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Fall Crop Harvest Truck Preparation: Pre-Hauling Inspections for Central Kansas Farmers Direct Answer Summary: Mandatory pre-trip inspection items for agricultural grain trucks prior to fall harvest include comprehensive cold engine fluid and belt evaluations, full air brake system leak-down and governor cut-in/cut-out pressure tests, tire tread and inflation verification under loaded specifications, grain bed hydraulic hoist and rubber seal containment checks, full electrical lighting and SMV emblem inspections, and front-end steering and suspension alignment checks. Performing these critical maintenance steps before heading into the fields around Dickinson and Geary Counties prevents costly harvest-time roadside breakdowns, protects valuable crop yields from spillage, and guarantees full DOT safety compliance during high-volume grain delivery. As autumn approaches across Central Kansas, local agricultural producers near Junction City, Abilene, and Fort Riley prepare for one of the most demanding stretches of the farming calendar. Transitioning from summer wheat stubble to high-volume corn, sorghum, and soybean harvesting requires heavy machinery running around the clock. Your grain truck—whether a single-axle straight truck, tandem grain rig, or full semi-tractor trailer—serves as the critical transport link between field combines and regional grain elevators. A mechanical failure during harvest doesn't just mean a tow truck bill; it causes cascading delays across your entire harvesting team, potentially exposing unharvested crops to autumn storms. Expert Q&A: Why Is Pre-Season Maintenance Important for Grain Trucks in Dickinson County? Interviewer: Today we are sitting down with Mike Hogg, Service Director at Valor Ford with over 20 years of hands-on experience keeping commercial fleets and farm vehicles running across Dickinson and Geary Counties. Mike, farm trucks often sit parked near field corners or sheds for weeks or months between summer wheat cutting and fall corn harvest. Why is dedicated pre-season maintenance so vital before pulling into the field? Mike Hogg: Thanks for having me. The biggest issue with agricultural grain trucks is 'disuse decay.' A farm truck can sit motionless under the Kansas summer sun, experiencing extreme temperature swings. Dry air hardens rubber brake seals, rodents nest inside electrical harness channels, fuel degrades, and air brake moisture reservoirs settle and corrode valves. When fall harvest begins, that truck goes from zero activity to carrying 50,000 to 80,000 pounds across rutted field entrances and down Highway 77 at 65 miles per hour. If you don't perform a rigorous, systematic pre-trip checklist before loading that first hopper of corn, dormant issues become catastrophic failures. Taking a few hours to perform pre-season checks protects your investment, keeps your drivers safe, and keeps grain moving efficiently. Q: Why Should the Inspection Start with a Cold Engine? Mike Hogg: You always begin under the hood before turning the ignition key. Starting with a cold engine is a basic safety and accuracy protocol. Checking fluid levels—engine oil, radiator coolant recovery tanks, power steering fluid, and heavy-duty transmission fluid—when the block is cold gives you a true baseline reading. Thermal expansion distorts fluid levels, and opening a hot pressurized radiator cap presents a severe burn risk to operators. Cold engine checks also allow you to spot slow fluid leaks that might otherwise evaporate instantly on a scorching engine block. Look closely for coolant crystallization around water pump housings, power steering weeping at hose crimps, and diesel fuel seepage near injector rails. Inspect serpentine and fan belts for glazing, edge fraying, or dry rot cracks. A broken fan belt under full load in a dusty corn field will overheat your diesel block in minutes. Q: What Should I Check First on the Air Brake System? Mike Hogg: Air brakes are your primary line of defense when hauling 25 tons of grain down steep county road gradients. Start inside the cab with your air pressure gauge. 1. Pressure Build Test: Start the truck and ensure air pressure builds from 85 PSI to 100 PSI within 45 seconds. 2. Governor Cut-Out/Cut-In: Verify the compressor governor cuts out between 120 and 140 PSI, and cuts back in at around 100 PSI. 3. Static Leak-Down Test: Turn off the engine, release the parking brake, and watch the gauge for one minute. Pressure drop must not exceed 2 PSI for single vehicles or 3 PSI for combination rigs. 4. Applied Leak-Down Test: Firmly depress the foot brake pedal. Maximum allowable pressure drop over one minute is 3 PSI for straight trucks or 4 PSI for semi combinations. Outside the vehicle, open manual petcock valves on all air reservoirs to drain accumulated water and oil sludge. Condensation in air tanks corrodes relay valves and can freeze during late-fall harvest freezes. Finally, crawl under the rig to inspect automatic slack adjusters, pushrod travel lengths, and brake shoe lining thicknesses. Brake shoes should have at least 1/4-inch of friction material remaining. If you notice uneven shoe wear or rusted brake drums, Schedule Ford Service Today at Valor Ford to keep your stopping power intact. Schedule Air Brake Inspection at Valor Ford Q: What Are the Critical Tire, Wheel, and Axle Checklist Items for Heavy Loads? Mike Hogg: Grain truck tires take punishment that highway freight haulers rarely see. You're rolling over sharp wheat stubble, crossing ditches, and driving onto gravel county roads loaded to maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). First, check tire pressure with an accurate calibrated gauge when tires are cold. Under-inflated dual tires generate immense internal friction heat at highway speeds, causing catastrophic blowouts. Ensure inflation matches sidewall specs for full payload rating—often 100 to 110 PSI on steer tires and 90 to 100 PSI on drive duals. Second, check dual tire spacing and diameter matching. Rocks lodged between dual wheels will destroy sidewalls in miles. Verify tread depth meets regulatory minimums: at least 4/32-inch on steer tires and 2/32-inch on drive axles. Finally, inspect wheel rims for hair-line flange cracks and check hub oil seals. Leaking hub oil stains on the inner wheel rim indicate compromised seals, which will quickly starve wheel bearings of lubrication and weld an axle spindle shut in middle of harvest. Q: How Do You Inspect Grain Body Seals, Endgates, and Tarp Systems to Prevent Crop Loss? Mike Hogg: Spilling grain on public highways isn't just lost revenue—it's a serious road safety hazard and punishable by traffic citations. Hydraulic Hoist System: Raise the grain box fully (using safety stands!) and inspect hydraulic cylinders for scoring or fluid leaks. Check fluid levels in the hydraulic reservoir and ensure PTO engagement linkage operates smoothly without binding. Endgate & Latching Locks: Check automatic trip levers and mechanical locking pins. When the grain box sits flush against the frame, the endgate must seal tightly without gaps. Replace worn perimeter rubber gaskets or warped steel seals. Roll Tarp Systems: Unroll the tarp completely to inspect for vinyl tears, broken bows, or frayed crank tension straps. A loose or damaged tarp allows wind to blow top-grain out of the box on I-70 or exposes harvested crop to sudden autumn rain showers. Q: What Is the Payload Capacity Difference Between a Semi and a Tandem Grain Truck? Tandem Straight Truck: • Typical GVWR: 46,000 to 54,000 lbs. • Grain Capacity: ~400 to 550 bushels of corn/soybeans. • Key Advantage: Superior maneuverability inside tight field gates, terraced waterways, and soft farm yards where turning radius is critical. Semi Tractor Trailer Setup: • Typical GVWR: 80,000 lbs (up to 88,000+ lbs under Kansas harvest exemptions). • Grain Capacity: ~800 to 1,000 bushels. • Key Advantage: High volume efficiency for long-distance highway hauls to terminal grain elevators or ethanol plants. Mechanical Strain Note: Because semi setups carry double the payload, kingpins, fifth-wheel plates, landing gear, and multi-axle air suspensions endure double the fatigue. If upgrading your support fleet, you can Research Ford F-250 and Super Duty commercial haulers at Valor Ford to keep support equipment moving. Explore Commercial Ford Trucks Q: Do Farm Trucks Need Special Permits to Qualify for Harvest Weight Exemptions? Mike Hogg: Kansas law recognizes the critical nature of harvest season and offers specific statutory weight allowances for agricultural transport. Under Kansas statutes, registered farm trucks carrying harvested grain receive a 10% weight allowance above standard legal limits when transporting crops from field to initial storage or elevator facility. However, there are critical caveats that producers often misunderstand: 1. Interstate Highways Excluded: The 10% harvest weight extension does not apply on Interstate highways (such as I-70 through Junction City). If you enter I-70, you must comply strictly with standard 80,000 lb bridge formula limits unless operating under a special state permit. 2. Bridge Formula & Axle Limits: The allowance applies to gross vehicle weight, but single-axle (20,000 lbs) and tandem-axle (34,000 lbs) legal maximums must still be respected to prevent pavement structural damage. 3. Safety Regulations Remain Enforceable: Weight exemptions do not exempt farm vehicles from mechanical safety compliance. Kansas Highway Patrol commercial vehicle inspectors can pull over and inspect any farm rig exhibiting unsafe tires, defective air brakes, or non-functioning brake lamps. Q: What Steering and Suspension Red Flags Signal Pending Breakdown in the Field? Mike Hogg: Driving a grain truck loaded with 800 bushels across rutted farm fields puts immense lateral stress on your steering linkage and suspension assemblies. Red flags to catch before heading out: • Steering Play & Binding: Lift the front axle off the ground and check for play in kingpins, tie rod ends, and drag links. Excessive steering wheel free-play (more than 2 inches on a 20-inch wheel) indicates worn gearboxes or joint slop. • Torn Dust Boots: Damaged rubber boots on ball joints and tie rod ends allow field dirt and grit to grind away internal bearings. • Cracked Leaf Springs: Inspect leaf spring packs for shifted, cracked, or missing leaves. A broken main leaf spring under full load can snap the axle loose, causing catastrophic vehicle rollover. • U-Bolt Torque & Center Pins: Check leaf spring U-bolts for tightness. Loose U-bolts allow axle movement, leading to severe tire scuffing and frame misalignment. • Shock Absorber Weeping: Hydraulic fluid leaks on shock bodies mean reduced damping, resulting in severe axle hop on corrugated gravel roads. Q: What Lighting, Electrical, and Reflective Marking Items Are Mandated for Highway Safety? 1. 100% Light Verification: Harvest days start before dawn and extend well past dusk. Every headlight, clearance lamp, side marker, turn signal, hazard flasher, and brake light must function properly. Clean dusty lenses daily. 2. SMV Emblem Requirements: If operating specialized farm equipment or low-speed grain setups under 25 MPH on public roads, a clean, non-faded Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) triangle must be centrally mounted on the rear. 3. DOT C2 Reflective Tape: Commercial grain trailers and heavy trucks require red-and-white retroreflective tape along 50% of box sides and full width across rear lower clearance bars to prevent motorist rear-end collisions. If you need replacement sealed-beam LED clearance lights, 7-way electrical trailer harnesses, or heavy-duty fuses before hitting the road, you can Order Genuine Ford Parts directly through the Valor Ford parts counter. Order OEM Truck Parts & Lighting Q: Where Can I Get a Pre-Haul Inspection Near Junction City? Mike Hogg: Valor Ford, conveniently located right off I-70 at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, offers comprehensive commercial truck and agricultural vehicle inspections. Our heavy-duty service center features specialized truck bays equipped to handle full-size grain trucks, Super Duty farm fleets, and commercial chassis setups. Our master certified diesel technicians perform full multi-point safety inspections, air brake certifications, steering system diagnostics, and engine health checks. We know that time is money during harvest season, so we offer fast turnarounds and genuine OEM parts to eliminate unexpected downtime. Need fleet pickup or off-site maintenance arrangements? You can also Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service with our team to streamline your harvest preparation schedule. Schedule Your Agricultural Grain Truck Pre-Harvest Inspection at Valor Ford in Junction City Schedule your inspection before combine augers start dumping grain into uninspected trucks. Protect your harvest window, safeguard your drivers, and avoid costly road delays across Central Kansas by scheduling a comprehensive agricultural truck inspection with the expert team at Valor Ford today. Visit us at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 or reach out directly to our commercial service desk. You can Get Directions to Valor Ford or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to book your priority pre-harvest service slot. Schedule Ford Service Today

2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback: Performance Meets Premium The 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback is the sweet spot for buyers who want genuine V8 muscle without sacrificing cabin refinement. Starting at $51,080 MSRP, it delivers 480 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque from a naturally aspirated 5L Coyote V8 paired with a manual 6-speed transmission and rear-wheel drive. It seats 4, returns 18 mpg combined, and earns J.D. Power's recognition as the Highest Ranked Sporty Car in Initial Quality. For Fort Riley service members and Junction City enthusiasts, this is the Mustang that does everything. Research Ford Mustang Get Pre-Approved for Financing How Much Does the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback Cost to Own in Dickinson County? The GT Premium Fastback carries a base MSRP of $51,080 plus a $1,995 destination charge, putting the starting as delivered price at $53,075 before any options. That price point positions it above the standard GT Fastback while stopping well short of the track-focused Dark Horse variants, making it the most compelling value proposition in the lineup for buyers who want the full V8 experience with elevated interior appointments. Feature GT Premium Fastback Base MSRP $51,080 Destination charge $1,995 The specific vehicle currently available at Valor Ford — a Shadow Black GT Premium Fastback (Stock #26FC01, VIN 1FA6P8CF1T5410825) — has a current advertised price of $58,358, reflecting a well-optioned build that includes the B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen 12 Speakers, the Mustang Nite Pony Package, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, Equipment Group 401A, the Brembo Brake System with Performance Linings, the 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission, and Premium Floor Liners Front and Rear with Carpet Mats. That configuration represents a meaningful real-world cost for buyers in the region, and understanding what each option adds helps shoppers decide where to invest. For buyers in Dickinson County and the surrounding plains communities who are weighing the Mustang against other performance coupes, it helps to review the full 2026 Ford Mustang model breakdown before stepping into a showroom. Shoppers who prefer a different style of Ford performance may also want to browse available new Ford Bronco inventory as a contrasting option. Either way, the GT Premium Fastback's pricing structure rewards buyers who know exactly which packages matter to their daily use. Trade In Evaluation Exterior Styling of the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback for Plains Driving Out on the open Kansas plains, a car's silhouette matters — and the GT Premium Fastback's fastback roofline, wide 75.4-inch body, and 55-inch overall height give it a genuinely low, planted stance that reads as purposeful rather than just pretty. The two-door coupe body is 189.4 inches long on a 107-inch wheelbase, proportions that deliver the classic long-hood, short-deck muscle car geometry while remaining manageable in everyday parking situations. Lighting is fully LED across the board: projector-beam LED low beams, LED high beams, LED daytime running lights, LED side indicator lights, LED rear lights, and LED brake lights. Auto-dimming headlights with a dusk sensor and automatic high-beam control mean the car adjusts intelligently on dark rural roads without driver intervention. Body-color painted door mirrors with heated glass and power adjustment come standard, though the Mustang Nite Pony Package swaps those for toned mirrors alongside a black roof treatment and a trunk/hatch spoiler — a blacked-out aesthetic that suits the Shadow Black exterior of the in-stock example particularly well. The exterior color palette for the GT Premium Fastback spans ten choices: Race Red, Shadow Black, Iconic Silver Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Grabber Blue Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, Molten Magenta Metallic Tricoat, Oxford White, Adriatic Blue Metallic, and Orange Fury Metallic Tri-coat. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels on 8.5-inch-wide rims wear all-season tires front and rear, providing year-round confidence on the flat to gently rolling terrain between Junction City and the Flint Hills. Buyers interested in comparing Ford's design language across the lineup can explore the 2026 Ford Explorer's exterior details, or browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory for additional options at different price points. Browse Used Inventory Performance and Powertrain Highlights of the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback Four hundred and eighty horsepower. That number, produced by Ford's 5L Coyote V8 at 7,150 rpm, is the defining fact of the GT Premium Fastback experience — and it comes paired with 415 lb-ft of torque peaking at 4,900 rpm, channeled through a manual 6-speed transmission (Getrag MT-82) to the rear wheels. This is a naturally aspirated, high-revving V8 that rewards drivers who work it through the rev range, not a turbocharged unit that builds power in a narrow band. Feature GT Premium Fastback Engine 5L Horsepower 480 hp Torque 415 lb-ft Transmission manual 6-speed Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive Feature GT Premium Fastback MPG 15 city / 23 hwy / 18 combined The rear-wheel drive configuration and independent suspension — MacPherson struts up front with coil springs, multi-link rear with coil springs — give the GT Premium Fastback a genuinely balanced handling character on the gently rolling Flint Hills terrain. A standard mechanical limited-slip differential helps manage power delivery at corner exits, and the car includes launch control and electronic traction and stability control systems for drivers who want to explore the performance envelope safely. Fuel economy of 15 city / 23 hwy / 18 combined mpg on regular unleaded is honest for a naturally aspirated V8 sports car. The 16-gallon tank translates to a calculated range of approximately 288 miles, which is workable for weekend drives across northeastern Kansas without constant fuel stops. The in-stock example at Valor Ford adds the optional 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission (with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and a manual mode), which replaces the standard 6-speed manual for buyers who prefer an automatic. That transmission features gear ratios spanning 4.69:1 in first through 0.63:1 in tenth, with a 4.86:1 reverse ratio. The Brembo Brake System with Performance Linings is also fitted, upgrading stopping power beyond the standard four-wheel ventilated disc setup. The GT Performance Package adds a sport-tuned alternate suspension, TORSEN mechanical limited-slip differential, and wider 9-inch front / 9.5-inch rear wheels with summer performance tires — a meaningful chassis upgrade for drivers who prioritize cornering grip. Buyers trading in a current vehicle can get an estimate on their trade-in value before configuring their GT Premium Fastback, and those researching the full Ford performance truck lineup may find the 2026 Ford F-150 overview a useful comparison for understanding Ford's broader powertrain philosophy. Edmunds describes the Mustang as "a charmer and a hammer" with "thumping V8 power, truly excellent handling and modern tech" — a characterization that holds squarely for the GT Premium Fastback's powertrain specification. Interior Comfort and Space Tailored for Families in the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback A 2+2 seating configuration seats 4 passengers, with sport front seats offering 4-way electric height adjustment, electric reach and recline, and an electric lumbar on the driver's side. The passenger seat gets 2-way electric adjustment. Both front seats are heated and ventilated as standard, and climate-controlled seats are available through the Equipment Group 401A package. The rear seats fold symmetrically to expand utility when needed. Feature GT Premium Fastback Seating 4 Cargo 13.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,741 lbs Front headroom measures 37.6 inches, rear headroom 34.8 inches. Front leg room is 44.5 inches — generous for a sports coupe — while rear leg room is 29 inches, appropriate for occasional use. Front shoulder room is 56.3 inches, rear 52.2 inches. Front hip room comes in at 54.9 inches with 47.4 inches in the rear. The about 13 cu ft trunk is a practical asset for a sports coupe. Military families heading to a Junction City Riverfest event or packing picnic gear for a Kansas River afternoon will find it accommodates a meaningful load. The cabin itself features carbon fiber-look trim on the instrument panel and doors, a leather-wrapped center console and gear selector, stainless steel door sill protectors, and selectable ambient lighting. Interior color choices include Black Onyx Leather, Space Gray Leather, Carmine Red Leather, and several two-tone combinations — plus Recaro leather-trimmed sport seats as an option for buyers who want maximum lateral support. Dual-zone automatic climate control, a micro-filter ventilation system, and touch-screen climate controls keep the cabin comfortable regardless of Kansas weather. A full floor console and front cup holders round out the daily-driver practicality. Buyers ready to move forward can get pre-approved for financing online before visiting the showroom. Get Pre-Approved for Financing Infotainment and Connectivity Features That Enhance the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback Experience Ford's SYNC 4 system is the GT Premium Fastback's connectivity backbone, running on a 13.2-inch center touchscreen paired with a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster. The center display is fixed-orientation and touch-controlled, and both screens use TFT technology for sharp, readable graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard, with wireless compatibility for both platforms. Standard audio is a 9-speaker system with AM/FM, digital radio, satellite radio (3-month trial included), touchscreen control, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. For buyers who want a more immersive sound experience, the optional B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen 12 Speakers with subwoofer upgrades the audio significantly — and the Shadow Black in-stock example at Valor Ford includes this system already fitted. Bluetooth connectivity and available connected-services features are offered on the vehicle. Wi-Fi hotspot capability and remote services availability may vary by model and subscription. The car also supports driver mode selection including engine mapping and steering modes as standard features. The optional Ford Connectivity Package adds a 13.2-inch navigation display with 3D mapping, voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, internet-fed traffic data, and 84 months of traffic information and map update subscriptions — a genuinely useful addition for drivers who regularly travel across the sparsely mapped rural routes between Junction City and western Kansas. Three front USB charging ports and one front USB data connection keep devices powered. The Magnesium Framed Curved Glass Display is an additional option for buyers who want the most visually striking instrument presentation available. Owners who want to keep their Mustang's technology features current can order genuine Ford parts and accessories directly through Valor Ford's parts department. Order Genuine Ford Parts Safety and Driver Assistance Systems Designed for Military Families in the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback The GT Premium Fastback includes a range of standard safety and driver-assistance features. That structural confidence is backed by 8 airbags: dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, front-and-rear side curtain airbags, and driver and passenger knee airbags. Front seat belts include pre-tensioners on both sides, and all four seating positions have rear belts as well. Standard active safety technology includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), which activates at speeds as low as 3 mph and operates across the full speed range, including above 78 mph. The system monitors for pedestrians and cyclists, provides visual and acoustic warnings, activates hazard lights automatically in an emergency, and includes junction-turning detection. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert uses radar to detect crossing vehicles when reversing. The Lane-Keeping System applies steering corrections when the car drifts without a turn signal. Multi-collision braking reduces secondary impact severity after an initial collision event. The Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package — included on the in-stock example — adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, intelligent speed assist, a speed limiter, traffic sign recognition, and active lane control with highway assist. This package adds driver-assistance features for highway driving, a meaningful comfort feature for longer drives across the Kansas plains. The Equipment Group 401A package also bundles adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, traffic sign recognition, anti-theft protection, and memory settings for the driver's seat position. The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) monitors adjacent lanes and alerts the driver without requiring a turn signal activation, which is particularly useful in high-traffic base-adjacent commuting situations. ABS, electronic traction control, stability control, hill holder, and brake assist are all standard. ISOFIX child seat anchors are fitted for families with younger children. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options for 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback Owners Ford backs the 2026 Mustang GT Premium Fastback with a 3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty covering the complete vehicle, a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty protecting the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components, and a 5-year / 60,000-mile roadside assistance plan that provides manufacturer-backed emergency support. Paint coverage runs 3 years / 36,000 miles, and corrosion protection extends to 5 years. These terms are competitive within the sports car segment and provide meaningful coverage for the Coyote V8's service intervals. Ford's roadside assistance program is manufacturer-backed, meaning service is coordinated through authorized Ford technicians using genuine parts — the same quality standard as the factory build. For any unexpected situation on a remote Kansas highway, Ford's roadside assistance provides direct access to brand-specific expertise. You can reach Ford Roadside Assistance at (800) 331-7867. Valor Ford's service team is equipped to handle all scheduled maintenance and warranty work for the GT Premium Fastback. The Coyote V8's maintenance schedule — oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations — can be managed at a single location by technicians who know this platform. Military personnel with flexible schedules between rotations will find that booking ahead keeps service intervals on track. Buyers can schedule a Ford service appointment online at any time, making it straightforward to plan maintenance around duty schedules or weekend commitments. Schedule Ford Service Today Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service Awards and Expert Recognition for the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback Highest Ranked Sporty Car U.S. Initial Quality Study (2026, J.D. Power) Most Appealing Sporty Car U.S. APEAL Study (2026, J.D. Power) Editors' Choice: Sports Car (2026, Car and Driver) Highest Initial Quality Among Sporty Cars U.S. Initial Quality Study (2026, J.D. Power) The 2026 Ford Mustang family has earned substantive third-party recognition that validates its position at the top of the sports car segment. J.D. Power awarded the Mustang Highest Ranked Sporty Car — U.S. Initial Quality Study (2026, J.D. Power) and Most Appealing Sporty Car — U.S. APEAL Study (2026, J.D. Power), two distinct measures of both manufacturing quality and emotional satisfaction that together confirm the car delivers on its promises from day one of ownership. Car and Driver named it Editors' Choice: Sports Car (2026, Car and Driver), placing it among the publication's most recommended vehicles in the category. The GT Premium Fastback's trim-specific recognition comes from J.D. Power's Highest Initial Quality Among Sporty Cars — U.S. Initial Quality Study (2026, J.D. Power), a designation that specifically reflects owner-reported quality during the first 90 days of ownership — a period when any manufacturing shortcomings typically surface. Car and Driver describes the Mustang's blend of retro and modern touches as "the perfect example of advancements not spoiling a timeless recipe," while MotorTrend notes the GT "when pushed through canyon roads, is shockingly poised and well balanced." Road & Track observes the Mustang "feels honed and modern without straying too far from the public's perception of what a Mustang should look like." These accolades reflect favorable third-party commentary about the GT Premium Fastback. Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback Q: What is the starting price of the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback? The base MSRP is $51,080, with a $1,995 destination charge bringing the as-delivered starting price to $53,075. The Shadow Black example currently in stock at Valor Ford is priced at $58,358, reflecting a heavily optioned build that includes the B&O 12-speaker audio system, Brembo brakes, the Nite Pony Package, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, and the 10-speed automatic transmission. Buyers interested in specific configurations can visit Valor Ford at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd to discuss the current build sheet. Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback? The GT Premium Fastback is EPA-rated at 15 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined on regular unleaded fuel. With a 16-gallon tank, the calculated range is approximately 288 miles per fill-up. For drivers commuting between Fort Riley and Junction City or taking weekend drives through the Flint Hills, the highway rating provides reasonable range without constant refueling. Q: How many people does the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback seat? The GT Premium Fastback seats 4 passengers in a 2+2 configuration. Front occupants have generous legroom at 44.5 inches and headroom at 37.6 inches. The rear seats are best suited for occasional use, with 29 inches of legroom and 34.8 inches of headroom. The rear seats fold symmetrically to expand cargo access when needed. Q: Does the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback come with a manual transmission? Yes — the standard transmission is a manual 6-speed (Getrag MT-82) with a floor-mounted shifter. Buyers who prefer an automatic can add the optional 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission, which includes steering-wheel paddle shifters and a manual mode. The in-stock Shadow Black example at Valor Ford is fitted with the automatic. Give our team (785) 238-5114 to discuss which transmission configuration suits your driving style before placing an order. Q: What safety features come standard on the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback? Standard safety equipment includes 8 airbags (front, side, curtain, and knee), Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, the Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), multi-collision braking, ABS, electronic stability and traction control, and a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating. The Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package adds adaptive cruise with stop-and-go, active lane control, and highway assist for drivers who want a higher level of driving automation on open roads. Q: What warranty does the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback come with? Ford provides a 3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty covering the Coyote V8 and drivetrain, and a 5-year / 60,000-mile roadside assistance plan. Paint is covered for 3 years / 36,000 miles, and corrosion protection extends to 5 years. All warranty service is available at Valor Ford, where the service team is familiar with the Mustang platform and can accommodate the scheduling needs of active-duty military members and local professionals alike. Experience the 2026 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback at Valor Ford Research Ford Mustang Get Pre-Approved for Financing Trade In Evaluation © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend: Built for Active Families The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 4X4 starts at $31,845 and delivers standard all-wheel drive, 180 hp from Ford's turbocharged 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder, and 27 MPG combined — making it the practical entry point into the Bronco Sport lineup. With about 32.5 cu ft of cargo space, a 5-passenger cabin, and 2,200 lbs of towing capacity, it suits active families and military households who need a capable daily driver that can handle a Kansas River trail run just as easily as the school pickup line. Ready to experience the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend firsthand at Valor Ford? Browse our current new inventory or get started online today. Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory How Well Does the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Meet the Needs of Families? The Big Bend 4X4 is purpose-built for exactly the kind of buyer who needs one vehicle to do everything — weekday commutes, weekend outdoor escapes, and everything in between. Standard all-wheel drive, a 5-passenger layout, and about 32.5 cu ft of cargo room behind the rear seats give families real utility without stepping into a larger, harder-to-park SUV. The Bronco Sport's boxy, upright body style isn't just a styling choice — it creates genuine interior volume. Rear headroom measures 41.7 in, front legroom reaches 42.4 in, and shoulder room up front comes in at 57.3 in, giving adults room to sit comfortably on longer drives. Rear passengers get 36.9 in of legroom and 55.6 in of shoulder room, which is enough for two adults or three kids without complaint. For families balancing a tight schedule with an active lifestyle, the Big Bend offers a sensible package. The cabin includes front and rear cup holders, a full floor console, an overhead partial console, and front seatback storage — practical touches that matter when you're loading up for a day at the Kansas River or shuttling kids between activities. Fold the rear seats flat and cargo expands to about 65 cu ft, enough for camping gear, sports equipment, or a weekend's worth of supplies. Shoppers who want a larger family hauler can also explore the 2026 Ford Explorer for three-row seating, or browse available new Bronco inventory for a look at the full-size Bronco's off-road capability. But for families who prioritize maneuverability, fuel economy, and everyday practicality, the Big Bend hits the mark cleanly. Rugged Style Built for Urban Streets and River Trails The Bronco Sport Big Bend earns its looks honestly. Forbes described the Bronco Sport as "boxy in a way that feels deliberate, not retro or corny," noting that the upright stance, squared-off shoulders, and blunt nose give it a "MINI-expedition vibe." That design language is more than aesthetic — it signals a vehicle engineered with purpose. Standard exterior features on the Big Bend include black front and rear bumpers, black roof rails, and body-colored door mirrors that are electrically adjustable and heated. The five-door layout with a rear liftgate makes loading cargo straightforward, and the rear window opens independently on a hinge for quick access without raising the full gate. Rear privacy glass and intermittent rear wipers round out the practical exterior details. The Big Bend rides on 17-inch alloy wheels paired with all-season tires — a sensible choice for year-round driving across Junction City's mix of paved streets, riverbank access roads, and the occasional gravel path. Shoppers who want to customize can optionally step up to 18-inch Dark Gravity Gray-Painted Aluminum Wheels with all-season rubber, adding visual presence without sacrificing the daily-driver character of the trim. Color choices for the Big Bend include Shadow Black Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Oxford White, Velocity Blue Metallic, Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat, Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Space White Metallic, and Orange Fury Metallic Tri-Coat — a range wide enough to suit a military family looking for something understated or a buyer who wants to stand out at the Riverfest parking lot. Shoppers comparing the Big Bend against the broader used crossover market can also browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory for additional options at Valor Ford. Power and AWD Ready for Fort Riley's Flint Hills and Beyond The Big Bend 4X4 is powered by Ford's turbocharged 1.5L EcoBoost inline three-cylinder engine producing 180 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Peak torque arrives at 3,000 rpm, which means the engine pulls confidently from low speeds — a real advantage when navigating gravel roads, riverbank terrain, or the gently rolling grasslands of the Flint Hills region near Fort Riley. Ford's AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) is standard, working alongside the AWD system to manage traction on slick pavement, wet grass, and loose gravel. The suspension setup uses a front strut and coil spring arrangement with an independent rear multi-link and coil configuration — both front and rear are fully independent, which contributes to composed handling on uneven terrain without sacrificing ride comfort on paved roads. The Big Bend also includes driver mode selection, which lets the driver tailor the powertrain and AWD response to conditions — useful when transitioning from a highway run to a dirt campground road. A hill holder function prevents rollback on inclines, and the electronic auto-hold brake adds convenience in stop-and-go traffic. Towing capacity stands at 2,200 lbs, which covers small utility trailers, fishing boats on the Kansas River, or a loaded cargo trailer for a Dickinson County work run. Payload capacity is rated at 2,847 lbs, giving the Big Bend genuine hauling versatility for its class, suitable for carrying heavy gear and equipment. Feature Big Bend 4X4 Seating 5 Cargo 32.5 cu ft Curb weight 3,458 lbs Towing 2,200 lbs Payload 2,847 lbs Buyers trading in a current vehicle can get an estimate on their trade-in value at Valor Ford to help offset the purchase. Trade In Evaluation Spacious Cabin Comfort for Family Days at Kansas River Parks and Outdoor Outings A quick look at the interior dimensions tells the story: the Big Bend delivers genuine adult-sized space in a compact footprint. Front headroom is 41.5 in, rear headroom is 41.7 in, and front hip room measures 55.2 in — numbers that hold up well against rivals in the compact crossover segment. The rear bench seats three, with an asymmetric fold-flat function that lets owners configure the cargo area around what they're carrying that day. Standard seating uses cloth upholstery, and interior trim options include Ebony Premium Trimmed (black upgraded cloth), Medium Light Smoked Truffle Unique Cloth (a warm brown cloth), or Ebony Premium Trimmed with Bronze Stitching — a nod to the Bronco Sport's adventure-ready character. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford, stock number 26FT103, is finished in Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat with the Medium Light Smoked Truffle interior, giving the cabin a warm, outdoorsy tone that complements the exterior color cleanly. Climate control is handled by a single-zone automatic air conditioning system — simple to operate and effective for keeping the cabin comfortable during hot Kansas summers or cold winter mornings. The ventilation system includes a cabin air filter for cleaner air on dusty rural roads. Storage is well thought out: front and rear cup holders, a full floor console, an overhead partial console, and front seatback storage pockets give every passenger somewhere to put their things. A 12V power outlet in the front and another in the cargo area keep devices and accessories powered on longer outings. Feature Big Bend 4X4 MPG 25 city / 30 hwy / 27 combined At 27 MPG combined, the Big Bend stretches a 16-gallon tank to an EPA-calculated range of 432 miles — enough to handle a full week of commuting between Fort Riley and Junction City without stopping. Buyers ready to move forward can contact us for current financing information before visiting the showroom. Get Pre-Approved for Financing Smart Tech to Navigate Life in Urban and Rural Areas The Big Bend's technology suite is centered on a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display — a notably large screen for an entry-level trim — paired with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, so drivers can mirror their phone's navigation, music, and messaging without plugging in a cable. Both integrations are included without a subscription expiration, making them genuinely long-term features rather than trial periods. Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a 6-speaker audio system, and AM/FM/satellite radio are all standard. SiriusXM comes with a 3-month trial subscription, with an optional upgrade to a 3-year SiriusXM with 360L plan. A built-in Wi-Fi hotspot with embedded SIM card is included for 12 months, and the optional connected services package extends that connected data plan to 84 months — a meaningful consideration for families who want to avoid relying solely on phone hotspots. The system also includes Ford's Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, remote lock/unlock, remote vehicle start, theft alert, and a find-my-car feature — all tied to a 12-month connected services subscription. Ford's 911 Assist telematics connects emergency services automatically in the event of an airbag deployment, which matters for families driving both urban streets and more isolated rural routes. USB connectivity includes 2 front USB ports and 2 rear USB charging ports, keeping everyone's devices topped off on longer trips. A front 12V outlet and a cargo-area 12V outlet add flexibility for accessories and gear. Feature Big Bend 4X4 Engine 1.5L Horsepower 180 hp Torque 200 lb-ft Drivetrain All-wheel drive Owners who want to keep their Bronco Sport running at its best can order genuine Ford parts directly through Valor Ford. Order Genuine Ford Parts Protecting Military Families and Community Members on Urban and Rural Roads The Big Bend 4X4 carries a comprehensive standard safety suite that earns the Bronco Sport a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating — the highest possible score — with 5-star frontal and 5-star side impact ratings. The NHTSA rollover rating is 4 stars. The airbag system includes 7 total airbags: dual front airbags for driver and passenger, front side airbags, front-and-rear side curtain airbags, and a driver knee airbag. Pre-tensioning front seatbelts with height adjustment are standard for both front occupants, and the rear center position gets a 3-point seatbelt. LATCH anchor points for child safety seats are included, rated Acceptable by IIHS. Active safety systems are led by Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, which activates at speeds as low as 3 mph and applies braking at low speed from both front and rear. Rear Cross Traffic Braking uses radar to detect vehicles approaching from the side while reversing — particularly useful in busy parking areas near Fort Riley's community facilities or Junction City's historic downtown. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) monitors the rear flanks and alerts the driver to vehicles in adjacent lanes. The Lane Keeping System provides steering input to help keep the vehicle within its lane, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability manages following distance and speed in traffic automatically. AdvanceTrac with RSC provides electronic stability and roll stability control, and a 4-wheel disc brake system with ABS, brake assist, and auto-hold ensures consistent stopping performance. The electronic hill holder prevents rollback on inclines. The IIHS headlights rating is Good — the top score — and the small overlap front driver-side test result is also Good, with the side impact rated Acceptable. Breaking Down 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Pricing The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 4X4 carries a base MSRP of $31,845 with a destination charge of $1,995, bringing the drive-away starting figure to $33,840 before any options or packages. Feature Big Bend 4X4 Base MSRP $31,845 Destination charge $1,995 That starting price positions the Big Bend as an accessible entry into a genuinely capable all-wheel-drive crossover — a meaningful value proposition for military families and working households managing a budget. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford (Stock #26FT103, VIN 3FMCR9BN4TRE75117) is priced at $37,445, reflecting added options including the Convenience Package, 18-inch Dark Gravity Gray-Painted Aluminum Wheels, the Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat exterior, and the Medium Light Smoked Truffle interior trim. The Convenience Package is one of the most meaningful add-ons for the Big Bend. It upgrades the driver's seat to a 4-way power-adjustable configuration with electric height, reach, reclining, and lumbar adjustment, adds heated front seats for both driver and passenger, and swaps the standard steering wheel for a leather-covered unit. For buyers who plan to spend time in the vehicle daily — particularly during Kansas winters — those upgrades make a tangible difference in comfort. Other available packages include the Black Diamond Off-Road Package (front recovery hooks, underbody engine protection, brush guard, all-terrain tires, full-size spare, and Trailer-Sway Control), the Bronze Package (bronze-accented exterior door handles, metallic paint, front seatback storage, and unique floor covering), and the Black Appearance Package (black roof color, sport front seats, and leather upholstery). The Interior Protection Package adds floor covering and floor mats for buyers who prioritize easy cleanup after outdoor use. Buyers who want to compare a different Ford capability profile can also review the 2026 Ford F-150 for full-size truck capability and towing. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options for Owners Ford backs the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend with a straightforward warranty package that gives buyers confidence over the long term. The bumper-to-bumper basic warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain warranty extends to 5 years or 60,000 miles, covering the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. Paint coverage matches the basic warranty at 3 years or 36,000 miles, and anti-corrosion perforation protection runs for 5 years with unlimited mileage. Ford Roadside Assistance is included for 5 years or 60,000 miles, providing manufacturer-backed emergency support for flat tires, dead batteries, lockouts, and towing. For military families stationed at Fort Riley — where a breakdown on a rural road or during an off-post trip could mean a longer wait for outside help — having five full years of Ford-backed roadside assistance built into the purchase is a meaningful ownership benefit. The connected services subscription, which includes remote start, lock/unlock, theft alert, and the find-my-car feature, is included for 12 months. The Wi-Fi hotspot subscription runs for 12 months as well, with the optional 7-year connectivity package available for buyers who want extended coverage from day one. For ongoing maintenance, Valor Ford's service team is equipped to handle all Ford-scheduled service intervals, warranty repairs, and recall work. Keeping up with oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections on schedule protects the powertrain warranty and extends the life of the vehicle. Owners can schedule a Ford service appointment directly through Valor Ford to stay on top of routine maintenance without hassle. Schedule Ford Service Today Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend's Strengths U.S. News & World Report Best Subcompact SUV for Off-Roading & Best Subcompact SUV for Camping (2026) Car and Driver Editors' Choice Award (2026) Recognized as best in class for real-world buyers. J.D. Power Highest Initial Quality in Small SUV Segment (2025) Reflecting top initial build quality. Third-party recognition for the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport is consistent and specific. U.S. News & World Report named it Best Subcompact SUV for Off-Roading and Best Subcompact SUV for Camping for 2026 — two categories that speak directly to the Bronco Sport's core identity as a trail-capable compact crossover. Car and Driver awarded it the Editors' Choice for 2026, a recognition given to vehicles the publication considers the best in their class for real-world buyers. J.D. Power awarded the Bronco Sport Highest Initial Quality in the Small SUV segment for 2025, reflecting the build quality and reliability that owners experience in the first months of ownership. Press sentiment reinforces these accolades. Edmunds notes that the Bronco Sport "feels like a Bronco in spirit, but in a way that makes sense for daily life" — a precise description of what the Big Bend delivers. Cars.com describes the Bronco Sport as "fun and full of character, things you don't often find in compact SUVs these days." Forbes calls it a solid choice for those interested in rough-and-ready vehicles. Buyers who want to explore Ford's broader lineup — including heavy-duty options — can also review the 2026 Ford F-250 Super Duty for a look at Ford's full capability range. Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Q: What is the starting price of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend? The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 4X4 starts at $31,845 MSRP, with a destination charge of $1,995 bringing the base drive-away price to $33,840. The specific unit currently in stock at Valor Ford (Stock #26FT103) is priced at $37,445 and includes the Convenience Package, 18-inch Dark Gravity Gray wheels, Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat paint, and the Medium Light Smoked Truffle interior. Contact Valor Ford at (785) 238-5114 for current availability, pricing details, and financing information. Q: Does the Big Bend come with all-wheel drive as standard? Yes. The Big Bend 4X4 includes standard all-wheel drive on every unit — it is not an optional upgrade. The system works alongside Ford's AdvanceTrac with RSC stability control and driver mode selection to manage traction across wet pavement, gravel, grass, and light off-road terrain. This makes the Big Bend a reliable choice for navigating Kansas winters, riverbank access roads, and rural routes around Fort Riley without any additional cost or configuration. Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend? The Big Bend 4X4 is EPA-rated at 25 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and 27 MPG combined. With a 16-gallon fuel tank and a calculated range of 432 miles, it handles a full week of commuting between Fort Riley and Junction City comfortably on a single tank. The engine runs on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel, which keeps ongoing fuel costs manageable for budget-conscious households. Q: How much can the Big Bend tow? The Big Bend 4X4 is rated to tow up to 2,200 lbs with a braked trailer. That covers small fishing boats for Kansas River outings, lightweight utility trailers, and small camper trailers. Payload capacity is 2,847 lbs. Buyers who need higher towing capacity for larger boats or equipment trailers should consider the optional Trailer Tow Package, which adds trailer preparation and Trailer Sway Control, or explore Ford's truck lineup for heavier-duty hauling needs. Q: What optional packages are available for the Big Bend? The Big Bend supports several meaningful factory packages. The Convenience Package adds a 4-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Black Diamond Off-Road Package brings all-terrain tires, front recovery hooks, underbody engine protection, a brush guard, and a full-size spare. The Bronze Package adds exterior bronze accents, metallic paint, and front seatback storage. The Black Appearance Package delivers a black roof, sport front seats, and leather upholstery. The Interior Protection Package adds floor mats and floor covering for easy cleanup. Q: Where can I see the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend in person? Valor Ford has a 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend in stock right now — Stock #26FT103, finished in Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat with the Medium Light Smoked Truffle interior. You can visit us at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 or reach our team directly at (785) 238-5114 to schedule a test drive or ask about current availability. Test Drive the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Today Serving Junction City, Fort Riley, and Dickinson County with premier Ford sales and certified service. Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

