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Elegir un concesionario de pueblo pequeño para el mantenimiento automotriz garantiza atención directa sin rodeos, tiempos de espera reducidos para citas y técnicos capacitados por el fabricante que conocen el historial de cada vehículo. A diferencia de las grandes instalaciones urbanas orientadas al volumen, los centros locales combinan herramientas de diagnóstico de fábrica con un trato personalizado y transparente que prioriza la durabilidad mecánica a largo plazo. El cuidado preventivo requiere consistencia y precisión técnica. Cuando un vehículo necesita cambios de aceite regulares, rotación de neumáticos o revisiones de sistemas de frenos, la rapidez en la atención evita que pequeños desgastes se transformen en averías costosas. En comunidades rurales donde los vehículos se utilizan para el trabajo diario y el remolque de carga pesada, contar con asesores que entienden estas exigencias marca una gran diferencia. Para planificar su próxima visita de mantenimiento, puede consultar la ubicación exacta de nuestro centro de servicio o comunicarse directamente con nuestro personal a través de una llamada rápida al (830) 426-5391 para programar un turno conveniente. En zonas con terreno variado como Lakehills, donde el transporte de embarcaciones hacia Medina Lake y el tránsito por caminos de caliza demandan un rendimiento óptimo del sistema de tracción y suspensión, el servicio especializado asegura que cada componente funcione bajo las especificaciones exactas del fabricante. Los intervalos programados cada 5,000 a 7,500 millas garantizan la inspección minuciosa de fluidos, filtros y componentes de desgaste general. Tabla de contenido ¿Cómo decidir entre el servicio del concesionario y un taller mecánico independiente? ¿Las piezas OEM protegen la garantía de fábrica mejor que los repuestos alternativos? ¿Cómo se compara la atención personalizada en Hondo con los grandes concesionarios urbanos? ¿Por qué conductores eligen realizar su servicio en Hondo? Preguntas frecuentes sobre el mantenimiento vehicular en talleres autorizados Asegure el rendimiento de su vehículo con una cita de mantenimiento ¿Cómo decidir entre el servicio del concesionario y un taller mecánico independiente? La decisión entre un concesionario autorizado y un taller independiente depende principalmente del tipo de reparación, la presencia de una garantía activa y la necesidad de software especializado del fabricante. El concesionario es la opción indispensable para trabajos cubiertos por la garantía de fábrica, retiros del mercado (recalls) y reprogramaciones de módulos electrónicos, mientras que las reparaciones generales fuera de garantía en componentes mecánicos simples pueden compararse por costo y disponibilidad. Los talleres independientes suelen ofrecer presupuestos basados en mano de obra general y piezas del mercado secundario. Sin embargo, cuando se trata de diagnósticos complejos en la computadora del motor, calibración de sistemas de asistencia al conductor o mantenimiento de transmisiones modernas, las herramientas universales de un taller multimarca a menudo no pueden acceder a los códigos de falla específicos del fabricante. Para los propietarios de camiones de trabajo pesado que dependen del rendimiento de modelos como la línea de camiones nuevos F-Series Super Duty, la precisión del diagnóstico de fábrica es fundamental. Un análisis incorrecto o el uso de fluidos no homologados en motores diésel de alta tecnología puede provocar fallas secundarias costosas. Si la reparación no está cubierta por la garantía y es un mantenimiento de rutina, resulta razonable solicitar un presupuesto detallado por escrito para evaluar el tiempo de entrega y el valor total del servicio. ¿Las piezas OEM protegen la garantía de fábrica mejor que los repuestos alternativos? Las piezas originales del fabricante (OEM) protegen la garantía de fábrica al garantizar el ajuste exacto, los materiales específicos y la tolerancia de ingeniería diseñada para el vehículo, eliminando el riesgo de disputas sobre reclamos de garantía. Aunque la legislación protege el derecho del consumidor a realizar mantenimientos fuera del concesionario, el fallo de una pieza genérica que dañe un sistema secundario puede llevar a la denegación de la cobertura de la garantía. Los componentes originales están respaldados por su propia garantía de piezas y mano de obra. Por ejemplo, los repuestos de la línea Motorcraft cuentan con una cobertura de 24 meses o millas ilimitadas sin límite de kilometraje en la mayoría de sus aplicaciones mecánicas. Esta tranquilidad no siempre la ofrecen las marcas alternativas, cuyas variaciones en las especificaciones de fabricación pueden generar vibraciones, ruidos o un desgaste prematuro. Al solicitar piezas directamente a través de nuestro apartado para encargar repuestos originales, los conductores se aseguran de recibir componentes legítimos fabricados para su modelo exacto. Mantener un historial de servicio completo con piezas certificadas simplifica cualquier trámite de garantía y ayuda a preservar un mayor valor de reventa del vehículo con el paso del tiempo. ¿Cómo se compara la atención personalizada en Hondo con los grandes concesionarios urbanos? La atención en un concesionario de pueblo pequeño destaca por ofrecer una comunicación directa con el asesor de servicio, presupuestos claros sin cargos ocultos y un enfoque centrado en la relación comunitaria a largo plazo en lugar del volumen de ventas. Mientras que los grandes concesionarios metropolitanos priorizan la rotación rápida de vehículos en sus bahías, el taller local dedica el tiempo necesario para explicar cada diagnóstico y recomendar las prioridades reales de reparación. En un entorno cercano, el equipo técnico reconoce el uso específico que cada propietario da a su automóvil o camioneta. En zonas agrícolas como Dunlay, donde los vehículos transitan diariamente por caminos de terracería y terrenos de pastizal, el personal enfoca las inspecciones multipunto en el filtro de aire del motor, los amortiguadores y las rótulas de dirección, adaptando las recomendaciones al desgaste real causado por el entorno. Además, la accesibilidad comunicativa es una prioridad fundamental para brindar tranquilidad a cada cliente. Contamos con personal bilingüe capacitado; por ello, siempre ofrecemos atención en español en nuestro concesionario para que los conductores comprendan perfectamente el trabajo requerido en sus vehículos, asegurando un proceso transparente y sin barreras de idioma. ¿Por qué conductores eligen realizar su servicio en Hondo? Los conductores de comunidades cercanas eligen trasladarse a Hondo para el mantenimiento vehicular debido a la menor congestión del tráfico local, la facilidad para estacionar y la disponibilidad de horarios de atención más rápidos. Evitar el tráfico pesado de las grandes avenidas urbanas permite que la visita al taller sea un proceso ágil y libre de estrés desde el momento en que se ingresa al predio. Las instalaciones locales cuentan con técnicos certificados que procesan las garantías de fábrica y las actualizaciones de software técnico exactamente bajo las mismas normas corporativas que cualquier concesionario de ciudad. Esta equivalencia técnica, combinada con un trato más cercano, asegura que los trabajos complejos en sistemas como el control de estabilidad AdvanceTrac con RSC o transmisiones automáticas de 10 velocidades se ejecuten con rigor técnico. Adicionalmente, la capacidad de reservar citas con menor tiempo de espera que en las grandes urbes facilita la programación del mantenimiento preventivo regular. Al acortar los tiempos muertos en la sala de espera y ofrecer diagnósticos certeros desde la primera visita, el servicio local optimiza el tiempo y el presupuesto de las familias rurales. Preguntas frecuentes sobre el mantenimiento vehicular en talleres autorizados Q: ¿Con qué frecuencia se debe programar el mantenimiento preventivo del vehículo? El mantenimiento preventivo debe programarse cada 5,000 a 7,500 millas o cada 6 meses para servicios básicos como cambio de aceite del motor y rotación de neumáticos. Los servicios mayores que incluyen el reemplazo de filtros de aire de cabina, bujías y fluidos de transmisión o frenos se realizan en intervalos de 30,000, 60,000 y 90,000 millas, dependiendo de las recomendaciones del manual del propietario. Q: ¿El concesionario ofrece igualación de precios en la compra de neumáticos nuevos? Sí, la mayoría de los departamentos de servicio de concesionarios autorizados ofrecen programas de igualación de precios en neumáticos elegibles de marcas líderes. Si un cliente presenta una cotización por escrito de un competidor local para el mismo modelo y medida de neumático, el concesionario equipara el costo para garantizar el mejor valor. Q: ¿El uso de un taller independiente anula la garantía de fábrica de mi automóvil? No, la ley federal establece que realizar mantenimientos en un taller independiente o utilizar repuestos alternativos no anula la garantía de fábrica de un vehículo. Sin embargo, es imprescindible conservar todos los recibos y registros de servicio detallados que demuestren que los mantenimientos se realizaron a tiempo según el programa oficial. Q: ¿Qué tipo de reparaciones se benefician más del servicio en un concesionario autorizado? Las reparaciones que involucran diagnósticos electrónicos complejos, reprogramación de módulos de control del motor, calibración de sistemas de asistencia al conductor y fallas cubiertas por garantías o campañas de recall se benefician enormemente del concesionario. Estas intervenciones requieren herramientas de escaneo exclusivas y software actualizado directamente por el fabricante. Q: ¿Es más rápida la programación de citas en un concesionario de pueblo pequeño? Generalmente sí, debido a que los talleres de pueblos pequeños manejan un volumen diario más controlado y menor afluencia de clientes sin cita previa. Esto permite disponer de turnos más cercanos en el calendario y ofrecer tiempos de entrega más ágiles para mantenimientos de rutina. Asegure el rendimiento de su vehículo con una cita de mantenimiento Mantener su vehículo en condiciones óptimas requiere un cuidado profesional respaldado por repuestos de calidad y personal calificado. Realizar las inspecciones periódicas a tiempo extiende la vida útil del motor, previene fallas imprevistas en la carretera y protege la inversión económica realizada en su automóvil o camioneta. Le invitamos a programar su próxima revisión preventiva con nuestro equipo de expertos en Cecil Atkission Ford. Puede consultar las indicaciones para llegar a nuestro taller de servicio o comunicarse directamente al (830) 426-5391 para reservar su turno con la atención personalizada que usted merece. © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. 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The 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew is the right choice for buyers who need a full-size truck that pulls real weight, hauls real cargo, and still feels refined at the end of a long day. Starting at $59,560 MSRP, the Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box delivers 400 hp, 500 lb-ft of torque, and a rated towing capacity of 9,300 lbs — enough to pull a bass boat to Medina Lake or a loaded livestock trailer across the Edwards Plateau without breaking a sweat. Table of Contents Rugged Exterior Design Tailored for Hill Country Terrain Power and Traction of the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew for Ranch Work Spacious Interior Comfort for Families and Work Crews in Lytle and Surrounding Areas Connected Technology That Supports Commuting and Outdoor Adventures Safety Systems Designed to Protect Your Family on Rural Roads Pricing Breakdown of 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat Trims for Buyers, Dunlay, and Lytle Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for 2026 Ford F-150 Owners Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat's Strengths Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers About the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat How Much Can the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew Tow and Haul for Ranch Life? The 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box is rated to tow up to 9,300 lbs and carry a payload of 2,020 lbs — numbers that directly address the daily demands of ranching, farming, and weekend recreation in this part of South Texas. Whether you're trailering cattle from pasture to market, loading up with feed bags for the week, or hitching a fishing boat for a run to the lake, this truck is built to handle the job without compromise. Feature Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box Seating 5 Cargo 52.8 cu ft Curb weight 5,020 lbs Towing 9,300 lbs Payload 2,020 lbs The bed delivers about 53 cu ft of cargo volume — practical space for everything from post-hole diggers and fence supplies to hunting gear and coolers. The truck's curb weight of 5,020 lbs reflects a well-balanced platform that doesn't sacrifice structural integrity for lightness. Standard equipment includes a trailer towing preparation package, front tow and recovery hooks, and a Pro Trailer Backup Assist system that automatically steers the trailer when you're backing into tight spaces — a genuine time-saver when you're working alone on a remote property. The optional Tow Package adds an integrated trailer brake controller, giving you more confident, controlled stops when hauling heavier loads on limestone-graded back roads. If you need even more pulling power for larger equipment, the optional 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 Engine (available as an add-on) bumps combined output to 430 hp and torque to 570 lb-ft, with a braked trailer weight rating of 10,800 lbs — an upgrade worth considering for those who regularly move heavy implements or multi-horse trailers. Cecil Atkission Ford's team can walk you through the full range of 2026 F-150 configurations in stock and help you match the right axle ratio and tow package to your specific workload. If your needs ever grow beyond what the F-150 can handle, Super Duty trucks and heavy-duty F-Series trucks are also available. Spanish-speaking customers are always welcome — hablamos español en Cecil Atkission Ford. You can also track your truck's towing and vehicle health data through the FordPass app, which connects directly to your F-150 from your smartphone. Rugged Exterior Design Tailored for Hill Country Terrain The 2026 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew wears a profile that looks at home on both a ranch gate and a city street — a practical balance for buyers who move between both worlds regularly. The SuperCrew body style delivers four full-size, front-hinged doors, making it easy for passengers to load and unload whether you're at a feed store or a school pickup line. Up front, projector-beam LED headlights with auto-high-beam control and a dusk sensor mean you're never fumbling for the light switch on an unlit county road after dark. LED lighting runs front to rear — low beam, high beam, fog lights, side indicators, rear lights, and brake lights — so the truck remains visible in the dusty, low-contrast conditions common on unpaved Hill Country roads. Standard chrome bumpers front and rear give the Lariat its upscale character, while the exterior door handles and chrome mirror caps reinforce that premium appearance without sacrificing durability. Buyers who prefer a blacked-out look can add the optional Black Appearance Package, which swaps the chrome bumpers, door handles, and mirror caps for painted black finishes and upgrades the wheels to 20-inch black alloy wheels — a sharp contrast against the limestone and cedar backdrop of the region. Ten exterior color options are available, including the new Marsh Gray and Argon Blue Metallic for buyers who want something that stands apart from the traditional white and silver trucks that dominate rural driveways. Oxford White, Agate Black Metallic, Iconic Silver Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Antimatter Blue Metallic, Avalanche, Star White Metallic Tricoat, and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat round out the palette, giving every buyer a finish that matches their personality and lifestyle. The truck rides on standard 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, appropriate for the limestone soils and mixed-surface roads of the Edwards Plateau. Optional 20-inch chrome-like PVD wheels or 22-inch gloss black wheels are available for buyers who want a more distinctive stance. Power and Traction of the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew for Ranch Work The standard powertrain in the 2026 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew is a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, producing 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque — paired with Ford's SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers strong, responsive acceleration from a standstill, which matters when you're merging onto a highway with a loaded trailer or pulling a heavy implement out of a soft field. Feature Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box Engine 3.5L Horsepower 400 hp Torque 500 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive The base configuration is rear-wheel drive, which suits the majority of buyers in this region — the gently rolling terrain of the Edwards Plateau doesn't demand four-wheel drive on most days, and RWD keeps the truck lighter and more fuel-efficient for daily commuting and highway driving. For buyers who want added traction on muddy pasture tracks or loose limestone gravel, the 4x4 configurations of the Lariat SuperCrew are also available and worth considering. The SelectShift transmission gives drivers manual gear selection when they want it, which is useful for engine braking on downhill grades or holding a specific gear ratio when navigating uneven terrain. The system also includes driver-selectable modes that adjust engine and transmission mapping to suit different driving conditions. The front suspension uses an independent wishbone setup with coil springs, while the rear runs a solid beam axle with leaf springs — a proven combination for load-carrying trucks that balances ride quality with the structural rigidity needed for heavy payloads. Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes are standard, along with ABS, brake assist, hill holder, electronic traction control, roll stability control, and electronic stability control — a full suite of systems that work together to keep the truck composed whether you're descending a limestone grade or stopping quickly on a rain-slicked road. For buyers who want more capability, the optional 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 adds an integrated electric motor for a combined output of 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque, and the optional Pro Power Onboard 7.2 KW system turns the truck into a mobile generator — genuinely useful for powering tools at a remote job site or running equipment during a power outage. Edmunds notes that the F-150 has "direct and quick steering" that "makes the truck feel smaller and more nimble in parking lots and more stable on the freeway" — a real-world handling characteristic that makes a difference when you're maneuvering a long wheelbase truck around tight ranch facilities or navigating busy commercial areas. Spacious Interior Comfort for Families and Work Crews in Lytle and Surrounding Areas The Lariat SuperCrew cabin seats 5 passengers across two rows, with measurements that reflect genuine, usable space rather than optimistic spec-sheet figures. Front headroom measures 40.8 in, rear headroom 40.4 in, front legroom 43.9 in, and rear legroom 43.6 in — the rear row is nearly as generous as the front, which matters when you're bringing the whole family or a full crew to a work site or community event. Shoulder room is equally impressive: 66.7 in up front and 66 in in the rear, so three adults across the back seat isn't the uncomfortable compromise it is in smaller trucks. Hip room measures 62.5 in front and 62.6 in rear. The Lariat trim wraps the cabin in synthetic leather ActiveX upholstery, available in three color choices: Black ActiveX, Medium Dark Slate ActiveX, or Smoked Truffle ActiveX — each offering a premium look that's also practical for buyers who spend time outdoors and need surfaces that clean up easily after a muddy day. The instrument panel and door panels carry titanium-look accents, elevating the interior above the purely utilitarian without crossing into impractical territory. Both driver and passenger seats are power-adjustable with 5-way electric controls. The driver's seat includes memory settings for height, reach, recline, and tilt, so multiple drivers can return to their preferred position without manual readjustment. Both front seats are heated, and the driver's seat adds ventilation — a welcome feature during long summer days in South Texas. The heated synthetic leather steering wheel adds comfort on cool winter mornings. Storage is well thought out throughout the cabin: a full-length floor console, dashboard console, overhead console, front and rear cup holders, and under-rear-seat storage provide places for everything from work documents to kids' gear. The standard 2-zone automatic climate control keeps everyone comfortable regardless of the season, and secondary ventilation controls at the passenger seat let rear occupants manage their own comfort. The optional Equipment Group 502A (Lariat High) package adds rear heated seats, ambient lighting, and an electric sliding rear window — worthwhile upgrades for buyers who regularly carry passengers or work in varied weather conditions. Connected Technology That Supports Commuting and Outdoor Adventures A stat worth noting upfront: the 2026 F-150 Lariat comes standard with a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a separate 12-inch digital instrument cluster — both fully integrated into Ford's current-generation SYNC interface, giving drivers two large, clear screens without the complexity of learning a separate system for each. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard, meaning your phone connects automatically the moment you get in — no cable required. That's a practical convenience when your hands are dirty from ranch work or you're juggling gear at the truck door. The system also supports voice commands, Bluetooth audio streaming, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Navigation is built in with a 12-inch screen, 3D mapping, voice guidance, and live traffic information. Map updates and traffic subscriptions are included for 12 months. The truck also comes with an embedded Wi-Fi hotspot via embedded SIM card — active for 12 months — so passengers can stay connected on long drives or use data-heavy apps in areas with limited cellular coverage. The standard 8-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with subwoofer delivers genuinely good sound quality for a work truck. Buyers who want a more immersive listening experience can upgrade through the Equipment Group 502A (Lariat High) package, which bumps the system to 14 speakers with surround sound — a meaningful upgrade for drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel. Remote services through the FordPass platform are included, covering remote lock and unlock, vehicle start, theft alert, vehicle diagnostics, and a find-my-vehicle function. Over-the-air software updates keep the truck's systems current without requiring a dealer visit. The 911 Assist telematics system automatically connects to emergency services after a collision — a practical safety net for drivers on remote rural roads where help may be far away. The optional Connectivity Package OTP extends the Wi-Fi hotspot subscription to 84 months, and the optional Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system (available in 1-year + 90 Day or OTP subscription formats) adds Level 2 partial automation with active lane control, highway assist, traffic jam assist, and hands-free lane changing — technology that reduces fatigue on long highway stretches. Safety Systems Designed to Protect Your Family on Rural Roads The 2026 F-150 Lariat carries a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating — the highest available — with 5-star frontal crash and 5-star side impact scores. The IIHS rates the F-150 as a Top Safety Pick, with Good ratings in side impact and small overlap front driver tests. The structural foundation includes 6 airbags: driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags, and front-and-rear side curtain airbags. Pre-tensioning front seat belts with height adjustment, 3-point rear center belt, and height-adjustable head restraints (2 front, 3 rear) complete the passive safety package. On the active safety side, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection monitors for vehicles and pedestrians ahead and activates automatic emergency braking starting at just 5 mph — useful in parking lots, feed store driveways, and anywhere children or animals might step into the truck's path unexpectedly. The system also activates brake lights proactively and includes multi-collision braking, which applies the brakes after an initial impact to reduce the risk of secondary collisions. BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) monitors the zones alongside and behind the truck that mirrors can't show, alerting the driver when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot — particularly useful when towing a trailer that limits rearward visibility. Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance uses radar to detect approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space or barn entrance. The Lane-Keeping System monitors lane markings and applies gentle steering corrections if the truck begins to drift without a turn signal. The standard 360-Degree Camera system with a Reverse Sensing System gives the driver a bird's-eye view of the truck's surroundings when maneuvering — a practical tool when backing into a tight loading dock or hitching a trailer solo. Electronic stability control, roll stability control, and electronic traction control work continuously in the background, and the hill holder function prevents rollback when starting on an incline. Pricing Breakdown of 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat Trims for Buyers, Dunlay, and Lytle The 2026 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box starts at a base MSRP of $59,560, with a destination charge of $2,595, bringing the delivered starting price to $62,155 before any options or packages. Feature Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box Base MSRP $59,560 Destination charge $2,595 That base price buys a well-equipped truck. The Lariat sits in the middle of the F-150 lineup — above the XL, STX, and XLT trims, and below the Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum, and Raptor configurations — which means it delivers a meaningful step up in interior quality, technology, and comfort without crossing into the territory where features begin to exceed what most working ranch and family buyers actually use day to day. Key standard equipment at this price point includes the 12-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bang & Olufsen 8-speaker audio with subwoofer, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable heated front seats with driver memory, synthetic leather ActiveX upholstery, LED lighting throughout, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, 360-Degree Camera, Reverse Sensing System, BLIS, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, and Intelligent Access with Push-button Start. Notable factory packages that add meaningful capability include the Tow Package (adds integrated trailer brake controller), the Bed Utility Package (adds a retractable rear step, sliding tie-down anchors, and cargo hooks), the Mobile Office Package (adds a 120V power outlet for tools and devices), and the Equipment Group 502A (Lariat High) (adds rear heated seats, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound, ambient lighting, and an electric sliding rear window). To browse current stock, visit our new-vehicle inventory at Cecil Atkission Ford. When you're ready to move forward, you can get a head start by submitting a credit application online before you arrive at the dealership. