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2025 Ford Truck Lineup Overview

2026 Ford F-150 Trim Level Guide

2026 Ford F-150 Inventory New Ford Special Offers Contact Us Table of Contents: 2026 F-150 Trim Levels at a Glance XL & STX: Built for the Job XLT & Lariat: Where Comfort Meets Capability King Ranch & Platinum: Two Takes on Luxury Tremor & Raptor: Purpose-Built for Off-Road Which Trim Should You Choose? The F-150 isn't a hard sell around Hickory. Most buyers in Catawba County already know they want one. The harder question is figuring out which trim actually fits your life, your budget, and the kind of work you're putting that truck through. The 2026 Ford F-150 is available in eight trim levels, ranging from the work-ready XL at $39,330 to the high-performance Raptor at $79,005 MSRP, giving drivers across Western North Carolina a full spectrum of capability, comfort, and technology. All trims come standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we've helped drivers from Hickory, Lenoir, Statesville, Newton, and Conover navigate the F-150 lineup for decades. We know the questions that come up, and we know that picking the wrong trim is an expensive mistake in either direction. This guide breaks down every 2026 F-150 trim in plain terms so you can walk in with a clear picture and spend less time on the lot and more time behind the wheel. Key Points: 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Levels Near Hickory, NC Eight trims, one platform, zero wasted capability. Every 2026 F-150, from XL to Raptor, includes a 10-speed automatic transmission and Ford's Co-Pilot360 safety suite as standard equipment. The foundation is strong across the board. The biggest pricing jump in the lineup is between XLT and Lariat. Going from the XLT ($44,695) to the Lariat ($59,560) adds leather seats, heated fronts, and real luxury. Beyond Lariat, you're paying for premium audio, BlueCruise hands-free driving, and specialized off-road performance. The 2026 F-150 can tow up to an estimated 13,500 lbs when properly equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, making it a class-leading hauler for the farms, job sites, and mountain roads throughout Catawba County and Western NC. 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Levels at a Glance: All Eight Options Not every truck buyer needs the same thing. Here's a quick-reference look at the full 2026 F-150 lineup before we get into the details. Trim Best For Key Feature Starting MSRP XL Work trucks, fleet, commercial SYNC 4 12" touchscreen, Co-Pilot360 $39,330 STX Sport-styled work trucks 18" gloss black wheels, zone lighting $41,855 XLT Best overall value Pro Trailer Backup Assist, 12" productivity screen $44,695 Lariat Comfort upgrade from XLT Leather seats, heated/ventilated fronts, wireless charging $59,560 Tremor Serious off-road capability Off-road suspension, e-locking rear diff, skid plates $64,915 King Ranch Traditional luxury B&O sound, BlueCruise, Del Rio leather $65,825 Platinum Modern luxury Active Motion seats, Pro Power Onboard, ambient lighting $68,800 Raptor High-performance off-road FOX shocks, Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist $79,005 All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail and exclude taxes, title, fees, and dealer charges. Contact Cloninger Ford of Hickory for current availability and pricing. A few things worth noting from this lineup. Every 2026 F-150 comes standard with a 12-inch touchscreen and Ford's Co-Pilot360 safety suite, including the base XL — that's not a given in this segment. The jump from XLT to Lariat is $14,865, but it delivers a meaningful interior upgrade, not just badge changes. And for buyers who tow anything substantial, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, available on XLT and above, unlocks up to an estimated 13,500 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped. The F-150 XL and STX: Built for the Job XL Ford F-150 XL The F-150 XL is the trim built to work without distraction. It carries a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with built-in Wi-Fi. Ford Co-Pilot360 — which includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist — comes standard. "Base" doesn't mean bare on the F-150 XL. This is a capable, connected truck from the ground up, and the right choice for fleet applications, contractors, and budget-conscious buyers who need proven Ford toughness. Standard Features: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine with 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft torque 10-speed automatic transmission 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with built-in Wi-Fi Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite (automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist) Up