Ford Super Duty vs. F-150 Comparison for Central Kansas Drivers For truck buyers across Junction City, Fort Riley, and Dickinson County, deciding between America's best-selling half-ton pickup and its heavy-duty sibling is one of the most critical mechanical and financial choices you will make. While the Ford F-150 offers impressive capabilities for everyday commutes and light hauling, there is a distinct tipping point where stepping up to a 2022 Ford Super Duty transitions from a capability upgrade to an absolute operational necessity. The definitive crossover point occurs when your operational needs regularly meet any of three specific criteria: tongue weights consistently exceeding 1,400 pounds, total trailer weights continuously topping 10,000 pounds, or a requirement for daily commercial payload in excess of 2,500 pounds. While a properly optioned half-ton can legally pull up to 14,000 pounds under ideal lab conditions, towing near that ceiling across the rolling elevation of the Flint Hills taxes your brakes, suspension, and transmission at accelerated rates. If you are comparing heavy hauling capabilities, take a look at our Research Ford F-150 guide alongside our Research Ford F-250 breakdown to see how their engineering platforms differ. When towing gooseneck cattle trailers, hauling heavy farm machinery, or transporting military equipment, the heavy-duty chassis of the Super Duty provides the structural mass, heat dissipation, and lateral stability required to keep your load secure and your drivetrain intact over hundreds of thousands of miles. Browse Used Super Duty Inventory Meet Mike Hogg: 20 Years of Ford Truck Service Expertise in Junction City As the Service Director at Valor Ford, Mike Hogg brings two decades of specialized, hands-on maintenance experience working directly on Ford truck drivetrains. Serving the agricultural hubs of Dickinson County and supporting active-duty personnel from nearby Fort Riley, Mike has diagnosed thousands of trucks returning from tough assignments in the field. "Over twenty years in the shop, I've seen customers try to stretch an F-150 beyond its design parameters," notes Mike Hogg. "While half-ton trucks are stronger than ever, there is a fundamental difference in chassis engineering. An F-150 is designed for maximum ride efficiency and light-to-medium work. A Super Duty is designed for continuous thermal endurance and structural stability under extreme stress. When you bring your truck in for Schedule Ford Service Today, our objective is to ensure your vehicle matches the actual physical demands of your daily work. Under Mike's leadership, Valor Ford's service department offers complete fleet support, diesel diagnosis, preventive maintenance, and specialized setup for agricultural and commercial applications throughout Central Kansas. Payload vs. Towing Capacity: F-150 Efficiency vs. Super Duty Heavy Hauling Understanding the distinction between payload and towing capacity is vital for long-term truck reliability. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) determines how much weight a vehicle can safely carry, including its own weight, occupants, fuel, and cargo. Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) factors in the full weight of a fully loaded truck and trailer combined. Engineering Metric 2022 Ford F-150 (Half-Ton) 2022 Ford F-250 Super Duty 2022 Ford F-350 Super Duty Max Conventional Towing 14,000 lbs 20,000 lbs Mode 21,200 lbs Max Gooseneck / 5th-Wheel Not recommended for standard hitch 22,800 lbs 35,750 lbs (SRW/DRW) Max Payload Rating 3,325 lbs (Heavy Duty Payload Pkg) 4,260 lbs 7,850 lbs (DRW) Rear Axle Architecture Semi-Floating Axle Full-Floating Axle Full-Floating HD Axle Frame Steel Thickness Fully Boxed High-Strength Steel Fully Boxed High-Strength Steel Fully Boxed High-Strength Steel The mechanical divide comes down to structural engineering. The F-150 utilizes a semi-floating rear axle where the axle shaft itself supports vehicle weight while transmitting rotational power. In contrast, the 2022 Ford Super Duty (F-250 and F-350) utilizes a full-floating rear axle. The vehicle weight and payload are supported entirely by the outer axle housing through dual wheel bearings, leaving the inner axle shafts dedicated purely to driving torque. This design prevents axle bending under severe vertical loading when transporting heavy machinery across rough Kansas terrain. Which 2022 Ford Super Duty Engine Is Best for Heavy Towing? Selecting the proper powerplant for your 2022 Ford Super Duty ensures you get the ideal balance of initial acquisition cost, fuel economy, and pulling power tailored to your work requirements. 6.2L Flex-Fuel V8 Output: 385 hp / 430 lb-ft torque Transmission: TorqShift 6-speed / 10-speed Automatic Best For: Light commercial fleets, municipal municipal work, and moderate farm utility. Known for low maintenance costs and long-term reliability on regular gasoline. 7.3L Godzilla V8 Output: 430 hp / 475 lb-ft torque Transmission: TorqShift 10-speed Heavy Duty Best For: Heavy gas towing, commercial work trucks, and buyers who want maximum gas durability without diesel emission hardware complexities. 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel Output: 475 hp / 1,050 lb-ft torque Transmission: TorqShift 10-speed Heavy Duty Best For: Extreme towing, long-distance interstate hauling, heavy goosenecks, and grain trailers where low-end torque is paramount. Get a Trade In Evaluation on Your Current Truck What Configuration Is Required to Tow 37,000 Pounds with a 2022 Ford Super Duty? Reaching the headline-grabbing maximum towing capacity of 37,000 pounds on a 2022 Ford Super Duty requires a very specific factory configuration. You cannot simply select any trim off the lot and expect to pull heavy commercial equipment safely. To hit this benchmark, the chassis must be spec'd with precision from the assembly plant. Required equipment includes an F-450 Regular Cab 4x2 equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel engine, 4.30 wide-track front axle ratio, factory Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package, and 19.5-inch commercial-grade tires. This specific dually setup delivers the frame stiffness and gear multiplication required for extreme combined weights. For most Central Kansas operators, an F-250 or F-350 single-rear-wheel (SRW) or dual-rear-wheel (DRW) configuration offers the perfect middle ground—providing maximum trailer ratings between 18,000 and 24,000 pounds while retaining easy maneuverability through Junction City parking lots and tight rural lanes. When configuring a pre-owned truck for purchase, our staff at Valor Ford verifies frame labels, axle ratings, and factory hitch packages so you know exactly what your vehicle can handle legally and safely before hitching up. Service Director Insight: Why Frame Rigidity and Axle Ratings Outweigh Raw Horsepower "A common misconception among truck buyers is focusing solely on engine horsepower ratings when evaluating tow rigs. In actual service conditions across Geary and Dickinson counties, raw horsepower doesn't keep a 12,000-pound trailer from pushing your truck around on an incline—chassis rigidity, brake surface area, and cooling capacity do." — Mike Hogg, Service Director at Valor Ford (20 Years Ford Master Tech Experience) Mike explains that the Super Duty frame features up to 1.5-inch thicker steel boxed rails compared to an F-150. Combined with massive 14.29-inch front and rear disc brake rotors, high-capacity transmission fluid coolers, and engine braking integration, a Super Duty remains calm and stable during emergency stops or long downhill descents through the Flint Hills. What Towing Tech Features Are Available on the 2022 Super Duty? Pro Trailer Backup Assist Allows drivers to steer the trailer using an intuitive dashboard knob while the truck automatically controls the steering wheel, making backing up complex trailers into tight farm sheds straightforward. Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera Features a 360-degree camera system, rear guidance, trailer reverse guidance, and customer-placed rear trailer camera integration for total situational awareness. BLIS with Trailer Coverage Extends blind-spot monitoring alerts along the entire length of your trailer (up to 33 feet), providing enhanced peace of mind when changing lanes on I-70. Contact us for current financing options What Is Included in the 2022 Ford Super Duty Tremor Off-Road Package? For farmers, ranchers, and outdoor workers in Dickinson County who must traverse muddy pastures, unpaved service roads, and rugged terrain, the 2022 Ford Super Duty Tremor Off-Road Package combines extreme heavy-duty towing capability with all-terrain agility. Key Tremor Features Include: • 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac maximum-traction tires mounted on 18-inch matte-black wheels • 2-inch front suspension lift with progressive-rate springs and custom-tuned twin-tube shocks • Selectable Rock Crawl mode and Trail Control (off-road cruise control system) • Water-fording capability up to 33 inches deep for flooded field access • Rear electronic locking differential and front Dana limited-slip differential Is the 2022 Ford Super Duty a Good Used Truck Value Compared to a New F-150? When evaluating purchase options, many buyers wonder whether buying a brand-new half-ton truck or selecting a clean, pre-owned 2022 Ford Super Duty offers better long-term financial value. At current market pricing, a well-maintained pre-owned 2022 Super Duty often aligns closely in price with a higher-trim new F-150 while offering drastically higher mechanical longevity. Super Duty trucks—particularly those equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine—exhibit flatter depreciation curves compared to light-duty pickups. Heavy-duty components like commercial-grade transmissions, heavy axles, and cast-iron engine blocks routinely last past 250,000 to 300,000 miles when properly maintained. If your workload demands regular heavy pulling, purchasing a pre-owned 2022 Super Duty prevents premature wear and tear on a lighter vehicle, keeping overall total cost of ownership (TCO) lower over a 5-to-10-year holding period. You can inspect our pre-owned inventory anytime at Valor Ford by exploring our Browse Used Inventory page to compare current models and pricing. What Are the Most Common Issues Reported with the 2022 Ford Super Duty? Fuel System Care (CP4) High-pressure fuel pumps require strict adherence to fuel filter replacement intervals (every 15,000 miles) and high-quality ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel to prevent internal contamination. DEF System Upkeep Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) heaters and sensors can experience issues during sub-zero Kansas winter conditions if non-fresh fluid is used or heaters wear down over high mileage. Steering & Suspension Steering dampers and track bar bushings can wear under heavy loads. Timely inspection prevents steering oscillation (wobble) on uneven highway surfaces. Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service for Maintenance What Should I Ask a Dealer Before Buying a 2022 Ford Super Duty? Before finalizing a pre-owned 2022 Super Duty purchase, ask the sales team or service technician these key questions: 1. What is the verified axle gear ratio? (3.31 vs 3.55 for mileage, 3.73 or 4.10 for heavy pulling). 2. Has the vehicle undergone an idle-hour vs engine-hour check? High idle hours on diesel engines indicate extended stationary PTO or job site operation. 3. Are there factory recall completion records for the transmission and steering components? 4. Is the factory Gooseneck/5th-Wheel Prep Package equipped? Retrofitting aftermarket hitches requires extra labor compared to factory prep. 5. What is the maintenance history regarding fuel filter changes and transmission fluid services? If you need maintenance parts or accessories for your heavy-duty truck, you can Order Genuine Ford Parts directly through our certified dealership. Matching Your Truck to Central Kansas Workloads: Fort Riley, Farm, or Daily Commute? Fort Riley Military Contractors & Service Members If you haul personal toy haulers, heavy utility trailers, or relocate equipment during military assignments across states, an F-250 Super Duty single-rear-wheel offers the perfect mix of high payload capability and highway cruising comfort. Dickinson County Agricultural Producers For grain transport, livestock trailers, round hay bale hauling, and field work, an F-350 dual-rear-wheel (DRW) with the 6.7L Power Stroke or 7.3L Godzilla V8 provides maximum stability across unpaved terrain. Junction City Suburban & Daily Commuters If your truck serves primarily as a family vehicle with weekend trips towing light utility trailers or small boats under 8,000 lbs, an F-150 half-ton will help reduce fuel costs on fuel and provide easier suburban maneuverability. You can also explore lightweight options like the Research Ford Maverick or utility SUVs like Research Ford Explorer, Research Ford Mustang, or Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory. Find the Right Towing Solution at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Choosing between an F-150 and a Super Duty comes down to knowing your numbers and matching your truck to your actual workload. Visit Valor Ford today to speak directly with Mike Hogg's service team, evaluate trade-in options, and test drive our pre-owned and new truck lineup. Valor Ford 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 Call us at (785) 238-5114 | Get Directions to Valor Ford Schedule Your Towing Consultation Today

Kansas Farm CDL Exemption Rules for Towing Trailers with a Ford F-250 If you operate a farm or ranch in Kansas and utilize a Ford F-250 to haul livestock, grain, hay, or heavy machinery, the short answer is: In the vast majority of cases, you do NOT need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to tow a farm trailer with an F-250 in Kansas. Under federal guidelines standardizing Covered Farm Vehicle (CFV) exemptions (49 CFR 390.39) alongside Kansas state statute (K.S.A. 8-234(b)), registered farmers, family members, and designated farm employees are fully exempt from CDL requirements when operating within a 150 air-mile radius of their agricultural property. This exemption applies even when the combined gross weight rating of your F-250 and gooseneck trailer exceeds the standard 26,001-pound commercial weight threshold. However, this legal protection relies on strict compliance with four fundamental conditions: the truck must be controlled and operated by a farmer or farm employee, designated with farm license plates, used exclusively to transport agricultural products, supplies, or machinery, and operated within the statutory 150 air-mile limit without offering transportation for hire. For local producers in Geary and Dickinson counties, exploring new work-ready inventory or looking to Research Ford F-250 towing configurations helps ensure your setup stays safe, legal, and reliable through every harvest season. 20 Years on the Service Floor: Meet Mike Hogg, Service Director at Valor Ford For over two decades, Mike Hogg has stood on the service bay floor at Valor Ford in Junction City, analyzing real-world wear and tear on agricultural work trucks across Central Kansas. From winter feeding rounds in the Flint Hills to high-tonnage grain hauls during hot August harvests, Mike has helped hundreds of producers configure, service, and maintain heavy-duty powertrains. "The questions we get on the service drive aren't just about horsepower or oil change intervals," says Mike. "Farmers constantly ask us how to keep their F-250 setups completely legal while pulling maximum weight. A 3/4-ton Super Duty is the backbone of Kansas agriculture because it bridges the gap between daily driving comfort and true heavy-duty pulling power without dragging full commercial compliance requirements into daily farm operations. At What Weight Does a Ford F-250 Combination Trigger CDL Requirements in Kansas? To understand where CDL thresholds lie, you must evaluate standard Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) criteria versus Kansas farm exemptions. Under non-farm commercial regulations, a CDL Class A is required whenever a vehicle combination has a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed unit (trailer) has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) exceeding 10,000 pounds. A 2024 Ford F-250 typically carries a vehicle GVWR of 9,900 to 10,000 lbs. When hooked to a heavy dual-axle gooseneck trailer rated at 16,000 lbs GVWR, the total combined rating reaches 26,000 lbs. If your trailer rating pushes total combined ratings past 26,001 lbs, standard commercial drivers would need a Class A CDL. However, Kansas agricultural exemptions carve out a explicit legal space for active producers. Operation Type GCWR Threshold Trailer GVWR CDL Required in KS? Commercial Transport 26,001+ lbs > 10,000 lbs YES (Class A) Covered Farm Vehicle (<150 Air Miles) Any Weight Class Any Weight Class NO (Exempt) Custom Harvest For-Hire 26,001+ lbs > 10,000 lbs YES Interstate Commercial Farm > 26,000 lbs (>150 Mi) > 10,000 lbs YES How Can I Check if My Particular Farm Trailer Setup Behind an F-250 Requires a CDL in Kansas? Step 1: Vehicle & Trailer Placards Check the driver-side door jamb tag on your F-250 for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and front/rear Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR). Locate the VIN metal tag on your trailer tongue or gooseneck frame to note the trailer GVWR. Add both GVWR numbers together to find your total combination rating (GCWR). Step 2: Tag & License Verification Ensure your F-250 carries registered Kansas Farm or Farm Truck license plates. Farm tags register the vehicle with the Kansas Department of Revenue as a farm producer truck, serving as immediate visual proof of Covered Farm Vehicle intent during roadside safety checks. Step 3: Radius & Operation Audit Verify that your transport routes remain within 150 air miles of your agricultural headquarters. Confirm that you are carrying owned farm products, livestock, seed, or machinery and are not receiving direct commercial payment for freight haulage. Contact Us for Current Financing Information Gas vs. Diesel: How Towing Capacity Varies Between 2024 Ford F-250 Engines 6.8L V8 Gas Engine Delivering 405 hp and 445 lb-ft of torque, the entry-level 6.8L gas engine offers excellent utility for light farm duties, utility trailers, and short trips around the pasture, providing dependable conventional towing capabilities up to 14,800 lbs. 7.3L Godzilla V8 Gas Generating 430 hp and 485 lb-ft of torque, the legendary 7.3L gas V8 provides severe-duty gas performance. It is ideal for farmers wanting high payload capacity without diesel maintenance schedules, pulling up to 17,200 lbs on gooseneck configurations. 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel Pumping out 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque (or 500 hp / 1,200 lb-ft in High Output trim), the 6.7L diesel engine represents the peak of heavy hauling performance, unlocking maximum gooseneck capacities over 22,000 lbs in proper F-250 trim. Why Work Truck Guides Frequently Recommend the F-250 for Mixed Towing and Payload Tasks Agricultural operations require versatile machinery. While 1-ton dual-rear-wheel trucks excel at maximum stability under extreme tongue weights, they can be cumbersome in tight cattle pens, farm store parking lots, or soft pasture terrain. The 3/4-ton Ford F-250 hits the operational sweet spot. With payload ratings reaching up to 4,268 lbs depending on configuration, an F-250 can comfortably support liquid tote tanks, seed pallets, or heavy gooseneck pin weights while maintaining comfortable single-rear-wheel maneuverability and single-cab or crew-cab flexibility. Furthermore, opting for an F-250 equipped with Ford's High Capacity Trailer Tow Package upgrades the rear axle to a heavy-duty axle shaft and ring gear, giving you structural towing reserves comparable to an F-350 while staying under restrictive registered weight brackets when necessary. If you are considering upgrading your farm fleet or trading in your current tow vehicle, you can request a quick Trade In Evaluation online at Valor Ford to see what your existing vehicle is worth. Expert Perspective: Choosing the Right F-250 Towing Configuration for Agricultural Reliability "One of the biggest mistakes I see in my 20 years at Valor Ford is mis-matching axle gear ratios and hitch prep when buying a farm truck," notes Service Director Mike Hogg. "If you are regularly pulling 16,000-pound goosenecks through rolling pasture hills or muddy field entrances, you want the 3.55 or 3.73 electronic locking rear axle ratio—or even the 4.30 axle with gas engines. The factory 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package is also a must-have. It mounts the hitch structure directly to the frame cross-members right at the factory, fully covered by Ford warranty, ensuring structural integrity that aftermarket bolt-on hitches just can't match when subjected to high dynamic tongue weights during farm transport. Key Towing and Payload Specs for the 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty Conventional Towing Up to 22,000 lbs when equipped with the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke Diesel and proper weight-distributing receiver hitches. Gooseneck / 5th-Wheel Up to 23,000 lbs maximum gooseneck rating, allowing heavy livestock trailers or multi-bale transport across regional routes. Smart Towing Tech Features available Onboard Scales, Smart Hitch tongue weight estimation, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist for quick single-operator hookups. Browse New Ford Super Duty Inventory Essential Towing Safety Practices for F-250 Farm Operations in Central Kansas Exemption from holding a Commercial Driver's License does not exempt farm operators from fundamental highway safety regulations. Kansas Highway Patrol motor carrier officers perform routine safety inspections on agricultural vehicles to ensure public safety on state highways and rural county roads. Key safety mandates include ensuring full function of all trailer lights, turn signals, and brake lights, maintaining active electric or hydraulic surge trailer brakes on all axles for trailers over 3,000 lbs GVWR, utilizing proper safety chains or breakaway cables, and confirming tire load ratings match or exceed actual axle loads. Recommended Maintenance Schedule When Towing Heavy Farm Trailers with a 2024 F-250 Frequent agricultural towing falls under Ford's Severe Duty Maintenance Schedule. Dragging heavy livestock or grain loads subjects the 10-speed TorqShift transmission, rear differential, and braking system to high thermal loads and elevated mechanical stress. Service Director Mike Hogg recommends changing engine oil and filters every 5,000 miles (or 250 engine hours), replacing primary and secondary diesel fuel filters every 15,000 miles, servicing front/rear differential fluids every 30,000 miles, and inspecting brake pad thickness before peak harvest season. Keeping your work truck in top condition protects your investment and prevents costly downtime during crucial harvest windows. You can easily Schedule Ford Service Today with our factory-certified Super Duty technicians at Valor Ford. Need replacement filters or factory fluids for your farm shop maintenance? You can directly Order Genuine Ford Parts through our parts department for fast local delivery or pickup. When Does Farm Exempt Status Expire? Crossing State Lines and Commercial Transport Exceeding 150 Air Miles If you haul grain, livestock, or machinery beyond 150 air miles (approx. 172.6 land miles) from your farm, the Covered Farm Vehicle CDL exemption expires, requiring full commercial driver compliance if weight limits exceed 26,000 lbs. For-Hire Freight Transport Hauling goods or equipment for neighbors or third parties in exchange for direct fee-for-service payment instantly voids farm exemption status, converting your rig into a commercial motor carrier subject to DOT audits and CDL rules. Crossing State Boundaries While federal MAP-21 rules mandate interstate recognition of Covered Farm Vehicle exemptions in neighboring states like Nebraska, Oklahoma, or Missouri, drivers must verify that local state tag requirements match interstate reciprocity guidelines. Schedule Pickup & Delivery Service for Fleet Maintenance Ready to Spec or Service Your F-250 Farm Truck? Visit Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Whether you are looking to purchase a new 2024 Ford F-250 Super Duty configured specifically for farm gooseneck towing, explore high-quality pre-owned work trucks in our Browse Used Inventory section, or have Service Director Mike Hogg’s team perform complete severe-duty maintenance on your existing farm fleet, Valor Ford is proud to support Central Kansas producers. Stop by our showroom at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, KS 66441 or give our service and sales team a call today. You can get instant driving directions by clicking Get Directions to Valor Ford, or reach us directly by phone at Call us at (785) 238-5114. Contact Valor Ford Today