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for 2026 Ford F-150 Owners Ford backs the 2026 F-150 with a 3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance coverage matches the powertrain warranty at 5 years / 60,000 miles — a meaningful benefit for buyers who work in remote areas where a breakdown far from town could otherwise become a costly ordeal. Paint protection coverage runs 3 years / 36,000 miles, and corrosion protection is covered for 5 years. Buyers who select the optional 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 receive an extended battery and electric systems warranty of 8 years / 100,000 miles. Cecil Atkission Ford's service department is staffed by Ford-trained technicians who know these trucks from the ground up. Keeping your F-150 on a factory-recommended maintenance schedule protects your powertrain warranty and maximizes the truck's long-term reliability — important when the vehicle is also your primary work tool. Check our current service and parts specials for offers on oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance items. When you're ready to schedule, you can book your appointment directly through our online service scheduler — no phone call required. For owners who need genuine Ford replacement parts, our parts department stocks a full range of F-150 components and accessories. The F-150's over-the-air update capability means many software improvements are delivered automatically, reducing the number of trips to the dealership for non-mechanical updates. Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat's Strengths Third-party recognition confirms what buyers in this region already know from experience: the F-150 earns its reputation on merit. Kelley Blue Book awarded the 2026 F-150 the Best Buy Award for Full-Size Trucks — Kelley Blue Book (2026), recognizing its combination of value, capability, and ownership cost. U.S. News & World Report named it Best Full-Size Truck for the Money (2026), Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for Off-Roading (2026), and Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for Camping (2026) — three separate categories that together reflect the breadth of what this truck does well. Car and Driver notes that the F-150 "excels in both daily usability and in towing and hauling" — a concise summary of exactly what buyers in ranching and rural communities need. U.S. News & World Report highlights the F-150's "versatility and range of powertrain options" as key differentiators in the full-size segment. Against competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ram 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra, the F-150's combination of proven EcoBoost power, available hybrid technology, and a deep options catalog gives it flexibility across a wide range of configurations and uses. Our knowledgeable team at Cecil Atkission Ford follows the F-150's annual updates closely and can answer specific questions about how the 2026 model compares to previous years or to competing trucks. We also carry new Ford SUVs for buyers who are cross-shopping between a truck and a family hauler — and our Ford owner resources help you get the most out of your purchase long after you drive off the lot. Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers About the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat Q: What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box? The 2026 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box is rated to tow up to 9,300 lbs with the standard 3.5L EcoBoost engine. If you add the optional 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 engine, the braked trailer weight rating increases to 10,800 lbs. The optional Tow Package adds an integrated trailer brake controller for more controlled stops when hauling heavier loads. These numbers are sufficient for most horse trailers, bass boats, utility trailers, and light equipment common in this part of South Texas. Q: What is the payload capacity of the Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box? The rated payload capacity is 2,020 lbs. The bed itself provides about 53 cu ft of cargo volume, with a bed length of 67.1 in, a width between wheelhouses of 50.6 in, and a height of 21.4 in. The optional Bed Utility Package adds a retractable rear step, sliding tie-down anchors, and cargo hooks — practical additions for buyers who load and unload regularly. Q: Does the 2026 F-150 Lariat come with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive? The base Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box is configured with rear-wheel drive. The 4x4 versions — the Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box and the Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 6-1/2' Box — are also available for buyers who need added traction on loose gravel, muddy pasture roads, or wet limestone surfaces. Our team can help you determine which drivetrain makes the most sense for your specific use case. Q: What safety features come standard on the 2026 F-150 Lariat? Standard safety equipment includes Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, automatic emergency braking, BLIS Blind Spot Information System, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, Lane-Keeping System, 360-Degree Camera, Reverse Sensing System, 6 airbags, 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, electronic stability control, roll stability control, and 911 Assist emergency telematics. The truck holds a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. Q: How do I see the 2026 F-150 Lariat in person or get more information? Cecil Atkission Ford is located at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861. You're welcome to stop by during business hours to walk the lot, sit in the truck, and talk through your specific needs with one of our team members. If you'd prefer to start the conversation by phone, give us (830) 426-5391. David Forrest, who has helped customers with remote purchases, and the rest of the team are happy to answer questions about availability, packages, and what configuration makes the most sense for ranch work, family use, or both. © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. 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Available in rear-wheel drive, this full-size truck is highly recommended by our team for drivers seeking exceptional value, modern technology, and uncompromised capability whether hauling heavy cargo or embarking on weekend adventures.", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com/searchnew.aspx?model=F-150" }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box is rated to tow up to 9,300 lbs with the standard 3.5L EcoBoost engine. If you add the optional 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 engine, the braked trailer weight rating increases to 10,800 lbs . The optional Tow Package adds an integrated trailer brake controller for more controlled stops when hauling heavier loads. These numbers are sufficient for most horse trailers, bass boats, utility trailers, and light equipment common in this part of South Texas." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the payload capacity of the Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The rated payload capacity is 2,020 lbs . The bed itself provides about 53 cu ft of cargo volume, with a bed length of 67.1 in , a width between wheelhouses of 50.6 in , and a height of 21.4 in . The optional Bed Utility Package adds a retractable rear step, sliding tie-down anchors, and cargo hooks — practical additions for buyers who load and unload regularly." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does the 2026 F-150 Lariat come with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The base Lariat SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box is configured with rear-wheel drive. The 4x4 versions — the Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 5-1/2' Box and the Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 6-1/2' Box — are also available for buyers who need added traction on loose gravel, muddy pasture roads, or wet limestone surfaces. Our team can help you determine which drivetrain makes the most sense for your specific use case." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What safety features come standard on the 2026 F-150 Lariat?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Standard safety equipment includes Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, automatic emergency braking, BLIS Blind Spot Information System, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, Lane-Keeping System, 360-Degree Camera, Reverse Sensing System, 6 airbags, 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, electronic stability control, roll stability control, and 911 Assist emergency telematics. The truck holds a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I see the 2026 F-150 Lariat in person or get more information?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Cecil Atkission Ford is located at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861 . You're welcome to stop by during business hours to walk the lot, sit in the truck, and talk through your specific needs with one of our team members. If you'd prefer to start the conversation by phone, give us (830) 426-5391 . David Forrest, who has helped customers with remote purchases, and the rest of the team are happy to answer questions about availability, packages, and what configuration makes the most sense for ranch work, family use, or both. --- © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved." } } ] } ] }

The 2026 Ford Explorer is the right SUV for rural South Texas families who need real towing muscle, all-wheel-drive confidence, and room for the whole crew. Starting at $40,465 for the Active 4WD 100A and reaching $52,965 for the Platinum 4WD, all four covered trims share a 300 hp EcoBoost four-cylinder, 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, and about 16 cu ft of cargo space — enough to haul hunting gear, livestock trailers, and three rows of family on the same weekend. Table of Contents How Much Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Cost to Own for Families? Rugged Looks That Match Texas Hill Country Roads Around Dunlay and Lytle Power and Traction Built for Ranch and Farm Life in South Texas with the 2026 Ford Explorer Spacious Cabin for Multigenerational Family Outings in the 2026 Ford Explorer Connectivity Features That Keep You Linked on Rural Routes Safety Systems Designed for Gravel Roads and Country Drives in the 2026 Ford Explorer Affordable Capability for Families: 2026 Ford Explorer Trim Pricing Breakdown Reliable Ford Support for Your Community and Land: Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Explorer's Strengths for Rural Texas Drivers Your Questions About Towing and Fuel Efficiency with the 2026 Ford Explorer How Much Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Cost to Own for Families? The 2026 Ford Explorer spans a $12,500 price range across the four trims covered here, giving South Texas families a clear ladder from capable entry-level to full-luxury 4WD. Every trim adds a $1,795 destination charge on top of base MSRP. Feature Active 4WD 100A Platinum Platinum 4WD ST-LINE 4WD ST-LINE RWD Tremor 4WD Base MSRP $40,465 $50,965 $52,965 $47,155 $45,155 $48,965 Destination Charge $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 The Active 4WD 100A at $40,465 is the value entry point — it brings full all-wheel drive, the 300 hp EcoBoost engine, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, three-zone automatic climate control, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist safety suite. For families watching a budget while still needing AWD traction on limestone back roads, this is a compelling starting point. Step up to the ST-LINE 4WD at $47,155 and you gain a sportier aesthetic with piano-black interior trim, a standard 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a 360-Degree Camera with Split View, and seven-passenger seating — the only trim in this group that seats seven standard. The ST-Line Premium Package adds memory seats, heated rear seats, ambient lighting, and rain-sensing wipers for buyers who want creature comforts alongside capability. The Tremor 4WD at $48,965 is the off-road specialist of the group, with unique terrain-focused tuning and a curb weight of 4,424 lbs — the heaviest in this lineup. The Platinum 4WD at $52,965 tops the 4WD range with a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen system, woodgrain instrument panel trim, leather door and console trim, memory seats, a wireless charging pad, and a 360-Degree Camera with Split View as standard equipment. Families who want to explore our current new Explorer inventory can compare available trims and in-stock configurations at Cecil Atkission Ford in Hondo. Rugged Looks That Match Texas Hill Country Roads Around Dunlay and Lytle The 2026 Ford Explorer wears a wide, upright stance that reads as purposeful rather than flashy — exactly the right personality for the rolling pastureland and open fields around Dunlay. At 198.7 inches long, 78.9 inches wide (89.3 inches mirror to mirror), and 70.2 inches tall, it has the road presence to look at home parked beside a ranch gate or a church parking lot in equal measure. All four trims run full LED projector-beam headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, and LED brake lights. Auto high-beam control comes standard, so night drives on unlit county roads get a little less stressful. The Active 4WD 100A and Tremor 4WD wear black roof rails, while the Platinum trims step up to chrome/silver rails — a subtle but meaningful visual upgrade. The ST-LINE 4WD takes the most distinctive exterior approach: body-color bumpers, piano-black interior accents that carry the sporty theme, and toned door mirrors that give it an edgier look than the base trim. The optional ST-Line Street Pack (package code 68P) adds 21-inch alloy wheels and painted brake calipers for drivers who want the Explorer to turn heads on the way to the feed store. The Tremor 4WD projects a different kind of confidence — rugged, purposeful, and built for the limestone soils and uneven terrain that characterize the Hill Country transition zone. Its higher curb weight of 4,424 lbs signals the additional hardware underneath. For owners who want to personalize their Explorer after purchase, Cecil Atkission Ford carries genuine Ford accessories — you can order parts and accessories directly through our parts department to keep your Explorer looking sharp and protected for the long haul. Power and Traction Built for Ranch and Farm Life in South Texas with the 2026 Ford Explorer Every 2026 Explorer in this lineup runs the same turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with Ford's SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission. What changes between trims is the drivetrain — and that distinction matters significantly on the pastureland and gravel roads of South Texas. The Active 4WD 100A, ST-LINE 4WD, Platinum 4WD, and Tremor 4WD all come with full-time Intelligent 4WD — the system Ford calls out by name in the catalog data. This isn't part-time AWD that you manually engage; it's an automatic system that distributes torque between axles based on traction conditions, making it genuinely useful when you pull off a paved road onto a limestone caliche track near Dunlay or navigate muddy pasture gates after a rain. The Tremor 4WD is the trim built for the most demanding terrain, with hill descent control standard — a feature that holds your speed steady on steep descents so you can focus on steering rather than braking. Its curb weight of 4,424 lbs reflects additional off-road hardware compared to the 4,303 lbs shared by the other three 4WD trims. Towing capacity is a flat 5,000 lbs across all four covered trims — enough to pull a loaded livestock trailer, a jon boat to the Medina River, or a utility trailer full of equipment across rolling ranchland. The AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) system monitors trailer sway and intervenes before instability becomes dangerous, which is a meaningful real-world benefit when hauling on two-lane county roads. For operations that regularly demand more towing than 5,000 lbs, Cecil Atkission Ford also carries new heavy-duty F-350 and F-450 Super Duty trucks that can handle heavier commercial and agricultural loads. Spacious Cabin for Multigenerational Family Outings in the 2026 Ford Explorer The 2026 Explorer fits the multigenerational family lifestyle that defines communities like D'Hanis — where Sunday gatherings, festival days, and fishing trips often mean loading up grandparents, parents, and kids in the same vehicle. Here's how the four covered trims stack up on capacity: Feature Active 4WD 100A Platinum Platinum 4WD ST-LINE 4WD ST-LINE RWD Tremor 4WD Seating 6 6 6 7 7 6 Curb Weight 4,303 lbs 4,303 lbs 4,303 lbs 4,303 lbs 4,303 lbs 4,424 lbs Payload 1,467 lbs 1,467 lbs 1,467 lbs 1,467 lbs 1,467 lbs 1,346 lbs Cargo (all seats up) 16.3 cu ft 16.3 cu ft 16.3 cu ft 16.3 cu ft 16.3 cu ft 16.3 cu ft Towing 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs The ST-LINE 4WD is the only trim here that seats seven standard, using a 40/20/40 second-row bench — a meaningful difference for families who regularly transport extended relatives. The other trims default to a 2+2+2 six-passenger configuration with second-row captain's chairs, though the Active 4WD 100A, Platinum, and Platinum 4WD all offer a Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest as an option to bump seating to seven. Interior dimensions are generous across all trims: 43 inches of front legroom, 39 inches in the second row, and 32.2 inches in the third row. Front headroom measures 40.7 inches, second-row headroom 40.5 inches, and third-row headroom 38.9 inches — enough for adults to ride comfortably in row two, with the third row better suited to children or shorter passengers on longer trips. Cargo behind the third row measures about 16 cu ft — practical for hunting packs, fishing coolers, and the kind of gear that accumulates on a weekend near the Edwards Plateau. Fold everything flat and you get about 86 cu ft of total cargo volume, which is enough to move furniture, hay bales in bags, or an entire tailgate setup. The Platinum 4WD adds leather door trim, woodgrain instrument panel accents, memory driver seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wireless charging pad — features that make the daily commute from Lytle feel considerably more refined. Connectivity Features That Keep You Linked on Rural Routes Out on the back roads between Lytle and the Edwards Plateau, staying connected matters — whether you're checking weather before a morning hunt, streaming directions to an unfamiliar ranch, or keeping the kids entertained on a longer drive. The 2026 Explorer handles all of it through a well-integrated tech stack that's consistent across all four covered trims. Every trim comes with a 13.2-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster — both are standard equipment, not optional upgrades. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, so phones stay on the charger while maps and music run through the screen. Bluetooth is standard, and a Google virtual assistant handles voice commands without requiring a paired phone. Charging access is thorough: the Active 4WD 100A provides 1 front USB charging port, 1 rear USB charging port, and 2 third-row USB charging ports. The ST-LINE 4WD and Platinum 4WD step this up to 4 front USB charging ports, 2 rear, and 2 third-row — eight total charging connections for a fully loaded family. The Platinum 4WD and ST-LINE 4WD add a wireless charging pad as standard, so the driver's phone tops up without fumbling for a cable on a bumpy ranch road. Ford's embedded Wi-Fi hotspot uses a built-in SIM card and comes with a 12-month subscription included. For families who want longer coverage, the optional Ford Connectivity Package (one-time purchase) extends online services to 84 months — seven years of connected navigation, traffic updates, and remote services including remote start, vehicle diagnostics, theft alert, and Find My Car. The 911 Assist telematics system automatically connects to emergency services after a serious collision — a genuinely valuable feature when you're miles from the nearest town on an isolated ranch road. Over-the-air software updates keep the system current without a dealership visit, which matters for rural owners who don't want to make a trip just to refresh their infotainment software. Safety Systems Designed for Gravel Roads and Country Drives in the 2026 Ford Explorer The 2026 Explorer earns a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5-star frontal crash and 5-star side impact ratings — and Good scores from IIHS on moderate overlap front, small overlap front (driver side), side impact, headlights, and seat belt reminder. These are the numbers that matter when you're hauling your family across rural South Texas roads that don't always offer guardrails or wide shoulders. Every trim in this lineup includes 7 airbags — dual front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and a driver knee airbag. Front seatbelts include pre-tensioners and height adjusters. LATCH child seat anchors are standard, and all three rows have height-adjustable head restraints. The active safety suite is built around Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ on the Active 4WD 100A and Ford CoPilot360 Assist 2.0 on the ST-LINE 4WD, Tremor 4WD, and Platinum 4WD. Both suites include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, the Lane-Keeping System that provides active steering correction when you drift, automatic emergency braking that activates from as low as 3 mph, and Rear Cross Traffic Braking — a radar-based system that applies the brakes automatically when cross traffic is detected while reversing, which is genuinely useful when backing out of a barn or equipment shed with limited sightlines. BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) monitors your flanks and warns of vehicles approaching in your blind spot — practical on two-lane highways where passing trucks can appear quickly. The Rear Parking Sensors and standard rearview camera with guidance lines round out the parking assist package on all trims. The Platinum 4WD and ST-LINE 4WD add the 360-Degree Camera with Split View as standard equipment, giving a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings — useful when maneuvering in tight spaces around equipment or livestock. AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and the Trailer Stability Program work together to manage trailer sway and rollover risk, adding a meaningful layer of confidence when towing on winding Hill Country roads. Affordable Capability for Families: 2026 Ford Explorer Trim Pricing Breakdown The four covered trims form a logical progression that matches different budget points and use cases without asking buyers to sacrifice the core capability that makes the Explorer useful in rural South Texas. The Active 4WD 100A at $40,465 is the practical starting point. It delivers the full Intelligent 4WD system, 300 hp EcoBoost engine, 13.2-inch touchscreen, three-zone climate control, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, rear parking sensors, rearview camera, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, and a 3-position electrically adjustable driver seat. For a family that needs AWD traction and towing capability without luxury features, this trim delivers the essentials at the lowest price in the group. The ST-LINE 4WD at $47,155 adds a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, the 360-Degree Camera with Split View, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, seven-passenger seating, and a sportier interior aesthetic with piano-black trim. The optional ST-Line Premium Package (code 68L) layers on memory seats, heated rear seats, ambient lighting, auto-dimming mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers — a meaningful comfort upgrade for families who spend a lot of time in the vehicle. The Tremor 4WD at $48,965 is the off-road-focused choice, with hill descent control, terrain-specific tuning, and the heaviest curb weight in the group at 4,424 lbs. The Platinum 4WD at $52,965 is the full-luxury all-wheel-drive option, adding woodgrain interior trim, leather door panels, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen system, memory seats, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, and the optional Platinum Lux Leather Package (code 21B) for full leather upholstery. Buyers who want a more budget-friendly entry point can also browse our pre-owned inventory at Cecil Atkission Ford. When you're ready to move forward on a new Explorer, you can submit a credit application online to get the financing process started before you visit the dealership. Reliable Ford Support for Your Community and Land: Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Every 2026 Ford Explorer comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty — the EcoBoost engine, SelectShift transmission, and drivetrain components are all covered for five full years. Roadside assistance matches the powertrain coverage at 5 years/60,000 miles, so a breakdown on a remote ranch road doesn't leave you stranded without support. The corrosion warranty runs 5 years with no mileage cap, and paint is covered for 3 years/36,000 miles. Ford's over-the-air update capability means the Explorer's software stays current without requiring a service visit for routine system refreshes — a real advantage for owners who live far from town. At Cecil Atkission Ford in Hondo, our service department handles routine maintenance, warranty repairs, and genuine Ford parts for Explorer owners across the region. You can check our current service and parts specials to save on scheduled maintenance. We're also proud of our roots in this community — learn more about our commitment to the families and towns we serve across South Texas. Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Explorer's Strengths for Rural Texas Drivers The Explorer's 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating — paired with Good ratings across multiple IIHS test categories including headlights, moderate overlap front, small overlap front (driver side), side impact, and seat belt reminder — places it among the better-protected three-row SUVs in its class. These aren't marketing claims; they're independent test results that carry real weight when you're choosing a vehicle to carry your family on roads that don't always offer a safety net. Competitors in the three-row SUV segment include the Chevrolet Traverse, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade. The Explorer's combination of Intelligent 4WD across all four covered trims, 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, and the Tremor 4WD's off-road capability give it a meaningful edge for buyers whose daily reality includes gravel roads and livestock trailers rather than urban parking garages. The Cecil Atkission Ford team knows this vehicle inside out. Our sales and product specialists can walk you through every trim difference, package option, and configuration detail — so you leave with the right Explorer for your land, your family, and your budget. Your Questions About Towing and Fuel Efficiency with the 2026 Ford Explorer Q: What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2026 Ford Explorer? All four covered trims — Active 4WD 100A, ST-LINE 4WD, Tremor 4WD, and Platinum 4WD — are rated at 5,000 lbs maximum towing capacity (braked trailer). Unbraked trailer capacity is 1,500 lbs. The AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and the Trailer Stability Program are standard on all trims and help manage sway when towing on uneven or winding roads. For heavier ranch or agricultural loads that regularly exceed 5,000 lbs, the Explorer is best complemented by a dedicated heavy-duty truck. Q: What fuel economy does the 2026 Ford Explorer get? Fuel economy varies by drivetrain and trim. Here are the EPA-rated figures for all trims in the covered lineup: The Tremor 4WD returns the lowest fuel economy at 19 city / 23 hwy / 21 combined — a direct result of its heavier curb weight ( 4,424 lbs) and off-road-tuned drivetrain. The Active 4WD 100A and Platinum 4WD both return 23 combined MPG on AWD. At 23 MPG combined and a 17.9-gallon fuel tank, the AWD trims have a calculated range of 412 miles per tank — enough for a full day of errands and back without a fuel stop. Q: Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have hill descent control for off-road driving? Yes — the Tremor 4WD includes hill descent control as standard equipment, which holds your speed steady on steep descents without requiring constant brake input. The other three covered trims (Active 4WD 100A, ST-LINE 4WD, Platinum 4WD) do not include hill descent control but do include the full Intelligent 4WD system and AdvanceTrac with RSC for on-road and light off-road traction management. Q: Which 2026 Explorer trim seats the most passengers? The ST-LINE 4WD seats 7 passengers standard, using a 40/20/40 second-row bench in a 2+3+2 configuration. The Active 4WD 100A and Platinum 4WD seat 6 standard (2+2+2 with captain's chairs) but offer a Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest as an option to reach seven-passenger capacity. Q: How do I learn more or schedule a test drive at Cecil Atkission Ford? Stop by Cecil Atkission Ford at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861, or give us (830) 426-5391 to speak with a product specialist about current Explorer availability, trim comparisons, and test drive scheduling. We serve families across Hondo, D'Hanis, Dunlay, and Lytle — and we're ready to put the right Explorer to work for your family and your land. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Feature Active 4WD 100A Platinum Platinum 4WD ST-LINE 4WD ST-LINE RWD Tremor 4WD MPG 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined 19 city / 23 hwy / 21 combined © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