to 8,400 lbs maximum towing capacity LED headlamps and taillamps Available Regular Cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew configurations STX Ford F-150 STX The STX steps up the XL foundation with 18-inch gloss black aluminum wheels, sport-styled exterior accents, zone lighting for around-the-truck visibility, and rear privacy glass. If you want a work truck that carries a sharper look to the job site without moving into daily-driver territory, the STX is the bridge between the two. The available STX Lobo Package adds 22-inch wheels and a lowered suspension for buyers who want an even more aggressive street-performance stance straight from the factory. Key Upgrades Over XL: 18-inch gloss black aluminum wheels Sport-styled exterior accents Zone lighting for around-the-truck visibility Rear privacy glass SiriusXM radio capability Available STX Lobo Package with 22-inch wheels and lowered suspension Feature XL STX Starting MSRP $39,330 $41,855 Wheels 17-inch steel 18-inch gloss black aluminum Zone Lighting Not Available Standard Sport Appearance Standard STX Sport Styling The F-150 XLT and Lariat: Where Comfort Meets Capability XLT Ford F-150 XLT The XLT is the sweet spot of the lineup for most Hickory-area buyers. It adds LED fog lamps with cornering lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 12-inch digital productivity screen for the instrument cluster. Pro Trailer Backup Assist comes standard, which makes backing a trailer into tight spots significantly easier. FordPass Connect also enables remote access and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. This is America's most popular F-150 trim, and for good reason. Notable Features: 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless connectivity 12-inch digital productivity instrument cluster Leather-wrapped steering wheel LED fog lamps with cornering lights Pro Trailer Backup Assist (standard) FordPass Connect with mobile Wi-Fi hotspot Available BlueCruise 1.3 hands-free driving technology Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Lariat Ford F-150 Lariat The Lariat moves the F-150 into genuine daily-driver comfort territory. It adds leather-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, a wireless charging pad, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The standard engine steps up to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 at this level. For drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel on job sites, client visits, or highway hauls across Western NC, the Lariat is where comfort becomes a real productivity tool. Premium Amenities: Leather-trimmed seating with heated and ventilated front seats Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go Wireless charging pad Dual-zone automatic climate control 3.5L EcoBoost V6 standard engine Pro Trailer Backup Assist Available 360-degree camera system Available B&O Sound System Comfort Feature XLT Lariat Starting MSRP $44,695 $59,560 Seating Material Cloth / Available Leather Leather Standard Ventilated Seats Not Available Standard Wireless Charging Not Available Standard Adaptive Cruise Not Available Standard The F-150 King Ranch and Platinum: Two Takes on Luxury Both the King Ranch and Platinum sit near the top of the 2026 F-150 lineup, and both include BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving capability on thousands of pre-mapped North American roads. The difference between them is style, not quality. King Ranch Ford F-150 King Ranch The King Ranch delivers a warm, Western-inspired interior with Del Rio leather upholstery, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. King Ranch buyers tend to value craftsmanship and tradition over flash. The two-tone exterior color options and distinctive stitching carry that identity outside the cab. Named after the legendary Texas ranch, this trim celebrates authentic heritage while delivering modern luxury and full F-150 capability. Distinctive Western Features: Del Rio leather upholstery with unique perforation patterns and stitching Bang & Olufsen premium sound system BlueCruise hands-free highway driving (standard) 12-inch digital gauge cluster Signature King Ranch badging and two-tone exterior paint options Multi-contour massaging front seats with heating and ventilation Available twin-panel panoramic moonroof Available 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid with Pro Power Onboard Platinum Ford F-150 Platinum The Platinum swings modern. Multicontour seats with Active Motion keep long-distance drivers comfortable. Pro Power Onboard — Ford's built-in generator capability — makes the Platinum a serious option for contractors who need exportable power at the job site. If your truck doubles as a mobile office and