2023 Ford Maverick XLT: Compact Truck for Junction City The 2023 Ford Maverick XLT FWD starts at $24,855 and delivers 40 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 37 mpg combined — making it one of the most fuel-efficient pickup trucks in its class and the strong value for shoppers who need real truck capability. With seating for 5, a 33 cu ft cargo bed, 2,000 lbs towing, and a hybrid powertrain built into the base price, the Maverick XLT is the right truck for daily commuters, military families, and light-duty haulers who refuse to overpay for capability they actually use. Browse Used Inventory How Much Does the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT Cost to Own in Junction City? The 2023 Ford Maverick XLT FWD carries a base MSRP of $24,855 plus a destination charge of $1,595, putting the as-delivered starting price at just over $26,400 before any options. For working families and service members managing a household budget, that number matters — and the Maverick delivers strong value in the compact pickup segment. Feature XLT FWD Base MSRP $24,855 Destination charge $1,595 Valor Ford currently has a pre-owned 2023 Maverick XLT in stock (Stock #26DT82A) with 41,214 miles, priced at contact for current pricing, equipped with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, the XLT Luxury Package, Ford Co-Pilot360, a remote start system, and a full-size spare tire. The interior is finished in Navy Pier/Medium Slate premium cloth upholstery — a practical, good-looking combination that holds up to the demands of daily military and family life. Beyond the sticker, the Maverick XLT's hybrid powertrain means improved fuel efficiency on every run between base and home. At 37 mpg combined, a driver putting 15,000 miles per year on the truck will spend meaningfully less at the pump than someone driving a traditional compact pickup. That ongoing savings compounds the value of an already accessible purchase price. Shoppers who want to dig into the full Maverick lineup before visiting can explore our Maverick research hub for additional model details. Buyers interested in a more capable off-road alternative may also want to look at our Bronco Badlands inventory to compare. Rugged Exterior Design Ready for Urban Streets and Outdoor Trails The Maverick XLT wears a compact, purposeful body that measures 199.7 inches long and 72.6 inches wide — dimensions that fit naturally into Junction City's historic downtown parking and narrow side streets while still projecting a legitimate truck presence. The SuperCrew cab configuration gives it four full-size doors and a short bed, making it far easier to park and maneuver than a midsize truck without sacrificing the open cargo area. Standard LED headlights — both low and high beam — with a dusk sensor for automatic activation give the XLT a modern face that punches above its price point. The front bumper is painted body-color, while the rear bumper wears a contrasting black finish, a design choice that reinforces the truck's working character without looking overdressed. Electrically adjustable side mirrors in black finish come standard; upgrading to the Black Appearance Package swaps in toned mirrors and steps the wheels up from 17-inch to 18-inch alloy wheels for a sportier, blacked-out look. The exterior color palette offers real personality. Choices include Cyber Orange Tri-coat Metallic, Hot Pepper Red Tinted Clearcoat Metallic, Atlas Blue Metallic, Azure Gray Metallic Tri-coat, Shadow Black, Oxford White, Iconic Silver Metallic, Carbonized Grey Metallic, Cactus Grey, and Terrain. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford wears Area 51 — a cool, muted blue-gray that reads differently in different light and has become one of the Maverick's most popular colors. Buyers who want to browse what's currently available can check our used vehicle inventory for current Maverick XLT stock and pricing. Power and Performance of the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT for Commutes and Weekend Hauls The standard Maverick XLT FWD runs a 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain producing 191 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT sending power to the front wheels. The hybrid system integrates a 126 hp AC permanent magnet synchronous electric motor with a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, enabling energy recuperation and an auto start/stop function that cuts fuel consumption during stop-and-go driving — exactly the kind of driving that happens on the roads between Fort Riley and Junction City. Feature XLT FWD Engine 2.5L Horsepower 191 hp Torque 155 lb-ft Transmission CVT Drivetrain Front-wheel drive The fuel economy story is the headline: 40 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, 37 mpg combined, with a calculated range of 511 miles per tank on the standard 13.8-gallon fuel tank. For a service member making daily round trips on base or a civilian commuter running errands around Geary County, that range means fewer fuel stops per week and potential fuel savings over the life of ownership. The engine runs on regular 87-octane fuel — no premium required. The suspension pairs a front MacPherson strut with independent coil springs to a rear torsion beam semi-independent setup with coil springs. That front-strut geometry contributes to the car-like steering feel that Car and Driver and Edmunds both noted in their reviews — the Maverick handles more like a crossover than a traditional body-on-frame truck, which makes it genuinely enjoyable on the flat Kansas plains and confident on the gently rolling terrain of the Flint Hills near Fort Riley. Ground clearance sits at 8.3 inches with an approach angle of 20.6 degrees and departure angle of 21.9 degrees — enough to handle gravel county roads and uneven terrain without drama. The AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) system monitors dynamics and intervenes to keep the truck planted, a useful feature on rural roads where surface conditions change quickly. For buyers ready to move forward, you can start the financing process online before visiting the showroom. Get Pre-Approved for Financing Comfortable Interior Features Tailored for Military Families and Weekend Getaways Five-passenger seating in a compact truck footprint is one of the Maverick XLT's most practical achievements. The front row offers bucket seats with manual adjustments for height, reach, and recline, along with manual lumbar support — functional and easy to dial in for drivers of different builds. The rear bench folds flat one-piece, opening up the cab floor for longer items when cargo takes priority over passengers. Front and rear center armrests add comfort on longer drives. Feature XLT FWD Seating 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,674 lbs Towing 2,000 lbs Payload 1,500 lbs Interior dimensions are genuinely generous for this class. Front headroom measures 40.3 inches, rear headroom 39.6 inches, front legroom 42.8 inches, and rear legroom 35.9 inches — enough for adults to sit comfortably in both rows. Front shoulder room is 57.3 inches and rear shoulder room 55.6 inches, so three across in the back is realistic for smaller passengers. Storage is thoughtfully distributed: a full floor console, a partial overhead console, front and rear cup holders, and below-seat storage in the rear. The standard seat upholstery is upgraded cloth — a step above the entry-level XL's base material — and the in-stock unit at Valor Ford features Navy Pier/Medium Slate premium cloth, which pairs well with the Area 51 exterior. Interior color options also include Black Onyx Unique Cloth for buyers who prefer a darker, more utilitarian look. The XLT Luxury Package is the most meaningful upgrade available for the cabin. It adds a power-adjustable driver's seat with 4-way electric adjustment (height, reach, recline, and tilt), heated front seats for both driver and passenger, a heated steering wheel in synthetic leather, heated power mirrors, a spray-in bedliner, 2 rear USB charging ports, a main power supply outlet, trailer towing preparation, and a windshield wiper de-icer. For families dealing with Kansas winters, the heated seats and wiper de-icer alone justify the package. The in-stock Valor Ford unit is equipped with this package. If you need genuine Ford replacement parts or accessories to customize your Maverick's interior, you can order genuine Ford parts directly through our parts department. Tech That Keeps You Connected on Base and Beyond with the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT The Maverick XLT's technology suite centers on an 8-inch touchscreen mounted in a fixed orientation at the center of the dashboard, paired with a 4.2-inch TFT instrument cluster display that shows trip data, fuel economy readouts, and hybrid system information at a glance. The infotainment system includes AM/FM radio, a 6-speaker audio system, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls for hands-free operation while driving. Smartphone integration is comprehensive and included at no extra cost. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard with indefinite subscriptions — meaning no trial period that expires. Bluetooth connectivity handles phone calls and audio streaming, and a voice activation system lets drivers keep their eyes on the road. Two front USB connections handle device charging and data. The truck also includes an embedded SIM card for Wi-Fi hotspot capability, with 3 GB of data per month included for the first 3 months. After that, a subscription covers continued connectivity — useful for service members who need reliable data access during commutes or at remote locations. The telematics system, branded 911 Assist, automatically connects to emergency services in the event of a collision and is included with no subscription expiration. Remote services through Ford's connected platform include remote lock/unlock, vehicle start, find my car, theft alert, and remote HVAC control — all with indefinite subscription included. That means a soldier heading out for PT in a Kansas winter can start the Maverick and get the cabin warm before walking out the door. Driver mode select allows adjustment of powertrain mapping to suit different driving conditions. The optional Ford Co-Pilot360 package — included on the in-stock Valor Ford unit — adds a driver monitoring system, radar-based rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, Lane Keeping System, and BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert (blind spot monitoring), substantially expanding the truck's active safety net. Safety Systems Built for Busy Parents and Service Members The 2023 Maverick XLT comes standard with a 7-airbag system that covers the driver and passenger with intelligent dual front airbags, front side airbags, front-and-rear side curtain airbags, and a driver knee airbag. Front seat belts include pre-tensioners and height adjustability for both driver and passenger positions; the rear center position uses a 3-point belt. Front head restraints are height-adjustable (2 positions), as are the 3 rear head restraints. LATCH (ISOFIX) anchor preparation is standard for child safety seat installation. The standard active safety foundation includes Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, which activates as low as 3 mph and intervenes at both low and highway speeds. ABS braking across all 4 wheels uses 4 channels with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. A brake assist system shortens stopping distances during emergency inputs, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function keeps the truck stationary on inclines. Hill hold control prevents rollback when pulling away on a grade — a small but practical feature for anyone parking on uneven terrain around the Flint Hills. AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) monitors lateral acceleration and intervenes to prevent oversteer or rollover situations. A trailer stability program is also standard, helping maintain control when towing a boat trailer or small utility trailer to the Kansas River. Multi-collision braking applies brake pressure after an initial impact to reduce the severity of secondary collisions. NHTSA crash test results place the Maverick at a 4-star overall rating, with a 5-star frontal crash rating and 5-star side impact rating. The rollover rating is 4 stars. The 911 Assist telematics system and an accident data recorder round out the passive safety picture, ensuring emergency responders have the information they need quickly after any incident. Breaking Down 2023 Ford Maverick XLT Pricing and Trims At $24,855 MSRP, the XLT sits as the mid-level configuration in the Maverick lineup — above the fleet-oriented XL and below the leather-appointed Lariat. It represents the volume sweet spot: enough standard content to feel like a real vehicle, with enough option flexibility to personalize without over-spending. The two most meaningful factory packages available on the XLT are the XLT Luxury Package and the Black Appearance Package. The XLT Luxury Package is the one to prioritize for daily drivers and families. It bundles a 4-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, heated synthetic leather steering wheel, heated power mirrors, 2 rear USB charging ports, a main power supply outlet, spray-in bedliner, trailer towing preparation, and a windshield wiper de-icer. This package transforms the XLT from a capable base truck into a genuinely comfortable daily driver — particularly valuable during Kansas winters when heated seats and a wiper de-icer earn their keep every morning. The Black Appearance Package is a styling-focused upgrade. It replaces the standard 17-inch alloy wheels with 18-inch alloys, adds toned (blacked-out) door mirrors, and swaps the door handles for a blacked-out finish. The result is a more aggressive visual stance that suits buyers who want their truck to stand out. Beyond the factory packages, the XLT supports a wide range of standalone options. The Ford Co-Pilot360 option adds blind spot monitoring (BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert), a Lane Keeping System, rear cross-traffic alert with radar, and a driver monitoring system. Other notable options include a Power Tilt/Slide Moon Roof, a 400W inverter for cab power, a Remote Start System, multiple tonneau cover styles (soft folding, hard trifold, hard rollup), a bed extender, bed tie-down locking rails, and a full-size spare tire upgrade. Buyers who want to tow can add a Trailer Hitch Receiver with 4-pin connector. The 2.0L EcoBoost with 8-speed automatic transmission is also available as an option for buyers who prioritize towing capacity over fuel economy — it raises towing to 5,080 lbs but trades the hybrid efficiency for a more conventional powertrain. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options for 2023 Ford Maverick XLT Owners Ford backs the 2023 Maverick XLT with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Paint coverage runs 3 years/36,000 miles, and corrosion protection extends to 5 years with no mileage cap. Roadside assistance is included for 5 years/60,000 miles — a meaningful benefit for service members who may be driving in remote areas or on unfamiliar roads. Because the XLT uses a hybrid powertrain, the lithium-ion battery and electric systems carry their own extended coverage: 8 years/100,000 miles for both the hybrid battery and the electric systems. That coverage provides long-term peace of mind for buyers who plan to keep the truck well past the standard powertrain warranty window. The Maverick's hybrid system includes energy recuperation and an auto start/stop function, which reduces wear on the conventional drivetrain components over time. Combined with the lower fuel costs from 37 mpg combined efficiency, the total cost of ownership over a 5-year period is lower than most competing compact pickups. Valor Ford's service team is equipped to handle routine Maverick maintenance, warranty work, and hybrid system service. Scheduling is straightforward — you can book a service appointment online and drop the truck off at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 at a time that fits your schedule. Customers like Justin Grabouski have noted the team makes the process "easy and straightforward," and Anthony Carpenter described the Valor team as "awesome to work with. Schedule Ford Service Today Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT's Value and Performance The 2023 Ford Maverick received recognition from several major automotive publications, and the XLT trim sits at the center of that praise as the model's volume seller. 10Best Trucks and SUVs Car and Driver (2023) Best Buy Award, Compact Pickup Kelley Blue Book (2023) Editors' Choice Car and Driver (2023) Drivers' Choice Award, Best Small Pickup MotorWeek (2023) Car and Driver noted that the Maverick makes a compelling case for the compact pickup format — the cab is easy to enter, and loading the bed doesn't require lifting cargo to full-size truck heights. Edmunds observed that despite its car-like driving dynamics, the Maverick feels like a truck first, delivering towing and hauling confidence at a smaller size and lower price point than the competition. Those are exactly the qualities that matter to a buyer in Junction City who needs a truck that works but doesn't want to pay full-size prices or wrestle full-size dimensions through a parking lot. The Maverick competes directly against the Hyundai Santa Cruz, Honda Ridgeline, and Chevrolet Colorado, and its hybrid efficiency and starting price make it a notable option in the segment. If you're trading in a current vehicle, you can get an estimate on your trade-in value before visiting — knowing that number upfront makes the purchase conversation simpler. Trade In Evaluation Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Feature XLT FWD MPG 40 city / 33 hwy / 37 combined Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT FWD? The standard 2023 Maverick XLT FWD with the 2.5L hybrid powertrain is EPA-rated at 40 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined. The calculated range on the 13.8-gallon tank is 511 miles. The optional 2.0L EcoBoost with 8-speed automatic delivers lower fuel economy — 23 city, 30 highway, 25 combined — but raises towing capacity significantly. For daily commuting between Fort Riley and Junction City, the hybrid configuration is the clear choice for fuel savings. Q: How much can the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT tow? With the standard 2.5L hybrid powertrain, the Maverick XLT FWD is rated to tow 2,000 lbs. That's enough for a small utility trailer, a lightweight fishing boat, or a personal watercraft — practical for weekend trips along the Kansas River. Buyers who need more towing capacity can opt for the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, which raises the tow rating to 5,080 lbs and pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Q: What does the XLT Luxury Package add to the Maverick XLT? The XLT Luxury Package adds a 4-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats for driver and passenger, a heated synthetic leather steering wheel, heated power mirrors, 2 rear USB charging ports, a main power supply outlet, a spray-in bedliner, trailer towing preparation, and a windshield wiper de-icer. It's the single most impactful package for buyers who use the truck as a daily driver, particularly during Kansas winters. Q: Is the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT a good fit for a military family? Yes. The Maverick XLT seats 5 with 42.8 inches of front legroom and 35.9 inches of rear legroom, making it comfortable for a family of four on daily runs and weekend outings. The compact 199.7-inch overall length maneuvers easily in urban environments, while the about 33 cu ft cargo bed handles gear for camping, sporting events, and community activities. The hybrid powertrain's fuel efficiency reduces ongoing ownership costs — a practical advantage on a military household budget. Q: Where can I see the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT in person near Fort Riley? Valor Ford has a 2023 Maverick XLT currently in stock at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. You can also reach the team directly at (785) 238-5114 to confirm availability, ask about current pricing, or set up a test drive at a time that works with your schedule. Visit Valor Ford in Junction City Today Explore our full inventory of new and pre-owned Ford trucks or schedule a test drive at Valor Ford today. Browse Used Inventory © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

2026 Ford Explorer Active: Specs, Pricing, and Family Value The 2026 Ford Explorer Active RWD starts at $40,585 and is best suited for families who need genuine three-row utility, a capable 5,000 lb towing rating, and a turbocharged 300 hp EcoBoost engine without the added off-road hardware. With 24 combined MPG, seating for 6, and a comprehensive standard safety suite, it delivers practical, confident transportation for daily commutes, school runs, and weekend adventures across Kansas's flat-to-rolling terrain. Research Ford Explorer How Much Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Cost to Own in Junction City and Surrounding Areas? The 2026 Ford Explorer Active RWD carries a base MSRP of $40,585 plus a $1,795 destination charge, putting the as-delivered starting price at $42,380 before any options. That positions it as the entry point into the Explorer lineup — accessible for working-class families and military households balancing a meaningful purchase against a practical budget. Feature Active RWD Base MSRP $40,585 Destination charge $1,795 Valor Ford currently has a 2026 Explorer Active in stock (Stock #26FT128) finished in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat with a Dark Space Gray Premium Synthetic interior. This specific unit includes the Active Comfort Package and 18" Spare Wheel and Jack Kit, so buyers can see a real, configured example on the lot rather than starting from a blank-sheet order. For buyers who want to see how this price compares to the broader Ford lineup, our full 2026 Explorer research page covers every trim in detail. If you are cross-shopping against a truck-based option, our 2026 F-150 research guide is a useful reference. Shoppers who want to explore more affordable options can also browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory for certified and used Explorer options at lower price points. The Explorer Active competes directly against the Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander in the three-row midsize segment. At this price, it delivers a turbocharged powertrain and a full driver-assistance suite that rivals charge significantly more to match. For families stationed at Fort Riley or commuting across Geary County, the value-per-feature ratio is genuinely strong at this entry-level configuration. A Bold Look That Fits Military Pride and Historic Streets The 2026 Ford Explorer Active arrives with a clean, confident exterior stance that reads as purposeful rather than flashy — a design language that fits naturally whether you are parked near Junction City's historic downtown buildings or lined up at a Fort Riley gate. The body is 198.7 inches long and 78.9 inches wide (89.3 inches mirror to mirror), giving the Active a substantial road presence without crossing into unwieldy territory on city streets or parking lots. At 69.6 inches tall, the roofline sits high enough to suggest capability without the slab-sided bulk of a full-size SUV. Black roof rails run the length of the roofline, adding a rugged visual accent and providing a mounting point for the available Roof-Rail Crossbars dealer accessory — useful if you want to carry bikes, kayaks, or cargo boxes for a Kansas River outing. Lighting is full LED front and rear. Projector-beam LED low and high beams, LED daytime running lights, and LED brake and rear lights are all standard. The dusk sensor activates headlights automatically, and auto high-beam control switches between low and high beams without driver input — practical on unlit rural roads after dark. Front and rear bumpers are painted to match the body color, and black exterior door mirrors with heated glass and power adjustment complete the exterior package. Five exterior colors are available for the Active: Avalanche Gray Metallic, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, and Space White Metallic. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford wears Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, a premium three-layer finish that shows the Explorer's lines to strong effect. If you are considering trading in your current vehicle toward an Explorer, you can get an estimate on your trade-in value before you visit the showroom. Trade In Evaluation Power and Handling Built for Plains and Rolling Terrain The Explorer Active's 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque — numbers that put it competitive with many naturally aspirated six-cylinder competitors in this segment and make the SUV genuinely quick for a family hauler. Feature Active RWD Engine 2.3L Horsepower 300 hp Torque 310 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive The SelectShift® 10-speed automatic manages those outputs with smooth, closely spaced ratios that keep the engine in its powerband whether you are merging onto a Kansas highway or pulling away from a stop on city streets. Peak torque arrives at 3,500 rpm, meaning strong pull is available well before the tachometer climbs high — a characteristic that makes the Explorer feel effortless in everyday driving. Maximum power hits at 5,500 rpm. Rear-wheel drive is the standard configuration on the Active. For the flat-to-gently-rolling terrain that characterizes most of the region — open plains, agricultural roads, and highway corridors — RWD delivers precise, responsive handling without the weight penalty or mechanical complexity of all-wheel-drive hardware. The suspension pairs an independent front strut setup with an independent multi-link rear, both using coil springs and stabilizer bars. The result is a composed, planted ride on the long straight stretches and gentle curves that define Kansas driving. Fuel economy is rated at 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined mpg on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel. The 17.9-gallon tank provides a calculated range of 430 miles, meaning a family driving from Junction City to a weekend destination and back can often do so on a single tank. Feature Active RWD MPG 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined Edmunds notes that the Explorer is praised for strong handling and acceleration among three-row SUVs — a point that resonates for drivers who spend time on winding county roads or need confident passing power on two-lane highways. The braking system uses four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, brake assist, cornering brake control, and an electronic auto-hold parking brake. Hill-hold assist prevents rollback on inclines. When maintenance is needed, genuine Ford replacement parts are available to keep the drivetrain performing to factory specification. Order Genuine Ford Parts Comfort and Space for Family Road Trips The Explorer Active seats 6 passengers across three rows with a standard second-row captain's chair configuration, and the numbers behind that seating are genuinely generous for the class. Feature Active RWD Seating 6 Cargo 16.3 cu ft Curb weight 4,303 lbs Towing 5,000 lbs Payload 1,467 lbs Front-row passengers enjoy 40.7 inches of headroom, 43 inches of legroom, 62.1 inches of shoulder room, and 59.2 inches of hip room — dimensions that accommodate adults of most builds comfortably on long drives. The driver's seat is electrically adjustable with 5-way power movement including height, reach, recline, tilt, and electric lumbar support. The second row delivers 40.5 inches of headroom and 39 inches of legroom, with the captain's chairs folding individually for flexible cargo and passenger configurations. Third-row passengers have 38.9 inches of headroom, 32.2 inches of legroom, and 54.6 inches of shoulder room — workable for children and shorter adults on shorter trips. Behind all three rows, about 16 cu ft of cargo is available. Fold the rear seats and that number expands dramatically to about 86 cu ft — enough to carry camping gear, sports equipment, or groceries for a large family. The cargo area loading floor sits at 31.1 inches, a manageable lift height, and the power liftgate opens and closes with a memory-height setting. Cargo hooks are standard for securing loads. The cabin is trimmed with upgraded cloth upholstery in Dark Gray/Onyx as standard. The optional Active Comfort Package upgrades to synthetic leather seating surfaces, adds a heated steering wheel, and upgrades the passenger seat to 4-way power adjustment — a meaningful comfort step for families who spend significant time in the vehicle. Three-zone automatic climate control manages cabin temperature independently for the driver, front passenger, and rear occupants, with rear-seat controls and secondary ventilation vents serving passengers in rows two and three. Connected Tech for Fort Riley Duty and Errands The Explorer Active's technology stack centers on a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display paired with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster — a dual-screen setup that brings the cabin interface up to the standard of vehicles costing considerably more. The infotainment system runs on Ford's SYNC platform and includes satellite-view navigation with internet data feed, 12 months of included traffic information and map updates, and built-in apps with Google voice assistant integration. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are both standard, eliminating the cable clutter that plagues older integration systems. Bluetooth connectivity, a 6-speaker audio system, AM/FM/internet radio, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls round out the baseline entertainment setup. Two front USB connections handle device connectivity for the driver and front passenger. For families with passengers spread across all three rows, the USB charging port distribution is practical: 4 ports in the front, 2 in the rear, and 2 at the third row — meaning everyone from the driver to the kids in the back seat can keep devices charged on a long drive. Three 12V power outlets (front, rear, and cargo area) add further charging flexibility. The connected services suite includes Ford's 911 Assist telematics, which automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a collision and relays the vehicle's location. Remote services — including remote lock/unlock, remote start, vehicle location, theft alert, and vehicle diagnostics — are included for 12 months. Over-the-air software updates keep the operating system current without requiring a dealership visit. The optional Ford Connectivity Package (a one-time purchase covering 7 years / 84 months) extends the embedded WiFi hotspot and connected services for buyers who want long-term coverage for the stated term. The optional SiriusXM with 360L (3-year plan) adds satellite radio for uninterrupted audio on drives through areas with limited broadcast coverage. The Securicode Keyless Entry Keypad is also available as a standalone option, giving families a convenient entry method without needing the key fob in hand. Peace of Mind for Military Families and Rural Commuters The 2026 Explorer Active earns a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, with 5-star frontal and side impact scores and a 4-star rollover rating — third-party validation that the structure performs at the top of its class. On the IIHS side, the Explorer has earned Good ratings in moderate overlap front, small overlap front driver-side, and side impact tests. Headlight performance also rates Good — an important detail for drivers navigating unlit rural roads after dark. The seat belt reminder system rates Good as well. The airbag system deploys 7 airbags covering driver and passenger front positions, front side-impact bags, side curtain bags spanning all three rows, and a driver knee airbag. Height-adjustable head restraints are present in all three rows, and front seatbelt pre-tensioners with height adjustment are standard. All three rows have dedicated seatbelt positions, including a center position in the second row when the optional bench seat is selected. Active driver assistance is organized under Ford's Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ suite. This includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic and resume automatically. The Lane-Keeping System monitors lane markings and applies gentle steering correction when the vehicle begins to drift without signaling. BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) uses radar to monitor the rear quarters and alerts the driver to vehicles in blind spots. Rear Cross Traffic Braking detects vehicles approaching from the side while reversing and applies the brakes autonomously if needed. Rear Parking Sensors and a rear camera with dynamic guidance lines assist in tight parking situations. The system activates at speeds as low as 3 mph, making it effective in parking lots and slow-moving traffic. AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) monitors vehicle dynamics and intervenes to reduce the risk of rollover — particularly relevant for a taller SUV loaded with passengers and cargo. Multi-collision braking, automatic hazard lights, and a car exit warning system are also included. LATCH child seat anchors are standard for families with younger children. Breaking Down 2026 Ford Explorer Active Pricing and Trims for Kansas Buyers At $40,585 base MSRP, the Active is the entry point into the 2026 Explorer lineup — positioned below the sport-styled ST-Line, the trail-ready Tremor, the premium Platinum, and the performance-focused ST. For buyers whose priorities are practical family utility and modern technology rather than off-road hardware or luxury materials, the Active delivers the core Explorer experience at the most accessible price. The Active Comfort Package is the one factory upgrade most families should consider seriously. It adds LED front fog lights, a 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat (upgrading from the base 2-way), synthetic leather seat surfaces on both rows, and a heated steering wheel. Shoppers who spend significant time in the vehicle — commuting, carpooling, or road-tripping — will feel the difference in daily comfort. Interior upholstery choices give buyers some personalization flexibility. The standard Dark Gray/Onyx Unique Cloth helps control cost. Stepping to the Light Space Gray/Onyx ActiveX or Dark Gray/Onyx ActiveX synthetic leather options adds a more refined feel to the cabin. Exterior color choices include Avalanche Gray Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, Space White Metallic, and Star White Metallic Tri-Coat. For buyers who need more off-road or adventure capability, the Tremor trim in the Explorer lineup is worth exploring. Separately, if you are considering a different body style altogether, the Ford Bronco Badlands offers a purpose-built off-road alternative. Buyers ready to move forward can contact us for current financing options before visiting the showroom, which streamlines the purchase experience considerably. Kelley Blue Book notes that the Explorer offers "a muscular platform for hard work, superior towing, and enough capability to tackle just about anything you might expect a midsize SUV to do" — a fair summary of what the Active delivers at its price point. Get Pre-Approved for Financing Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for Owners Every 2026 Ford Explorer Active comes backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty — standard Ford coverage that protects the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components for the first five years of ownership. Coverage Type Duration Distance Bumper-to-bumper 36 months 36,000 mi Powertrain 60 months 60,000 mi Roadside assistance 60 months 60,000 mi Anti-corrosion 60 months Unlimited Paint 36 months 36,000 mi The 5-year/60,000-mile Ford Roadside Assistance program is included at no additional cost. If the Explorer experiences a mechanical breakdown, flat tire, or emergency on a Kansas highway or rural road, Ford's manufacturer-backed roadside assistance connects owners directly with authorized service — no third-party membership required. The program covers towing to an authorized Ford service center, ensuring repairs are performed with genuine parts by trained technicians who know the vehicle's systems. Anti-corrosion protection runs for 60 months with no mileage cap, which is meaningful for a vehicle that may be exposed to road salt during Kansas winters. Paint coverage extends to 36 months and 36,000 miles. The Explorer also supports over-the-air OS updates, meaning software improvements can be delivered to the vehicle without a dealer visit. Remote vehicle diagnostics through the connected services suite allow owners to monitor vehicle health from a smartphone. For scheduled maintenance, oil changes, tire rotations, and any warranty work, booking a Ford service appointment at Valor Ford keeps the vehicle on factory maintenance intervals and ensures warranty compliance. Buyers Justin Grabouski and Anthony Carpenter have each noted the straightforward, high-quality service experience at Valor Ford on Google — a reassurance for new buyers planning their ownership relationship with the dealership. Schedule Ford Service Today 2026 Ford Explorer Active Awards and Expert Recognition from Leading Automotive Sources IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Recognized for strong crashworthiness and safety technology. Edmunds recognition "Out-steers, out-handles and out-accelerates the rest of the pack in three-row SUVs. Car and Driver Praised "Blends family practicality with surprisingly engaging performance. The 2026 Ford Explorer holds a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety — the IIHS's highest recognition — awarded in both 2025 and 2026. That consecutive recognition reflects the structural integrity and active safety systems that carry over to the Active trim. Car and Driver notes that the Explorer "blends family practicality with surprisingly engaging performance," a characterization that aligns with the Active's real-world mission. Edmunds goes further, observing that the Explorer "out-steers, out-handles and out-accelerates the rest of the pack" in the three-row SUV segment — a meaningful edge for buyers who do not want to sacrifice driving enjoyment for passenger capacity. At the brand level, Ford earned the Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award for Full-Size SUV with the Expedition in 2026, and the Maverick took both the North American Truck of the Year and MotorTrend Truck of the Year honors for 2026 — recognition that reflects the engineering discipline Ford is applying across its lineup. That same commitment to capability and value is evident in the Explorer Active's specification sheet. For buyers who also need a heavy-duty workhorse in the garage, our 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 overview covers what the truck side of the Ford lineup offers for serious towing and commercial use. Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers About the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Q: What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active, and can it handle a boat or camper trailer? The 2026 Explorer Active is rated to tow 5,000 lbs with a braked trailer. That is sufficient for a personal watercraft trailer, a small fishing boat for Kansas River outings, a loaded utility trailer, or a lightweight pop-up camper. The unbraked trailer limit is 1,500 lbs. Trailer towing preparation is standard equipment on the Active, and the AdvanceTrac with RSC system and trailer stability program help maintain control when a trailer is connected. Buyers planning regular towing should confirm their specific trailer weight against the 5,000 lb ceiling before purchase. Q: Does the 2026 Explorer Active come with all-wheel drive, or is it rear-wheel drive only? The Active trim is offered in Rear-wheel drive configuration. For the flat-to-gently-rolling terrain that defines most driving in this region — open plains, city streets, and highway corridors — RWD is well-suited and delivers a more engaging, responsive driving feel than AWD at comparable cost. Buyers who frequently encounter loose gravel backroads or need additional traction in winter conditions should discuss AWD options available on other Explorer trims with the Valor Ford sales team. Q: How many people does the Explorer Active seat, and what are the cargo numbers? The standard configuration seats 6 passengers using second-row captain's chairs in a 2+2+2 layout. The optional Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest changes the layout to 2+3+2 for 7-passenger capacity. Behind all three rows, cargo space measures about 16 cu ft. Fold the rear seats flat and that expands to about 86 cu ft — generous for a family hauling gear for a weekend trip or a full grocery run. Q: What fuel economy does the 2026 Explorer Active get, and what fuel does it require? The Active is EPA-rated at 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel. The 17.9-gallon tank gives a calculated range of 430 miles per fill. That combined rating is competitive for a three-row SUV with 300 horsepower, and the highway figure is particularly strong for families making longer drives. Q: Where can I see the 2026 Explorer Active in person, and how do I get started? Valor Ford has a 2026 Explorer Active in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat (Stock #26FT128) available for immediate test drives at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. To speak with a team member before visiting, give us (785) 238-5114 a call — the team can confirm current inventory, discuss available packages, and answer any additional questions about the Active trim. Ready to Experience the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? Visit Valor Ford in Junction City today to test drive Stock #26FT128 or explore our full lineup of new and pre-owned Ford vehicles. Browse Used Inventory © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

2026 Ford F-150 STX vs Ram 1500 Big Horn The 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew delivers an exceptional balance of full-size capability, modern cabin connectivity, and long-term operating value, securing its spot as the a strong alternative to the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn. With a starting base MSRP of $47,190, a standard 12-inch digital touchscreen display, and an EPA-estimated 21 combined MPG, the F-150 STX provides higher efficiency and more standard equipment while offering a lower starting MSRP than its competitor. Contact Us for Financing Details Which Truck Offers the Best Value for Junction City and Fort Riley Drivers in 2026? The 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 5-1/2’ Box provides superior overall value compared to the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4, with a lower starting MSRP with a starting base MSRP of $47,190 versus the Ram 1500 Big Horn’s MSRP of $51,753. This $4,563 MSRP difference allows truck buyers to access a fully equipped, modern crew-cab pickup without overextending their vehicle budget. Value in the full-size truck segment extends beyond the initial sticker price to encompass standard equipment, fuel economy, and long-term ownership costs. Ford equips the F-150 STX with features that often require costly add-on packages on competing trucks. For example, Equipment Group 200A (STX Mid) includes 20-inch two-tone alloy wheels, LED front fog lights, cornering illumination, and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster TFT screen—all integrated seamlessly into the base configuration. For local buyers evaluating their monthly expenses, the financial advantage of the F-150 STX becomes even clearer when factoring in daily driving. Service members commuting between residential neighborhoods and base duty stations at Fort Riley benefit directly from the F-150's lower entry price and efficient powertrain. Before committing to a purchase, smart shoppers often begin by evaluating their current trade-in value online to see how much equity they can roll into a new truck. While some drivers briefly consider adventure SUVs while exploring our new Ford Bronco inventory, those needing a dedicated bed for hauling heavy gear consistently find that the F-150 STX provides the ideal ratio of utility and price. When comparing standard features dollar for dollar, the Ram 1500 Big Horn demands a significant premium while offering lower standard highway fuel efficiency. The F-150 STX delivers an aggressive street stance, robust cargo space, and intuitive cabin technology at an accessible price point, establishing itself as the premier value proposition in the half-ton pickup market. Pricing Comparison of starting MSRPs for trim configurations. 2026 Ford F-150 STX Trim MSRP 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 57' Box Trim MSRP STX SuperCrew 5-1/2’ Box $47,190 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 5'7" Box $51,753 Trade In Evaluation Pricing and Trim Comparison for the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 57' Box A direct trim comparison reveals that the 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 5-1/2’ Box comes equipped with high-end exterior styling and tech hardware that cost extra on the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 5'7" Box. Starting at $47,190 base MSRP with a $2,795 destination charge ( $49,985 MSRP including delivery), the F-150 STX sits in a strategic sweet spot within the broader F-150 lineup, which spans from the work-ready XL up through the XLT, Lariat, Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum, and high-performance Raptor models. The Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 carrying an MSRP of $51,753 represents a higher entry point into Ram’s mid-level lineup without automatically offering equivalent technology or wheel upgrades. The STX trim was specifically designed by Ford to offer a factory-customized, athletic aesthetic directly from the assembly line at the Dearborn Truck Plant. Standard exterior elements include body-color front and rear painted bumpers, black grille accents, and 20-inch alloy wheels that give the truck an assertive road presence. Inside, the F-150 STX features Black Sport Cloth 40/Console/40 front bucket seats with a full floor console, providing an ergonomic layout for work files and personal gear. Shoppers conducting thorough market research can dive into our in-depth 2026 Ford F-150 research guide to examine how the STX compares across every available cab and bed configuration. For drivers cross-shopping different vehicle classes or duty capabilities, consulting our 2026 Ford Explorer model overview or reviewing heavy-duty 2026 Ford F-250 specs helps clarify whether a half-ton pickup or a larger commercial platform best fits their lifestyle. Ultimately, the F-150 STX trim delivers an strong balance of sport-truck styling and everyday functional capability without forcing buyers into luxury-tier pricing. Dimensions & Capacity Interior capacity, vehicle weight, towing, and payload ratings. Specification 2026 Ford F-150 STX 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 57' Box Seating Capacity 5 5 Cargo Volume 52.8 cu ft — Curb Weight 4,687 lbs 4,858 lbs Towing Capacity 7,600 lbs 8,130 lbs Payload Capacity 1,685 lbs 2,360 lbs Cargo Capacity and Passenger Comfort Tailored for Military Families and Farmers In terms of interior space and bed utility, the 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew provides superior rear passenger legroom and a larger bed volume of about 53 cu ft, outpacing the cabin flexibility and cargo volume of the Ram 1500 Big Horn. The F-150 STX SuperCrew cab is engineered to accommodate five adults in comfort, making it equally suited for crew transportation or active family road trips. Front passengers enjoy 43.9 in of legroom and 40.8 in of headroom, while rear passengers benefit from an expansive 43.6 in of rear legroom and 40.4 in of rear headroom. Front and rear shoulder room measure 66.7 in and 66.0 in respectively, with hip room spanning 62.5 in in the front row and 62.6 in in the second row. These generous proportions mean adult passengers never feel cramped, even during long highway drives across state lines. Measurement Dimension Ford F-150 STX Ram 1500 Big Horn Cargo Bed Volume 52.8 cu ft Contact dealer Front Legroom 43.9 in Contact dealer Rear Legroom 43.6 in Contact dealer Front Headroom 40.8 in Contact dealer Rear Headroom 40.4 in Contact dealer Seating Capacity 5 passengers 5 passengers Cargo handling is another area where the F-150 STX excels. The 5-1/2-foot box features cargo bed dimensions of 67.1 in in length, 50.6 in of width between the wheelhouses, and a bed height of 21.4 in, establishing a total cargo volume of about 53 cu ft. The loading floor height sits at 32.9 in, allowing for easy loading of heavy tools, agricultural supplies, or recreational gear. Standard tie-down hooks and optional bed accessories—such as a drop-in plastic bedliner, spray-in bedliner, or hard folding tonneau covers—allow owners to customize the bed for secure transport. For buyers considering pre-owned alternatives or cross-shopping model years, browsing our verified pre-owned truck inventory provides excellent context on how Ford pickup cabs retain their spaciousness and functional layout over time. Whether loading fishing equipment for a morning on the water near Junction City or carrying work tools to a job site, the F-150 STX interior and cargo box deliver maximum daily practicality. Engine & Performance Powertrain and performance specifications. Specification 2026 Ford F-150 STX 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 57' Box Engine 2.7L 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque Horsepower 325 hp 305 hp Torque 400 lb-ft 269 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® 8-speed automatic Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive 4x4 Performance and Driving Experience on Kansas Plains Terrain The twin-turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 engine in the 2026 Ford F-150 STX delivers exceptional low-end responsiveness and efficient highway cruising, generating 325 hp at 5,000 rpm and 400 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. This advanced powertrain features dual overhead cams, twin turbochargers, port/direct injection, and variable valve timing, delivering quick acceleration and steady power delivery across the entire rev range. Power is managed by a SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, optimizing gear ratios for smooth highway cruising or heavy towing demands. Edmunds notes in their press coverage that the F-150 features direct and quick steering, making the truck feel smaller and more nimble in tight spaces while remaining remarkably stable on the highway. Powertrain Specification Ford F-150 STX Ram 1500 Big Horn Engine Configuration 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 5.7L HEMI V8 Horsepower 325 hp 395 hp Peak Torque 400 lb-ft Contact dealer Transmission Speeds 10-speed 8-speed Maximum Towing Capacity 7,600 lbs Contact dealer Maximum Payload Capacity 1,685 lbs Contact dealer Published Curb Weight 4,687 lbs Contact dealer In terms of working capability, the rear-wheel drive F-150 STX SuperCrew boasts a maximum braked towing capacity of 7,600 lbs ( 1,500 lbs unbraked) and a maximum payload allowance of 1,685 lbs. With a published curb weight of 4,687 lbs and a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 6,426 lbs, the truck maintains a lightweight chassis design that enhances agility without sacrificing structural strength. The front suspension utilizes an independent double-wishbone design with coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear features a solid beam axle with leaf springs engineered to support heavy bed loads. Car and Driver highlights that the F-150 excels in both daily usability and towing, providing a confident feel when pulling trailers. Buyers looking to secure structured monthly payment options can easily apply online for financing information before visiting the showroom for a test drive. Fuel Economy EPA fuel economy ratings. Specification 2026 Ford F-150 STX 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 57' Box Fuel Type Regular unleaded Regular unleaded City Fuel Economy 19 MPG 19 MPG Highway Fuel Economy 25 MPG 24 MPG Combined Fuel Economy 21 MPG 21 MPG Fuel Efficiency and Range for Daily Commutes and Weekend Outdoor Adventures The 2026 Ford F-150 STX compares favorably to the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn in fuel efficiency, earning EPA ratings of 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined MPG compared to the Ram's 16 city / 20 hwy MPG. Fuel Economy & Range Spec Ford F-150 STX Ram 1500 Big Horn City Fuel Economy 19 MPG 16 MPG Highway Fuel Economy 25 MPG 20 MPG Combined Fuel Economy 21 MPG Contact dealer Fuel Tank Capacity 36 gal Contact dealer Calculated Total Range 756 mi Contact dealer This 5 MPG highway advantage translates directly into substantial fuel savings over thousands of annual driving miles. Equipped with a standard 36 gal extended-range main fuel tank, the F-150 STX boasts a calculated total driving range of 756 mi on a single fill-up of 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline. This extended driving range minimizes refueling stops during long-distance road trips or extended work schedules. To keep your truck performing at peak efficiency throughout its lifespan, our dealership parts department makes ordering genuine Ford accessories and replacement parts simple and convenient. The combination of EcoBoost® turbocharger technology, auto start-stop, and an efficient 10-speed transmission allows the F-150 STX to deliver true full-size truck work capability while maintaining the fuel economy footprint of a much smaller vehicle. Order Genuine Ford Parts Technology Features That Keep Drivers Connected and Safe In-cabin technology in the 2026 Ford F-150 STX is anchored by a standard 12-inch center dashboard touchscreen running SYNC® 4 and a matching 12-inch fully digital TFT instrument cluster screen. This dual-screen setup gives the driver clear visibility of navigation data, vehicle diagnostics, and media settings. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto integration come standard, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity without messy charging cables. The cabin is equipped with 4 front USB charging ports, 2 rear USB charging ports, a 12V front power outlet, and a 12V rear power outlet to keep all occupant devices charged. Connectivity is further enhanced by an embedded 5G Wi-Fi hotspot network capability, complete with an embedded SIM card and 12 months of included data subscription (supporting up to 999 GB per month). Over-the-air (OTA) software update functionality ensures that the vehicle’s infotainment and engine control systems remain continuously updated without requiring dealership visits. MotorTrend emphasizes in their review that the STX trim strikes an ideal balance for buyers wanting athletic design and modern connectivity without climbing high up the trim ladder. Standard convenience tech also includes cruise control, a dusk-sensing automatic headlight system with auto high beams, keyless remote entry, an anti-theft security alarm, and the 911 Assist® telematics emergency system. Owners can also add factory or dealer-installed options such as the Mobile Office Package (code 50M) with a main power supply, or a 3-year SiriusXM satellite radio subscription (code 76E). Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options for Long-Term Ownership The 2026 Ford F-150 STX comes backed by comprehensive OEM warranty coverage, including a 3-year/36,000-mile whole vehicle limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Warranty Coverage Type Ford Coverage Ram Coverage Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty 3 yr / 36,000 mi Contact dealer Powertrain Warranty 5 yr / 60,000 mi Contact dealer Roadside Assistance Coverage 5 yr / 60,000 mi Contact dealer Corrosion Protection Warranty 5 yr / unlimited Contact dealer Paint Warranty 3 yr / 36,000 mi Contact dealer Additionally, Ford provides 5 years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance coverage. In the event of a flat tire, battery discharge, or emergency towing requirement, drivers can access manufacturer-backed service quality by calling Ford Roadside Assistance at (800) 241-3673 for immediate support. Safety is central to the F-150 engineering design. The 2026 F-150 STX achieves a 5-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA, including 5 stars in frontal crash protection, 5 stars in side impact protection, and a 4-star rollover resistance rating. Standard active safety equipment includes Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection (featuring automatic emergency braking and visual/acoustic collision warnings active from 5 mph), BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System), a Lane-Keeping System with steering activation, a Reverse Sensing System rear camera with guidance display, and multi-collision braking. Maintaining this level of safety and mechanical reliability is straightforward when relying on factory-trained technicians. Drivers can protect their investment by easily scheduling their Ford maintenance appointment through our online service portal. Schedule Ford Service Today Frequently Asked Questions: Choosing Between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 57' Box Q: Is the 2026 Ford F-150 STX more affordable than the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn? Yes, the 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 5-1/2’ Box is available at a lower starting MSRP, with a starting base MSRP of $47,190 ( $49,985 including delivery). In comparison, the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 carries a higher MSRP of $51,753, giving the F-150 STX a price advantage of $4,563 while including premium standard technology like a 12-inch touchscreen and 20-inch alloy wheels. Q: Which truck gets better real-world fuel economy? The 2026 Ford F-150 STX delivers superior fuel economy compared to the Ram 1500 Big Horn. The F-150 STX achieves an EPA-estimated 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined MPG. The Ram 1500 Big Horn achieves 16 city / 20 hwy MPG. With its standard 36 gal fuel tank, the F-150 STX offers a calculated driving range of 756 mi on a single tank. Q: What are the towing and payload capabilities of the 2026 Ford F-150 STX? The 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 5-1/2’ Box features a maximum braked towing capacity of 7,600 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,685 lbs. Its twin-turbo 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 engine generates 325 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of pulling power for utility trailers, boats, or recreational equipment. Q: What technology screen sizes come standard on the F-150 STX? The 2026 Ford F-150 STX comes standard with a 12-inch center dashboard touchscreen featuring SYNC® 4 software and a 12-inch digital TFT instrument cluster screen. It also includes wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot with an embedded SIM card, and 6 USB charging ports throughout the cabin. Q: Where can I test drive the 2026 Ford F-150 STX? You can experience and test drive the 2026 Ford F-150 STX at Valor Ford. Our showroom is located at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. To speak directly with a sales specialist or schedule a personalized test drive, give our team a quick call at (785) 238-5114 today. Final Verdict and Recommendation When comparing the 2026 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 5-1/2’ Box directly against the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4, the Ford F-150 STX emerges as the strong overall option. It combines lower acquisition costs, superior EPA-estimated fuel economy ( 21 combined MPG), a larger cargo box volume ( about 53 cu ft), and high-end standard connectivity hardware that requires expensive options on rival trucks. Whether you are seeking a dependable daily commuter, a spacious five-passenger family vehicle, or a rugged workhorse capable of towing 7,600 lbs, the F-150 STX delivers strong performance across key metrics. Our team at Valor Ford is ready to assist you through every step of your truck-buying journey. Visit our dealership today to explore our complete inventory of new Ford F-150 models, take a test drive, and discover why the F-150 continues to offer a compelling option in the full-size pickup segment. Research Ford F-150 © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum: Full Review for Families The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum is the full-size SUV to consider if you need genuine 7-passenger comfort, 9,600 lbs of towing capacity, and a premium cabin without paying a luxury-brand premium. Starting at $70,550 MSRP, it pairs a 400 hp, 480 lb-ft twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic and delivers 18 mpg combined. For military families in Junction City and Fort Riley who need a dependable, full-featured hauler for school runs, base commutes, and weekend adventures, this is the Expedition trim that delivers the most complete package. Contact Us for Financing Information How Well Does the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum Serve Military Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts in Junction City? The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum is well suited to the lifestyle common in Junction City: a mix of disciplined daily routine and active outdoor recreation. It seats 7, tows up to 9,600 lbs, and carries a payload of 1,957 lbs, making it equally capable of handling the school-to-base morning circuit and a weekend run to the Kansas River with a boat in tow. The numbers behind that capability come from a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 rated at 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, routed through a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The Platinum 4x2 configuration sends power to the rear wheels, which is well-matched to the flat-to-gently-rolling terrain that characterizes the region. On Kansas Highway 18 or the open stretch between Junction City and Abilene, the powertrain feels composed and unhurried, with torque available early in the rev range for confident passing and trailer management. Feature Platinum 4x2 Engine 3.5L Horsepower 400 hp Torque 480 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive Feature Platinum 4x2 MPG 16 city / 23 hwy / 18 combined The 16 city / 23 highway / 18 combined mpg rating is realistic for the region's driving patterns. Daily commuting between Fort Riley and Junction City sits comfortably within the city estimate, while longer highway runs toward Dickinson County or beyond will push closer to that 23 mpg highway figure. With a 23.6-gallon fuel tank, the Expedition Max Platinum has a calculated range of 425 miles on a full tank — enough for a round trip to Wichita and back without stopping for fuel. Buyers who want to explore our pre-owned full-size SUV inventory alongside the new Platinum will find context useful: the Expedition Max Platinum's combination of towing muscle, passenger room, and premium features is difficult to replicate at this price point in the used market. Bold Style That Commands Respect on the Streets and Roads Exterior Design and Color Story The 2027 Expedition Max Platinum arrives with a presence that reads immediately as premium without being ostentatious. Standard painted front and rear bumpers, chrome window surrounds, chrome/silver roof rails, and full LED lighting — low beam, high beam, side indicators, rear lamps, and brake lights — give the exterior a polished, intentional look that distinguishes the Platinum from working-trim Expedition variants. The body measures 209.9 inches long and stands 78 inches tall, with a width of 81.5 inches (or 94.6 inches mirror to mirror). That footprint is substantial on any road, and the Expedition Max Platinum carries it with a stance that reflects confidence rather than excess. Power-retractable running boards make entry and exit practical for all passengers, including children and older riders. Exterior color choices for the Platinum include Agate Black, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Oxford White, Dark Matter Metallic, Blue Ember Metallic, Glacier Gray Metallic Tri-Coat, Marsh Gray Metallic, Bronze Fire Metallic Tri-Coat, and Nocturnal Blue Metallic. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford is finished in Bronze Fire Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, which gives the truck a warm, commanding presence that suits its size well. For buyers considering trading in a current vehicle, evaluating your trade-in value before visiting is a straightforward way to understand your full budget picture before stepping into the Platinum conversation. The optional 30th Anniversary Package adds tone-matched front bumpers, laminated side windows, and upgraded 22-inch two-tone alloy wheels — a meaningful visual step up for buyers who want the Expedition Max to reflect its anniversary significance. The Stealth Appearance Package takes the opposite direction, replacing chrome elements with blacked-out trim, black roof rails, and body-color bumpers for a more aggressive, modern look. Trade In Evaluation Power and Efficiency Built for Plains and Military Life Powertrain, Towing, and Daily Driving Performance A stat worth pausing on: 480 lb-ft of torque at 3,300 rpm. That figure arrives well before highway speeds, which means the Expedition Max Platinum pulls trailers, loaded cargo, and steep on-ramps without requiring the engine to work hard. Paired with the 10-speed SelectShift automatic — which includes a driver-selectable manual mode — the transmission finds the right gear quickly and holds it without hunting under load. The 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 is Ford's OEM-branded engine name for this application, and it has earned a strong reputation for durability and consistent output across demanding duty cycles. For Fort Riley families who put significant miles on a vehicle across a three- or four-year assignment, engine longevity matters as much as peak output. The EcoBoost architecture's combination of direct injection and twin turbocharging delivers strong efficiency relative to its displacement without sacrificing the low-end torque that towing and payload work requires. Feature Platinum 4x2 Seating 7 Cargo 21.6 cu ft Curb weight 5,668 lbs Towing 9,600 lbs Payload 1,957 lbs The 9,600 lbs towing rating covers a wide range of recreational and working needs. A typical bass boat with trailer runs 3,500–5,000 lbs. A mid-size travel trailer sits between 5,000 and 8,500 lbs. The Expedition Max Platinum handles both with capacity to spare. The 1,957 lbs payload allowance means a family of five adults plus gear, or a loaded cargo area, stays well within the rated limit. Standard trailer assist technology — named Pro Trailer in Ford's system — includes trailer reversing aid, tow mode, trailer hitch assist, trailer brake control, and a 360-camera extension for trailer hookup visibility. These systems take meaningful work out of hitching and maneuvering in tight spaces, whether at a boat ramp or a campground. The suspension uses a front wishbone independent setup with coil springs and a rear multi-link independent arrangement, also with coil springs. Both front and rear stabilizer bars are present. This configuration absorbs Kansas highway expansion joints and gravel county roads without transmitting harshness into the cabin, a meaningful quality-of-life factor on long drives. Keeping the drivetrain in top condition is straightforward with access to genuine Ford replacement parts through Valor Ford's parts department, ensuring the EcoBoost engine and SelectShift transmission receive components engineered to Ford's specifications. Order Genuine Ford Parts Comfort and Space for Growing Military Families and Community Outings Cabin Layout, Seating, and Cargo Seven seats across three rows sounds like a standard spec, but the Expedition Max Platinum's interior dimensions tell a more specific story. Front headroom reaches 41.8 inches, second-row headroom is 40 inches, and the third row offers 37.4 inches — enough for adults on shorter trips and genuinely comfortable for children on longer ones. Front legroom is 43.9 inches, second-row legroom is 41.1 inches, and the third row provides 36.5 inches. Shoulder room runs 64.9 inches in the first row, 64.8 inches in the second, and 64.2 inches in the third — numbers that matter when three adults are seated side by side. The standard seating configuration is a 2+2+3 arrangement, with second-row captain's chairs and a split-bench third row. An optional upgrade to Seats, Second Row – Power-Folding 40/20/40 with Tip-and-Slide reconfigures the second row to a bench-style layout, expanding total seating to 8 passengers in a 2+3+3 configuration — a meaningful option for larger military families or households that frequently transport multiple children. Upholstery across the Platinum is full leather, with interior color options including Black Onyx Leather, Mojave Dusk, Salt Crystal Gray Leather, and Salt Crystal Gray with Accent Stitching Leather. The in-stock Valor Ford unit pairs Bronze Fire Metallic exterior with Black Onyx leather interior. Door panels are leather-trimmed, the center floor console carries leather treatment, and the instrument panel features an alloy-look finish — details that elevate the everyday feel of the cabin without requiring an upgrade to a luxury badge. Cargo behind the third row measures about 22 cu ft. Fold all rear seats flat and that number expands to about 108.5 cu ft — enough for festival supplies, camping gear, a week's worth of groceries for a large family, or the kind of mixed load that military families accumulate during PCS moves and community events. The cargo area includes a split rear gate rear door design, load hooks, and a 12V power outlet in the cargo zone. Climate comfort extends to all three rows through a 3-zone automatic climate control system with rear controls and secondary ventilation outlets at the passenger seat and rear seating positions. A micro-filter ventilation system keeps cabin air clean. Smart Tech That Keeps Your Family Connected and On Schedule Infotainment, Connectivity, and Driver Assistance Technology The Expedition Max Platinum's technology stack is built around two primary displays: a 24-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen. The instrument cluster is a full TFT screen that is reconfigurable, allowing the driver to surface navigation, vehicle data, or driver-assist information in the primary field of view. The touchscreen runs Ford's infotainment interface with satellite-view navigation, internet data feed, and a 12-month traffic information subscription included as standard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard, eliminating the need for a cable connection. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard features. Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in Google virtual assistant, and over-the-air OS update capability round out the core connectivity picture. USB charging is distributed throughout the cabin: 2 ports at the front, 2 at the second row, 2 at the third row, and 1 in the cargo area — 7 total. Front passengers also have access to 2 12V outlets, with 1 additional outlet each at the rear and in the cargo zone. The standard audio system is a Bang & Olufsen setup with 10 speakers including a subwoofer. Buyers who add the Driver's Pack upgrade to a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system — a significant step up for long road trips and family entertainment. The Connectivity Package (One Time Purchase) extends the standard 12-month navigation traffic and map update subscriptions to 84 months (7 years) and adds a 7-year Wi-Fi hotspot subscription. That long subscription window is particularly relevant for military families who may own the vehicle across multiple duty stations without wanting to manage recurring subscription renewals. The Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driver assist system is listed as standard on the Platinum trim and available as an optional upgrade package. BlueCruise enables hands-free operation on pre-qualified divided highways, with adaptive cruise control linked to mapping data, stop-and-go function, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and an Level 2 partial automation classification. The system also includes intelligent speed assistance and a driver attention monitor — features that reduce fatigue on long Kansas highway stretches. Remote services — including remote lock/unlock, remote vehicle start, remote HVAC control (heating and cooling), find-my-car, theft alert, and vehicle diagnostics — are available through connected services. The 911 Assist telematics system is standard, automatically connecting to emergency services after a collision event. Over-the-air software updates keep the vehicle's systems current without requiring a dealership visit. Advanced Protection Tailored for Busy Military and Rural Roads Safety Systems and Driver Assistance Features The 2027 Expedition Max Platinum carries a comprehensive safety suite that addresses the specific demands of both high-traffic base-adjacent driving and open rural road conditions. The foundation is a 6-airbag system covering front driver and passenger airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags extending across all three rows. Every seating row has height-adjustable head restraints, with 2 restraints in the first row, 2 in the second, and 3 in the third. Front seatbelts include pre-tensioners and height adjustment for both driver and passenger positions. The third-row center position carries a 3-point belt. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection is standard. This system monitors the road ahead for vehicles and pedestrians, delivering visual and acoustic warnings and — when the driver does not respond — applying automatic emergency braking. The system activates from as low as 3 mph, covering low-speed parking lot scenarios as well as highway-speed situations. At low speeds, it applies brakes front and rear to mitigate collision severity. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) monitors the lanes adjacent to the vehicle and alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind zones — a particularly useful feature when changing lanes on multi-lane roads near Fort Riley or merging onto highways with limited sightlines. Lane Keeping Alert monitors lane markings and applies steering correction if the vehicle begins to drift without a turn signal active. Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance uses radar to detect vehicles approaching from the side while reversing — a practical feature in crowded parking areas at base exchanges, school pickup lines, and community event venues. Standard braking hardware includes 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, a brake assist system, and hill-hold capability. Electronic stability control and roll stability control are both present. A trailer stability program works specifically to dampen sway when towing — a meaningful active-safety feature for families pulling boats or campers on open highway. The 360-Degree Camera system provides a bird's-eye composite view around the vehicle, making tight maneuvering in crowded areas far more manageable. Front Parking Sensors and a Rear Parking Sensor complement the camera system with proximity alerts. The standard rear parking guidance display overlays trajectory lines on the backup camera feed. The Accident data recorder and Emergency call system are both standard, providing post-incident data capture and automatic emergency contact capability. Breaking Down 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum Pricing for Local Buyers What Does the Platinum 4x2 Actually Cost, and What Do You Get? The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum 4x2 carries a base MSRP of $70,550 plus a destination charge of $2,795, bringing the as-delivered starting price to $73,345 before any options. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford — VIN 1FMJK1M80VEA02227, Stock #27FT01 — is listed at $79,075 (price subject to change; contact dealer for current availability), reflecting the addition of packages including the 22-inch Ebony Bright Machine Face Aluminum Wheels, the Connectivity Package (One Time Purchase) with 7-year subscriptions, and the BlueCruise hands-free driver assist option. Feature Platinum 4x2 Base MSRP $70,550 Destination charge $2,795 That pricing positions the Expedition Max Platinum well below the Lincoln Navigator's entry point while delivering a comparable level of interior refinement, a stronger towing rating, and the same EcoBoost powertrain. Against competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Toyota Sequoia, and Jeep Wagoneer, the Platinum's combination of Bang & Olufsen audio, 360-degree camera, BlueCruise, and full leather at this price point represents strong value density. For buyers comparing the Expedition Max Platinum against a more adventure-focused Ford option, the Bronco Badlands serves a very different purpose — purpose-built off-road capability in a smaller, two- or four-door package — which clarifies that the Expedition Max Platinum is the right choice when full-size passenger capacity and towing are the primary requirements. The optional packages available on the Platinum add meaningful capability at the buyer's discretion. The Driver's Pack upgrades the audio to a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround system, adds a panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade, wireless charging pad, memorized mirror and steering wheel positions, and electrically foldable mirrors. The 30th Anniversary Package adds 22-inch two-tone alloy wheels, laminated side windows, door sill protectors, and floor mats. The Stealth Appearance Package delivers a blackout exterior aesthetic with 22-inch wheels and black roof rails. Buyers ready to move forward can get pre-approved for financing through Valor Ford's online portal before visiting the showroom, which streamlines the purchase conversation considerably. Contact Us for Financing Information Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for 2027 Ford Expedition Max Owners Coverage Terms and What They Mean for Long-Term Ownership Ford's warranty coverage on the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum is structured across several tiers. The bumper-to-bumper warranty covers 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain warranty extends to 60 months or 60,000 miles — covering the EcoBoost engine, SelectShift transmission, and drivetrain components that represent the vehicle's highest-cost repair scenarios. Roadside assistance is also backed for 60 months or 60,000 miles, providing Ford-supported emergency service coverage for the duration of the powertrain warranty period. Anti-corrosion coverage runs 60 months, and paint coverage is included for 36 months or 36,000 miles. For military families at Fort Riley, the powertrain warranty's 5-year/60,000-mile term is particularly meaningful. A typical three-year assignment puts 30,000–45,000 miles on a vehicle — well within the powertrain warranty window, which means the drivetrain remains covered through most or all of a standard tour. Over-the-air software updates are standard on the Platinum, reducing the number of dealership visits required to keep vehicle software current. Remote vehicle diagnostics — accessible through Ford's connected services platform — allow owners to monitor vehicle health without a physical inspection. Valor Ford's service team supports Expedition Max owners with factory-trained technicians and genuine Ford parts. Scheduling routine maintenance, warranty service, or any follow-up work is straightforward through our Ford service scheduling page, keeping the Expedition Max in peak condition across the full warranty period and beyond. Schedule Ford Service Today Awards, Expert Recognition, and What Industry Leaders Say About the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum How the Industry Views the Expedition Max Platinum No formal awards are cited in the catalog data for the 2027 model year, but the Expedition's reputation among automotive press is consistent and well-documented. Car and Driver describes the Expedition as made for wide-open stretches of freeway, where its living-room-like interior, cavernous cargo hold, and handy driver aids deliver the most value on a family road trip — a characterization that maps directly to the long Kansas highway runs that Junction City and Fort Riley families make regularly. MotorTrend notes that the Expedition continues to set a high benchmark for full-size utility vehicles, merging traditional big-SUV fundamentals with contemporary design and technology. Autoblog credits the Expedition with delivering real space, serious towing capability, and modern technology without pretending to be something it isn't, and specifically calls out the ride comfort as impressive for a truck-based SUV. Edmunds observes that the redesign raised the bar significantly where it was needed, building on a platform that was already among the class leaders in interior room and ride quality. Kelley Blue Book, reviewing the Platinum trim specifically, highlights the Expedition's impressive towing ability, comfort, refinement, spacious interior, and useful tech as reasons to give the vehicle serious consideration. Car and Driver's trim-level assessment describes the Platinum as a luxurious cruiser — a characterization that aligns with the Platinum's positioning as the tech-and-comfort centerpiece of the Expedition lineup. Major publications generally note that the Expedition Max Platinum delivers full-size capability with a level of interior refinement. Frequently Asked Questions from Local Buyers About the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum Q: How much can the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum tow? The Platinum 4x2 is rated at 9,600 lbs maximum towing capacity. That covers most recreational trailers, including mid-size travel trailers, boat and personal watercraft combinations, and enclosed cargo trailers. The standard Pro Trailer system — which includes trailer reversing aid, tow mode, trailer hitch assist, trailer brake control, and a 360-camera extension — provides active support for hitching and maneuvering. The payload allowance is 1,957 lbs, which accommodates a fully loaded passenger cabin plus gear without approaching the rated limit. Q: What is the fuel economy on the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum? The Platinum 4x2 is EPA-rated at 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. With a 23.6-gallon fuel tank and a calculated range of 425 miles, the Expedition Max Platinum handles long Kansas highway drives between communities without frequent fuel stops. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford is rated at 15 city / 22 highway, reflecting the specific equipment configuration on that vehicle. Q: Does the Expedition Max Platinum come with BlueCruise hands-free driving? Yes. Ford BlueCruise is available on the Platinum trim, either as a standard feature or as an optional package depending on configuration. The system enables hands-free highway driving on pre-qualified divided highways, with adaptive cruise control linked to mapping, stop-and-go function, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and a driver attention monitor. It carries a Level 2 partial automation classification. The in-stock Valor Ford unit includes BlueCruise as part of its option package. Q: How many passengers does the Expedition Max Platinum seat? The standard configuration seats 7 passengers in a 2+2+3 arrangement — front bucket seats, second-row captain's chairs, and a third-row split bench. An optional second-row seat upgrade to a power-folding 40/20/40 bench with tip-and-slide expands total capacity to 8 passengers in a 2+3+3 layout. Third-row legroom is 36.5 inches and shoulder room is 64.2 inches, making the third row genuinely usable for adults on shorter trips and comfortable for children on longer ones. Q: Where can I see the Expedition Max Platinum in person and ask specific questions? Valor Ford has a 2027 Expedition Max Platinum in stock at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 — Stock #27FT01, finished in Bronze Fire Metallic with Black Onyx leather. Our team is available to walk through every package option, towing configuration, and technology feature in detail. Give us (785) 238-5114 to confirm availability or schedule a time to drive it before your next weekend trip. Experience the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum at Valor Ford Today Visit Valor Ford in Junction City to test drive the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum or explore our complete lineup of new and pre-owned Ford vehicles. Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

How Ford Pro Power Onboard Redefines Mobile Utility for Rural Kansas Field Work In the expansive agricultural heartland of Central Kansas, field work is defined by vast distances, severe weather shifts, and an unyielding demand for self-reliance. Farmers across Dickinson County, utility linemen servicing remote grid sectors near Fort Riley, and civil contractors working miles outside Junction City share a common operational challenge: accessing heavy-duty electrical power where no grid connection exists. Historically, solving this problem required hauling heavy, noise-polluting gas generators in truck beds, tying down volatile fuel cans, and sacrificing valuable payload space. Ford Pro Power Onboard significantly streamlines this workflow by transforming your truck into a high-output, mobile power plant. By routing generator capability directly through the truck’s engine and high-voltage battery architecture, Ford Pro Power Onboard delivers reliable 120V and 240V electricity directly to bed-mounted and cabin outlets. Whether you opt for the 2.0 kW, 2.4 kW, 7.2 kW, or 9.6 kW system, you get an integrated power solution engineered to run 240V arc welders, heavy air compressors, high-draw battery charging stations, and severe emergency equipment anywhere your four-wheel-drive truck can travel. At Valor Ford, we see firsthand how this breakthrough system revolutionizes daily operations for Kansas producers and commercial fleets. Beyond simple convenience, Pro Power Onboard represents a fundamental shift in operational economics for rural workers. When you don't have to carry a separate engine-driven generator, you eliminate hundreds of pounds of unnecessary ballast, free up valuable bed volume for seed bags or fencing materials, and remove the fire hazard associated with loose gasoline containers bouncing across gravel roads. To explore how this technology integrates seamlessly into iconic tough trucks, take a moment to Research Ford F-150 models available today in Junction City. What Is Ford Pro Power Onboard and How Does the Integrated Generator System Work? At its core, Ford Pro Power Onboard converts engine power or high-voltage battery energy into clean, regulated alternating current (AC) electricity. Unlike conventional aftermarket inverters wired directly to a standard 12V lead-acid starter battery—which quickly drain the battery and overheat—Pro Power Onboard utilizes engineered, factory-integrated dual inverters paired with dedicated energy storage systems. On models like the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid, the system seamlessly coordinates a 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine with a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. The vehicle draws electrical power from the lithium battery first. When the stored energy dips below a set threshold, the internal combustion engine automatically starts up to spin the high-output electric motor/generator, recharging the battery pack while maintaining continuous power delivery to your equipment. Monitoring and controlling power usage is intuitive through the cabin's SYNC 4 touchscreen interface or remotely via the Ford App. Operators can observe real-time wattage output across individual circuits, receive instant alerts if a device draws near circuit limits, and remotely toggle power zones on or off without climbing back into the driver seat. The bed-mounted electrical panel features dual 120V 20A outlets and a twist-lock NEMA L14-30 240V 30A outlet on 7.2 kW equipped models. How Farmers and Agricultural Teams in Dickinson County Rely on Pro Power Onboard Remote Fence & Gate Repairs Cattle ranchers managing miles of perimeter fencing along the Smoky Hill River valley face frequent fence breaks caused by weather or livestock pressure. Utilizing the 7.2 kW system, ranch hands plug in a 240V portable arc welder directly into the bed outlet to repair broken steel gates and pipe corrals on the spot, avoiding hours spent trailering damaged equipment back to the farm shop. Combine Field Maintenance During intense Kansas summer wheat harvests, downtime costs hundreds of dollars per hour. When chaff and debris clog combine header sieves or hydraulic lines leak out in deep pastures, farmers run high-horsepower 120V air compressors and heavy-duty impact guns straight from the truck bed to clean machinery and swap damaged components in minutes. Seed Tenders & Livestock Water Transferring bulk seed during spring planting or pumping water to remote pasture livestock tanks requires continuous electrical power. Pro Power Onboard easily runs heavy electric seed augers and high-flow submersible water pumps without requiring a towed generator trailer, simplifying field transport logistics for ag crews. What Heavy Equipment and Tools Can a 7.2 kW Pro Power Onboard System Operate? The 7.2 kW Pro Power Onboard system—available on F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid models—delivers 7,200 watts of continuous AC power across multiple 120V 20A outlets and one NEMA L14-30 240V 30A outlet. To appreciate its capability, consider what field service contractors can operate concurrently on a remote job site without exceeding system capacity or tripping thermal breakers. Tool / Equipment Operating Voltage Continuous Wattage Plasma Cutter / MIG Welder 240V 2,000 W 12-Gallon Air Compressor 120V 1,800 W Commercial Circular Saw 120V 1,500 W Multi-Bay Battery Charger Bank 120V 1,000 W High-Lumen LED Jobsite Tower 120V 500 W Total Concurrent Load 120V / 240V Dual 6,800 W (Under 7.2 kW Cap) Contact Us for Financing Information Why Pro Power Onboard Outperforms Traditional Portable Gas Generators in Field Conditions Traditional Standalone Generators • Lost Payload Space: Heavy 7,000-watt commercial generators occupy up to 15-20 cubic feet of truck bed volume and weigh 250+ lbs. • Fuel Logistics & Fire Risk: Requires transporting separate fuel cans, risking spillage and gasoline vapors near tools. • High Noise & Idle Waste: Standalone engines run continuously at high RPM regardless of electrical load, creating extreme jobsite noise and burning fuel rapidly. • Theft Vulnerability: Unattended portable units left on remote jobsites or in open truck beds are frequent targets for theft. Ford Pro Power Onboard Advantage • Zero Bed Space Impact: Inverters and wiring are integrated beneath the floor and sidewalls, keeping the full bed available for cargo. • Integrated Fuel Tank Supply: Draws directly from the truck's 30.6-gallon fuel tank, providing days of runtime without loose gas cans. • Smart Engine Auto-Cycling: On PowerBoost models, the engine shuts off and powers tools silently from the battery, cycling the engine only when needed. • Built-In Security & Drive Locking: Utility Mode allows the system to generate full electrical power while the truck doors remain locked and secure. How to Safely Operate Ford Pro Power Onboard in Remote Kansas Field Work Operating heavy electrical machinery in rugged outdoor environments requires strict safety protocols, especially given the unpredictable weather conditions in Central Kansas. Wet soil, heavy rain squalls, and dust storms present potential electrical hazards if equipment is mismanaged. Ford engineered Pro Power Onboard with advanced safety systems, including integrated ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection across all outlets and real-time monitoring. To ensure maximum safety and uninterrupted operation on remote job sites: 1. Weatherproof Connections: Keep spring-loaded outlet covers snapped shut when not in use. When operating in damp field conditions, use NEMA 3R rain-tight extension cord connections. 2. Grounding Protocols: The system features a bonded neutral generator architecture. Always ensure high-draw tools use undamaged 10-gauge or 12-gauge grounded cords. 3. Monitoring Circuit Loads: Utilize the SYNC 4 display to verify draw distribution across Channel 1 and Channel 2 before striking heavy welding arcs or engaging heavy compressor motors. 4. Exhaust Safety: When using Utility Mode with the engine auto-cycling, ensure the truck tailpipe is parked away from dry wheat stubble or enclosed structures to prevent heat buildup and carbon monoxide hazards. For regular electrical system inspections and factory diagnostics, you can easily Schedule Ford Service Today with certified technicians at Valor Ford in Junction City. Can Pro Power Onboard Provide Emergency Backup Power During Kansas Storm Outages? Severe Storm Resilience Kansas weather is notorious for sudden supercell thunderstorms, tornadoes, and severe winter ice storms that knock out rural power lines for days. Having a 7.2 kW or 9.6 kW generator built directly into your primary transport truck can help keep your property operational when grid power fails. Agricultural Preservation Grid failures put livestock and perishable goods at immediate risk. Pro Power Onboard supplies essential power to agricultural well pumps, automated livestock ventilation fans, milk cooling tanks, and heated brooders, protecting critical farm investments during prolonged utility grid blackouts. Residential Emergency For rural homeowners near Junction City and Dickinson County, Pro Power Onboard seamlessly energizes home refrigeration, sump pumps, HVAC blower fans, lights, and essential medical equipment, keeping your family safe and comfortable while repair crews restore regional power transmission. How to Power Your Rural Kansas House or Outbuilding During a Grid Outage Connecting your Ford truck to power your home or farm workshop is straightforward when properly configured. Using the 240V 30A NEMA L14-30R outlet in the bed, you connect a heavy-duty generator cord directly to a pre-installed home manual transfer switch. Step-by-Step Connection Process: 1. Install a licensed electrician-fitted manual transfer switch (neutral-switching configuration required for bonded-neutral truck generators). 2. Connect a 30-amp generator power cord from the truck bed 240V outlet to the home's outdoor inlet box. 3. Start the truck, enable Pro Power Onboard via the center display, and switch the home breaker panel to generator power. 4. Monitor load distribution on SYNC 4 to balance power across household circuits. An F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid with a full 30.6-gallon tank can supply continuous home backup power for estimated at up to 32 hours under max continuous load (7.2 kW) or over 85 hours under typical light household loads (1,000–2,000 W). Order Genuine Ford Parts Supporting Contractor and Defense Field Operations Support Around Fort Riley Junction City sits adjacent to Fort Riley, a primary military installation supporting vast training ranges and civil defense projects. Defense contractors, civil engineering teams, and base maintenance crews operating across remote training sectors require dependable mobile electrical setups that operate with minimal thermal and acoustic signature. Pro Power Onboard provides civil defense contractors with instant electrification for mobile command posts, laptop and satellite communication banks, field diagnostic scanners, and heavy electric tools during tactical infrastructure repairs. Because hybrid and electric Ford trucks operate ultra-quietly when feeding electrical power from battery reserves, field units can run sensitive diagnostic equipment without the heavy vibration and noise interference caused by conventional diesel generators. For organizations seeking pre-owned commercial fleet vehicles equipped with factory generator options, you can explore available options through our used inventory page at Valor Ford. Which Ford Truck Trim and Engine Delivers the Best Pro Power Onboard Specs for You? 2.0 kW System (Gas F-150 & Super Duty) Available across traditional EcoBoost V6 gas F-150 models and heavy-duty Ford Super Duty trucks. Features dual 120V 20A bed outlets. Ideal for charging cordless power tool batteries, running work lights, electric miter saws, and small air compressors. 2.4 kW / 7.2 kW Systems (F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid) Standard 2.4 kW or optional 7.2 kW on PowerBoost Hybrid. The 7.2 kW system adds a 240V 30A twist-lock outlet alongside four 120V outlets. Designed for heavy construction crews, remote welding, and full home backup capability. 9.6 kW System (F-150 Lightning EV) Standard on Extended Range Lightning EV models. Combines 10 120V outlets (bed, frunk, cabin) and a 240V 30A bed plug. Perfect for zero-emission indoor work, commercial job sites, and maximum emergency home electrification. If your field operations require maximum towing capacity alongside mobile power output, take time to Research Ford F-250 specs and Super Duty options at Valor Ford. Calculating Fuel Efficiency and Financial ROI for Commercial Field Service Teams For business owners managing field service fleets across Geary and Dickinson counties, vehicle investments must justify themselves on the balance sheet. Pro Power Onboard provides a clear, measurable return on investment through reduced fuel burn, eliminated capital expenditure on external generators, and lower maintenance costs. 1. Fuel Consumption Savings: Traditional gas generators run continuously at high RPMs, consuming approximately 0.5 to 1 gallons of gasoline per hour regardless of tool load. An F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid utilizing Pro Power Onboard auto-cycles its engine, using battery power when electrical loads are light. In a typical 8-hour workday, this auto-cycling cuts jobsite fuel consumption by up to 50%. 2. Capital & Maintenance Savings: Purchasing a standalone 7,000-watt commercial generator costs between $2,500 and $4,500 per service vehicle, plus ongoing maintenance fees for small engine oil changes, spark plugs, and carburetors. With Pro Power Onboard, that capital expenditure drops to zero. 3. Commercial Tax Advantages: Equipping heavy commercial pickup trucks for work purposes opens opportunities for Section 179 vehicle depreciation write-offs. To calculate the trade value of your current field service vehicles toward a new Ford truck, request a Trade In Evaluation from our team. Evaluate Your Trade-In Maintaining Your Pro Power Onboard System with Valor Ford in Junction City Because Pro Power Onboard is a factory-engineered component of your Ford powertrain, maintaining the system is simple and integrated directly into your vehicle’s routine maintenance schedule. There are no separate generator spark plugs to replace or carburetors to clean out. During standard factory oil changes and tire rotations at Valor Ford, our Senior Master Technicians perform multi-point electrical inspections, verifying high-voltage inverter connections, outlet seal integrity, and software calibration. Through Ford Power-Up Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates, your system continuously receives operational improvements and diagnostic updates automatically over cell connection. Busy field managers can also Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service to have their trucks serviced without leaving the farm or job site. Upgrade Your Field Operations at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Ready to eliminate portable gas generators and transform how you work across rural Kansas? Visit Valor Ford in Junction City to experience Ford Pro Power Onboard in person. Our knowledgeable commercial sales team will help you evaluate your tool wattage requirements and pair you with the ideal F-150 or Super Duty truck trim for your field operations. Valor Ford 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 Call us at (785) 238-5114 | Get Directions to Valor Ford Browse Pro Power Equipped Inventory

2022 Ford Super Duty Safety Recalls & Expert Insights with Jace Grabouski When you are investing in a heavy-duty truck, peace of mind isn't optional—it is essential. Whether you are hauling grain through Dickinson County, towing equipment out to Fort Riley, or pulling a 15,000-pound camper across the Flint Hills on I-70, knowing your vehicle's safety profile is critical. The 2022 Ford Super Duty remains one of the most capable and popular used heavy-duty trucks on the market today. However, prospective buyers and current owners frequently ask: Were there any major safety recalls on the 2022 Ford Super Duty? To answer this question thoroughly, we sat down with Jace Grabouski, General Manager at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS. Bringing over 25 years of automotive expertise, Jace breaks down the official NHTSA safety recalls affecting the 2022 Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models. The key takeaway: yes, the 2022 Ford Super Duty had a few notable safety recalls—most prominently regarding integrated trailer brake controller software failures, underbody thermal insulation detachment near the driveshaft, and windshield bonding adhesion issues. Crucially, all of these factory recall repairs are performed 100% free of charge by factory-certified technicians at authorized Ford dealerships. In this exclusive Q&A interview guide, Jace covers everything you need to know about the 2022 Super Duty lineup, from specific recall remedies and payload capacities up to 7,850 lbs, to extended warranty protection with Ford Protect, local work site capability in Central Kansas, and how to verify recall status before buying a pre-owned truck. If you are looking to Browse Used Inventory or need to verify your current truck's safety profile, this guide provides the expert authority you can trust. What Is the 2022 Ford Super Duty and How Does It Fit Kansas Drivers? Interviewer: Jace, thanks for sitting down with us today. To start off for folks who might be upgrading from a light-duty half-ton like the F-150, what exactly is the 2022 Ford Super Duty lineup, and what engine options power these trucks? Jace Grabouski: It's my pleasure! The 2022 Ford Super Duty represents Ford's heavy-duty series—specifically encompassing the F-250, F-350, and F-450 models. While an F-150 is fantastic for everyday commuter tasks and moderate towing, the Super Duty line is engineered from the ground up with high-strength, military-grade aluminum-alloy bodies mounted on fully boxed steel frames built to handle immense payload and severe trailering demands. For the 2022 model year, Ford offered three outstanding engine choices. First is the standard 6.2L Flex-Fuel V8 paired with a 6-speed or 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque—a bulletproof, time-tested gas powerplant. Second is the legendary 7.3L 'Godzilla' V8 gas engine, delivering a massive 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. It uses an overhead valve architecture designed specifically for commercial-grade durability under sustained heavy loads. Finally, for maximum torque requirements, you have the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel, pushing out 475 horsepower and an astonishing 1,050 lb-ft of low-end torque. Both the 7.3L gas and 6.7L diesel utilize Ford's heavy-duty TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission with select drive modes including Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery, and Deep Sand/Snow. Interviewer: How does this heavy-duty engineering specifically match the everyday demands of drivers around Junction City, Fort Riley, and rural Central Kansas? Jace Grabouski: Living and working in Geary and Dickinson counties, our truck owners don't treat their vehicles as drive-way jewelry. We have active agriculture operations hauling round hay bales, livestock trailers, and seed drills. We also have active-duty military personnel at Fort Riley moving heavy equipment trailers, as well as contractors pulling backhoes and enclosed tool rigs along I-70. The 2022 Super Duty strikes a unique sweet spot because it introduced major interior refinements—like the optional 12-inch landscape SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—while maintaining rugged hardware. You can check out our current truck lineups when you Research Ford F-250 specifications. Whether you are navigating muddy farm access roads or highway cruising across Kansas, the 2022 model year delivers modern connectivity backed by extreme structural capability. Were There Any Major Safety Recalls on the 2022 Ford Super Duty? Interviewer: Jace, let's address the central topic directly. Buyers shopping for a pre-owned 2022 F-250 or F-350 want complete clarity. Were there major safety recalls issued by NHTSA on the 2022 Ford Super Duty, and what should drivers look out for? Trailer Brake Control Failure (NHTSA 22V193) Issue: A software error inside the integrated trailer brake control module (TBCM) could cause the trailer electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes to lose signal while towing. Impact: Loss of trailer braking power significantly increases stopping distances, creating a severe safety hazard when hauling heavy loads. Factory Remedy: Dealership technicians reflash the Integrated Trailer Brake Control Module software with updated code free of charge. The update requires approximately 30 minutes in our service bay. Underbody Insulation / Driveshaft (NHTSA 22V089) Issue: Underbody noise/heat insulation pads attached to the aluminum floor pan could sag or loosen due to inadequate adhesive attachment. Impact: Loose insulation can contact the aluminum driveshaft, gradually scoring or damaging the shaft over time. A fractured driveshaft can cause sudden loss of drive power or unintended vehicle movement in Park. Factory Remedy: Technicians inspect the driveshaft for damage. If undamaged, insulation is securely fastened with additional mechanical retainers. Damaged driveshafts are replaced free. Windshield Adhesion & Structural Retainers Issue: On select 2022 Super Duty units, front windshield urethane bonding may not have met factory adhesion specifications during assembly. Impact: In a severe crash, improper windshield bonding might reduce roof strength integrity or allow the windshield to detach during airbag deployment. Factory Remedy: Certified technicians remove and reinstall the front windshield glass using proper surface primers and high-modulus urethane adhesive according to OEM guidelines at zero cost to the owner. Jace Grabouski: 'I always tell our clients in Junction City that a recall sounds intimidating, but it is actually a sign of safety accountability. Automobile manufacturers constantly analyze field data. When Ford identified that the trailer brake module software could drop communication with trailer electric brakes, they immediately issued recall 22V193. Here at Valor Ford, we have serviced dozens of local trucks for this precise software patch. It