The recommendation clearly shifts from a gas V8 to the Power Stroke diesel when pulling trailers over 15,000 pounds on a regular basis, or when conventional tow requirements exceed 18,200 pounds and fifth-wheel needs cross 19,500 pounds. Gas engines deliver higher maximum payload capacity and lower purchase costs for moderate hauling, while the diesel provides superior pulling authority and grade control for heavy commercial loads and big rigs. Choosing between gas and diesel in the 2026 Super Duty lineup comes down to how much weight you haul, how many miles you drive each year, and where your truck does its heavy work. Ford builds four capable engine options for the F-250 and heavy-duty lineup, pairing every single one with the TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. For drivers who need a heavy-duty workhorse to handle daily job site duties or outdoor recreation across South Texas, each engine option offers a distinct balance of upfront value, payload capacity, and raw pulling force. To help you decide which truck belongs in your driveway, explore our new Ford Super Duty inventory or check out the broader lineup of new Ford trucks available on our lot. If your work requires half-ton flexibility or different family capability, you can also view our new Ford F-150 inventory, look through our new Ford SUVs, or see our new Ford Mustang inventory. Current owners can easily access Ford owner benefits and connect their vehicle to the FordPass app for remote vehicle management. Hablamos Español en Cecil Atkission Ford, so our team is always ready to assist you in English or Spanish. To test drive a truck or compare options in person, stop by our Hondo showroom at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861 or give our team a quick call today. For heavier commercial applications, you can also browse our new Ford heavy duty trucks. Table of Contents What Are the Horsepower, Torque, and Max Towing Differences Across 2026 Super Duty Engines? At What Tow Weight Does the Recommendation Shift From Gas V8 to Power Stroke Diesel? How Much More Does the Power Stroke Diesel Cost, and How Do Total Ownership Expenses Compare? Do Dealers Offer Tools to Verify Your 2026 Super Duty Trailer Setup? Frequently Asked Questions About 2026 Ford Super Duty Gas vs. Diesel Options Find the Right 2026 Super Duty Build at Cecil Atkission Ford Today What Are the Horsepower, Torque, and Max Towing Differences Across 2026 Super Duty Engines? The 6.7L High Output Power Stroke delivers the highest ratings in the 2026 Super Duty lineup with 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, enabling a maximum fifth-wheel tow capacity of up to 40,000 pounds on dual-rear-wheel models. Across the entire engine lineup, output ranges from 405 horsepower in the standard gas engine to 1,200 lb-ft of torque in the top diesel, giving buyers distinct performance choices at every price point. Ford structures the 2026 Super Duty engine family into two gas V8s and two 6.7L turbo-diesel variants. Every powertrain features heavy-duty cooling architecture and pairs with the TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission featuring selectable drive modes including Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery, Deep Sand/Snow, and Off-Road. 6.8L V8 Gas: Standard on XL and XLT trims, producing 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. On properly configured F-250 models, it achieves a maximum conventional tow rating of 17,300 pounds and leads the lineup in bed payload headroom at 4,240 pounds. 7.3L V8 Gas ("Godzilla"): Standard on King Ranch and Platinum trims and available on lower trims, generating 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. It reaches a maximum conventional towing capacity of 18,200 pounds and a fifth-wheel capacity of 19,500 pounds, with a maximum payload rating of 4,246 pounds. 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel (Standard Output): Generates 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm using a 36,000-psi high-pressure common-rail fuel injection system. On the F-250, it provides up to 22,000 pounds of conventional towing and 22,900 pounds of fifth-wheel towing, while supporting up to 30,000 pounds conventional towing across dual-rear-wheel Super Duty configurations. 6.7L High Output Power Stroke: Tops the segment with best-in-class 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm. On F-250 builds, fifth-wheel towing reaches 23,000 pounds, while properly equipped F-350 and F-450 dual-rear-wheel models unlock the maximum 40,000 pounds gooseneck tow capacity. Gas engines hold a major advantage in bed capacity because the cast-iron diesel engine block and double-battery setup add roughly 800 pounds to the front axle. A gas-powered Super Duty reserves that extra weight margin for cargo, making a gas V8 the ideal tool for carrying heavy bed loads, tools, or equipment. Shoppers evaluating raw output alongside work capacity can inspect all new vehicles currently on our lot. To keep your current truck running at peak strength, schedule maintenance through our service appointment scheduler. Our dealership remains deeply dedicated to local neighbors through our ongoing community commitment. At What Tow Weight Does the Recommendation Shift From Gas V8 to Power Stroke Diesel? Towing loads over 15,000 pounds regularly calls for the Power Stroke diesel, as it surpasses the gas V8's 18,200-pound conventional towing limit. Below 15,000 pounds, the 7.3L V8 gas engine handles trailers with ease while offering lower purchase costs and higher net payload capacity. When pulling heavy loads through the rolling limestone hills around Lakehills or hauling livestock trailers across South Texas pastures, engine choice changes how the truck handles under load. Below 12,000 pounds, the 6.8L V8 and 7.3L V8 gas engines provide smooth acceleration, responsive throttle feel, and lower maintenance costs. The 7.3L V8 gas engine remains the sensible sweet spot for contractors, ranchers, and boat owners who pull moderate loads occasionally but drive unloaded during the work week. Once trailer weights cross 15,000 pounds, the low-end pulling power of the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel transforms the driving experience. Delivering 1,050 lb-ft of torque at just 1,600 rpm, the standard diesel engine pulls steep highway inclines without frequent downshifting. For drivers pulling heavy fifth-wheel campers, large horse trailers, or commercial equipment near Lakehills, the diesel engine maintains highway speeds smoothly while an integrated exhaust brake provides engine braking control during long descents. For buyers comparing pre-owned heavy-duty options, browse all pre-owned inventory or filter specifically for pre-owned SUVs. Our team in the finance center can structure purchase terms tailored to your business or personal budget. How Much More Does the Power Stroke Diesel Cost, and How Do Total Ownership Expenses Compare? The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel option adds thousands to the upfront purchase price compared to the base 6.8L V8 gas engine, while the High Output diesel requires a larger investment. Calculating total cost of ownership involves weighing this initial option cost against long-term fuel efficiency, resale value, and routine service requirements. Diesel engines consume less fuel per mile when pulling heavy trailers, giving high-mileage commercial operators an efficiency advantage over long highway hauls. In independent instrumented testing, an F-250 equipped with the High Output diesel achieved 20 mpg on highway fuel economy loops, compared to 15 mpg for the 7.3L V8 gas engine. However, diesel ownership involves additional operational expenses, including dual 12-volt battery replacements, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), larger oil capacities, and periodic fuel filter replacements. Gas Powertrain Expenses: Lower initial purchase cost, single 12-volt battery system, standard oil change quantities, regular 87-octane fuel compatibility, and a 5-year/60,000-mile gas powertrain warranty. Diesel Powertrain Expenses: Higher initial purchase price, dual 750-CCA 12-volt batteries, higher oil capacity, DEF refill requirements, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel, and an extended 5-year/100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty. Gas engines remain cheaper to maintain for owners who rack up lower annual mileage or take frequent short trips that prevent diesel particulate filters from completing self-cleaning cycles. Conversely, high-mileage drivers who pull heavy loads daily benefit from the diesel's extended 5-year/100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty and historically strong resale value. Owners looking for replacement filters or factory fluids can easily order parts online directly from our dealership. To estimate monthly ownership costs across different engine options, use our online payment calculator, or browse our certified pre-owned inventory for late-model trucks with factory backing. Do Dealers Offer Tools to Verify Your 2026 Super Duty Trailer Setup? Dealership specialists use VIN-specific configuration software and factory towing charts to calculate precise towing limits based on cab style, bed length, axle ratio, and engine build. Every 2026 Super Duty also features built-in trailering technology that verifies tongue weight and cargo distribution in real time. When truck buyers walk into our Hondo showroom to compare engine options, they usually ask about trailer weight thresholds before looking at trim packages. Matching a truck to a specific trailer requires looking beyond general brochure figures. Every Super Duty features a yellow safety badge on the driver’s door jamb listing the exact payload limit for that specific vehicle as equipped from the factory. Options such as four-wheel drive, premium leather, sunroofs, and fifth-wheel prep hitches add curb weight, which directly reduces available bed capacity. To assist drivers hauling agricultural equipment around Dunlay, Ford equips the 2026 Super Duty with advanced trailering technologies: Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch: Measures cargo weight in the bed and provides real-time feedback on trailer tongue weight distribution through the central touchscreen or taillight display indicators. Pro Trailer Backup Assist: Allows drivers to guide trailer direction using an intuitive control knob while the system automatically manages steering inputs. Pro Trailer Hitch Assist: Automatically controls steering, acceleration, and braking to align the truck's hitch ball precisely with the trailer coupler. 360-Degree Trailer Camera Package: Provides bird's-eye views around both the truck and attached trailer to simplify maneuvering in tight work spaces. Trail Control: Acts as low-speed cruise control for off-road terrain, managing throttle and braking so drivers can focus on steering through mud, sand, or rocks. Shoppers ready to secure financing can complete an online credit application ahead of their visit. To learn more about our commitment to local drivers, read our story, or check out all pre-owned trucks available in our inventory. Frequently Asked Questions About 2026 Ford Super Duty Gas vs. Diesel Options Q: What are the exact horsepower and torque numbers for the 2026 Super Duty engines? The 6.8L V8 gas engine generates 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. The 7.3L V8 gas engine produces 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. The standard 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel delivers 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke reaches 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. Q: Which Super Duty engine option provides the highest payload capacity? Gas engines provide higher maximum payload ratings than diesel variants because the lighter gas engine block reduces front axle curb weight. The 7.3L V8 gas engine achieves a maximum payload capacity of 4,246 pounds on properly equipped F-250 builds, whereas the High Output diesel caps at 3,918 pounds on comparable single-rear-wheel configurations. Q: What transmission comes equipped with 2026 Super Duty gas and diesel engines? All 2026 Ford Super Duty engines pair with Ford’s heavy-duty TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. This transmission features selectable drive modes—including Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery, Deep Sand/Snow, and Off-Road—to optimize gear shifts, throttle response, and engine braking across different driving conditions. Q: What warranty coverage applies to 2026 Super Duty gas and diesel powertrains? Ford backs gas-powered 2026 Super Duty models with a 5-year/60,000-mile gas powertrain warranty, while diesel models carry an extended 5-year/100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty. All models include a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty, and 5 years or 60,000 miles of roadside protection. If you ever experience a breakdown or flat tire, contact Ford Roadside Assistance at 1-800-241-3673 for factory-backed emergency towing and service. Q: How does fuel compatibility differ between gas V8s and Power Stroke diesel engines? Both the 6.8L V8 and 7.3L V8 gas engines run on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel and are not E85 compatible. Both 6.7L Power Stroke diesel variants require ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel and are rated to accept up to B20 biodiesel blends. To explore routine maintenance offers, review our service and parts specials. You can also meet our expert staff before visiting, or browse pre-owned sedans for efficient daily transportation options. Find the Right 2026 Super Duty Build at Cecil Atkission Ford Today Finding the ideal 2026 Ford Super Duty starts with selecting a powertrain built for your daily workload. Whether you need the maximum bed payload and lower upfront cost of the 7.3L V8 gas engine or the raw 1,200 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke, our team at Cecil Atkission Ford helps you select the exact engine, axle ratio, and cab build for your trailering needs. Every vehicle purchase at our dealership comes backed by our exclusive 3-day love it or exchange it program, giving you complete peace of mind when choosing your next work truck. Visit our showroom at 109 19th St in Hondo to compare gas and diesel builds side by side. To get started, visit our Hondo dealership or call our team directly at (830) 426-5391 to schedule your Super Duty test drive today. © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "NewsArticle", "@id": "#article", "headline": "Which Engine Should You Choose for the 2026 Ford Super Duty?", "datePublished": "2026-08-06T01:54:47.237Z", "dateModified": "2026-08-06T01:56:20.335Z", "author": { "@id": "#author" }, "publisher": { "@id": "#dealer" }, "wordCount": 2226, "description": "Compare 2026 Ford Super Duty gas V8 and Power Stroke diesel engine options based on towing capacity, payload limits, and specific hauling needs." }, { "@type": "AutoDealer", "@id": "#dealer", "name": "Cecil Atkission Ford", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com", "telephone": "+18304265391", "sameAs": [ "https://maps.google.com/?cid=10475600556090554418" ], "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "109 19th St", "addressLocality": "Hondo", "addressRegion": "TX", "postalCode": "78861", "addressCountry": "US" }, "areaServed": { "@type": "GeoCircle", "geoMidpoint": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "geoRadius": "48280" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "openingHours": [ "Mo 08:00-18:00", "Tu 08:00-18:00", "We 08:00-18:00", "Th 08:00-18:00", "Fr 08:00-18:00", "Sa 09:00-16:00" ] }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the exact horsepower and torque numbers for the 2026 Super Duty engines?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 6.8L V8 gas engine generates 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque . The 7.3L V8 gas engine produces 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque . The standard 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel delivers 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque , while the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke reaches 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque ." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which Super Duty engine option provides the highest payload capacity?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Gas engines provide higher maximum payload ratings than diesel variants because the lighter gas engine block reduces front axle curb weight. The 7.3L V8 gas engine achieves a maximum payload capacity of 4,246 pounds on properly equipped F-250 builds, whereas the High Output diesel caps at 3,918 pounds on comparable single-rear-wheel configurations." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What transmission comes equipped with 2026 Super Duty gas and diesel engines?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "All 2026 Ford Super Duty engines pair with Ford’s heavy-duty TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission . This transmission features selectable drive modes—including Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery, Deep Sand/Snow, and Off-Road—to optimize gear shifts, throttle response, and engine braking across different driving conditions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What warranty coverage applies to 2026 Super Duty gas and diesel powertrains?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Ford backs gas-powered 2026 Super Duty models with a 5-year/60,000-mile gas powertrain warranty , while diesel models carry an extended 5-year/100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty . All models include a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty , a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty , and 5 years or 60,000 miles of roadside protection. 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Installing a suspension lift does not automatically void the factory warranty on a 2026 Ford F-150 or F-250. Under federal warranty protection laws, Ford cannot deny coverage for unrelated components simply because a vehicle is modified. However, factory warranty claims will be denied for specific drivetrain, steering, or suspension parts if a technician determines an aftermarket lift or incorrect installation geometry directly caused the failure. Factory components like the standard 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty remain fully active for non-affected systems across all models, including new Ford F-150 models and new Ford F-250 Super Duty trucks. When local truck owners ask us about lifting their F-150, the question we hear most often in our service bay is whether raising the suspension will void their factory powertrain coverage. The distinction lies in component causation. If a 4-inch suspension lift creates severe operating angles that destroy a constant-velocity (CV) axle boot or cause universal joint binding, Ford's factory warranty will not pay to repair those damaged driveline parts. Conversely, if an electronic module, air conditioning compressor, or power window motor fails on a lifted truck, those claims remain covered under standard factory terms because the suspension modification played no role in the mechanical failure. To maintain peace of mind while enjoying added ground clearance, many owners opt for factory-approved upgrades or professional upfitter builds. Dealer-installed modifications and factory off-road packages utilize engineered suspension geometry that preserves factory durability standards. Owners managing their vehicle records can track routine service intervals through Ford owner benefits or monitor vehicle diagnostics directly via the FordPass app. Whether you operate a fleet of new Ford heavy duty trucks, drive versatile new Ford crew cab trucks, or explore options across new Ford SUVs and new Ford Mustang coupes, keeping detailed maintenance logs ensures valid warranty claims stay protected. For personalized assistance, hablamos español en Cecil Atkission Ford. Drivers are welcome to visit our Hondo showroom or reach our service advisors directly at (830) 426-5391 to review warranty details before modifying a vehicle. Table of Contents What Mechanical and Drivetrain Components Change When Lifting a Ford F-150 or F-250? Why Do Suspension Lifts Impact Engine Cooling, Aerodynamics, and Fuel Economy Under Load? What Are Texas Bumper Height Laws and Legal Suspension Limits for Lifted Trucks? What Should Owners Know About Dealer-Installed vs Aftermarket Lift Kits? Frequently Asked Service Questions About Lifted Ford F-150 and F-250 Trucks Schedule Certified Lifted Truck Maintenance What Mechanical and Drivetrain Components Change When Lifting a Ford F-150 or F-250? A suspension lift alters the physical alignment between a truck’s frame, differential housings, steering linkages, and drive axles. Raising the chassis changes factory suspension geometry by increasing the operational angles of front CV axle shafts on independent front suspension models and steepening the driveline angles on solid-axle Super Duty setups. Without corrective hardware, these steep angles increase friction, accelerate joint wear, and place continuous mechanical stress on wheel bearings, ball joints, steering racks, and universal joints. On an F-150 equipped with independent front suspension, lifting the vehicle alters the working angles of the lower control arms and upper ball joints. Elevating the ride height by more than 2 inches without dropping the front differential increases the angle of the front CV boots. This continuous stretching under suspension travel leads to premature boot tearing, grease loss, and eventual joint seizure under load. On heavy-duty F-250 trucks featuring a solid front axle, a 4-inch suspension lift steepens the driveline operating angle between the transfer case and front differential. To prevent driveline vibration and high-speed binding, a complete lift installation requires radius arm drop brackets, a drop pitman arm to align steering linkage, and a carrier bearing drop kit for two-piece rear driveshafts. Engine selection and drivetrain configuration also dictate how mechanical stress translates under the hood. The 2026 F-150 powertrain lineup ranges from the efficient 2.7L EcoBoost V6 to the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, which generates 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Buyers seeking maximum output can choose the high-efficiency 3.5L PowerBoost full hybrid V6, delivering 420 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, or the flagship High-Output supercharged 5.2L V8 producing 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. When larger tires are combined with these high-torque engines, the added rotational mass transfers extra force back through the transmission clutches and differential ring gears. Properly engineered suspension kits correct these angles using differential drop spacers, extended sway bar end links, and recalibrated steering arms. When servicing modified suspension systems, truck owners can order OEM replacement parts directly through our facility. Drivers interested in vehicle protection plans can consult our finance department, while our expert service staff remains available to evaluate driveline wear and component alignment. Why Do Suspension Lifts Impact Engine Cooling, Aerodynamics, and Fuel Economy Under Load? Raising a truck's ride height increases aerodynamic drag by exposing a larger surface area of the tires and underbody structure to