power station, the Platinum earns its price in practical ways alongside its premium comfort and ambient lighting. Luxury Appointments: Multicontour seats with Active Motion technology Pro Power Onboard built-in generator capability BlueCruise hands-free highway driving (standard) Ambient interior lighting Heated and cooled front and rear seats 360-degree camera system with split-view display Twin-panel panoramic moonroof Available Satin Platinum Package with 20-inch polished wheels Feature King Ranch Platinum Starting MSRP $65,825 $68,800 Interior Style Western Heritage Modern Luxury Leather Del Rio leather Premium two-tone Pro Power Onboard Available Standard BlueCruise Standard Standard The F-150 Tremor and Raptor: Purpose-Built for Off-Road Tremor Ford F-150 Tremor The Tremor is the trail-focused trim that doesn't require a Raptor budget. It runs a 5.0L V8 engine, an off-road-tuned suspension with upgraded shocks, an electronic-locking rear differential, underbody skid plates, and trail-focused drive modes. The Tremor is the right call for Western NC buyers who want serious off-road capability for mountain roads, backcountry trails, and weekend adventures without the full performance price tag of the Raptor. Off-Road Equipment: 5.0L V8 engine standard Off-road-tuned suspension with upgraded shocks Electronic-locking rear differential Underbody skid plates for protection Trail-focused drive modes Hill Descent Control 33-inch all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels Unique Tremor badging and styling Raptor Ford F-150 Raptor The Raptor takes off-road performance to another level entirely. FOX racing shocks, Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist, and an aggressive wide-stance body are built for high-speed desert running and technical terrain. For most buyers in the Hickory market, the Tremor delivers everything they'll actually use. The Raptor is for those who want the full performance platform, no compromises — or who plan to take their truck well beyond the bounds of what trail maps can account for. Extreme Performance Features: High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 450 horsepower FOX Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers Trail Control for low-speed off-road cruise control Trail Turn Assist for tighter off-road maneuvering 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires Aggressive wide-stance body with unique grille and fender flares Heavy-duty steel bash plates Recaro sport seats with suede inserts Feature Tremor Raptor Starting MSRP $64,915 $79,005 Engine 5.0L V8 H.O. 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (450 hp) Shocks Upgraded off-road shocks FOX Live Valve Tire Size 33-inch all-terrain 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 Trail Turn Assist Not Available Standard Which 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Is Right for You? The right trim depends on what you're asking the truck to do. Here's a quick way to narrow it down: Trim Best For Starting MSRP Summary XL Work trucks, fleet, commercial $39,330 Full F-150 capability at the lowest entry point STX Sport-styled work trucks $41,855 Sharper look to the job site without leaving work-truck territory XLT Best all-around value $44,695 The trim most buyers land on, and for good reason Lariat Daily driver, comfort priority $59,560 Where the F-150 stops feeling like a work truck and starts feeling like a preference Tremor Off-road, Western NC trails $64,915 Serious off-road capability without the full Raptor investment King Ranch Traditional luxury, heritage style $65,825 Western-inspired craftsmanship with BlueCruise hands-free driving Platinum Modern luxury, tech-forward $68,800 Active Motion seats, Pro Power Onboard, and BlueCruise in a modern package Raptor Maximum performance, no compromises $79,005 The full factory performance platform — FOX shocks, Trail Control, 37-inch tires Test Drive the 2026 F-150 at Cloninger Ford of Hickory Cloninger Ford of Hickory has been serving drivers across Hickory, Lenoir, Statesville, Newton, and Conover since 1960. We carry new F-150 inventory across the full trim lineup, and our team is ready to walk you through the differences in person. Visit us at 1241 Highway 70 East, Hickory, NC 28602, browse our new Ford F-150 inventory online, or contact our team for current availability and pricing. The best way to figure out which trim fits is to get behind the wheel. View F-150 Inventory Current Specials Contact Us All MSRPs are manufacturer's suggested retail prices as of the 2026 model year and exclude taxes, title, license fees, and dealer charges. Towing figures are maximum available ratings when properly equipped. Contact Cloninger Ford of Hickory to confirm current availability and pricing.