is clean, quick, and gives you total peace of mind when pulling a loaded trailer down Highway 77.' How Do I Check if a Used 2022 Super Duty Has Outstanding Recalls in Junction City? Interviewer: If someone is looking at buying a pre-owned 2022 Ford Super Duty—either from a private seller or online—how can they verify whether these recall repairs were actually performed? Jace Grabouski: It is simple, and every buyer should take this step before signing any papers. Every vehicle has a unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) located on the driver’s side dashboard base and door jamb sticker. You can enter that VIN into the official NHTSA recall lookup tool or the Ford Owner portal. Even easier: Call us at (785) 238-5114 or stop by Valor Ford. Our service advisors can pull up the official Ford OASIS (Online Automotive Service Information System) report in less than 60 seconds. OASIS displays the complete factory repair history, warranty start dates, open recalls, and field service actions nationwide. Remember: Federal law mandates that all safety recall repairs are 100% free at any authorized Ford dealership regardless of vehicle mileage or whether you are the first or third owner. If you purchase a used 2022 Super Duty with an uncompleted recall, you can instantly Schedule Ford Service Today at our Junction City facility. We also offer specialized concierge services—you can Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service so our team picks up your truck from your home or job site, completes the recall work, and returns it to you clean. Need Recall Verification or Service? Don't guess when it comes to towing safety. Bring your 17-digit VIN to Valor Ford in Junction City. Our factory-certified technicians will perform a complimentary OASIS check, address open software or mechanical recalls, and perform multi-point safety inspections. Schedule Free Recall Check View Certified Used Trucks What Is the Maximum Payload Capacity of the 2022 Ford Super Duty? Interviewer: Towing gets most of the headlines, but payload is often the defining spec for ranchers, construction crews, and farm managers in Kansas. What is the maximum payload capacity of the 2022 Ford Super Duty? Jace Grabouski: When properly configured, the 2022 Ford Super Duty achieves a maximum payload capacity of up to 7,850 pounds. That maximum figure is reached in the F-350 Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) Regular Cab 4x2 setup powered by the 7.3L Godzilla V8 gas engine fitted with the Heavy-Duty Payload Package. It is crucial to understand how payload varies depending on your body style, drivetrain, single vs. dual rear wheels (SRW vs. DRW), and engine weight. A 6.7L diesel engine adds roughly 800 pounds of curb weight compared to a gas V8, which slightly reduces overall bed payload capacity even though it boosts towing torque. Let's look at how maximum payload breaks down across typical configurations: Model / Wheel Setup Engine Option Max Payload (lbs) Max Conventional Towing (lbs) Primary Local Application F-250 SRW (Single Rear Wheel) 6.2L V8 / 7.3L V8 Up to 4,260 lbs 15,000 lbs General Contracting, Utility Towing F-250 SRW with High-Capacity Trailer Tow 6.7L Turbo Diesel Up to 3,940 lbs 20,000 lbs Livestock Trailers, Mid-size Goosenecks F-350 SRW (Single Rear Wheel) 7.3L V8 / 6.7L Diesel Up to 4,960 lbs 21,200 lbs Flint Hills Ranching, Heavy Equipment F-350 DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) 7.3L Godzilla V8 Gas Up to 7,850 lbs 21,000 lbs Maximum Bed Payload, Commercial Seed F-350 DRW (Dual Rear Wheel) 6.7L Turbo Diesel Up to 6,540 lbs 24,200 lbs Heavy Gooseneck / 5th-Wheel Hauling F-450 DRW Crew Cab 4x4 6.7L Turbo Diesel Up to 6,210 lbs 24,200 lbs (37,000 Gooseneck) Extreme Logistics & Heavy Machinery Jace Grabouski: 'When local agricultural producers come into Valor Ford, we perform a precise payload calculation. Payload isn't just what you throw in the bed; it includes driver, passengers, tools, fuel, and tongue weight from gooseneck hitches. Knowing your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) prevents overloading rear suspension components, keeping your truck legal and safe on Kansas roads.' What Is the 2022 Ford Super Duty Best Suited For in Central Kansas? Agricultural Operations & Ranching In Dickinson and Geary counties, cattle ranching and farming require relentless low-end torque and high stability. The 2022 Super Duty equipped with FX4 Off-Road package (skid plates, hill descent control, tuned shocks) thrives when pulling stock trailers through muddy pastures or moving heavy farm equipment across unpaved gravel roads. Optional factory fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep packages integrate structural hitch crossmembers directly into the frame during factory assembly. Military Logistics & Heavy Highway Towing For Fort Riley service members, defense contractors, and highway cross-country haulers, long-distance towing stability along I-70 is paramount. Features like Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System with 360-degree cameras, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with trailer coverage make maneuvering long travel trailers or enclosed vehicle transport trailers effortless and strain-free. How Does the 2022 Ford Super Duty Compare With Other Heavy-Duty Trucks? Interviewer: Jace, when shoppers visit Valor Ford, they often cross-shop the 2022 Ford Super Duty against competitor heavy-duty models like the Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 HD and Ram 2500/3500. How does the 2022 2022 Ford superduty stack up in real-world performance? 2022 Ford Super Duty • Max Diesel Torque: 1,050 lb-ft (6.7L Power Stroke) • Max Gooseneck Towing: Up to 37,000 lbs • Max Payload: 7,850 lbs • Body Material: High-Strength Military-Grade Aluminum Alloy (Rust Resistance) • Tech Highlight: SYNC 4 12-inch screen, Cloud Navigation, Pro Trailer Backup Assist. 2022 Chevy Silverado HD • Max Diesel Torque: 910 lb-ft (6.6L Duramax) • Max Gooseneck Towing: Up to 36,000 lbs • Max Payload: 7,442 lbs • Body Material: Traditional Roll-Formed Steel • Tech Highlight: Invisible Trailer Camera view, 8-inch touchscreen interface. 2022 Ram 2500 / 3500 HD • Max Diesel Torque: 1,075 lb-ft (6.7L High Output Cummins) • Max Gooseneck Towing: Up to 37,090 lbs • Max Payload: 7,680 lbs • Body Material: Steel Body Panels • Tech Highlight: Uconnect 12-inch vertical screen, optional rear air suspension. Jace Grabouski: 'Where the 2022 Ford Super Duty really wins out over Chevy and Ram in Kansas is long-term durability and aluminum body construction. Because our agricultural environment exposes trucks to magnesium chloride road treatments in winter and damp cattle pens year-round, steel truck beds eventually rust out around the wheel wells. Ford's military-grade aluminum-alloy body completely eliminates rust concerns on cab and bed panels. Furthermore, Ford's 10-speed TorqShift automatic keeps the Power Stroke or Godzilla V8 right in the power band, improving fuel efficiency during empty highway drives.' Browse Pre-Owned Heavy-Duty Truck Stock Can You Add FordProtect Extended Service Plans to a Used 2022 Super Duty? Interviewer: Many customers buying pre-owned heavy-duty trucks worry about potential repair costs down the line for high-tech diesel emissions systems or digital infotainment modules. Can you add FordProtect extended service plans to a used 2022 Super Duty? Jace Grabouski: Absolutely! That is one of the major advantages of buying a late-model used Ford. As long as the vehicle passes our dealership inspection, you can add a genuine Ford Protect Extended Service Plan (ESP) to a pre-owned 2022 Super Duty. FordProtect plans offer factory-backed protection honored by every Ford dealer in the United States and Canada. Options like PremiumCARE cover over 1,000 components—including engine, 10-speed transmission, 4x4 transfer case, steering systems, air conditioning, digital instrument clusters, SYNC 4 electronics, and high-tech safety sensors. Plans also include 24/7 Roadside Assistance, towing reimbursement, and rental vehicle benefits while repairs are performed. Our finance specialists at Valor Ford can help you review current payment options for a FordProtect ESP. You can start by filling out our online portal to Get Pre-Approved for Financing. If you have an existing trade vehicle, submit a quick Trade In Evaluation to see how much equity you can put toward your pre-owned Super Duty purchase. Should I Test-Drive a 2022 Ford Super Duty Before Buying? Interviewer: To wrap things up, Jace, what is your final piece of advice for local truck shoppers, and should they test-drive a 2022 Ford Super Duty before making their final decision? Jace Grabouski: You should 100% test-drive a 2022 Super Duty before buying! Heavy-duty trucks have evolved tremendously. Reading specifications online cannot compare to sitting behind the wheel, testing the adaptive steering, evaluating brake pedal feel under load, and experiencing how quiet the cab is at 75 MPH on I-70. When you test-drive at Valor Ford, we encourage you to test different engine options—compare the raw throttle response of the 7.3L Godzilla V8 against the massive surge of torque from the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel. Over my 25 years in the automotive industry here at Valor Ford, our goal has always been complete transparency. We verify that all safety recalls are completed, inspect every vehicle thoroughly, and treat you like family. Stop by our showroom at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, KS. You can Get Directions to Valor Ford or call our dealership team directly at Call us at (785) 238-5114. We look forward to helping you find the perfect heavy-duty truck for your needs! Visit Valor Ford in Junction City

2024 Ford Explorer XLT vs 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT is the stronger choice for midsize SUV shoppers, offering better fuel efficiency, higher output, superior safety ratings, and a lower starting price than the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. With 300 horsepower from its 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, up to 27 MPG highway, an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus award, and a base MSRP of $40,670, the Explorer XLT delivers unmatched value, modern capability, and daily versatility. Research 2024 Ford Explorer Which SUV Is the Best Choice for Junction City Families: 2024 Ford Explorer XLT or 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD? The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT emerges as the better overall choice for local families due to its lower starting price, higher horsepower, superior fuel economy, and higher safety scores compared to the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. Entering the market at a starting MSRP of $40,670 for the XLT 4WD trim and $38,670 for the XLT RWD trim, the Explorer costs significantly less than the $44,235 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD while delivering more modern standard equipment. Beneath the hood, the Explorer's standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the Durango's 3.6L Pentastar V6, which produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Beyond raw powertrain numbers, the Ford Explorer XLT provides superior passenger efficiency and everyday maneuverability. Built on Ford's CD6 architecture, the Explorer XLT delivers responsive handling with a tight 464.5-inch turning circle, whereas the longer Durango SXT Plus AWD requires a 492.1-inch turning radius. Inside, the Explorer XLT comes standard with a 2+2+2 seating configuration featuring 2nd-row captain's chairs for six passengers, making third-row access effortless during daily school drop-offs or carpools. Buyers can also opt for an available 2nd Row Bench package (option code 17U) to expand seating capacity to seven passengers. Families shopping in the area can explore full Ford Explorer details to see how its about 88 cu ft of maximum cargo space out hauls the Durango's about 85 cu ft. For those looking to replace their current vehicle, taking time to value your trade-in online can make stepping into a brand-new 2024 Explorer XLT even more seamless. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Specification 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD Engine 2.3L 3.6L Horsepower 300 hp 293 hp Torque 310 lb-ft 260 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® TorqueFlite® Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive How Pricing and Trim Features Match Military Family Budgets The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT offers a far more value-oriented purchasing threshold, saving buyers $3,565 on base MSRP compared to the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. With the Explorer XLT 4WD priced at $40,670 and the XLT RWD trim starting at $38,670 (plus a $1,595 destination charge), drivers gain access to advanced turbocharged performance and standard driver-assist technology without paying a premium price tag. In contrast, the Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD carries a base MSRP of $44,235 before adding its $1,595 destination fee, bringing its entry threshold to $45,830. Value in the Explorer XLT extends far beyond the window sticker. Ford equips the Explorer XLT with standard heated driver and front passenger bucket seats, 10-way power adjustments for the driver, a 6.5-inch color instrument cluster display, tri-zone automatic climate control, and LED low- and high-beam headlights. Upgrading the Explorer with Equipment Group 202A adds ActiveX synthetic leather seating, a heated steering wheel, LED front fog lights, and a 4-way power front passenger seat. Shoppers interested in stretching their investment further can browse our pre-owned SUV inventory or apply online to get pre-approved for financing before visiting our showroom. The Explorer XLT also boasts an impressive 3,455-pound maximum payload rating, drastically outpacing the Durango SXT Plus AWD's 1,677-pound payload capacity. While the Durango provides a higher maximum braked towing rating of 6,200 pounds compared to the Explorer XLT's standard 3,000-pound rating (which reaches 5,300 pounds when equipped with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package, code 52T), the Explorer's lower curb weight of 4,345 pounds versus the Durango's heavy 4,823 pounds yields noticeable efficiency savings at the pump. Pricing Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles. 2024 Ford Explorer XLT Trim MSRP 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD Trim MSRP XLT RWD $38,670 SXT Plus AWD $44,235 XLT 4WD $40,670 — — Get Pre-Approved for Financing Cargo and Passenger Space Weekend Adventures and School Runs The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT offers superior interior shoulder room, front legroom, and maximum cargo capacity over the Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD, making it the more comfortable and versatile cabin for busy households. Up front, driver and passenger enjoy 43.0 inches of legroom and 61.8 inches of shoulder room in the Explorer, compared to 40.3 inches of front legroom and 58.5 inches of shoulder room in the Durango. Second-row passengers in the Explorer benefit from 39.0 inches of legroom and 61.9 inches of shoulder room, out-measuring the Durango's 38.6 inches of legroom and 57.7 inches of shoulder room. When it comes to hauling luggage, sports gear, or utility supplies, the Explorer XLT provides about 18 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row, about 48 cu ft behind the second row, and a maximum volume of about 88 cu ft with all rear seats folded flat. The Durango SXT Plus AWD yields about 17 cu ft behind its third row and tops out at about 85 cu ft total. Furthermore, the Explorer features a lower cargo loading floor height of 31.1 inches and a wide 48.1-inch clearance between the rear wheelhouses, facilitating easier loading of bulky items. To keep the cabin protected against mud, dirt, and wet weather gear, owners can order genuine Ford parts such as all-weather floor liners, cargo area management systems (option code 21F), or heavy-duty roof-rail crossbars. The Explorer's thoughtfully engineered interior layout ensures every passenger travels in comfort without compromising total utility. Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Specification 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD Seating 6 7 Cargo 18.2 cu ft 17.2 cu ft Towing 3,000 lbs 6,200 lbs Curb weight 4,345 lbs 4,823 lbs Payload 3,455 lbs 1,677 lbs Performance and AWD Capability Built for Plains and Trails The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT delivers superior engine output, faster torque responsiveness, and more sophisticated transmission technology than the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. Powering the Explorer is Ford's 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, which leverages direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger to generate 300 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM. By comparison, the Durango's naturally aspirated 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine produces 293 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 RPM. Because the Explorer's EcoBoost® engine delivers 50 additional lb-ft of torque at an RPM threshold 500 RPM lower than the Durango, the Ford accelerates with significantly more urgency when passing or climbing steep highway grades. Mated to Ford's SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission (code 44T), the Explorer optimizes power delivery across a wide spread of gear ratios, ranging from a steep 4.71:1 first gear for rapid off-the-line launch to a high 0.64:1 tenth gear overdrive for quiet, low-RPM cruising. The Durango utilizes an 8-speed TorqueFlite® automatic transmission (code 850RE) with a 4.714:1 first gear and a 0.667:1 eighth gear. For traction in challenging weather, the Explorer XLT 4WD model utilizes an Intelligent 4WD system paired with Terrain Management System adjustment, selectable drive modes, and Hill Descent Control. With 7.9 inches of unladen ground clearance, a 20.1-degree approach angle, and a 22.0-degree departure angle, the Explorer navigates unpaved country routes and snowy roads with composed confidence. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Specification 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD MPG 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 18 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined Fuel Economy and Range Considerations for Daily Commutes and Weekend Getaways The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD achieves better EPA fuel economy estimates in every driving category compared to the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. The Explorer XLT 4WD earns an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city, 27 MPG highway, and 23 MPG combined. Choosing the Explorer XLT RWD model increases efficiency figures to 21 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, and 24 MPG combined. The Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD trails behind with EPA ratings of 18 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 21 MPG combined. Operating on standard 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline, the Explorer XLT 4WD requires less fuel per mile, reducing annual fueling expenses for active commuters. Its 17.9-gallon fuel tank provides an EPA-calculated cruising range of 412 miles in 4WD trim and 430 miles in RWD trim. While the Durango SXT Plus AWD houses a larger 24.6-gallon fuel tank that offers a total range of 516 miles, its lower 21 MPG combined efficiency means drivers fill up more gallons over time. The Explorer's lighter curb weight and efficient 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission work together to minimize drag and reduce carbon emissions to 387 g/mi combined, compared to 430 g/mi for the V6 Durango. Smart Technology That Keeps Drivers Connected and Safe The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT offers a cleaner, more intuitive driver interface and comprehensive connectivity features designed for effortless daily operation. The center console features an 8.0-inch SYNC® 3 touchscreen display with fixed orientation, capacitive touch controls, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth® hands-free pairing, and 911 Assist telematics capability. Driver information is displayed on a 6.5-inch color TFT instrument cluster screen positioned between analog dials. For device power, the Explorer XLT comes standard with two front USB ports and two rear USB ports, alongside two 12-volt power outlets up front, one in the second row, and one in the cargo area. Upgrading to the available XLT Technology Package (option code 68D) upgrades the entertainment experience with a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen® sound system delivering 780 watts of system power, a wireless charging pad, a 360-Degree Camera with Split View, front parking sensors, auto-dimming side mirrors, and an embedded universal garage door opener. IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ 2024 Top Safety Award Winner NHTSA 5-STAR RATING Overall Frontal & Side Safety Ford CO-PILOT360™ Standard Advanced Safety Tech Safety engineering is a distinct triumph for the Ford Explorer. The 2024 Explorer earned the prestigious 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK Plus award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), scoring "Good" ratings in moderate overlap front, small overlap front driver, side impact, and roof strength evaluations. It also earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests. The Durango SXT Plus AWD received a lower 4-Star Overall NHTSA rating and a "Marginal" rating from the IIHS in the small overlap driver-side front crash test. Standard safety hardware on the Explorer XLT includes eight airbags (intelligent driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags, three-row side curtain airbags, and a driver knee airbag), Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, and Trailer Sway Control. Opting for the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package (code 65S) adds Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation, Evasive Steering Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options Tailored for Military Families Both Ford and Dodge back their crossovers with competitive factory warranty packages, but Ford provides longer factory anti-corrosion protection. The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile OEM whole-vehicle bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile OEM powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance coverage is included for 5 years or 60,000 miles, providing peace of mind during long highway trips. Ford's anti-corrosion warranty spans 5 years with unlimited mileage, whereas Dodge limits anti-corrosion coverage on the Durango to 3 years or unlimited miles. Maintaining your Ford Explorer in peak mechanical condition is simple and convenient. Local drivers can easily schedule a service appointment online for routine oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, or multi-point vehicle checkups. Every new Ford vehicle includes Ford Roadside Assistance, providing 24/7 emergency towing, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and lock-out assistance backed by factory-trained technicians and genuine OEM replacement parts. In the event of an emergency, drivers can contact Ford Roadside Assistance at (800) 241-3673 for immediate support. Schedule Ford Service Today Frequently Asked Questions: Comparing the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT and 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD for Kansas Buyers Q: Is the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT more powerful than the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD? Yes, the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT generates more horsepower and torque than the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. Its 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Durango's 3.6L Pentastar V6, which yields 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Q: Which SUV gets better fuel economy for commuters near Fort Riley? The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD delivers superior fuel efficiency, earning EPA ratings of 20 MPG city, 27 MPG highway, and 23 MPG combined. The 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD achieves lower efficiency figures of 18 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 21 MPG combined. Q: How do the safety ratings compare between the Explorer XLT and Durango SXT Plus AWD? The Ford Explorer holds a significant safety advantage. It achieved an IIHS 2024 TOP SAFETY PICK Plus award and a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA. The 2023 Dodge Durango received a 4-Star Overall NHTSA score and scored "Marginal" in IIHS small overlap front driver-side crash testing. Q: How much cargo space does the 2024 Explorer XLT offer compared to the Durango? The Explorer XLT provides about 18 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row and about 88 cu ft with rear seats folded. The Durango SXT Plus AWD offers about 17 cu ft behind its third row and maxes out at about 85 cu ft. Q: Where can I test drive the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT today? You can test drive the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT at Valor Ford. You can visit our Junction City showroom located at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd or give our sales team a quick call at (785) 238-5114. You can also explore other versatile models in our inventory, such as taking time to browse our new Ford Bronco lineup. Why the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT Wins the Comparison When evaluated across pricing, power, fuel efficiency, passenger room, safety accolades, and long-term warranty protection, the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT stands as the clear choice over the 2023 Dodge Durango SXT Plus AWD. With a starting MSRP of $40,670 for 4WD models ($38,670 for RWD), 300 turbocharged horsepower, up to 27 MPG highway, about 88 cu ft of maximum cargo space, and an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK Plus designation, the Explorer XLT offers a superior balance of modern capability and everyday practical comfort. Valor Ford is proud to serve military members, working families, and SUV enthusiasts with top-tier customer service, straightforward vehicle financing, and factory-certified Ford maintenance. Visit our dealership today at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd to experience the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT firsthand with a test drive, or contact our team online to reserve your next vehicle. 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