telling you it is built for the ultimate off-roading experience. This new Ford truck comes with new 4WD and Terrain Management technology which allows you six different driving modes to suit your every adventure. Choose between Normal, Street, Weather, Mud and Sand, Baja, and Rock driving modes.

Atop the wheels and the upgraded suspension with greater wheel travel, the 500 lb lighter aluminum body sits on a steel frame and stretches 6” wider than your average Ford pickup. It has enlarged fenders and wheels, and a beautiful grille to let you know, this truck is nothing like the pickups from the F-Series.

First, let’s get down to the power behind the wheel. Unlike the 2016 model, this 2017 Ford F150 now has a Twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 Ecoboost, 283 hp, and a 10-speed transmission. This means the truck is likely to get better gas mileage than its predecessors, especially with the dual-exhaust system. And if you really need the extra kick in your engine, this powerhouse can get up to 5.0-liter V-8 and 385 hp. There is a smoother shift between gears and will sit at a lower gear while you’re driving. The engine also packs both direct- and port-injection (two injectors per cylinder).

As for the tech, owners of the 2017 Ford F150 Raptor should expect a 911 Assist System (for when you get in a sticky situation), a 360° View Camera, Blind Spot Detector,  Sync 3 Infotainment, Lane Departure Warning, and Push Button Engine Start, among many other fantastic things.

Macro-level speaking, this truck is similar to the 2016 model, but no doubt, this truck has some new features you’ll definite fall in love with. The base MSRP is $26,540 and can shoot up to $63,025 if you’re looking to fully load your vehicle. The gas mileage isn’t too bad either, thanks to the dual-exhaust system and Ecoboost, HWY gets 18 and CITY gets 13.

No matter your desire or need for a new truck, whether it be for work or play, if you are looking for something with incredible power and capability for any road you encounter, the 2017 Ford F150 Raptor will be the truck for you. No doubt this truck could be used for off-roading and camping trips, or a simple drive around town.

And for your next purchase of a New Ford Truck, come into McKIE Ford Lincoln to purchase the new 2017 Ford F150

Getting Your Car Ready for Winter

Are the leaves starting to turn? Is there a nip in the air? Are you pulling out your sweaters and mowing the lawn one last time? Don’t forget your car in your winter prep. Here are some simple steps you can take to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter.

• Wiper blades need to be replaced at least twice a year, or more often if you notice they aren’t doing their job well. If you change your wiper blades when you change your clocks in fall and spring, you’ll always be able to see the road.
• Fluid levels should be checked every time you change your oil, and it’s always a good idea to check the frequently used fluids, like windshield wiper fluid, before inclement weather strikes.
• Get the best traction from your tires by ensuring they are properly inflated, recently rotated, and still have decent tread left. If you need to swap out for snow tires, it’s a lot easier to take care of that before the blizzard hits. How recently were your tires aligned? If you can’t remember, look into it, as correct alignment is a critical way to extend the life of your tires.
• Coolant isn’t just a summer concern. It protects your engine all year, and in the winter, it’s going to shield your engine from corrosion. The proper coolant/water ratio makes a difference, so check your owner’s manual for your car’s needs.

• Engine oil is another critical component in keeping your car running in colder temperatures. When you switch out your oil in the fall, you will want a thinner, less viscous oil. Your owner’s manual will have suggested weights.
• Check your battery, belts, and hoses for wear, and replace as needed. If you are following your manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule, this will already be happening.
• Restock your car kit. While roadside help is usually just a phone call away, what happens if you are stranded in an area with no coverage, or you forgot your phone? Depending on your region, you could need everything from jumper cables to a snow shovel. Pay attention to your driving conditions, and add what you need. At a minimum, you should carry replacement fluids such as windshield wiper fluid and coolant, paper towels or wipes, a flashlight, and ice and snow removal tools.

You can do all the above yourself, or you can contact us here at McKie Ford Lincoln Service and Parts and we’d be happy to take care of it for you. No matter your make or model, we can get you ready for winter. Contact us and schedule your appointment today.

The Best Used Trucks in Rapid City

A lot of people use trucks in their daily commute, and for work. So let’s take a look at the best used trucks for people who are on a budget, as most of us are.

According to an article on Autotrader there are still many good trucks for under $15,000, and even though this article was written a couple years ago the data is still relevant. So let’s see if you can find any of these highlighted vehicles in Rapid City.

2003-2006 Chevy Silverado

The 2003-2006 Chevy Silverado is favored for the variety of engines, transmissions, and body styles that it is available in. Also impressive is the fact that it comes with 4 wheel drive option, which comes in handy during those Rapid City winters.

2004-2008 Ford F150

Also on the list of best used trucks is the 2004-2008 Ford F150. As you probably already know this is one of the most popular models in the history of vehicles. Several factors that have contributed to this popularity include the towing capacity, which this particular model has up to 11,000 lbs, as well as nearly 2,800 lbs of cargo-hauling capacity.

These trucks and more can frequently be found at McKie Ford in Rapid City, so check out the inventory of used trucks today!

 

Cars and Comrades Make a Saturday Complete

 

Mustang Club of America

There is no single definition to the term good weekend. Being surrounded by friends and music may sound appealing in July, while a movie night on the couch might be the ideal pastime on a foggy November. For auto enthusiasts, however, there is nothing quite like eyeballing high-pedigree cars. That is why the Rapid Mustang and Ford Club of the Black Hills started its Annual Car and Truck Show.

The show celebrated its 21^st year this past weekend. Club members showcased their mobile trophies at Wilson Park, all while striking up conversations with kindred spirits. Rapid City’s own McKie Ford had the honor of sponsoring the event. The dealership was also able to award a custom leather jacket to its favorite participant. A sleek, silver 1972 Mach 1 claimed the treasured coat for its owner this year. Only time will tell which worthy challenger will rise to the occasion next time.

 

Local media covered the event, and proceeds will be used to fund local charities, as well as future events. Most notably, the Rapid Mustang and Ford Club of the Black Hills is scheduled to be represented at the Custer Gold Discovery Days Car Show on Saturday (July 23^rd), Kool Deadwood Nites (starting August 25^th), and the 10^th Annual Sturgis Mustang Rally (starting Auguts 30^th). Wherever there are classic car appreciators in the local area, Club President Scott Nixon and friends plan to stay involved with that community. McKie Ford is proud to support them in their passion for well-made automobiles.