2025 Ford Truck Lineup

New Ford Truck Models: Complete Lineup & Buyer's Guide

Shop New Ford Trucks New Ford Specials & Offers For truck enthusiasts and practical buyers alike, Ford's latest lineup represents the pinnacle of American engineering and innovation in the pickup segment. The 2025 Ford truck lineup brings significant updates across the board, from the compact Maverick to the heavy-duty Super Duty series. Whether you're looking for a work-ready hauler, an off-road adventure vehicle, or a daily driver with exceptional utility, Ford continues to push boundaries with enhanced powertrains, cutting-edge technology, and thoughtful design improvements. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the new Ford truck models, helping you identify which vehicle best matches your needs, lifestyle, and budget. From performance specs and fuel efficiency to comfort features and safety, we've gathered all the essential information to simplify your truck-buying journey. The Complete 2025 Ford Truck Lineup Ford's 2025 truck portfolio continues its tradition of offering something for every type of truck buyer. The lineup spans from compact options to heavy-duty workhorses, with each model serving a specific niche in the market. The current lineup includes the compact Maverick, the mid-size Ranger, the full-size F-150, and the heavy-duty Super Duty series (F-250, F-350, and F-450). A unique aspect of the 2025 lineup is Ford's increased focus on sustainability without sacrificing capability. New materials used in truck beds and cabins utilize recycled components, while more efficient engines deliver the same power with reduced emissions. This forward-thinking approach allows Ford to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations while maintaining the performance that truck buyers demand. Model Size Category Max Towing Capacity Available Powertrains Maverick Compact 4,000 lbs Hybrid, EcoBoost Ranger Mid-size 7,500 lbs EcoBoost, PowerStroke Diesel F-150 Full-size 14,000 lbs EcoBoost, PowerBoost Hybrid, Lightning Electric Super Duty Heavy-duty 40,000 lbs V8 Gas, PowerStroke Diesel 2025 Ford Maverick: Compact Innovation & Efficiency The new Ford Maverick continues to revolutionize the compact truck segment with its unibody construction and standard hybrid powertrain. For the new model year, Ford has introduced several key improvements, including an enhanced hybrid system that now delivers 45 MPG city (up from 42 MPG in previous models), making it the most fuel-efficient truck on the market by a significant margin. What truly sets the 2025 Maverick apart is its new available technology package, which includes Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system. This addition brings near-luxury convenience features to an affordable truck category, demonstrating Ford's commitment to integrating advanced technology across its lineup. Trim Level Key Features Best For XL 2.5L Hybrid powertrain, 8-inch touchscreen, FordPass Connect, FLEXBED storage system Budget-conscious buyers, first-time truck owners XLT 17" aluminum wheels, Intelligent Access w/ push-button start, rear seat flip-up storage Daily commuters wanting utility and efficiency Lobo 2.0L EcoBoost® Engine, 7-Speed Quick Shift Transmission w/ Paddle Shifters Drivers seeking upgraded performance enhancements Lariat 360-degree camera, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Heated seats, mirrors, & steering wheel Comfort-oriented buyers wanting premium features Tremor Off-Road tuned suspension, skid plates, trail control, advanced 4WD system Light off-road enthusiasts 2025 Ford Ranger: The Versatile Mid-Size Contender Following its significant redesign last year, the new Ford Ranger receives thoughtful refinements rather than a complete overhaul. The mid-size truck maintains its global platform architecture but now features enhanced off-road capabilities with the expanded Tremor and Raptor variants. What competitors don't offer is the capability of the Ranger's new Pro Trailer Backup Assist system, previously only available on larger F-Series trucks. This technology simplifies the challenging task of reversing with a trailer, using a simple dial control system instead of counterintuitive steering inputs – a significant advantage for weekend warriors who tow boats or campers occasionally rather than daily. Trim Level Key Features Best For XL 2.3L EcoBoost, remote keyless entry, pre-collision assist Work/fleet buyers XLT Sport Appearance Package, Co-Pilot360, Remote start Everyday drivers Lariat Power, Heated, Leather front seats, dual-zone climate control, zone lighting Luxury-oriented buyers Raptor 3.0L EcoBoost V6, FOX Live Valve shocks, Watts-link rear suspension Performance truck fans 2025 Ford F-150: America's Bestseller, Redefined The new Ford F-150 builds upon the success of its previous generation with refinements that enhance its versatility, technology, and efficiency. As America's bestselling vehicle for over four decades, the F-150 continues to set the standard for full-size trucks with its aluminum body construction and diverse powertrain options. For 2025, the F-150 lineup expands its electrified options, with the PowerBoost hybrid now available across more trim levels. The fully electric Ford F-150 Lightning receives a range boost, now capable of up to 350 miles on a single charge with the extended-range battery – addressing a key concern for truck buyers considering the switch to electric. Traditional powertrains are still available with the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines, along with the 5.0L V8 for those who prefer naturally aspirated power. Trim Level Key Features Best For XL 3.3L V6, SYNC 4 with 12" screen, pre-collision assist, class IV trailer hitch Work/fleet buyers, basic utility needs STX 18" dark gray aluminum wheels, unique sport cloth bucket seats, selectable driving modes