high-speed airflow. At highway speeds, airflow that previously swept smoothly under the front bumper creates turbulent air pressure beneath the chassis, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed. Additionally, mounting larger, heavier tires increases overall rotational mass and unsprung weight, which demands more engine torque during acceleration and sustained hill climbs. This added mechanical workload directly influences engine operating temperatures, especially during high ambient summer conditions in South Texas. When a lifted truck pulls a heavy trailer up steep inclines near Lakehills, the combination of elevated aerodynamic resistance and heavy tire mass forces the engine to run at higher boost pressures or elevated engine speeds. On twin-turbocharged engines like the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, continuous heavy boost increases thermal load within the intercooler and engine cooling circuit. Without adequate airflow through the front grille, transmission fluid temperatures rise, prompting the automatic transmission to shift more frequently to manage heat buildup. Fuel economy decreases as a direct consequence of these physical factors. For instance, while a stock 2026 F-150 equipped with the 3.5L PowerBoost full hybrid V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined in two-wheel-drive configuration, installing a 4-inch lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires can reduce highway efficiency by 2 to 4 miles per gallon. The heavier rolling resistance requires continuous throttle input, effectively reducing the frequency with which the hybrid system can enter electric-only mode. Re-gearing the front and rear differentials to match larger tire diameters helps restore engine operating RPM to its intended powerband, reducing transmission hunting and stabilizing highway fuel consumption. Truck owners calculating long-term operation costs can utilize our online payment calculator to estimate service and fuel budgeting. We also support local regional drivers through our community involvement initiatives, while shoppers seeking pre-owned options can explore our inventory of pre-owned coupes. What Are Texas Bumper Height Laws and Legal Suspension Limits for Lifted Trucks? Texas Transportation Code does not establish a single statutory limit on vehicle suspension lift height or frame height. Instead, Texas law regulates vehicle modification through strict safety equipment standards, maximum total vehicle height limits, and mandatory headlight alignment criteria. Under state regulations, no vehicle operating on public highways may exceed a total height of 13 feet 6 inches from the ground to the highest point of the vehicle or load. Headlamp height represents the primary legal restriction for lifted trucks in Texas. State law mandates that every motor vehicle must be equipped with at least two headlamps positioned at a height between 24 inches and 54 inches, measured from the center of the lamp lens to the level road surface. Raising an F-150 or F-250 with a 6-inch suspension lift and 37-inch tires can push factory headlamps close to or beyond the maximum 54-inch legal ceiling. Furthermore, headlights on lifted trucks must be mechanically re-aimed downward to prevent blinding oncoming traffic and to meet annual state safety inspection requirements. Additional Texas equipment compliance rules apply to tail lamps, reflectors, and mud flaps: Tail lamps must be mounted between 15 inches and 72 inches from the ground surface. Rear red reflectors must remain visible from all distances between 100 feet and 600 feet when illuminated by low-beam headlights. Commercial vehicles and heavy trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding certain thresholds must feature rear mud flaps or splashguards that hang within 8 inches of the road surface to prevent gravel spray. Ranchers operating heavy equipment across open pastures in Dunlay must ensure their road-going trucks comply with these highway safety statutes before traveling on public thoroughfares. Drivers evaluating pre-owned haulers can browse our wide selection of pre-owned trucks or inspect our versatile pre-owned SUVs. Every qualifying vehicle purchase is backed by our 3-Day Love It or Exchange It program for complete buyer confidence. What Should Owners Know About Dealer-Installed vs Aftermarket Lift Kits? Dealer-installed lift packages are engineered to integrate seamlessly with Ford factory chassis electronics, active safety systems, and factory warranty guidelines. Unlike generic third-party kits that rely on universal brackets, dealer-installed systems utilize vehicle-specific components designed to maintain correct suspension geometry and factory crash-test performance. This engineering precision ensures that advanced driver-assist sensors, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, can be properly recalibrated following height adjustments. Factory off-road configurations demonstrate how tuned suspension hardware preserves ride quality and capability. The Ford F-150 Tremor package comes standard with twin-tube monotube rear shocks and Tremor-specific front shocks designed for off-road damping and increased ground clearance without sacrificing highway stability. For buyers seeking a more dramatic stance, complete upfitter builds like the Black Widow package feature a 6-inch BDS suspension lift or high-performance FOX Performance Elite coilovers. These specialized builds pair 20-inch custom wheels with 35-inch all-terrain tires while retaining an OEM towing capacity of 10,300 pounds. Fitment guidelines differ substantially between light-duty and heavy-duty chassis configurations: Ford F-150: Suspension lifts ranging from 2 to 3 inches allow clearance for 35-inch tires, but high-clearance aftermarket kits are often incompatible with factory electronically controlled continuous damping suspensions. Ford F-250: Stock Super Duty suspension comfortably clears 35x12.5R20 tires when mounted on wheels with appropriate offset. However, fitting wheel-and-tire combinations wider than 20x10 inches requires a suspension lift to prevent tire rubbing against the inner fender liners and radius arms during sharp turns. Choosing a dealer-installed build ensures that both the suspension hardware and installation labor are backed by transparent warranty coverage. To learn more about our commitment to quality, explore our dealership history. Shoppers looking for alternate daily commuters can also browse our selection of pre-owned sedans. Frequently Asked Service Questions About Lifted Ford F-150 and F-250 Trucks Q: How often should driveline angles and U-joints be inspected on a lifted F-250? Driveline operating angles and universal joints on a lifted F-250 should be inspected every 5,000 to 7,500 miles during routine oil change services. Because a suspension lift increases working angles at the transfer case yoke and differential flanged ends, needle bearings inside U-joints endure higher continuous shear forces. Technicians check for grease purging, play in the trunnion caps, and signs of driveshaft vibration. Regular greasing of serviceable fittings prevents joint binding and extends driveline service life. Q: Does adding a suspension lift affect Ford Co-Pilot360 recalibration requirements? Yes, installing a suspension lift changes the camera and radar sensor height relative to the roadway, which requires sensor recalibration. Systems such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and adaptive cruise control rely on precise pitch and height inputs. After a lift kit is installed, certified technicians perform a computerized sensor calibration procedure to align the forward-facing windshield camera and front bumper radar modules to the modified vehicle height. Q: Should speedometers and shift points be recalibrated after installing larger tires on an F-150? Recalibrating the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is necessary whenever tire diameter increases. Larger tires rotate fewer times per mile, causing the speedometer to display a slower speed than the vehicle is actually traveling. Uncorrected tire sizes alter automatic transmission shift schedules, delay downshifts under acceleration, and disrupt engine torque calculations on EcoBoost and PowerBoost hybrid powertrains. Computer recalibration restores accurate speedometer readings, corrects transmission shift timing, and ensures proper ABS calculation. Q: What routine maintenance changes are necessary when operating a lifted truck in high-heat ranching environments? Operating a lifted truck under heavy loads in high ambient temperatures requires shortened fluid service intervals. Differential gear oil, transfer case fluid, and automatic transmission fluid should be serviced earlier than standard factory schedules due to elevated operating temperatures caused by increased aerodynamic drag and heavier tires. Additionally, steering linkage ball joints, aftermarket shock bushings, and sway bar end links require frequent lubrication to clear out limestone dust and debris encountered on rural unpaved roads. Q: Can factory Ford Roadside Assistance still service a lifted Super Duty with flat tires? Factory Ford Roadside Assistance covers lifted Ford trucks, provided the service can be performed safely with standard emergency equipment. Owners requiring emergency flat tire assistance or towing coordination can reach Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673 for 24/7 support. When calling for service, inform the dispatcher if your Super Duty features large aftermarket tires or extended lift heights so the dispatched service vehicle arrives equipped with extended-reach hydraulic jacks or appropriate flatbed towing apparatus. To review current service savings, drivers can check our current service and parts information. Maintenance visits can be arranged anytime through our online service appointment scheduler, with every appointment supported by the Cecil Advantage. Schedule Certified Lifted Truck Maintenance Maintaining a lifted F-150 or F-250 requires specialized diagnostic equipment, factory-trained technicians, and genuine OEM components designed to keep your driveline operating at peak efficiency. At Cecil Atkission Ford, our service department specializes in suspension geometry alignment, driveline angle verification, sensor recalibration, and routine maintenance tailored specifically for modified Ford trucks. Whether you require a routine multi-point inspection, differential fluid service, or suspension hardware torque checks, our team delivers transparent service backed by durability standards. Schedule your next service appointment with our certified technicians to keep your truck running smoothly across South Texas. To book an inspection, arrange a consultation, or locate our facility, contact us through these quick steps: Visit our Hondo service center located conveniently at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861. Speak directly with a service advisor by calling (830) 426-5391. Explore our rigorous vehicle inspection standards across our certified pre-owned inventory. Trust Cecil Atkission Ford for expert maintenance, genuine parts, and long-term care tailored to your work and lifestyle needs. © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "NewsArticle", "@id": "#article", "headline": "How Does Lifting a 2026 Ford Truck Affect Factory Warranty Coverage?", "datePublished": "2026-08-06T01:25:54.033Z", "dateModified": "2026-08-06T01:27:41.257Z", "author": { "@id": "#author" }, "publisher": { "@id": "#dealer" }, "wordCount": 2433, "description": "Lifting a 2026 Ford truck does not automatically void the factory warranty. Learn how suspension modifications impact coverage under federal warranty law." }, { "@type": "AutoDealer", "@id": "#dealer", "name": "Cecil Atkission Ford", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com", "telephone": "+18304265391", "sameAs": [ "https://maps.google.com/?cid=10475600556090554418" ], "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "109 19th St", "addressLocality": "Hondo", "addressRegion": "TX", "postalCode": "78861", "addressCountry": "US" }, "areaServed": { "@type": "GeoCircle", "geoMidpoint": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "geoRadius": "48280" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "openingHours": [ "Mo 08:00-18:00", "Tu 08:00-18:00", "We 08:00-18:00", "Th 08:00-18:00", "Fr 08:00-18:00", "Sa 09:00-16:00" ] }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "How often should driveline angles and U-joints be inspected on a lifted F-250?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Driveline operating angles and universal joints on a lifted F-250 should be inspected every 5,000 to 7,500 miles during routine oil change services. Because a suspension lift increases working angles at the transfer case yoke and differential flanged ends, needle bearings inside U-joints endure higher continuous shear forces. Technicians check for grease purging, play in the trunnion caps, and signs of driveshaft vibration. Regular greasing of serviceable fittings prevents joint binding and extends driveline service life." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does adding a suspension lift affect Ford Co-Pilot360 recalibration requirements?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, installing a suspension lift changes the camera and radar sensor height relative to the roadway, which requires sensor recalibration. Systems such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and adaptive cruise control rely on precise pitch and height inputs. After a lift kit is installed, certified technicians perform a computerized sensor calibration procedure to align the forward-facing windshield camera and front bumper radar modules to the modified vehicle height." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Should speedometers and shift points be recalibrated after installing larger tires on an F-150?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Recalibrating the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is necessary whenever tire diameter increases. Larger tires rotate fewer times per mile, causing the speedometer to display a slower speed than the vehicle is actually traveling. Uncorrected tire sizes alter automatic transmission shift schedules, delay downshifts under acceleration, and disrupt engine torque calculations on EcoBoost and PowerBoost hybrid powertrains. Computer recalibration restores accurate speedometer readings, corrects transmission shift timing, and ensures proper ABS calculation." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What routine maintenance changes are necessary when operating a lifted truck in high-heat ranching environments?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Operating a lifted truck under heavy loads in high ambient temperatures requires shortened fluid service intervals. Differential gear oil, transfer case fluid, and automatic transmission fluid should be serviced earlier than standard factory schedules due to elevated operating temperatures caused by increased aerodynamic drag and heavier tires. Additionally, steering linkage ball joints, aftermarket shock bushings, and sway bar end links require frequent lubrication to clear out limestone dust and debris encountered on rural unpaved roads." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can factory Ford Roadside Assistance still service a lifted Super Duty with flat tires?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Factory Ford Roadside Assistance covers lifted Ford trucks, provided the service can be performed safely with standard emergency equipment. Owners requiring emergency flat tire assistance or towing coordination can reach Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673 for 24/7 support. When calling for service, inform the dispatcher if your Super Duty features large aftermarket tires or extended lift heights so the dispatched service vehicle arrives equipped with extended-reach hydraulic jacks or appropriate flatbed towing apparatus. To review current service savings, drivers can check our current service and parts specials . Maintenance visits can be arranged anytime through our online service appointment scheduler , with every appointment supported by the Cecil Advantage ." } } ] } ] }

The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport is the ideal choice for drivers wanting an efficient daily crossover with up to 27 mpg combined fuel economy and about 32.5 cu ft of cargo capacity, while the 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door leads in heavy-duty utility with a 3,500 lbs towing capacity and 300 hp engine. Shoppers looking for a maneuverable, fuel-efficient vehicle for commuting and weekend lake trips will prefer the Bronco Sport, whereas those needing higher towing capability for trailers and heavy gear will favor the Bronco 4-Door. Table of Contents Comparing Price and Trim Value of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door Cargo and Passenger Space in the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport vs Bronco 4-Door for Outdoor Adventures Performance and Driving Feel of the 2026 Ford Bronco Models on Texas Hill Country Terrain Fuel Efficiency and Range of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door for Commuting Technology Features That Enhance Outdoor and Rural Living in the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door Safety Systems in the 2026 Ford Bronco Models Designed for Rural Gravel Roads and Family Security Frequently Asked Questions About Owning a 2026 Ford Bronco Sport or Bronco 4-Door Which 2026 Ford Bronco Model Is Best for Rural Texas Outdoor Lifestyles? The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport delivers agile handling and everyday practical versatility, making it the top pick for drivers who balance weekday commuting with outdoor recreation. Outfitted with standard all-wheel drive, the Bronco Sport easily navigates unpaved roads and limestone trails around Lakehills while maintaining comfortable pavement manners. For buyers who prioritize efficient utility, our showroom features new Ford SUVs alongside versatile workhorses like new Ford trucks. While the larger Bronco 4-Door excels at heavy towing and aggressive rock crawling, the Bronco Sport provides a more compact footprint that simplifies garage parking and tight maneuvers. Drivers seeking spirited daily performance can also explore our new Ford Mustang inventory or review overall Ford owner benefits to see how connected technology enhances long-term ownership. Through the Ford App, remote start and vehicle monitoring remain right at your fingertips. At Cecil Atkission Ford, our team works to match your driving habits with the proper powertrain and equipment package. From daily ranch errands to weekend lake trips, visitors can browse our new-vehicle inventory to compare trims side by side. For added hauling power, you can cross-shop new Ford F-150 trucks, evaluate new Ford Super Duty trucks, or inspect new Ford heavy duty trucks. We also invite local buyers to visit us where hablamos español at Cecil Atkission Ford Hondo. Comparing Price and Trim Value of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door Starting at $31,845 MSRP for the Big Bend 4X4, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport offers an accessible price point for value-minded buyers seeking built-in 4x4 capability. Stepping up to the Heritage 4X4 trim brings classic styling at $34,145 MSRP, while the off-road-focused Badlands 4X4 trim tops the Bronco Sport lineup at $40,265 MSRP (with a standard delivery charge of $1,995 across all trims). By comparison, the larger 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door starts at $40,495 MSRP for the Base 4x4, moving up to $40,995 MSRP for the Big Bend 4x4, and reaching $48,890 MSRP for the Badlands 4x4. In terms of functional value, the Bronco Sport Badlands 4X4 features a impressive payload allowance of 3,081 lbs and a published curb weight of 3,809 lbs, giving it a light, responsive feel on the road. The heavier Bronco 4-Door weighs in at 4,499 lbs curb weight with a 1,368 lbs payload allowance, trading some payload rating for a higher maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs compared to the Bronco Sport's 2,700 lbs maximum towing capacity. For shoppers evaluating pre-owned options, exploring our pre-owned vehicle inventory or checking certified pre-owned inventory provides excellent alternative value. Buyers at Cecil Atkission Ford also benefit from peace-of-mind purchase policies like the 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program*. Pricing Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles. 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Trim MSRP 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door Trim MSRP Big Bend 4X4 $31,845 Base 4x4 $40,495 Heritage 4X4 $34,145 Big Bend 4x4 $40,995 Badlands 4X4 $40,265 Badlands 4x4 $48,890 Cargo and Passenger Space in the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport vs Bronco 4-Door for Outdoor Adventures Providing about 32.5 cu ft of cargo volume behind the second row in the Big Bend 4X4 and Heritage 4X4 trims, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport delivers exceptional interior versatility for carrying outdoor equipment. Folding down the rear seats opens up a total cargo volume of about 65 cu ft (or about 61 cu ft in the Badlands 4X4 trim, which measures about 29 cu ft with all seats in place). Inside the cabin, the Bronco Sport accommodates 5 passengers comfortably with 41.5 in of front headroom, 41.7 in of rear headroom, 42.4 in of front legroom, and 36.9 in of rear legroom. This passenger layout ensures ample space for long drives without sacrificing rear cargo depth. For custom gear management, owners can order genuine Ford parts such as interior bike racks, cargo mats, or parcel shelves. To learn more about our commitment to serving drivers, read our dealership story or check out all pre-owned trucks for alternative utility vehicles. Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Specification 2026 Ford Bronco Sport 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door Seating 5 5 Curb weight 3,809 lbs 4,499 lbs Towing 2,700 lbs 3,500 lbs Payload 3,081 lbs 1,368 lbs Performance and Driving Feel of the 2026 Ford Bronco Models on Texas Hill Country Terrain Engineered for quick response on dirt and highway asphalt alike, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands 4X4 features a 2L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine generating 238 hp at 6000 rpm and 277 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. Power is managed through an 8-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Entry trims like the Big Bend 4X4 and Heritage 4X4 use a 1.5L 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine producing 180 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. The 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door comes equipped with a larger 2.3L engine delivering 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque mated to a manual 7-speed transmission, providing heavy-duty low-end muscle for rock crawling. However, the Bronco Sport counters with advanced electronic aids, including Trail Control™ for Off-Road and AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control). The Bronco Sport Badlands 4X4 offers an unladen ground clearance of 8.1 in (increasing to 8.7 in with the optional Sasquatch Package), an approach angle of 30 deg ( 31.2 deg with Sasquatch), and a departure angle of 33.2 deg ( 27.9 deg with Sasquatch). When you are ready to explore purchasing options, you can apply for credit online or learn about additional owner perks included with the Cecil Advantage. Shoppers interested in traditional cars can also check our pre-owned sedans. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Specification 2026 Ford Bronco Sport 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Engine 2L 2.3L Horsepower 238 hp 300 hp Torque 277 lb-ft 325 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® manual 7-speed Fuel Efficiency and Range of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door for Commuting Achieving up to an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined ( 25 city / 30 hwy) on 1.5L models, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport offers substantial savings at the pump for daily commuters. Even the high-output 2L Badlands 4X4 trim earns a competitive 23 mpg combined rating ( 21 city / 27 hwy). These efficiency figures translate to a calculated cruising range of 432 mi on 1.5L models and 368 mi on 2L models utilizing the standard 16 gal fuel tank. By comparison, the larger 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door posts an EPA rating of 17 mpg combined ( 17 city / 18 hwy). For drivers in Lytle making daily highway runs on I-35 into the city, the Bronco Sport provides a significantly lighter fuel footprint without giving up all-weather four-wheel-drive security. To maintain optimal fuel economy over time, check our available service and parts specials and consult with our expert service staff. If you are cross-shopping different vehicle styles, feel free to review our pre-owned coupes. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Specification 2026 Ford Bronco Sport 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door MPG 21 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 17 city / 18 hwy / 17 combined Technology Features That Enhance Outdoor and Rural Living in the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door Equipped with a standard 13.2 in center touchscreen display, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport gives drivers seamless control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The central screen is complemented by a digital instrument cluster screen measuring 8 in on standard trims and 12.3 in on Badlands 4X4 models. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come standard, allowing effortless smartphone integration. To assist with tight parking and off-road obstacle navigation, the Bronco Sport offers a 360 Degree Camera with Split View and a Front 180-Degree Camera. Audio enthusiasts can select the available Tech Package on the Badlands 4X4, which upgrades the cabin with a 560 -watt Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring 10 speakers and a dedicated subwoofer. To schedule routine maintenance or tech diagnostics, use our online service appointment scheduler. You can also read about our local dealership community commitment. Safety Systems in the 2026 Ford Bronco Models Designed for Rural Gravel Roads and Family Security Built with a protective safety cell containing 7 standard airbags, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport earns top safety marks, including a 5-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA. Standard active safety technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping System, and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) to monitor vehicle surroundings continuously. Additional driver-assistance features include Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) and Rear Cross Traffic Braking, which actively apply brake pressure if an approaching vehicle is detected while reversing out of blind spots or driveways. Integrated AdvanceTrac® with RSC® provides electronic stability and roll control on uneven gravel terrain. To discuss protection plans or vehicle financing, visit our finance center. You can also explore our selection of pre-owned SUVs. Frequently Asked Questions About Owning a 2026 Ford Bronco Sport or Bronco 4-Door Q: Which vehicle is better for daily highway commuting? The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport is significantly better for daily commuting thanks to its unibody construction, smoother ride quality, and superior fuel economy of up to 27 mpg combined ( 25 city / 30 hwy) compared to the Bronco 4-Door's 17 mpg combined. Q: How much can the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport tow? The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport has a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,700 lbs on the Badlands 4X4 trim (and 2,200 lbs on Big Bend 4X4 and Heritage 4X4 trims), making it capable of pulling light utility trailers, personal watercraft, or small boats. Q: Does the Bronco Sport come standard with 4x4 capability? Yes, all 2026 Ford Bronco Sport models come standard with full-time all-wheel-drive 4x4 capability, featuring AdvanceTrac® with RSC® and terrain management systems to handle dirt roads, mud, and slippery conditions. Q: What is the price difference between the Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door? The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport starts at $31,845 MSRP for the Big Bend 4X4, whereas the 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door starts at $40,495 MSRP for the Base 4x4 trim, representing a starting price difference of over $8,000. For personalized assistance or to arrange a test drive, get directions to Cecil Atkission Ford or give our team (830) 426-5391 a call today. You can also estimate monthly payments using our online payment calculator. © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "NewsArticle", "@id": "#article", "headline": "Discover Which 2026 Ford Bronco Matches Your Texas Adventure and Lifestyle Needs", "datePublished": "2026-08-06T01:06:59.716Z", "dateModified": "2026-08-30T01:54:28.361Z", "author": { "@id": "#author" }, "publisher": { "@id": "#dealer" }, "wordCount": 2038, "description": "Compare the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door to see which SUV best fits your needs for daily commuting, cargo space, and towing capability." }, { "@type": "AutoDealer", "@id": "#dealer", "name": "Cecil Atkission Ford", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com", "telephone": "+18304265391", "sameAs": [ "https://maps.google.com/?cid=10475600556090554418" ], "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "109 19th St", "addressLocality": "Hondo", "addressRegion": "TX", "postalCode": "78861", "addressCountry": "US" }, "areaServed": { "@type": "GeoCircle", "geoMidpoint": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "geoRadius": "48280" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "openingHours": [ "Mo 08:00-18:00", "Tu 08:00-18:00", "We 08:00-18:00", "Th 08:00-18:00", "Fr 08:00-18:00", "Sa 09:00-16:00" ] }, { "@type": "Car", "@id": "#vehicle", "name": "2026 Ford Bronco", "vehicleModelDate": "2026", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Ford" }, "model": "Bronco", "description": "At Cecil Atkission Ford, we highly recommend the 2026 Ford Bronco lineup to match your Texas lifestyle, whether you select the efficient Bronco Sport featuring up to 27 mpg combined fuel economy and 32.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity or the heavy-duty Bronco 4-Door delivering 300 horsepower and 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. Visit our dealership today to test drive your ideal crossover or utility vehicle and discover unmatched performance for commuting, trailering, and weekend trips.", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com/new-vehicles/bronco/" }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which vehicle is better for daily highway commuting?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport is significantly better for daily commuting thanks to its unibody construction, smoother ride quality, and superior fuel economy of up to 27 mpg combined ( 25 city / 30 hwy ) compared to the Bronco 4-Door's 17 mpg combined ." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much can the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport tow?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport has a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,700 lbs on the Badlands 4X4 trim (and 2,200 lbs on Big Bend 4X4 and Heritage 4X4 trims), making it capable of pulling light utility trailers, personal watercraft, or small boats." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does the Bronco Sport come standard with 4x4 capability?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, all 2026 Ford Bronco Sport models come standard with full-time all-wheel-drive 4x4 capability, featuring AdvanceTrac® with RSC® and terrain management systems to handle dirt roads, mud, and slippery conditions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the price difference between the Bronco Sport and Bronco 4-Door?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport starts at $31,845 MSRP for the Big Bend 4X4 , whereas the 2026 Ford Bronco 4-Door starts at $40,495 MSRP for the Base 4x4 trim, representing a starting price difference of over $8,000. For personalized assistance or to arrange a test drive, get directions to Cecil Atkission Ford or give our team (830) 426-5391 a call today. You can also estimate monthly payments using our online payment calculator . --- © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved." } } ] } ] }

For buyers who need robust towing and off-road mechanical durability, the 2026 Ford Ranger wins overall with a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs and a traditional body-on-frame construction. However, for drivers prioritizing daily fuel efficiency and maneuverability, the 2026 Ford Maverick leads with an EPA-estimated 36 MPG combined rating. Choose the Ranger for heavy hauling or the Maverick for economical daily utility. Table of Contents Price and Trim Value Comparison for 2026 Ford Ranger and Maverick Cargo and Passenger Space for Ranching and Recreation Performance and Driving Feel on Rural Roads Fuel Efficiency and Range for Commuting and Outdoor Adventures Technology Features That Simplify Daily Life and Ranch Work Safety Systems Designed for Family Trips and Rural Terrain Warranty, Maintenance, and Local Service Resources for 2026 Ford Ranger and Maverick Owners Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Ranger and Maverick Final Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal 2026 Ford Pickup at Cecil Atkission Ford Which 2026 Ford Truck Fits Lakehills and Dunlay Lifestyles Best: Ranger or Maverick? The 2026 Ford Ranger best fits heavy-duty towing and off-road demands, while the 2026 Ford Maverick is the ideal pickup for high-efficiency commuting and everyday versatility. Choosing between these two midsize and compact trucks comes down to how you plan to balance work, weekend recreation, and daily driving across the Texas Hill Country. Drivers residing near Lakehills who frequently haul boats or recreational watercraft find the Ford Ranger to be an exceptionally capable partner. With its traditional body-on-frame platform, available all-wheel drive, and strong 2.3L engine, the Ranger handles steep launch ramps and unpaved trails with total confidence. Inside, it balances ruggedness with modern conveniences, offering vertical digital displays and premium seating options that turn long highway drives into comfortable trips. Those interested in exploring our broader vehicle lineup can also browse our new Ford pickup inventory or check out new Ford SUV lineup models available today. Conversely, residents managing daily routines around Dunlay often gravitate toward the Ford Maverick for its unibody agility and exceptional fuel efficiency. The Maverick delivers standard full-size truck interior ergonomics wrapped in a compact footprint that easily fits into tight spaces and navigates farm roads with car-like composure. It bridges the gap between a daily commuter and a practical workhorse, offering about 33 cu ft cargo bed ready for feed bags, tools, or outdoor equipment. Whether your demands require the heavy-duty capabilities of new Super Duty trucks, the classic versatility of new F-150 models, heavy-duty commercial trucks, or sporty choices like new Mustang sports cars, Cecil Atkission Ford provides complete sales and support. Buyers can manage their vehicle ownership seamlessly using the FordPass smartphone application, access comprehensive Ford owner maintenance resources, or receive bilingual assistance through our Spanish-language customer service team. Pricing Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles. 2026 Ford Ranger Trim MSRP 2026 Ford Maverick Trim MSRP Lariat SuperCrew 5' Box $43,755 Lobo Standard 4WD $35,930 Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 5' Box $47,255 Lariat AWD $38,090 Raptor 4x4 SuperCrew 5' Box $56,070 Lobo Premium 4WD $41,425 Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Specification 2026 Ford Ranger 2026 Ford Maverick MPG 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined 39 city / 32 hwy / 36 combined Price and Trim Value Comparison for 2026 Ford Ranger and Maverick The 2026 Ford Maverick provides a lower starting price point beginning at $38,090 MSRP for the Lariat AWD trim, whereas the 2026 Ford Ranger starts at $43,755 MSRP for the Lariat SuperCrew 5' Box in rear-wheel drive and $47,255 MSRP in all-wheel drive. When evaluating overall value, both trucks offer distinct advantages depending on your budget and capability requirements. The Ranger Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 5' Box comes standard with a 2.3L engine generating 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission. It supports a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs and a payload allowance of 1,717 lbs, justifying its price premium for owners who need true midsize truck muscle. For those seeking ultimate performance, the Ranger Raptor 4x4 SuperCrew 5' Box carries an MSRP of $56,070, featuring a 3L engine pushing 405 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque, though towing drops to 5,510 lbs and payload to 1,383 lbs due to its long-travel off-road suspension. All Ranger trims share a destination charge of $1,895. The Maverick Lariat AWD offers a compelling entry point into truck ownership with its 2.5L powertrain producing 191 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque through a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While its standard towing capacity is rated at 2,000 lbs, adding the available 4K Tow Package boosts its maximum braked trailer weight capacity to 4,000 lbs. With a payload allowance of 1,545 lbs and a curb weight of 3,685 lbs, the Maverick delivers tremendous utility per dollar for light-duty work and lifestyle driving. Shoppers exploring our all-new vehicle inventory can shop with complete peace of mind thanks to 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program protection. Additionally, value-conscious buyers can browse our certified pre-owned inventory to inspect thoroughly reconditioned vehicles backed by factory coverage. Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Specification 2026 Ford Ranger 2026 Ford Maverick Seating 5 5 Curb weight 4,408 lbs 3,685 lbs Towing 7,500 lbs 2,000 lbs Payload 1,717 lbs 1,545 lbs Cargo and Passenger Space for Ranching and Recreation The 2026 Ford Ranger delivers greater overall interior passenger volume and a higher payload rating, while the 2026 Ford Maverick excels in bed accessibility with its lower liftover height and multi-position tailgate design. Both trucks feature 5-passenger seating capacity in a 4-door Crew Cab configuration, making them suitable for work crews and family travel. In terms of interior accommodations, the Ranger provides generous cabin dimensions, including 41 inches of front headroom, 38.3 inches of rear headroom, 43.7 inches of front legroom, and 34.6 inches of rear legroom. Front hip room measures 55.8 inches with 54.1 inches in the rear, while shoulder room comes in at 57.1 inches up front and 56.7 inches in the second row. Total interior volume is rated at 2,783.5 liters. Cargo capacity with the rear seat folded down yields about 34 cu ft of enclosed storage space for tools or weather-sensitive items. The Ranger's pickup bed features a short box design measuring 59.6 inches in length, 62.4 inches in overall width, and 48.2 inches between the wheelhouses, allowing standard 4-foot-wide sheets of building materials to lay flat on the bed floor. Box height stands at 20.8 inches with a loading floor height of 34 inches. Payload capacity reaches 1,717 lbs on the Lariat 4x4 SuperCrew 5' Box and 1,821 lbs on the Lariat SuperCrew RWD version (curb weight 4,187 lbs). The Maverick's cargo bed supplies about 33 cu ft of volume and a maximum payload allowance of 1,545 lbs. Its lower loading floor height makes loading heavy ice chests, feed bags, or camping gear remarkably effortless. Rear-seat storage bins hidden beneath the bench seat provide secure spaces to stash tow straps and jump packs out of view. Buyers researching pre-owned options can review our dealership history before exploring our pre-owned inventory selection or filtering specifically for pre-owned pickup truck options. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Specification 2026 Ford Ranger 2026 Ford Maverick Transmission SelectShift® CVT Engine 2.3L 2.5L Horsepower 270 hp 191 hp Torque 310 lb-ft 173 lb-ft Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Performance and Driving Feel on Rural Roads The 2026 Ford Ranger delivers commanding acceleration and robust torque for heavy loads, whereas the 2026 Ford Maverick provides nimble, sedan-like handling with smoother low-speed power delivery. Under the hood, the Ranger Lariat features a 2.3L 4-cylinder engine producing 270 hp at 5,500 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. Standard SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission ensures crisp gear changes and optimal engine braking on downhill gradients. Power is delivered through an Electronic-Shift-On-the-Fly (ESOF) part-time 4x4 system on 4WD models or rear-wheel drive on RWD trims. Front independent wishbone suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar works alongside a rigid rear beam axle with leaf springs to maintain stability when carrying heavy loads in the bed. For maximum performance, the Ranger Raptor elevates output to 405 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque via its 3L twin-turbo V6 engine, supported by a sport suspension setup and front and rear differential locks. The Maverick Lariat AWD relies on a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain generating a combined 191 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque, managed by an Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The unibody chassis creates a low center of gravity, delivering light steering response and an exceptionally smooth ride over uneven pavement. Curb weight is just 3,685 lbs, giving it quick maneuverability around town. Owners looking to personalize their vehicle's performance or maintain factory specifications can utilize our online parts ordering portal. Every purchase at Cecil Atkission Ford comes reinforced by the Cecil Advantage program, while customers seeking efficient alternative commuting vehicles can also view our pre-owned sedans. Fuel Efficiency and Range for Commuting and Outdoor Adventures The 2026 Ford Maverick easily wins the fuel economy comparison with an EPA-estimated rating of 39 city / 32 hwy / 36 combined MPG, compared to the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat 4x4's rating of 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined MPG. For long-distance commuting and extended road trips, the Maverick's hybrid powertrain drastically reduces trips to the fuel pump. With a combined rating of 36 MPG, it offers exceptional range and minimal operating costs for daily drivers. The Maverick Lariat AWD operates on regular unleaded fuel, making it one of the most cost-effective pickups available today. The Ford Ranger Lariat SuperCrew 5' Box in rear-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined MPG and carries an 18-gallon fuel tank, translating to a calculated driving range of 460 miles. Opting for the Lariat 4x4 trim yields 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined MPG with an 18-gallon tank, giving a calculated range of 396 miles. The high-performance Ranger Raptor, powered by its 3L V6 engine, is rated at 16 city / 18 hwy / 17 combined MPG; its larger 20.3-gallon fuel tank provides a calculated range of 340 miles. Both trucks run efficiently on standard 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline. Prospective owners can begin their purchase process from home using our secure online credit pre-qualification application. Our experienced dealership team is always ready to explain vehicle efficiency metrics, or you can explore fuel-friendly alternatives across our pre-owned coupe inventory. Technology Features That Simplify Daily Life and Ranch Work The 2026 Ford Ranger offers a more advanced technology suite tailored for trailering with its 12-inch vertical center display screen and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, while the 2026 Ford Maverick features an intuitive, user-friendly system centered on convenience and connectivity. Inside the Ranger Lariat, drivers are greeted by a standard 12-inch TFT digital instrument cluster and a fixed 12-inch central dashboard touchscreen. The infotainment system includes voice-activating navigation with 3D map visuals, connected traffic data, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. Audio is delivered through a premium 10-speaker system with an integrated subwoofer. Powering external accessories is simple thanks to dual front USB charging ports, two 12V power outlets, a wireless charging pad, and a mains power supply in the cab and cargo bed. For trailering, the Advanced Towing Package (code 67P) adds Pro Trailer Backup Assist, an integrated trailer brake controller, and a 360-degree camera extension. The Maverick Lariat AWD comes equipped with essential modern electronics, including standard touchscreen controls, Bluetooth® hands-free calling, digital radio capability, and steering wheel-mounted remote controls. Embedded SIM card connectivity provides an in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot with a 3-month/3 GB data trial, while Ford's 911 Assist® telematic system offers emergency response support. Our knowledgeable dealership finance center specialists can help integrate technology packages into your purchasing plan, reflecting our deep community outreach initiatives and commitment to customer service. Safety Systems Designed for Family Trips and Rural Terrain Both the 2026 Ford Ranger and 2026 Ford Maverick feature comprehensive active safety technology, but the Ranger includes additional standard sensor hardware for trailering stability and perimeter awareness. Standard driver-assistance equipment across both trucks includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, operating at speeds above 3 mph with pedestrian and cyclist detection, junction turning support, and forward collision visual/acoustic warnings. The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert uses radar sensors to monitor lane changes and reversing maneuvers, while the Lane Keeping System provides steering corrections if drift is detected. Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality maintains set distances in highway traffic. Passive safety systems include 6 total airbags (dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags), along with 3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners for all seating positions and ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchor points. Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, Hill Start Assist, Roll Stability Control, and Electronic Traction Control come standard. In crash safety evaluations, both trucks earned a 5-star frontal crash rating and a 5-star side impact rating from the NHTSA (4 stars overall), alongside "Good" ratings in IIHS small overlap front crash testing. Customers can estimate their monthly ownership investment using our online monthly payment calculator before cross-shopping our pre-owned SUV inventory. Warranty, Maintenance, and Local Service Resources for 2026 Ford Ranger and Maverick Owners Every new 2026 Ford Ranger and Ford Maverick includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper OEM warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Anti-corrosion coverage protects sheet metal for 60 months, while 5 years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance comes standard. If emergency towing or key lockout assistance is required, drivers can connect directly to Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673. For certified maintenance and factory repairs, visit our Hondo showroom location at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861, or give our service desk a quick call at (830) 426-5391. Be sure to check current service and parts offers before scheduling your next oil change through our online service scheduling portal. Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Ranger and Maverick Q: Is the 2026 Ford Ranger worth the price premium over the 2026 Ford Maverick? The 2026 Ford Ranger is worth the higher price for drivers who require its 7,500 lb towing capacity, traditional body-on-frame 4x4 ruggedness, and higher 1,717 lb payload rating. However, if your daily driving consists mostly of commuting, light cargo hauling, and minor towing, the Maverick Lariat AWD at $38,090 MSRP delivers exceptional value with its 36 MPG combined fuel economy. Q: Which truck has better real-world fuel economy for daily driving? The 2026 Ford Maverick easily wins in fuel economy, delivering an EPA-estimated 39 city / 32 hwy / 36 combined MPG. By comparison, the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat 4x4 achieves 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined MPG, while the Ranger Lariat RWD gets 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined MPG. Q: Can the 2026 Ford Maverick tow a trailer or boat effectively? The standard 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat AWD is rated to tow up to 2,000 lbs. When equipped with the optional 4K Tow Package (code 53Q), its towing capacity increases to 4,000 lbs, making it capable of pulling small utility trailers, personal watercraft, or light campers. For heavier ski boats or multi-horse trailers, the Ranger's 7,500 lb capacity is required. Q: What are the main engine differences between the Ranger and Maverick? The Ranger Lariat features a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine producing 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Maverick Lariat AWD utilizes a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine producing 191 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Q: Which truck offers more interior passenger space for rear seat riders? The Ford Ranger provides slightly more overall cabin volume, offering 34.6 inches of rear legroom, 38.3 inches of rear headroom, and 56.7 inches of rear shoulder room. While both trucks comfortably seat five adults across two rows, the Ranger's wider cab dimensions give rear passengers extra elbow room on longer trips. Final Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal 2026 Ford Pickup at Cecil Atkission Ford Both the 2026 Ford Ranger and 2026 Ford Maverick represent outstanding engineered solutions tailored to modern truck buyers. If your priority lies in heavy-duty utility, pulling heavy trailers, or tackling challenging off-road terrain, the midsize Ranger stands out as the ultimate multi-tool. If maximizing fuel economy, enjoying nimble maneuverability, and managing daily errands at a competitive value drive your decision, the compact Maverick is hard to beat. At Cecil Atkission Ford, our dedicated team is ready to guide you through side-by-side test drives so you can experience the performance, comfort, and technology of each truck firsthand. Visit our showroom today to compare trim levels, explore custom option packages, and find the perfect Ford pickup for your lifestyle. © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "NewsArticle", "@id": "#article", "headline": "2026 Ford Ranger vs 2026 Ford Maverick Comparison", "datePublished": "2026-08-05T20:14:22.384Z", "dateModified": "2026-08-05T20:16:14.606Z", "author": { "@id": "#author" }, "publisher": { "@id": "#dealer" }, "wordCount": 2899, "description": "A detailed comparison of the 2026 Ford Ranger and 2026 Ford Maverick, highlighting differences in towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and off-road performance." }, { "@type": "AutoDealer", "@id": "#dealer", "name": "Cecil Atkission Ford", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com", "telephone": "+18304265391", "sameAs": [ "https://maps.google.com/?cid=10475600556090554418" ], "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "109 19th St", "addressLocality": "Hondo", "addressRegion": "TX", "postalCode": "78861", "addressCountry": "US" }, "areaServed": { "@type": "GeoCircle", "geoMidpoint": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "geoRadius": "48280" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "openingHours": [ "Mo 08:00-18:00", "Tu 08:00-18:00", "We 08:00-18:00", "Th 08:00-18:00", "Fr 08:00-18:00", "Sa 09:00-16:00" ] }, { "@type": "Car", "@id": "#vehicle", "name": "2026 Ford Ranger", "vehicleModelDate": "2026", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Ford" }, "model": "Ranger", "vehicleTransmission": "SelectShift®", "driveWheelConfiguration": "https://schema.org/AllWheelDriveConfiguration", "fuelType": "Regular unleaded", "vehicleSeatingCapacity": 5, "vehicleEngine": { "@type": "EngineSpecification", "enginePower": { "@type": "QuantitativeValue", "value": "270", "unitText": "hp" }, "torque": { "@type": "QuantitativeValue", "value": "310", "unitText": "lb-ft" }, "name": "2.3L" }, "fuelEfficiency": { "@type": "QuantitativeValue", "value": "22", "unitText": "mpg combined" }, "tongueWeight": { "@type": "QuantitativeValue", "value": "7500", "unitText": "lbs" }, "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "seller": { "@id": "#dealer" }, "description": "The 2026 Ford Ranger is built for drivers who demand serious capability and performance, featuring a robust body-on-frame construction, a powerful 270 hp engine, available all-wheel drive, and an impressive maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs. Delivering a balanced 22 mpg combined, this midsize truck offers the ultimate blend of off-road durability and modern technology, making it our top recommendation at Cecil Atkission Ford for heavy hauling and everyday utility.", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com/new-inventory/index.htm?model=Ranger" }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is the 2026 Ford Ranger worth the price premium over the 2026 Ford Maverick?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 Ford Ranger is worth the higher price for drivers who require its 7,500 lb towing capacity, traditional body-on-frame 4x4 ruggedness, and higher 1,717 lb payload rating. However, if your daily driving consists mostly of commuting, light cargo hauling, and minor towing, the Maverick Lariat AWD at $38,090 MSRP delivers exceptional value with its 36 MPG combined fuel economy." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which truck has better real-world fuel economy for daily driving?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 Ford Maverick easily wins in fuel economy, delivering an EPA-estimated 39 city / 32 hwy / 36 combined MPG. By comparison, the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat 4x4 achieves 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined MPG, while the Ranger Lariat RWD gets 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined MPG." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can the 2026 Ford Maverick tow a trailer or boat effectively?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The standard 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat AWD is rated to tow up to 2,000 lbs. When equipped with the optional 4K Tow Package (code 53Q), its towing capacity increases to 4,000 lbs, making it capable of pulling small utility trailers, personal watercraft, or light campers. For heavier ski boats or multi-horse trailers, the Ranger's 7,500 lb capacity is required." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the main engine differences between the Ranger and Maverick?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The Ranger Lariat features a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine producing 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Maverick Lariat AWD utilizes a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine producing 191 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which truck offers more interior passenger space for rear seat riders?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The Ford Ranger provides slightly more overall cabin volume, offering 34.6 inches of rear legroom, 38.3 inches of rear headroom, and 56.7 inches of rear shoulder room. While both trucks comfortably seat five adults across two rows, the Ranger's wider cab dimensions give rear passengers extra elbow room on longer trips." } } ] } ] }

