Winterizing Your Ford: What You Need to Know Before Michigan's Cold Weather Arrives

Shopping for a 2026 Ford F-150® involves more than deciding between a V8 and an EcoBoost® V6. Cab configuration, drivetrain, axle ratio, and equipment packages can significantly change what a truck can haul or tow. That's particularly important for Port Huron, MI drivers who expect their pickup to handle both work equipment and recreational trailers. The F-150® also enters 2026 with recognition from J.D. Power, ranking highest among full-size pickups for new-vehicle quality in its U.S. Initial Quality Study. Six Engines, but Which One Makes Sense? The F-150® offers 6 powertrains, each paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 produces 325 hp and 400 lbs. ft. of torque, providing substantial output without moving to a larger engine. The 5.0L V8 delivers 400 hp and 410 lbs. ft. of torque, while the 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 generates up to 400 hp and 500 lbs. ft. of torque. The 3.5L PowerBoost ® Full Hybrid raises output to 430 hp and 578 lbs. ft. of torque. Performance-focused Raptor® models use a high-output 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 producing 450 hp, while the Raptor R™ employs a supercharged 5.2L V8 generating 720 hp and 640 lbs. ft. of torque. The important consideration is matching engine output to the truck's intended workload, not simply choosing the highest number. Towing Capacity Depends on the Configuration Maximum towing reaches 13,500 lbs. with the properly equipped 3.5L EcoBoost® V6. The 5.0L V8 can tow up to 12,800 lbs., while PowerBoost ® Full Hybrid models reach 11,600 lbs. Maximum available payload is 2,440 lbs. in select configurations. These are lineup maximums, not ratings that apply to every truck with a particular engine. Cab style, drivetrain, axle ratio, installed equipment, passengers, and cargo all influence the final figures. Available Pro Trailer Backup Assist™, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™, and an integrated trailer brake controller add assistance when connecting and maneuvering trailers. Before selecting a truck, compare its specific towing and payload ratings against the loaded trailer and equipment you plan to carry. PowerBoost ® Offers More Than Hybrid Efficiency The available 3.5L PowerBoost ® Full Hybrid combines gasoline and electric propulsion without requiring a charging cable. Its 578 lbs. ft. of torque gives it considerable pulling strength, although its maximum towing rating differs from that of the conventional 3.5L EcoBoost® V6. Another advantage is available Pro Power Onboard™, which can supply up to 7.2 kW of electrical output, depending on configuration. That makes the truck a mobile power source for compatible jobsite tools, camping equipment, and other electrical accessories. For some buyers, that capability may influence the engine decision as much as towing capacity. Eight Trims Cover Work, Comfort, and Off-Road Driving XL and XLT provide practical foundations for work and general truck ownership, while STX® adds its own styling character. Lariat®, King Ranch®, and Platinum® introduce increasingly premium cabin appointments. Tremor® and Raptor® emphasize specialized off-road capability. For 2026, the STX® Lobo™ Package adds a 5.0L V8, 22-inch gloss-black wheels, and lowered rear suspension. The XLT Chrome Appearance Package and Satin Platinum® Package provide further styling choices. Buyers should consider the equipment associated with each trim alongside its effect on the truck's intended configuration. Technology That Supports the Driver Every 2026 F-150® includes a 12-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen and 12-inch digital productivity display, along with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Available Ford BlueCruise permits hands-free driving on compatible divided highways, provided the driver remains attentive and the required subscription or trial is active. Ford Co-Pilot360® adds driver-assistance technology, while the available Ford Connectivity Package supports connected navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and media streaming. Compare F-150® Configurations at Northgate Ford Northgate Ford, Inc. in Port Huron can help shoppers compare available F-150® inventory, engine choices, towing equipment, and cab configurations. Schedule a test drive to evaluate the truck's performance and cabin technology, and review the specific towing and payload ratings before choosing the configuration that fits your workload. Eligible owners can also explore Ford Mobile Service, Pickup & Delivery, and Ford Rewards benefits through participating dealerships.