Base model buyers wanting extra versatility XLT Chrome exterior accents, power locks/windows, Co-Pilot360, available 3.5L Powerboost Full Hybrid V6 Value-oriented personal use buyers Lariat Heated & ventilated ActiveX seats, LED technology, available Pro-Access tailgate Premium features without full luxury price Tremor Off-road suspension, locking rear differential, 33" all-terrain tires, unique styling Off-road enthusiasts who need full-size capability King Ranch 5.0L V8, King Ranch exterior theme, Multicontour leather interior, B&O sound system Luxury truck buyers with southwestern style preference Platinum Available Platinum Plus model, 20" painted gloss black wheels, Power-Deployable Running Boards Luxury urban and suburban truck owners Raptor High-output 3.5L EcoBoost, FOX Racing suspension, Heavy-duty skid plates Performance truck enthusiasts, desert runners Lightning Electric powertrain, 230-350 mile range, 9.6kW Pro Power Onboard Tech-forward buyers, those seeking lowest operating costs Ford Super Duty Series: Ultimate Work Capacity The new Ford Super Duty trucks (F-250, F-350, and F-450) represent the pinnacle of Ford's work-oriented vehicles, engineered for those who demand maximum capability. For 2025, these heavy-duty models receive meaningful updates focused on durability, technology integration, and comfort during long workdays. What separates the 2025 Super Duty from competitors is Ford's new integrated upfitter interface, which allows for seamless integration of aftermarket work equipment with the truck's electrical and control systems. This industry-first feature simplifies the installation of specialized equipment like cranes, lift gates, and service bodies – reducing downtime when converting these trucks for specific work applications. Each Super Duty model is available in the following trim levels: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, & Platinum. Powertrain Horsepower Torque Max Towing (Conventional/Gooseneck) Available On 7.3L "Godzilla" V8 Gas 430 hp 485 lb-ft 21,000 lbs / 22,800 lbs Standard on F-250, F-350 6.7L PowerStroke Diesel 475 hp 1,200 lb-ft 24,200 lbs / 40,000 lbs Optional on F-250, F-350; Standard on F-450 High-Output 6.7L PowerStroke 500 hp 1,200 lb-ft 24,200 lbs / 40,000 lbs Optional on F-350, F-450 Specialized Trims and Special Editions Ford continues its tradition of offering specialized trims and limited editions that cater to specific buyer preferences and use cases. For 2025, several new options stand out in the truck lineup. The Ford Maverick now offers a new Timberline Edition, focusing on light off-road capability while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. This package includes increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and unique visual elements that give the compact truck a more rugged appearance. The Ford F-150 lineup introduces the new "Black Ops" Special Edition, featuring blacked-out exterior elements, specialized interior trim, and a performance-tuned suspension. Limited to 5,000 units, this edition caters to buyers seeking a more aggressive aesthetic without stepping up to the full Raptor model. For those focused on sustainability, the new F-150 Lightning "Eco Elite" trim showcases interior materials made from ocean-recovered plastics and plant-based alternatives to traditional leather, demonstrating that work capability and environmental consciousness can coexist. What makes Ford's approach to special editions unique is that each serves a specific functional purpose rather than being merely appearance packages. The Tremor models truly enhance off-road capability, the Limited trims genuinely elevate luxury, and the work-oriented packages add real utility – ensuring that buyers get tangible benefits beyond distinctive looks. Test Drive The Latest Ford Pickup Truck Models at Cloninger Ford of Hickory The 2025 Ford truck lineup represents the most comprehensive and innovative range of pickups in the company's storied history. From the efficiency-focused Maverick to the workhorse Super Duty series, Ford continues to demonstrate its understanding of what truck buyers truly need and value. The thoughtful expansion of electrified options across multiple models gives buyers the freedom to choose the powertrain that best suits their specific requirements without compromising on capability or utility. The best way to truly understand which Ford truck is right for you is to experience them firsthand. Visit our showroom at 1241 US Highway 70 SE, call our sales team at (828) 624-6321, or contact us online to schedule a test drive for the Ford pickup truck models that interest you most. Explore the latest features, assess the comfort, and imagine how each vehicle would fit into your daily life and work requirements. Your perfect truck isn't just about specifications – it's about finding the right tool to enhance your lifestyle and help you accomplish your goals. Ford Truck Dealership Serving: Lenoir | Statesville | Valdese | Taylorsville | Wilkesboro New Ford Trucks Frequently Asked Questions Which new Ford truck has the best fuel economy? The 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid leads the lineup with an EPA-estimated 45 MPG city/37 MPG highway, making it the most fuel-efficient truck currently available in the American market. How does the towing capacity of the 2025 F-150 Lightning electric truck compare to gas-powered models? The 2025 F-150 Lightning with extended range battery can tow up to 10,000 pounds, which is competitive with many gas-powered F-150 variants, though still below the maximum 14,000-pound capacity of optimally configured EcoBoost models. What is the warranty coverage for a new Ford truck? All 2025 Ford trucks come with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Electric components in hybrid and electric models receive extended coverage of 8 years/100,000 miles.