The 2026 Ford F-150 achieves its maximum conventional towing rating of 13,500 pounds when configured as a SuperCrew 4x4 or 4x2 with a 6.5-foot bed on a 157-inch wheelbase, powered by the twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and equipped with both the factory Tow/Haul Package and the optional Max Tow Axle. This maximum specification requires precise factory equipment combinations rather than simply picking the largest engine or highest trim level. Ford builds the F-150 truck platform with built-in versatility, but reaching the top-tier trailering threshold depends directly on matching cabin size, bed length, axle ratios, and cooling hardware. For drivers living near Lakehills who haul heavy wake boats or large travel trailers, establishing this exact mechanical foundation is essential before setting out. At Cecil Atkission Ford, our team takes pride in matching hard-working Texas truck buyers with the exact specifications needed for their heaviest loads. You can visit our Hondo showroom location or give our sales specialists a call at (830) 426-5391 to review incoming factory builds and tow-ready configurations. Table of Contents What exact setup is needed to achieve the 2026 F-150 13,500-pound tow rating? Does the 2026 Ford F-150 tow more than the Chevrolet Silverado 1500? Which 2026 F-150 trim offers the strong choice for heavy towing? How do you verify factory tow packages and weight ratings on the window sticker? What buyers ask most about 2026 Ford F-150 towing capability and options Finding the right 2026 F-150 towing setup What exact setup is needed to achieve the 2026 F-150 13,500-pound tow rating? Reaching the headline 13,500 pounds towing capacity on a 2026 F-150 requires four specific factory components working together: the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, the SuperCrew body style with a 6.5-foot bed, the factory Tow/Haul Package, and the upgraded Max Tow Axle. The engine itself delivers 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque routed through a heavy-duty 10-speed automatic transmission. While the engine supplies the raw pulling force, the structural setup dictates how much weight the chassis can safely handle. Specifying the SuperCrew cab with the 6.5-foot bed provides a longer 157-inch wheelbase, which improves straight-line highway stability and weight distribution when pulling large enclosed trailers. The mechanical upgrades included in the factory packages make up the rest of the max-tow equation. The Tow/Haul Package adds upgraded engine and transmission cooling radiators, an integrated trailer brake controller, and upgraded hitch wiring connections. To push conventional towing capability beyond roughly 11,600 pounds up to the 13,500 pounds mark, buyers must also select the Max Tow Axle option. This upgrade installs a heavy-duty 3.55 or 3.73 electronic-locking rear axle assembly and elevates the frame-mounted Class IV hitch receiver rating to approximately 14,000 pounds. Properly equipped in this configuration, the F-150 also delivers a maximum payload capacity of up to 2,440 pounds. Shoppers researching pre-owned options can explore our pre-owned truck inventory to inspect door-jamb weight stickers and factory option codes on verified trade-ins. Does the 2026 Ford F-150 tow more than the Chevrolet Silverado 1500? Yes, the 2026 Ford F-150 out-tows the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, offering a maximum conventional tow rating of 13,500 pounds compared to the Silverado 1500 maximum rating of 13,300 pounds. That 200-pound advantage in maximum towing capability is paired with a distinct lead in hauling capability as well. The 2026 F-150 delivers a best-in-class maximum payload rating of up to 2,440 pounds when properly configured with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, whereas the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 maxes out at 2,260 pounds of payload capacity. Performance Capability 2026 Ford F-150 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Max Conventional Towing 13,500 pounds 13,300 pounds Max Available Payload 2,440 pounds 2,260 pounds Top Gas Engine Torque 500 lb-ft ( 3.5L EcoBoost V6) 495 lb-ft (6.2L V8) In real-world work environments across Dunlay, where agricultural trailers and heavy equipment place constant demands on rear suspension assemblies and hitch receivers, the F-150 truck's high-strength, military-grade aluminum-alloy body saves vehicle weight that Ford engineers repurposed into frame strengthening and higher axle capacities. Combined with 500 lb-ft of low-end torque from twin turbochargers, the F-150 pulls heavy loads up steep highway grades with less gear hunting than naturally aspirated V8 competitors. Drivers can compare trim levels and powertrain configurations directly by browsing our current new F-150 inventory online. Which 2026 F-150 trim offers the strong choice for heavy towing? The XLT trim level represents the overall strong choice for buyers seeking maximum towing performance without paying for top-tier luxury items. While lower and higher trims each serve specific purposes, the XLT provides complete access to all heavy-duty towing packages and axle upgrades while maintaining a balanced feature set. Ford structures option availability across four primary volume trims to suit different operational budgets and comfort expectations: STX: Built with bold athletic styling and durable cabin materials, the STX provides standard power features and impressive base towing capacity. It serves as an economical choice for owners who need a capable work truck without extra electronic add-ons. XLT: The sweet spot for trailering value. The XLT allows full ordering access to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the Tow/Haul Package, and the Max Tow Axle. It also includes standard trailering technology like Pro Trailer Backup Assist and offers the Pro Power Onboard generator system. Lariat: Combines maximum mechanical capability with premium cabin upgrades. The Lariat includes leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seating, advanced digital displays, and available hands-free highway driving with Ford BlueCruise, making long-distance trailer hauling exceptionally comfortable. Platinum: The flagship executive truck choice. The Platinum includes top-tier interior materials, multicontour massaging seats, standard high-output onboard power systems, and high towing limits, providing ultimate cabin luxury for heavy travel trailers. Choosing the XLT with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 allows buyers to invest their vehicle budget directly into mechanical hardware—such as the electronic-locking rear axle and heavy-duty cooling—delivering identical 13,500 pounds pulling power as higher trims at a significantly lower purchase price. How do you verify factory tow packages and weight ratings on the window sticker? Verifying that a specific pickup actually contains the factory equipment required for heavy towing requires inspecting two key items: the original Monroney window sticker and the safety labels located inside the driver-side door jamb. Shoppers evaluating trucks for heavy towing often ask how to verify whether a specific truck on the lot actually has the required factory packages installed before taking a test drive. On the original window sticker under the "Optional Equipment / Other" section, look specifically for the listed Tow/Haul Package. Next, confirm whether the vehicle includes the Max Tow Axle designation or an electronic-locking rear differential with a 3.55 or 3.73 axle ratio. Inside the cab, you can physically confirm the package by checking the center dash controls for the integrated trailer brake controller slider switches located near the steering wheel. To determine the exact payload and gross vehicle weight capability for that specific vehicle, open the driver door and read the yellow-and-white Tire and Loading Information sticker. This label states the precise maximum cargo and occupant weight limit for that individual vehicle as built by the factory. Because added options like sunroofs, running boards, and luxury leather seating add curb weight to the vehicle, two trucks with identical tow packages may carry different door-sticker payload numbers. Checking this label ensures your tongue weight and passenger load remain safely within factory limits. What buyers ask most about 2026 Ford F-150 towing capability and options Q: Does the 2026 Ford F-150 Tow/Haul Package include an integrated trailer brake controller? Yes, the factory Tow/Haul Package on the 2026 F-150 includes an integrated trailer brake controller fully installed into the dashboard. This system allows the driver to adjust electric or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes directly through the truck's vehicle display screen and dash-mounted gain controls, coordinating seamlessly with the truck's anti-lock braking system. Q: How much can the 2026 F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid tow compared to the gas EcoBoost? The 2026 F-150 equipped with the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 offers a maximum conventional towing capacity of 11,200 pounds. That is 2,300 pounds below the peak 13,500 pounds rating of the traditional gas 3.5L EcoBoost V6, but the hybrid adds the benefit of higher fuel efficiency with an EPA-rated 23 combined mpg and available 7.2 kW Pro Power Onboard electrical output. Q: What safety scores does the 2026 Ford F-150 earn for highway towing? The 2026 Ford F-150 SuperCrew earns a 5-star overall crashworthiness rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), achieving 5 stars in frontal and side-impact tests. For added towing safety, driver-assist features like Blind Spot Information System with Trailer Coverage actively monitor blind zones along the entire length of your attached trailer. Q: Can I get maximum 13,500-pound towing on an F-150 with a 5.5-foot bed? No, the top 13,500 pounds tow rating is specifically tied to the longer 157-inch wheelbase delivered by the SuperCrew configuration with the 6.5-foot bed. SuperCrew models with the shorter 5.5-foot bed carry slightly lower maximum tow ratings due to chassis length and axle spacing, though they remain highly capable for most medium-to-large trailers. Q: What documents should I bring when purchasing a tow-ready 2026 F-150? When arriving to test drive or purchase a tow-equipped F-150, bring a valid driver's license, current auto insurance card, and your trade-in title or registration if applicable. Completing an online application ahead of time helps our finance department streamline your approval process so you can drive home sooner. Shoppers can explore our entire new vehicle lineup today or get pre-approved by filling out our secure online credit application. Finding the right 2026 F-150 towing setup Matching the right 2026 Ford F-150 configuration to your trailering demands comes down to choosing the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, selecting the 157-inch wheelbase SuperCrew body style, and verifying the factory Tow/Haul Package and Max Tow Axle on the window sticker. Whether you prefer the balanced value of the XLT, the athletic style of the STX, or the luxurious comfort of the Lariat and Platinum trims, building a properly equipped truck ensures confidence on every highway haul. Our experienced truck team at Cecil Atkission Ford is ready to walk you through window stickers, payload labels, and factory option catalogs to ensure your new pickup handles your trailer safely. Stop by our Hondo dealership to inspect our current inventory in person, or reach out to our team at (830) 426-5391 to schedule your test drive today. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts New Ford Heavy Duty Trucks © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "NewsArticle", "@id": "#article", "headline": "Which 2026 F-150 configuration has the highest towing capacity?", "datePublished": "2026-08-05T19:44:12.466Z", "dateModified": "2026-08-30T01:27:43.284Z", "author": { "@id": "#author" }, "publisher": { "@id": "#dealer" }, "wordCount": 1777, "description": "Learn the exact 2026 Ford F-150 configuration required to reach its maximum 13,500-pound towing capacity, including engine, cab, and tow package options." }, { "@type": "AutoDealer", "@id": "#dealer", "name": "Cecil Atkission Ford", "url": "https://www.cecilhondo.com", "telephone": "+18304265391", "sameAs": [ "https://maps.google.com/?cid=10475600556090554418" ], "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "109 19th St", "addressLocality": "Hondo", "addressRegion": "TX", "postalCode": "78861", "addressCountry": "US" }, "areaServed": { "@type": "GeoCircle", "geoMidpoint": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "geoRadius": "48280" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "29.3471817", "longitude": "-99.1281447" }, "openingHours": [ "Mo 08:00-18:00", "Tu 08:00-18:00", "We 08:00-18:00", "Th 08:00-18:00", "Fr 08:00-18:00", "Sa 09:00-16:00" ] }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does the 2026 Ford F-150 Tow/Haul Package include an integrated trailer brake controller?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, the factory Tow/Haul Package on the 2026 F-150 includes an integrated trailer brake controller fully installed into the dashboard. This system allows the driver to adjust electric or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes directly through the truck's vehicle display screen and dash-mounted gain controls, coordinating seamlessly with the truck's anti-lock braking system." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much can the 2026 F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid tow compared to the gas EcoBoost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 F-150 equipped with the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 offers a maximum conventional towing capacity of 11,200 pounds. That is 2,300 pounds below the peak 13,500 pounds rating of the traditional gas 3.5L EcoBoost V6, but the hybrid adds the benefit of higher fuel efficiency with an EPA-rated 23 combined mpg and available 7.2 kW Pro Power Onboard electrical output." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What safety scores does the 2026 Ford F-150 earn for highway towing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 2026 Ford F-150 SuperCrew earns a 5-star overall crashworthiness rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), achieving 5 stars in frontal and side-impact tests. For added towing safety, driver-assist features like Blind Spot Information System with Trailer Coverage actively monitor blind zones along the entire length of your attached trailer." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I get maximum 13,500-pound towing on an F-150 with a 5.5-foot bed?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No, the top 13,500 pounds tow rating is specifically tied to the longer 157-inch wheelbase delivered by the SuperCrew configuration with the 6.5-foot bed. SuperCrew models with the shorter 5.5-foot bed carry slightly lower maximum tow ratings due to chassis length and axle spacing, though they remain highly capable for most medium-to-large trailers." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What documents should I bring when purchasing a tow-ready 2026 F-150?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "When arriving to test drive or purchase a tow-equipped F-150, bring a valid driver's license, current auto insurance card, and your trade-in title or registration if applicable. Completing an online application ahead of time helps our finance department streamline your approval process so you can drive home sooner. Shoppers can explore our entire new vehicle lineup today or get pre-approved by filling out our secure online credit application." } } ] } ] }

The used car market can feel like a maze of competing claims, but the Ford Blue Advantage program establishes a clear, manufacturer-backed framework to take the uncertainty out of your next vehicle purchase. This tiered system divides pre-owned vehicles into distinct categories of certification, ensuring that every car, truck, or SUV meets exact standards before it ever reaches our sales floor. Unlike generic used car warranties offered by independent lots, this program is backed directly by Ford Motor Company. This means any covered repairs are completed by factory-trained experts using authorized components. When you visit our showroom, you will find that these certified vehicles occupy a unique space. They offer the modern features, styling, and driving dynamics of a brand-new model, but at a more accessible pre-owned price point. It is a structured, high-value purchase experience designed to protect your investment. If you are looking to research your options, you can browse our new Ford SUVs or check out our new Ford trucks to compare the latest features against our certified inventory. Every vehicle in this program undergoes a rigorous vetting process, starting with a clean title check and a detailed vehicle history review. We want you to feel entirely confident in your choice. To give you ultimate peace of mind, we participate in the 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program* as part of the Cecil Advantage, ensuring you get the perfect fit for your garage. You can also manage your vehicle's features and rewards easily using the Ford App on your phone. If you have questions about which vehicles qualify, you can reach our team by giving us a quick call at (830) 426-5391, and we are happy to assist as Hablamos Español en Cecil Atkission Ford Hondo. Table of Contents What Ford Gold Certified Pre-Owned Really Means for Buyers How the Ford Blue Certified Inspection Differs From Gold Certified How the Ford CPO Inspection Process Improves Your Odds of Getting a Reliable Vehicle Comparing Ford Gold Certified Warranties to Toyota Certified Used Vehicles Key Financial Benefits of Choosing Ford Certified Pre-Owned Over Standard Used What to Ask About Our Certified Pre-Owned Inventory Your Guide to Certified Pre-Owned Value Common Questions About Ford Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles What Ford Gold Certified Pre-Owned Really Means for Buyers Are you wondering what separates a premier certified vehicle from a standard used car? The Gold Certified designation is the highest tier of the Ford Blue Advantage program, reserved strictly for late-model Ford vehicles that meet rigorous manufacturer benchmarks. To even begin the certification process, a vehicle must be a Ford model that is no more than 6 years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles on the odometer. These strict limits ensure that the engine, transmission, and advanced safety technologies are still operating within their prime window. For a family in Lakehills who needs a dependable three-row SUV to haul outdoor gear, a Gold Certified 2026 Ford Explorer fits the bill perfectly. It offers a 2.3L engine producing 300 hp, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs to pull a boat. Choosing a Gold-tier vehicle brings an exceptional level of protection, including: A 12-month / 12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty covering more than 1,000 components. A 7-year / 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty starting from the original in-service date. 22,000 FordPass Rewards Points to use toward your first few maintenance visits. A complimentary CARFAX vehicle history report and 24/7 roadside assistance. A 14-day or 1,000-mile Money Back Guarantee to ensure complete satisfaction. If you want to explore these highly vetted models, you can view our certified pre-owned inventory online. We also make it easy to transition into your next vehicle by letting you submit a secure credit application before visiting. Whether you are searching for pre-owned SUVs, rugged pre-owned trucks, or fuel-efficient pre-owned sedans, our diverse pre-owned inventory has options to match your lifestyle. Pricing Pricing by trim Feature King Ranch Lariat Platinum Police Responder Raptor STX Tremor XL XLT Base MSRP (for currently available vehicles) $65,825 $59,560 $68,800 $52,350 $79,005 $41,855 $64,915 $37,290 $44,695 Destination charge $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 How the Ford Blue Certified Inspection Differs From Gold Certified While the Gold tier is exclusive to Ford models, the Blue Certified program is designed to bring manufacturer-backed confidence to a much broader range of vehicles. This tier is open to any make and model—including non-Ford passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks—that is less than 10 years old with fewer than 150,000 miles. Because of the wider eligibility window, the inspection and warranty structures differ to accommodate different vehicle ages and engineering backgrounds. A Blue Certified vehicle must pass a thorough 139-point inspection conducted by our factory-trained technicians. This checklist covers major mechanical systems, safety features, steering, suspension, and electrical components. Once certified, these vehicles come with a 90-day / 4,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty, a 14-day or 1,000-mile Money Back Guarantee, and complimentary 24/7 roadside assistance. This is an excellent, value-oriented option for buyers who want an affordable second vehicle or a reliable commuter. Our commitment to quality extends to every vehicle we certify on our lot. We invite you to learn more about our dealership's history and our deep-rooted community commitment to local families. When you buy from us, you are partnering with a team that stands behind its vehicles. Be sure to check our current service and parts specials to see how we help you keep your vehicle performing at its best long after you drive home. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Feature King Ranch Lariat Platinum Police Responder Raptor STX Tremor XL XLT Engine 3.5L 5.0L 3.5L 3.5L 3.5L 2.7L 3.5L 2.7L 2.7L Horsepower 382 hp 400 hp 382 hp 400 hp 450 hp 325 hp 382 hp 325 hp 325 hp Torque 500 lb-ft 410 lb-ft 500 lb-ft 500 lb-ft 510 lb-ft 400 lb-ft 500 lb-ft 400 lb-ft 400 lb-ft Transmission 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Rear-wheel drive Four-wheel Drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive How the Ford CPO Inspection Process Improves Your Odds of Getting a Reliable Vehicle How does a certified inspection actually protect you from buying someone else's mechanical headaches? The secret lies in the uncompromising depth of the evaluation. When our factory-trained technicians perform the 172-point inspection for Gold Certification or the 139-point inspection for Blue Certification, they use a highly detailed checklist that leaves no major component unexamined. This is a rigorous physical and diagnostic sequence, not a simple visual walk-around. During the process, technicians plug into the vehicle's diagnostic port to scan for any stored fault codes, perform a comprehensive road test to verify transmission shift points, and inspect the entire underbody for structural integrity. If any single point fails to meet Ford's strict standards, the component must be repaired or replaced with an authorized factory part. For example, if a technician inspects a 2026 Ford Escape and finds uneven tire wear or a minor suspension squeak, the vehicle cannot be certified until the issue is fully corrected. This process drastically reduces the risk of unexpected failures, ensuring you drive home in a vehicle that looks, feels, and performs like new. Our service department is staffed by the very same certified experts who perform these detailed inspections. If you ever want to schedule a routine check or have our team look over a vehicle, you can use our convenient service appointment scheduler online. We make it simple to keep your vehicle in peak condition. Comparing Ford Gold Certified Warranties to Toyota Certified Used Vehicles When cross-shopping the pre-owned market, it helps to see how Ford's premier certification program stacks up against other major manufacturers. A common comparison is between Ford Gold Certified and Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUV). Both programs enjoy excellent reputations for reliability, but a close look at the specific warranty terms and inspection points reveals key differences that can impact your long-term ownership costs. Ford Gold Certified requires a highly detailed 172-point inspection, which is slightly more comprehensive than Toyota's 160-point inspection checklist. In terms of warranty protection, both programs offer a 12-month / 12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty and a 7-year / 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty (measured from the original in-service date). However, Ford provides 22,000 FordPass Rewards Points with Gold vehicles, which can be used to cover your initial maintenance visits, Toyota’s program has different rewards and benefits. Choosing the right certified vehicle comes down to finding the perfect balance of capability, protection, and value. Our experienced team in the finance center is here to help you compare your options and discuss current financing options. We work with a variety of lenders to build a personalized purchase plan that fits your budget. Key Financial Benefits of Choosing Ford Certified Pre-Owned Over Standard Used Opting for a certified pre-owned vehicle over a standard, non-certified used car offers significant financial advantages that extend far beyond the initial purchase price. While a standard used car might carry a slightly lower upfront sticker price, it often comes with no warranty coverage, leaving you fully responsible for any mechanical failures the moment you drive off the lot. A certified vehicle mitigates this risk entirely by wrapping your purchase in manufacturer-backed protection. Consider the value proposition of a Gold Certified 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat, which features a 3.5L engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a massive towing capacity of 12,800 lbs. Purchasing this truck certified means you are protected by a 7-year / 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. If an expensive engine or transmission issue arises down the road, your out-of-pocket cost is limited to a small deductible rather than thousands of dollars in repair bills. Additionally, certified pre-owned vehicles may qualify for financing options through Ford Credit, and you can contact our team for current details. To help you plan your purchase, we recommend using our online payment calculator. This tool allows you to estimate your monthly payments based on different down payments, loan terms, and trade-in values. It is a simple way to see just how affordable a high-quality certified vehicle can be. What to Ask About Our Certified Pre-Owned Inventory When you are ready to visit our showroom, asking the right questions can help you narrow down the perfect certified vehicle for your specific needs. Our team believes in complete transparency, and we are always excited to share the history and details of any vehicle on our lot. We want you to feel like part of the family from the moment you walk through our doors. Here are a few key questions to ask our sales consultants during your visit: Can I see the completed 172-point inspection checklist for this specific vehicle? What is the remaining balance on the 7-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty based on its original in-service date? Can we review the complimentary CARFAX vehicle history report together to check for previous ownership and service records? Is this vehicle eligible for any promotional financing rates currently offered through Ford Credit? Learning about our story and our roots as a family-owned dealership will show you why we prioritize customer trust above all else. We do not just want to sell you a vehicle; we want to build a lifelong relationship based on honest service and dependable quality. Your Guide to Certified Pre-Owned Value Whether you are commuting from Dunlay or pulling a trailer through the rolling terrain near Lytle, a certified pre-owned Ford offers the rugged capability and peace of mind you need. Our team is dedicated to helping you find a vehicle that fits both your lifestyle and your budget. We invite you to stop by our showroom to experience the difference for yourself. To find us, you can easily get directions to Cecil Atkission Ford at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861. Our expert staff is ready to walk you through our inventory, answer your questions, and get you behind the wheel for a test drive. If you prefer to speak with a representative before making the drive, feel free to give us a call at (830) 426-5391. We look forward to serving you and helping you drive home with complete confidence. Common Questions About Ford Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles Q: How much does an independent pre-purchase inspection typically cost for a Ford CPO vehicle? An independent pre-purchase inspection (PPI) pricing can vary depending on the vehicle type and location. While Ford CPO vehicles have already passed a rigorous factory-backed inspection, some buyers choose to pay for a third-party inspection for an extra layer of personal reassurance, which we are always happy to accommodate. Q: What is the official number to call if I need to use my CPO roadside assistance benefits? You can reach manufacturer-backed emergency support directly by calling Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673. This service is included 24/7 with both Gold and Blue Certified vehicles, providing help with flat tires, lockouts, towing, and fuel delivery. Q: Can a certified pre-owned vehicle warranty be transferred if I decide to sell the car privately? Yes, the remaining portion of both the comprehensive limited warranty and the powertrain limited warranty is fully transferable to the next private owner at no additional cost. This transferability acts as a permanent badge of quality on the vehicle's VIN and can significantly boost its resale value. Q: What happens if a vehicle fails a single point during the certified inspection process? If a vehicle fails even one of the required inspection points, it cannot receive certification until the issue is fully resolved. Our factory-trained technicians must repair or replace the affected component using genuine, factory-authorized parts, or the vehicle is disqualified and sold as a standard used car. Q: Does the CPO warranty cover repairs if I am traveling away from home? Yes, your Ford comprehensive and powertrain warranties are honored at any authorized Ford or Lincoln dealership across the United States and Canada. This widespread network ensures that you have access to expert care and genuine parts no matter where your travels take you. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts New Ford Heavy Duty Trucks © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. 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Why Drivers Make the Trip to Cecil Atkission Ford in Hondo Here at Cecil Atkission Ford, we know that finding the right vehicle often means looking beyond the closest lot to find a team that respects your time and understands your lifestyle. For decades, our family-owned approach has drawn folks from all over Medina County and the surrounding ranch lands because we treat every customer like a neighbor. We do not believe in the high-pressure, fast-talking sales tactics common at big metropolitan stores. Instead, we focus on personal accountability, straightforward pricing, and a selection of tough, reliable vehicles built for Texas roads. Our dealership is centrally located to serve several surrounding communities. We are a direct 27-mile drive west of Castroville along US-90, which takes only about 30 minutes. For buyers heading northwest from Pleasanton, the trip is roughly 55 miles via TX-173, taking about an hour. If you are coming from Uvalde, we are situated about 70 miles east down US-90, a straightforward drive of an hour and fifteen minutes. To plan your visit, you can easily get directions to our showroom online or give us a quick call to speak with a sales representative. When you purchase a vehicle from us, you gain access to exclusive owner benefits designed to keep you moving with peace of mind. We support our buyers with the Ford App, which allows you to manage key vehicle features and track your rewards directly from your smartphone. To ensure you feel completely confident in your purchase, we back our vehicles with the Cecil Advantage, which includes our 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program. We are fully committed to serving our entire regional community, which is why we proudly offer assistance in your preferred language through our bilingual sales services. Our extensive showroom features a diverse lineup of vehicles engineered for both daily utility and weekend recreation. For those seeking efficiency and versatility, we offer new SUVs like the 2026 Ford Explorer, which delivers 300 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 29 hwy in its standard Active trim. If you need maximum capability for the job site or the ranch, you can explore our new trucks. Our selection spans from the iconic new F-150 inventory to heavy-duty workhorses. For serious towing, we stock new Super Duty models as well as heavy-duty commercial trucks designed to pull massive trailers. We also cater to performance enthusiasts with our new Mustang models, ensuring every driver finds exactly what they need. Table of Contents Specs and Features of the 2026 Ford F-150 STX at Our Showroom Understanding the Real-World Payload and Towing Capacity of the 2026 Ford F-150 The Price and Performance Value of the 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor Comparing Cabin Tech: Ford F-150 SYNC 4 vs Chevrolet Silverado Infotainment Inventory Advantages and Exclusive 2026 Ford Models Worth the Drive Specs and Features of the 2026 Ford F-150 STX at Our Showroom One of the first things truck buyers ask about when they arrive at our dealership is the balance of daily usability and rugged performance in our light-duty lineup. The 2026 Ford F-150 STX is a perfect example of this balance, offering a aggressive, sporty look combined with practical capability. This trim features a modern black interior, unique sport cloth front bucket seats, and a standard 12-inch digital cluster display that puts critical driving data directly in your line of sight. It rides on striking 20-inch dark gray aluminum wheels and comes equipped with LED fog lamps and cornering lamps to illuminate dark rural roads. Under the hood, the F-150 STX is powered by a standard 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain configuration delivers a stout 325 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of low-end grunt for hauling tools or merging onto the highway. In its rear-wheel-drive configuration, the STX achieves highly competitive fuel efficiency, earning an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 26 hwy. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective choice for long commutes across Medina County, where daily driving distances add up quickly. If you are considering your options, our team is ready to help you compare new models against our diverse pre-owned vehicle inventory. Our sales consultants can guide you through the different cab configurations, bed lengths, and axle ratios available to find the truck that matches your specific needs. You can consult with our expert staff to find the right configuration, and when you are ready to secure a test drive, you can use our online tool to request an appointment. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Feature King Ranch Lariat Platinum Police Responder Raptor STX Tremor XL XLT Engine 3.5L 5.0L 3.5L 3.5L 3.5L 2.7L 3.5L 2.7L 2.7L Horsepower 382 hp 400 hp 382 hp 400 hp 450 hp 325 hp 382 hp 325 hp 325 hp Torque 500 lb-ft 410 lb-ft 500 lb-ft 500 lb-ft 510 lb-ft 400 lb-ft 500 lb-ft 400 lb-ft 400 lb-ft Transmission 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Rear-wheel drive Four-wheel Drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Understanding the Real-World Payload and Towing Capacity of the 2026 Ford F-150 Many of our customers wonder about the actual work limits of a half-ton truck, especially when preparing to haul heavy equipment or pull a trailer. The 2026 Ford F-150 is engineered to handle demanding tasks, boasting a maximum available payload capacity of up to 2,440 lbs when properly configured. This generous payload rating means you can load the bed with fencing materials, feed, or work gear without worrying about overloading your suspension. It is an ideal capability for residents in rural areas like Lakehills, where self-reliant homeowners regularly transport large loads of oak and cedar firewood or building supplies across rolling Hill Country terrain. When it comes to pulling power, the F-150 truly shines with a maximum available towing capacity of up to 13,500 lbs when equipped with the available 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and the Max Trailer Tow Package. This twin-turbocharged engine utilizes direct injection to deliver 382 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, providing the sustained pulling force needed to move heavy horse trailers, recreational campers, or flatbeds loaded with machinery. Even the standard 2.7L EcoBoost V6 provides robust towing capabilities, ensuring that smaller trailers and boats are easily managed. If you are ready to put a new F-150 in your driveway, our finance center is here to help you navigate the purchasing process. We work with a variety of competitive lenders to find payment structures that fit your budget. To save time at the dealership, you can fill out our secure online credit application from the comfort of your home. Our commitment to straightforward business practices is just one way we demonstrate our community commitment to the local families who rely on us for honest service. Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Feature King Ranch Lariat Platinum Police Responder Raptor STX Tremor XL XLT Seating 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 Cargo 52.8 cu ft 52.8 cu ft 52.8 cu ft 52.8 cu ft 52.8 cu ft 62.3 cu ft 52.8 cu ft 62.3 cu ft 62.3 cu ft Curb weight 4,894 lbs 4,844 lbs 4,844 lbs 5,065 lbs 5,710 lbs 4,641 lbs 5,260 lbs 4,391 lbs 4,641 lbs Towing 12,800 lbs 10,600 lbs 12,800 lbs 11,200 lbs 8,200 lbs 8,200 lbs 10,200 lbs 13,500 lbs 7,500 lbs Payload 2,206 lbs 1,900 lbs 2,160 lbs 1,950 lbs 1,410 lbs 1,670 lbs 1,700 lbs 2,440 lbs 1,670 lbs The Price and Performance Value of the 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor From my experience in automotive sales, enthusiasts who want the absolute pinnacle of off-road capability always gravitate toward the specialized models in the F-Series lineup. The 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor is a high-performance desert racer built directly from the factory, featuring a wider stance, massive 35-inch all-terrain tires, and standard Fox internal-bypass dampers. The standard Raptor starts at a base MSRP of $79,005 with a destination charge of $2,795, and it is powered by a high-output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking extreme performance, the Raptor R package upgrades the truck to a 720-hp supercharged V-8, though it pushes the price tag to $113,525. While the Raptor is built to fly over sand dunes and crawl over rocky trails, it also maintains respectable towing and hauling numbers. The standard V-6 Raptor can tow up to 8,200 lbs and carry a maximum payload of 1,400 lbs, proving that its off-road suspension does not completely sacrifice utility. It is a highly versatile option for drivers who want a vehicle that can handle rugged weekend trail riding but still tow a utility trailer during the week. To help you determine how a premium truck fits into your monthly budget, we invite you to utilize our online payment calculator to estimate your purchasing power. If your driving needs lean more toward family road trips or sleek styling, we also maintain a great selection of pre-owned SUVs and sporty pre-owned coupes. Our team will help you evaluate the trade-in value of your current vehicle to maximize your down payment on a new Raptor. Pricing Pricing by trim Feature King Ranch Lariat Platinum Police Responder Raptor STX Tremor XL XLT Base MSRP $65,825 $59,560 $68,800 $52,350 $79,005 $41,855 $64,915 $37,290 $44,695 Destination charge $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 $2,795 Comparing Cabin Tech: Ford F-150 SYNC 4 vs Chevrolet Silverado Infotainment I often hear buyers ask which truck offers a more advanced and user-friendly cabin experience when comparing the Ford F-150 to the Chevrolet Silverado. The F-150 comes standard with a 12-inch center touchscreen running Ford's highly intuitive SYNC 4 infotainment system. This setup features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone without messy cables. Ford also kept physical knobs for volume and climate controls, which are much easier to adjust while wearing work gloves than hunting through digital menus on a screen. In comparison, the Chevrolet Silverado offers a slightly larger 13.4-inch screen on its mid-level LT trim and higher, but it requires you to step up from the base work truck trims to get it. The Ford SYNC 4 system stands out for its lightning-fast processing speeds, over-the-air software updates, and standard 5G LTE modem connectivity. Furthermore, the F-150 cabin can be equipped with an available Interior Work Surface, which allows you to fold the transmission shifter flat into the console to create a completely flat table for a laptop or a quick lunch. If you are searching for a high-tech truck, we invite you to browse our pre-owned truck inventory to see the various infotainment systems and cabin packages we have in stock. We are proud of our story of helping regional buyers find vehicles loaded with the exact technology they want. Before you make the trip, be sure to check our current service and parts offers for any valuable offers that can save you money on your next vehicle purchase. Inventory Advantages and Exclusive 2026 Ford Models Worth the Drive This is something we see a lot with buyers from smaller communities: they often find that their local dealerships have limited inventories, forcing them to settle for whatever is sitting on the lot. Because we serve a broad regional area, we maintain a much larger and more diverse inventory of vehicles than smaller outlying dealers. We stock unique trims and specialized models that are hard to find elsewhere, including rugged off-road packages and heavy-duty commercial configurations. Our selection of all new vehicles features the latest Ford technology and styling, ensuring you do not have to compromise on color, engine choice, or cabin features. If you are looking for strong value, we also carry a premium certified pre-owned inventory of vehicles that have undergone rigorous multi-point inspections and come backed by comprehensive limited warranties. We make the buying process simple, transparent, and completely convenient to the short drive to Hondo. If you are ready to visit a dedicated, community-focused dealership, we invite you to make the short trip to our showroom. You can contact our sales team at (830) 426-5391 to ask about current model availability or to schedule a dedicated test drive. When you are ready to head over, you can use our map tool to get directions to our dealership and find the perfect vehicle for your needs. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts New Ford Heavy Duty Trucks © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. 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The legendary capability of the 2026 Ford Bronco is anchored by its standard Terrain Management System, a highly sophisticated suite of electronic and mechanical calibrations designed to maximize traction and driver control. Every single model in the lineup comes equipped with standard four-wheel drive, ensuring that power is always distributed to the wheels that need it most. more Continue reading... By managing how the engine, transmission, and differential locks interact, this system transforms a complex off-road excursion into an intuitive, confidence-inspiring experience. Drivers looking to experience this technology firsthand can explore our new Ford SUVs to find the perfect configuration for their next adventure. Whether you are navigating the limestone outcroppings around Lakehills or handling a daily commute, the vehicle's electronic brain manages power distribution seamlessly. The Terrain Management System operates via a rotary dial on the center console, allowing the driver to select specialized calibrations on the fly. These profiles adjust throttle sensitivity, transmission shift logic, and traction control intervention to match changing surface conditions. To learn more about how this system works or to take a test drive, you can reach out to our team by giving us a quick call at (830) 426-5391. For local drivers who need a vehicle capable of both heavy work and serious play, the engineering of the Bronco lineup offers a compelling alternative to traditional pickups. While some shoppers initially visit us to browse new Ford trucks, they are often won over by the enclosed utility and extreme trail agility of the full-size Bronco. If your lifestyle demands maximum towing and payload capacity, we can easily guide you toward our new Ford F-150 inventory or help you compare heavy-duty capabilities with our new Ford Super Duty trucks. However, for sheer off-road maneuvering and tight trail capability, the Bronco remains in a class of its own. Every new model purchase also unlocks a suite of manufacturer-backed ownership advantages. Drivers can monitor their vehicle's health, use remote features, and access roadside assistance directly through the Ford App on their smartphones. These digital tools are backed by comprehensive Ford owner benefits, ensuring peace of mind long after you drive off our lot. Our bilingual team is always ready to assist, and we are proud to offer full sales and support services in Spanish to better serve our entire community—please visit our page for Hablamos Español en Cecil Atkission Ford Hondo to connect with a representative today. To find our showroom and view these systems in person, you can easily get directions to Cecil Atkission Ford at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861. Table of Contents What Are the Ford Bronco GOAT Modes and How Do They Work? Matching the Right GOAT Mode to Specific Texas Landscapes Tackling Deep Sand and Beach Environments in a 2026 Bronco How Trail Turn Assist and Advanced Off-Road Hardware Integrate Comparing the Highway Ride Quality of the Bronco and the Wrangler Analyzing the Long-Term Reliability of Ford EcoBoost Engines Finding Your Match: 2026 Ford Bronco Pricing and Off-Road Trims Quick Answers Before You Visit Drive Your New Adventure Home What Are the Ford Bronco GOAT Modes and How Do They Work? What exactly does G.O.A.T. mean when you are behind the wheel? Originally coined during the development of the first-generation utility vehicle in 1966, the acronym stands for "Goes Over Any Type of Terrain." In the modern 2026 Ford Bronco, this concept is realized through a network of sensors and actuators that adjust multiple vehicle systems simultaneously. Instead of requiring the driver to manually guess the correct combination of traction control, transfer case settings, and gear ranges, the vehicle packages these calibrations into pre-programmed drive modes selected via the console dial. When a driver rotates the Terrain Management dial, the vehicle's powertrain control module, transmission controller, and electronic stability control system instantly coordinate a new baseline. For example, steering assist levels are adjusted to provide heavier, more direct feedback during high-speed maneuvers, or a lighter, more precise feel during low-speed rock crawling. The system also manages 4x4 engagement, automatically transitioning between two-wheel drive high, four-wheel drive high, and four-speed low depending on the selected mode and trim level. If you are interested in finding a highly capable vehicle with these advanced driving dynamics, we invite you to browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory to see what models are currently available. The number of available G.O.A.T. Modes varies by trim level, allowing buyers to select a model that perfectly matches their intended level of adventure. The Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Heritage Edition models are equipped with five core modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand. Upgrading to the Badlands, Stroppe Edition, or Raptor trims unlocks up to seven total modes, adding highly specialized off-road calibrations like Rock Crawl and Baja mode. At Cecil Atkission Ford, we enjoy helping drivers find the exact vehicle that fits their lifestyle and budget. You can read our story to learn more about our commitment to providing straightforward, honest vehicle sales to our neighbors. ​ Matching the Right GOAT Mode to Specific Texas Landscapes How do these electronic settings translate to real-world Texas dirt, rock, and pavement? Choosing the correct mode ensures optimal traction while protecting your vehicle's mechanical components from unnecessary wear. Each setting is engineered to handle specific surface textures and traction levels: Normal: The default setting for everyday driving. It provides a balanced throttle response, standard transmission shift points, and comfortable steering assist for highway driving and daily commutes. Eco: This mode optimizes the powertrain for maximum fuel efficiency. It utilizes a less aggressive throttle map, commands earlier upshifts from the automatic transmission, and manages accessory loads to conserve fuel. Sport: Designed for spirited driving, Sport mode sharpens throttle response, holds gears longer to keep the engine in its powerband, and firms up the steering feel for more athletic handling. Slippery: Essential for wet pavement, ice, or loose gravel. It reduces throttle sensitivity to prevent wheel spin, commands earlier upshifts to manage torque, and increases the intervention threshold of the traction and stability control systems. Sand: Tailored specifically for loose, dry sand. This setting engages four-wheel drive high, delivers a highly responsive throttle, and holds gears longer to maintain forward momentum and prevent the tires from digging in. Mud/Ruts: Optimized for deep mud and rutted trails. It holds lower gears, allows for a controlled amount of wheel slip to help clear mud from the tire treads, and automatically engages the electronic locking rear differential on equipped models. Rock Crawl: Engineered for technical, low-speed obstacle climbing. It automatically engages four-wheel drive low, locks the differentials, and softens throttle response to allow for millimeter-precise acceleration over boulders. Baja: A high-speed off-road calibration that maintains immediate throttle response, commands the transmission to stay in lower gears, and relaxes stability control to allow experienced drivers to slide the vehicle safely on loose dirt. The limestone trails and creek crossings around Lakehills present a prime example of where these modes prove their worth. A driver tackling these uneven, rocky pastures can engage Rock Crawl mode to let the 4.7:1 final drive ratio and locked axles do the heavy lifting at a crawl, preventing the vehicle from surging forward unexpectedly. When you are ready to purchase a trail-ready vehicle of your own, you can start the process from home by completing our secure online credit application. We also encourage you to explore the Cecil Advantage to see how our customer-first policies, including exchange programs and dealership guarantees, add extra value to your purchase. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Feature Badlands Base Big Bend Heritage Edition Outer Banks Raptor Stroppe Engine 2.3L 2.3L 2.3L 2.3L 2.3L 3.0L 2.7L Horsepower 300 hp 300 hp 300 hp 300 hp 300 hp 418 hp 330 hp Torque 325 lb-ft 325 lb-ft 325 lb-ft 325 lb-ft 325 lb-ft 440 lb-ft 415 lb-ft Transmission 7-speed manual 7-speed manual 7-speed manual 7-speed manual 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic Drivetrain Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive Four-wheel Drive ​ Tackling Deep Sand and Beach Environments in a 2026 Bronco Driving on loose, shifting sand requires an entirely different mechanical approach than crawling over hard rocks. In a heavy vehicle, the primary threat on a sandy trail is losing forward momentum; once the wheels begin to spin rapidly without moving the vehicle forward, the tires will quickly excavate deep holes and high-center the chassis. This is where Sand mode becomes an indispensable tool for coastal excursions or dry riverbed crossings. When you select Sand mode, the Terrain Management System automatically configures the transfer case to four-wheel drive high. The throttle mapping becomes highly sensitive, delivering immediate engine torque at the first touch of the pedal to help the vehicle "plane" on top of the loose surface rather than sinking into it. Simultaneously, the transmission shift logic is altered to hold gears much longer, preventing unexpected upshifts that could drop the engine speed and cause the vehicle to bog down. Traction control intervention is also minimized, allowing the tires to spin just enough to maintain momentum. If you are planning a trip to a sandy off-road park, our team can help you select a Bronco equipped with the Sasquatch Package, which adds massive 35-inch mud-terrain tires that can be aired down to create a wider footprint. Our showroom features a diverse selection of vehicles, and our expert staff is always on hand to explain how different tire and wheel packages interact with the vehicle's electronic drive modes. While we specialize in rugged off-roaders, we also carry a variety of other body styles, including sporty pre-owned coupes for drivers looking for sleek on-road performance. ​ How Trail Turn Assist and Advanced Off-Road Hardware Integrate A common question we hear from off-road enthusiasts is how the Bronco's electronic drive modes interact with its heavy-duty mechanical hardware. The vehicle's G.O.A.T. Modes do not operate in isolation; they are fully integrated with mechanical lockers, stabilizer bar disconnects, and advanced steering aids. One of the most impressive examples of this integration is Trail Turn Assist, a technology designed to dramatically reduce the vehicle's turning radius on tight, twisting trails. Trail Turn Assist works by automatically applying the brake to the inside rear wheel during a sharp turn at low speeds. This action effectively anchors the inside wheel, allowing the vehicle to pivot around it. However, because this system relies on tire slip to function without damaging the driveline, it must only be used on loose off-road surfaces like dirt, mud, or gravel. Utilizing Trail Turn Assist on high-traction paved surfaces like asphalt or concrete can cause extreme driveline binding, severe tire wear, and potential mechanical damage. To keep your vehicle performing at its peak, we offer a rotating selection of service and parts specials on factory-approved upgrades and accessories, including heavy-duty skid plates and off-road lighting. Our dealership is deeply connected to the local community, and our community commitment drives us to provide honest, transparent advice on how to safely operate and enjoy your vehicle's advanced mechanical systems. When navigating tight wooded trails, letting the vehicle's electronics manage wheel braking can mean the difference between a clean, one-point turn and a frustrating multi-point maneuver. ​ Comparing the Highway Ride Quality of the Bronco and the Wrangler While off-road capability is a primary selling point, most SUV owners still spend a significant amount of time on paved highways. When comparing the highway ride quality of the 2026 Ford Bronco to its chief competitor, the Jeep Wrangler, the structural differences between the two platforms become immediately apparent. The Ford Bronco utilizes a modern independent front suspension coupled with rack-and-pinion steering, whereas the Wrangler continues to use a traditional solid front axle. On the highway, the Bronco's independent front suspension allows each front wheel to react to bumps individually, preventing road imperfections from upsetting the entire chassis. This setup results in vastly superior steering precision, minimal lane drift, and a composed ride that feels much more like a modern passenger SUV than an agricultural utility vehicle. The rack-and-pinion steering system also provides a tight, connected feel with none of the "dead zone" play commonly associated with solid-axle steering gearboxes. For buyers who want an uncompromising off-roader that can still serve as a comfortable daily commuter, the Bronco is the clear winner. If you are currently driving an older SUV and want to upgrade your daily drive, you can browse our high-quality pre-owned SUVs to find a model that fits your needs. To ensure your current vehicle remains in peak driving condition, you can also use our online service appointment scheduler to book a professional multi-point inspection with our factory-trained technicians. Below is a factual look at the powertrain options available across the 2026 Bronco lineup, demonstrating how Ford balances highway efficiency with trail-ready torque: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: Standard on Badlands, Base, Big Bend, Heritage Edition, and Outer Banks. This engine produces 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with a standard 7-speed manual transmission (or an available 10-speed automatic) and standard Four-wheel Drive. 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Standard on the Stroppe Edition and available on other trims. It generates 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, mated to a standard 10-speed automatic transmission and Four-wheel Drive. 3.0L EcoBoost V6: Exclusive to the Raptor trim. This high-performance powerplant unleashes 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque, backed by a specialized 10-speed automatic transmission and advanced Four-wheel Drive. ​ Analyzing the Long-Term Reliability of Ford EcoBoost Engines When investing in a highly capable off-road vehicle, long-term durability is a primary consideration for smart buyers. The 2026 Ford Bronco relies on Ford's proven EcoBoost engine family, featuring the standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the available 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6. These engines are not specialty, low-volume powerplants; they are widely utilized across Ford's global vehicle lineup, from hardworking utility vehicles to high-performance sports cars. The long-term reliability of these EcoBoost engines is rooted in robust block construction and advanced thermal management. Both engines utilize high-strength materials—such as compacted graphite iron for the 2.7-liter V6 block—to withstand the high pressures of turbocharging. When owners adhere to regular maintenance schedules, including timely oil changes with the correct synthetic oil grades, these engines routinely deliver trouble-free performance well past the milestone marks. This proven track record gives buyers excellent confidence in the vehicle's long-term resale value. At Cecil Atkission Ford, we want to ensure your purchasing journey is as smooth as your vehicle's performance. Our finance center is ready to help you secure competitive loan terms tailored to your budget. If you are looking for manufacturer-backed assurance on a pre-owned model, we invite you to explore our certified pre-owned inventory, where every vehicle undergoes a rigorous multi-point inspection and comes with an extended factory warranty. ​ Finding Your Match: 2026 Ford Bronco Pricing and Off-Road Trims Choosing the right 2026 Ford Bronco involves finding the sweet spot between your off-road ambitions and your financial goals. The 2026 lineup spans from the highly customizable Base model to the extreme, high-speed Raptor, ensuring there is a configuration for every type of driver. Pricing and availability may vary by trim and equipment. The entry point to the lineup is the Base trim, which carries a starting MSRP of $40,795 and a destination charge of $1,995. For buyers seeking a balance of everyday comfort and trail readiness, the Big Bend starts at $41,790 with a $1,995 destination charge. Moving up to the Outer Banks brings a starting MSRP of $48,685 (plus the standard $1,995 destination charge), offering a more refined, tech-heavy cabin. For those who demand serious mechanical hardware, the Badlands starts at $49,385 and includes advanced suspension components, while the retro-styled Heritage Edition starts at $51,625 (both subject to the $1,995 destination charge). At the top of the performance spectrum, the Baja-ready Stroppe Edition starts at $69,995, and the rock-crawling Raptor starts at $80,990, with both models carrying the $1,995 destination fee. To help you budget for your purchase, we offer an online payment calculator so you can estimate your monthly payments based on different down payments and loan terms. If you are trading in a vehicle or looking for a rugged utility vehicle with a bed, we also carry an excellent selection of all pre-owned trucks on our lot. Our sales team is dedicated to helping you find the exact trim and package that delivers the capability you need at a price that works for you. Pricing Pricing by trim Feature Badlands Base Big Bend Heritage Edition Outer Banks Raptor Stroppe Base MSRP $49,385 $40,795 $41,790 $51,625 $48,685 $80,990 $69,995 Destination charge $1,995 $1,995 $1,995 $1,995 $1,995 $1,995 $1,995 ​ Quick Answers Before You Visit Q: Can I use the Bronco's Trail Turn Assist on paved driveways? No, Trail Turn Assist must never be used on high-traction paved surfaces like asphalt or concrete. The system works by locking the inside rear wheel to pivot the vehicle, and using it on pavement will cause extreme driveline binding and severe tire wear. Keep this feature turned off until you are on loose dirt, mud, or sand. Q: What is the main difference between Slippery and Mud/Ruts mode? Slippery mode is designed for low-traction surfaces where you want to prevent wheel spin entirely, such as wet highways or icy roads, by softening throttle response and maximizing traction control intervention. Mud/Ruts mode, on the other hand, is built for deep off-road trails and actually allows for a controlled amount of wheel spin to help the tire treads sling off mud and maintain forward momentum. Q: Do all 2026 Ford Bronco trims come with the same number of G.O.A.T. Modes? No, the number of available modes depends on the trim level you purchase. Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Heritage Edition models feature five core modes, while the off-road-focused Badlands, Stroppe Edition, and Raptor trims offer up to seven modes, adding specialized settings like Rock Crawl and Baja. Q: Is the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine powerful enough for towing? Yes, the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is highly capable and provides plenty of low-end torque for utility tasks. When properly equipped with the factory towing package, the 2026 Bronco has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, which is plenty of capability for hauling light utility trailers, ATVs, or small boats. Q: Can I exchange my vehicle if I decide a different Bronco trim fits me better? Yes, when you buy from us, you can take advantage of our 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program*. This program gives you peace of mind by allowing you to exchange your eligible vehicle within three days if you decide a different model or configuration is a better fit for your lifestyle. ​ Drive Your New Adventure Home There is nothing quite like the feeling of commanding a vehicle built to handle whatever challenges the road—or the trail—throws your way. The 2026 Ford Bronco combines iconic heritage, modern road manners, and unmatched off-road technology into a single, cohesive package. Whether you are looking for a comfortable daily driver or a ferocious off-roader built for the terrain of Medina County and central Texas, our team is standing by to help you find your perfect match. We invite you to browse our complete inventory of all new vehicles online to see the latest trims, colors, and packages available on our lot today. Once you find a model that catches your eye, the best way to experience the thrill of the Terrain Management System is from behind the wheel. Stop by our showroom at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861, or give our sales team a call at (830) 426-5391 to schedule your test drive. Let us show you how easy and enjoyable buying a new vehicle can be at Cecil Atkission Ford. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts New Ford Heavy Duty Trucks © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved.

Navigating the path to vehicle ownership does not have to feel like a complex puzzle. At Cecil Atkission Ford, we believe that understanding your auto financing options is just as important as finding the right vehicle for your driveway. Whether you are eyeing a rugged workhorse to haul trailers or a versatile family vehicle, the way you structure your purchase determines your long-term satisfaction. more Continue reading... Many buyers feel overwhelmed by the financial terminology, but the core process is straightforward. When you finance through our dealership, you are essentially partnering with a lender to cover the cost of the vehicle, which you then pay back over a set period with interest. The most common route for our customers is working with Ford Motor Credit, the manufacturer’s captive lending arm. This program is specifically designed to support Ford buyers by offering tailored retail installment contracts, flexible terms, and available financing options that traditional banks cannot always match. If you are looking to get a convenient start on the buying process from home, you can easily submit a secure Credit Application online. This helps our finance team review your profile and present you with personalized options before you even walk through our showroom doors. Once approved, you also gain access to modern digital tools like the Ford App, which allows you to manage your vehicle profile, track payments, and unlock exclusive Ford Owner Benefits designed to make ownership seamless. For families in Lakehills who need a dependable vehicle to tow boats down to Medina Lake, having the right financing structure makes all the difference. We carry an extensive selection of capability-focused vehicles to match these active lifestyles. You can explore our rugged New Ford Trucks, including the highly capable New Ford F-150 Inventory, or step up to commercial-grade power with our New Ford Super Duty Trucks and New Ford Heavy Duty Trucks. If a spacious cabin is your priority, our New Ford SUVs provide plenty of room for passengers and gear, while performance enthusiasts can browse our New Ford Mustang Inventory to experience a classic American muscle car. To make sure everyone in our community receives the clear, honest service they deserve, we are proud to offer bilingual assistance; you can learn more about how Hablamos Español en Cecil Atkission Ford Hondo to assist you in your preferred language. When you are ready to visit us in person, you can easily Get Directions to Cecil Atkission Ford at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861, or give our team a quick call to discuss our current inventory. Table of Contents Understanding APR, Loan Length, and What to Check Before You Sign How Your Credit Score Shapes Your Ford Credit Tier and Interest Rate Choosing Your Term: How Loan Months Impact Payments and Total Interest Deciding on a Ford Lease: Understanding Standard Annual Mileage Limits Maximizing Your Buying Power: Trade-In Values and Texas Sales Tax Common Questions About Ford Credit and Auto Loans Take the Next Step Toward Your New Ford Understanding APR, Loan Length, and What to Check Before You Sign What exactly is an Annual Percentage Rate, and why does it dictate so much of your monthly budget? In plain terms, the APR represents the true yearly cost of borrowing money, combining the base interest rate with any mandatory loan-related fees into a single, standardized percentage. Because almost all auto loans are simple-interest contracts, interest is calculated daily based on your remaining principal balance. This means that as you pay down the principal, the amount of interest you owe each month naturally decreases. It also means that making extra payments or paying off your loan early directly reduces the total interest you will pay over the life of the contract. Before you sign any retail installment contract, there are several key elements you must verify to protect your budget: The exact APR and whether it is a fixed or variable rate (fixed is standard and highly recommended). The total amount financed, which should reflect the vehicle price minus your down payment and trade-in credit. The finance charge, which is the total dollar amount the loan will cost you in interest. The itemized list of fees, ensuring there are no unexpected preinstalled add-ons or hidden charges. The deferment and prepayment policies, verifying that there are no financial penalties for paying off the loan ahead of schedule. If you prefer to skip the rapid depreciation of a brand-new vehicle, exploring our high-quality All Pre-Owned Inventory is an excellent alternative. We carry a diverse selection of reliable pre-owned models, including fuel-efficient Pre-Owned Sedans that are perfect for daily commuting. To give you ultimate peace of mind when buying used, we back our vehicles with the Cecil Advantage, which includes our signature 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program so you can buy with absolute confidence. ​ How Your Credit Score Shapes Your Ford Credit Tier and Interest Rate Your credit score is the primary tool underwriters use to assess risk and determine your borrowing costs. When you apply for financing, Ford Motor Credit categorizes applicants into distinct tier levels based on their credit history. Those with exceptional credit profiles land in Tier 1, which unlocks the lowest promotional interest rates, including highly coveted 0% APR offers on select models. As you move down the tier structure, the risk premium increases, resulting in progressively higher interest rates and sometimes requiring a larger upfront payment to secure an approval. To put this in perspective, industry data shows that super-prime borrowers with scores of 781 or higher typically secure average rates around 4.88% APR on new vehicles. Buyers with good credit, falling in the 661 to 780 range, see average rates of 6.51% APR for new models. For pre-owned purchases, these averages shift to roughly 7.43% APR for super-prime buyers and 9.65% APR for prime buyers. If your score sits in the subprime range below 600, securing an approval is still entirely possible, but you should expect a higher interest rate and a requirement for a co-signer or a substantial down payment to offset the lender's risk. Our goal is to find a path to ownership for every customer, regardless of where their credit score currently stands. Our Expert Staff works closely with a wide network of financial institutions to find flexible solutions tailored to your unique situation. Whether you are looking to finance a rugged truck or want to browse our selection of sleek Pre-Owned Coupes, we take the time to explain the numbers clearly so you can make an informed decision. ​ Choosing Your Term: How Loan Months Impact Payments and Total Interest The duration of your auto loan plays a massive role in balancing your monthly cash flow against the total cost of your vehicle. Auto lenders commonly offer loan terms ranging from 36 to 84 months, with some specialized contracts extending even longer. While a longer term—such as 72 or 84 months—is highly appealing because it stretches the principal balance out to create a lower, more manageable monthly payment, it comes with a distinct financial trade-off. Because interest accumulates over time, a longer loan term means you will pay significantly more in total interest by the time the contract is fully paid off. Additionally, extended terms can sometimes carry slightly higher base APRs because the lender is taking on risk over a longer period. To visualize how these variables interact, you can use our online Payment Calculator to compare different term lengths and see how they impact your monthly budget and overall interest charges. For residents in Dunlay, where many families manage agricultural operations and local ranchlands, keeping overhead costs predictable is a vital part of financial planning. When structuring a loan for a hardworking truck or SUV, opting for a balanced term like 60 months often provides the ideal sweet spot—keeping monthly payments reasonable without letting interest charges pile up unnecessarily. Beyond helping you find the right payment structure, we are dedicated to supporting our local community through our ongoing Community Commitment, and we invite you to check our rotating Service & Parts Specials to keep your vehicle running efficiently long after you sign the papers. ​ Deciding on a Ford Lease: Understanding Standard Annual Mileage Limits For drivers who enjoy upgrading to a new vehicle every few years and prefer lower monthly payments, a Ford lease is an attractive alternative to traditional financing. When you lease, you are essentially paying for the vehicle's depreciation over a set period rather than paying off its entire value. However, because the vehicle's future resale value is highly dependent on its condition and odometer reading, lease agreements include strict annual mileage limits. Ford Credit offers several standard annual mileage options to fit different driving habits: 10,500 miles per year — ideal for short commutes and drivers who do not take frequent long-distance trips. 12,000 miles per year — the standard industry benchmark that comfortably covers average driving habits. 15,000 miles per year — designed for high-mileage drivers who spend significant time on the highway. Exceeding these limits results in an excess mileage penalty at the end of your lease, which typically ranges from $0.20 to $0.25 per mile depending on the vehicle model. If you know you will be driving heavily, you can purchase additional miles upfront at a discounted rate when you first sign your lease. For those who prefer a vehicle they can drive without any mileage constraints, browsing our reliable Pre-Owned SUVs is a fantastic option. If you are currently driving a leased vehicle and want to ensure it stays in peak condition to avoid end-of-lease wear-and-tear fees, you can easily use our online Service Appointment Scheduler to keep up with routine care. ​ Maximizing Your Buying Power: Trade-In Values and Texas Sales Tax When you are ready to transition into a new ride, leveraging your current vehicle's value is one of the smartest ways to lower your overall financing costs. At Cecil Atkission Ford, we determine your trade-in value using live market data from trusted industry resources, a physical inspection of your vehicle's mechanical and cosmetic condition, and current demand in the local market. Applying this trade-in value as a down payment directly reduces the principal amount you need to borrow, which can help you secure a better interest rate and lower your monthly payments. In addition to reducing your loan amount, trading in your vehicle offers a significant tax advantage in Texas. The state imposes a 6.25% motor vehicle sales tax on auto purchases. However, this tax is calculated after subtracting the value of your trade-in from the purchase price of your new vehicle. For example, if you buy a vehicle for $40,000 and trade in your current car for $15,000, you will only pay the 6.25% sales tax on the remaining $25,000 difference, saving you hundreds of dollars in upfront tax costs. To explore your options, you can browse our complete inventory of All New Vehicles or check out our high-quality Certified Pre-Owned Inventory, which offers manufacturer-backed warranty protection. Once you have found the perfect vehicle, the specialists in our Finance Center will help you structure your purchase that maximizes your trade-in tax savings and fits your monthly budget perfectly. ​ Common Questions About Ford Credit and Auto Loans Our finance team is dedicated to providing clear, straightforward answers to help you navigate the buying process with ease. Below, we address some of the most common questions we hear from buyers preparing to finance their next vehicle. Q: What paperwork should I bring to the dealership when applying for a loan? To ensure a smooth and fast approval process, you should bring a valid driver's license, your most recent pay stubs as proof of income, a utility bill or bank statement to verify your physical address, and a current auto insurance card. If you plan to trade in your current vehicle, be sure to bring the vehicle's title or your current loan payoff information. Q: Can I make extra payments on my Ford Credit loan to pay it off early? Yes. Because Ford Credit loans are simple-interest contracts, there are no prepayment penalties. Any extra payments you make will go directly toward reducing your principal balance, which decreases the amount of interest that accumulates daily and allows you to pay off your loan ahead of schedule while saving money on interest. Q: How does a larger down payment impact my overall financing terms? Putting more money down upfront reduces the total amount you need to finance, which immediately lowers your monthly payments. Lenders also view a larger down payment as a sign of financial stability, which can help you qualify for lower APR tiers and more favorable loan terms. Q: What is the difference between a retail installment contract and a lease? A retail installment contract is a path to full ownership where your monthly payments go toward paying off the entire cost of the vehicle, allowing you to build equity and drive without mileage limits. A lease is a short-term agreement where you pay for the vehicle's depreciation over a set period, requiring you to return the vehicle or purchase it at the end of the term while adhering to annual mileage limits. For drivers in Pleasanton who frequently travel across open plains and ranchlands, having a vehicle that matches your lifestyle is essential. We carry a wide range of rugged options, including All Pre-Owned Trucks that are built to handle tough tasks. To ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase, every eligible vehicle we sell comes backed by our 3-Day Love It or Exchange It Program*, giving you complete peace of mind. ​ Take the Next Step Toward Your New Ford Securing the right financing is the key to enjoying your vehicle with complete peace of mind. At Cecil Atkission Ford, we are proud of our deep Texas roots and our commitment to treating every customer like family. We invite you to read Our Story to learn more about our dealership's heritage and our dedication to providing an honest, pressure-free buying experience. Whether you are ready to value your trade-in, submit an online credit application, or take a test drive, our team is here to help you every step of the way. You can easily Get Directions to Cecil Atkission Ford to visit our showroom in Hondo, or give us a quick call today to speak with one of our friendly finance specialists. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts New Ford Heavy Duty Trucks © 2026 Cecil Atkission Ford. All rights reserved.