There's something appealing about a pickup that doesn't occupy half the parking lot. The 2026 Ford Maverick® delivers genuine truck versatility in a compact package, combining an accessible cargo bed, seating for 5, and a choice of hybrid or turbocharged power. For Port Huron, MI drivers, it's a compelling alternative to larger pickups, particularly when maneuverability and fuel efficiency are priorities. Hybrid Efficiency or Turbocharged Performance The standard 2.5L hybrid produces 191 combined hp through a Power-Split electronic continuously variable transmission. FWD is standard on XL and XLT hybrids, with AWD available, while Lariat® features standard hybrid AWD. The alternative 2.0L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder develops 250 hp and 280 lbs. ft. of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The EcoBoost® provides stronger acceleration, while the hybrid emphasizes economical operation without requiring external charging. Both offer distinct advantages depending on how the truck will be driven. Fuel Economy That Challenges Expectations The hybrid FWD Maverick® achieves an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 38 mpg combined. Those are impressive figures for something with an open cargo bed. The hybrid system recovers energy during deceleration and supplements gasoline power during acceleration, particularly benefiting stop-and-go driving. Available AWD provides additional traction for wet roads and snowy Michigan conditions, although fuel economy varies by configuration. Towing and Payload Without the Bulk Standard towing capacity is 2,000 lbs., increasing to 4,000 lbs. with the available 4K Tow Package and an eligible configuration. Maximum available payload reaches 1,500 lbs. in select models. That's substantial capacity for appropriately sized utility trailers, recreational equipment, and home-improvement supplies. Actual ratings depend on drivetrain, equipment, passengers, and cargo. Buyers planning to tow regularly should compare the specifications of individual trucks before selecting a configuration. A Small Bed with Clever Solutions The 4.5-foot FLEXBED® Storage System offers approximately 33.3 cubic feet of cargo volume, 10 standard tie-down points, and a passenger-side storage cubby. Its Multi-Position Tailgate helps support longer materials, while available cargo accessories and a spray-in bedliner expand its functionality. The ingenuity lies in making a modest space work harder. Tools, landscaping supplies, and recreational gear can be organized without requiring the dimensions of a full-size pickup. Technology That Earns Its Place Every 2026 Maverick® includes a 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Ford Co-Pilot360® provides standard driver-assistance technology, with additional available features including Blind Spot Information System functionality. Depending on configuration, 360-degree camera technology, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ can make maneuvering and trailer handling easier. Five Models with Different Priorities XL establishes the practical hybrid-powered foundation, while XLT adds convenience features and package options. Lariat® introduces standard hybrid AWD, ActiveX®-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and upgraded technology. Tremor® features specialized suspension and equipment for off-road driving. Lobo™ takes a more sporting direction with lowered suspension and distinctive street-oriented styling. Each retains the Maverick's compact footprint while appealing to different driving preferences. Explore the Maverick® at Northgate Ford The 2026 Ford Maverick® proves that compact dimensions needn't limit a pickup's versatility. Visit Northgate Ford, Inc. in Port Huron to compare available hybrid and EcoBoost® models, AWD configurations, and towing equipment. Schedule a test drive to experience its handling, powertrain response, and clever cargo solutions firsthand.

Family life rarely follows a predictable schedule, and a good SUV needs to keep up. The 2026 Ford Explorer® offers the space, technology, and capability to handle school runs, winter commutes, and summer adventures around Lake Huron. With seating for up to 7, two EcoBoost® engines, and a new adventure-focused Tremor® trim, the Explorer® gives Port Huron, MI, families plenty of choices. Six Trims for Different Driving Needs The 2026 Explorer® lineup includes Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, Platinum, and ST. Active 100A covers essential equipment, while Active adds heated front seats and a power liftgate. ST-Line introduces black exterior accents, 20-inch wheels, and a 10-speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®. Tremor® brings standard 4WD and specialized off-road suspension equipment. Platinum emphasizes premium comfort, while ST delivers the strongest standard engine. Each trim has a distinct character, making it easier to prioritize family convenience, adventurous capability, or performance. EcoBoost® Performance and Towing Confidence Most Explorer® models feature a 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder producing 300 hp and 310 lbs. ft. of torque. Drivers seeking stronger acceleration can choose the ST, which comes standard with a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 generating 400 hp and 415 lbs. ft. of torque. That V6 is also available on Tremor®. Both engines use a 10-speed automatic transmission. RWD comes standard on several trims, with Intelligent 4WD available, while Tremor® includes standard 4WD. A standard Class III Trailer Tow Package supports towing up to 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped, providing capability for recreational trailers and weekend trips. Three Rows Designed Around Family Life The Explorer® accommodates 6 or 7 passengers, depending on its second-row seating arrangement. Available captain's chairs make accessing the third row easier, while a second-row bench provides an additional passenger position. Cargo capacity measures approximately 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second, and 85.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. Standard tri-zone electronic temperature control helps maintain comfort throughout the cabin, while available heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seating, and PowerFold ® third-row seats add convenience. The flexible layout allows families to switch between carrying passengers, luggage, and larger equipment without difficulty. Connected Technology for Everyday Convenience Every 2026 Explorer® includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Ford Digital Experience integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play, making navigation and compatible applications accessible through the vehicle's interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility provide familiar smartphone connectivity. The Ford Connectivity Package includes a 1-year connected-services plan with Wi-Fi hotspot access and entertainment features, subject to activation and service terms. Available B&O® premium audio enhances longer journeys, while the FordPass ® app supports compatible remote vehicle functions, including convenient access to vehicle information. Ford Co-Pilot360™ and BlueCruise Technology Standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, and Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking. Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Rear Parking Sensors, and Speed Sign Recognition provide additional assistance. Select trims offer enhanced parking technologies, including a 360-Degree Camera and Reverse Brake Assist. Available Ford BlueCruise enables hands-free driving on compatible highways, although continuous driver attention remains necessary. Equipment availability and service requirements depend on the selected configuration. Explore the 2026 Explorer® at Northgate Ford, Inc. The 2026 Explorer® combines flexible seating, capable EcoBoost® performance, and advanced technology in a three-row SUV designed for changing family needs. From the practical Active to the adventurous Tremor® and performance-focused ST, there is plenty to explore. Visit Northgate Ford, Inc. in Port Huron, MI, to compare current inventory and review available configurations. Schedule a test drive online today to discover how the Explorer® fits your family's lifestyle.