Ford SUVs from Smallest to Largest

Ford SUVs from Smallest to Largest: A Comprehensive Size Guide

Shop New Ford SUVs Shop Used Ford SUVs New Ford Special Offers Table of Contents: Ford SUV Size Overview Subcompact & Compact Models Midsize Models Full-Size Models Finding the right SUV comes down to one simple question: how much vehicle do you actually need? Ford's SUV lineup runs the full range, from the trail-ready Bronco Sport to the road-trip-ready Expedition MAX, so there's a genuinely useful answer for almost every type of driver. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, we work with buyers across western North Carolina every day and know how much difference it makes to be in the right-sized vehicle. This guide walks through Ford's current SUV lineup from smallest to largest, covering cargo space, passenger capacity, and what each model is best suited for. Whether you're navigating Hickory's streets solo or hauling the whole family plus gear to the mountains, the right Ford SUV is in here somewhere. Ford SUV Lineup at a Glance Here's a quick-reference chart of Ford's SUV models organized from smallest to largest: Model SUV Category Passenger Capacity Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Up) Maximum Cargo Volume Ford Bronco Sport Subcompact 5 32.5 cu ft 65.2 cu ft Ford Escape Compact 5 37.5 cu ft 65.4 cu ft Ford Bronco (4-Door) Midsize 5 35.6 cu ft 77.6 cu ft Ford Explorer Midsize 7 18.2 cu ft (3rd row up) 87.8 cu ft Ford Expedition Full-Size 8 20.9 cu ft (3rd row up) 104.6 cu ft Ford Expedition MAX Full-Size (Extended) 8 35.6 cu ft (3rd row up) 121.5 cu ft Now let's take a closer look at each model, starting with the smallest and working our way up. Subcompact & Compact SUVs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport The Ford Bronco Sport is Ford's smallest SUV, and it punches well above its weight class when it comes to off-road ability. Built on a unibody platform with genuine off-road capability, it's the go-to choice for drivers who want something compact enough for city parking but capable enough for a weekend in the Blue Ridge foothills. Key Highlights: Standard all-wheel drive across the entire lineup, with higher trims offering real off-road modes like Mud/Ruts and Sand Available 2.0L EcoBoost engine on Badlands trim producing 250 horsepower GOAT Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) for confident driving across varied surfaces Cargo floor designed with an easy-clean coating and a hands-free liftgate for when your hands are full of trail gear With 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 65.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, the Bronco Sport packs a surprising amount of utility into a small footprint. Singles, couples, and small families who spend weekends outdoors consistently find this one lands right where they need it. 2026 Ford Escape The Ford Escape takes a different approach in the compact segment, prioritizing everyday comfort, fuel economy, and a refined ride over off-road ability. It's a practical, well-rounded vehicle that handles commutes, school runs, and weekend trips without asking much in return. Key Highlights: Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option with up to 37 miles of all-electric range for daily errands Standard hybrid trim available for buyers who want better fuel economy without plugging in Available all-wheel drive for confident handling in North Carolina's variable weather Co-Pilot360 driver assistance technology included as standard equipment The Escape's 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats edges it slightly ahead of the Bronco Sport in raw hauling capacity, and 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded covers most practical needs with room to spare. Its comfortable ride, practical interior, and available electrified powertrains make it a popular choice for commuters and small families alike. Midsize SUVs 2026 Ford Bronco (4-Door) The Ford Bronco 4-Door sits in its own category. It's a body-on-frame SUV built specifically for serious off-road use, and Ford didn't cut corners. With removable doors and roof panels, an advanced independent front suspension, and available locking front and rear differentials, it's one of the most capable off-road SUVs Ford has ever produced. Key Highlights: Available Sasquatch Package with 35-inch mud-terrain tires, wide-track Dana axles, and available locking front and rear differentials Capable available 2.7L EcoBoost V6 producing up to 330 horsepower Removable doors and roof panels for an open-air experience on the trail or around town High ground clearance (up to 11.6 inches) and water fording depth up to 33.5 inches The 4-Door Bronco seats five adults with usable rear legroom, and 35.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats handles gear for serious outdoor trips. At 77.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, it covers almost any hauling scenario. Buyers who want an adventure-first vehicle that also functions as a daily driver consistently land on this one. 2026 Ford Explorer The Ford Explorer is one of the most recognized nameplates in the segment, and for good reason. This three-row midsize SUV balances everyday family practicality with enough towing capability and technology to make it genuinely versatile across a wide range of use cases. Key Highlights: Three-row seating for up to seven passengers, with available captain's chairs in the second row Towing capacity up to 5,600 pounds, useful for boats, campers, and utility trailers Available ST performance trim with a turbocharged 3.0L V6 producing 400 horsepower Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto With 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded, the Explorer handles the reality of busy family life well. It's the right choice for buyers who need a true third row on a regular basis but aren't ready to step up to a full-size body-on-frame SUV. 2026 Ford Expedition The Ford Expedition steps up to a truck-based platform and delivers the kind of capability that families and work-oriented buyers can actually feel. Eight-passenger seating, a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, and impressive towing capability put this vehicle in a different league from the crossover-based Explorer. Key Highlights: Twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivering strong performance for towing and highway travel Available towing capacity of up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped (verify based on model year) Available technology and utility features designed for work sites, road trips, and outdoor adventures Available Stealth Performance Package with a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes Twenty-point-nine cubic feet behind the third row is enough for grocery runs with a full load of passengers, and 104.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded gives contractors, coaches, and road-tripping families serious hauling room. The Expedition handles long highway miles particularly well, with a quiet cabin and a smooth-riding suspension that larger groups appreciate on extended trips. 2026 Ford Expedition MAX The Ford Expedition MAX is Ford's largest production SUV, adding a stretched wheelbase and extended body to everything the standard Expedition already does well. When space is the top priority and you're not willing to compromise, this is the one. Key Highlights: Same twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 as the standard Expedition, with comparable towing capability 35.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, providing significantly more storage than the standard Expedition Eight-passenger seating with generous space for passengers and gear Extended wheelbase designed for families, travel, and hauling larger loads with confidence At 121.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, the Expedition MAX offers exceptional cargo capacity among full-size SUVs while still seating up to eight people comfortably. Large families, shuttle operators, sports teams, and anyone who regularly moves a lot of people and gear find this the most practical vehicle Ford makes. The extended length is worth noting for parking in tighter urban spots, but for most western North Carolina roads and driveways, it's a worthwhile tradeoff for the additional storage space. Find Your Ford SUV at Cloninger Ford of Hickory Ford's SUV lineup gives you a lot of room to land in exactly the right spot. The Bronco Sport and Escape cover the small-and-efficient end of the spectrum. The Bronco 4-Door and Explorer handle the midsize segment from two very different angles. The Expedition and Expedition MAX bring full-size capability for buyers who need the most space, the most towing, and the most confidence on any road. At Cloninger Ford of Hickory, our team knows these vehicles inside and out. We can walk you through the differences between trims, arrange back-to-back test drives across models you're considering, and help you find the right fit for your budget and your lifestyle. Stop by our Hickory dealership to see Ford's full SUV lineup in person, or give us a call at (828) 374-9538 to schedule your test drive. We're here to help Hickory-area drivers get into the right vehicle the first time.

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