Blog

Borgman Ford has been keeping an eye on the 2018 Detroit Auto Show for any exciting announcements to share with West Michigan Ford fans. This year, Ford did not disappoint with the unveiling of four new and exciting vehicles: The 2019 Ford Edge ST, The 2019 Ford Ranger, The 50th Anniversary Ford Mustang Bullitt, and the All-New Mustang Shelby GT500 - the most powerful street-legal production Ford ever! Below, we've rounded up some information about each of the four vehicles revealed or teased at the Detroit Auto Show, as well as some fun videos from Ford to show them in action. Enjoy! 1. The 2019 Ford Edge ST During the Detroit Auto Show, Ford unveiled the 2019 Ford Edge ST - Ford’s first SUV to be tuned by the Ford Performance team. This new SUV features superior handling and braking, ST-tuned sport suspension, Sport Mode, new quick-shifting 8-speed transmission, and standard all-wheel-drive. The Edge ST also boasts the most powerful V6 engine in its class with a specially tuned 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine that pumps out 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. “Edge ST puts a new animal on the road – a performance SUV with a track mentality,” said Hau Thai-Tang, executive vice president of Product Development and Purchasing. “From a performance standpoint, and with its SUV silhouette and versatility, it sets a new standard Edge fans will love to drive.” You can check out the official press release here. 2. The 2019 Ford Ranger After a long hiatus, Ford announced last year that the ever-popular Ford Ranger pickup was coming back - and this year they finally unveiled the new truck! We already wrote a post about the New 2019 Ford Ranger, but just in case you missed it, here are some quick highlights: Ford answers the call from truck customers looking for an affordable, rugged, and maneuverable midsize pickup that’s Built Ford Tough. Torture-tested alongside Ford F-150 trucks, Ranger quality starts with a rugged high-strength steel frame backbone, proven Ford-built 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission. New features make driving easier and more fun, both on- and off-road, such as the available FX4 Off-Road Package. This adds protective skid plates, upgraded tires, off-road-tuned shocks and suspension, while the Terrain Management System and Trail Control help navigate challenging conditions. A suite of innovative technologies includes standard Automatic Emergency Braking to help avoid collisions. https://youtube.com/watch?v=P-XxdvBuJGw The New Ford Ranger brings American truck lovers an all-new choice; production begins late this year at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant. You can see the official press release here. 3. The 2019 Ford Mustang 'Bullitt' Edition One of the most famous car chases ever comes from the 1968 film 'Bullitt' starring Steve McQueen, and Ford is paying homage with the 2019 Mustang Bullitt - a special edition commemorating the film's 50th anniversary. The new and limited-edition Mustang Bullitt features a retuned 5.0L V8 engine that packs at least 475 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque - topping out at a roaring 163 mph. This new version tips its hat to theFord Mustang from the movie with a classic Dark Highland Green exterior paint plus subtle chrome accents. It also sports interior highlights which include a 12" all-digital LCD instrument cluster and available RECARO black leather-trimmed seats - complete with unique green accent stitching. In the video below, Steve McQueen's granddaughter Molly races against a Dodge Charger through a parking ramp from behind the wheel of the Bullitt-inspired Mustang. The prize? The final parking space. Check it out below: https://youtube.com/watch?v=7s-64GmXB2E As an added treat this year, the private owner of one of the two long-lost Ford Mustang GT Fastbacks used in the film reached out to Ford. Together, they showed the old and the new Mustangs side-by-side during the big reveal at the Detroit Auto Show. You can read more about it in this article from Ford, or check out this YouTube video of Molly seeing the legendary Mustang GT in person. 4. The All-New Mustang Shelby GT500 Speaking of ultra-cool Mustangs, this one really grabbed our attention. Arriving next year, the all-new Mustang Shelby GT500 promises to be the absolute pinnacle of Mustang performance. The innovation, ingenuity, and passion of the Ford Performance team show through with more than 700 horsepower projected, making it twice as powerful as the original 1967 Mustang performance model. Check out the exciting teaser video below: https://youtube.com/watch?v=KtlmJLl18zo Not much else is known at the moment, but we'll be keeping an eye out for more updates on the All-New Mustang Shelby GT500. Stay tuned here for the latest news as it becomes available. For now, you can check out Ford's quick press release here. Visit Borgman & See New Fords at the Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids! Borgman Ford can't wait to share the New Ford lineup with Grand Rapids and West Michigan car fans! Mark your calendars for February 1st, 2018 and come see us at the DeVos Place in Downtown Grand Rapids. Feel free to chat with our team about the latest vehicles and innovations from Ford, including the New Ford F-150, New Ford EcoSport and more. For information about the Michigan International Auto Show, vvisit Showspan.com/MAS. We hope to see you there!

The All-New 2019 Ford Ranger Arrives At Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI Next Spring Borgman Ford has some very exciting news for West Michigan Truck Fans: Ford has just unveiled the All-New 2019 Ford Ranger! This mighty mid-sized pickup will arrive at our dealership in the Spring of 2019 and will include a number of high-tech features and advances similar to those found in the Ford F-150 - many of which are class-exclusive. The 2019 Ford Ranger will sport the highly-capable 2.3L EcoBoost Engine, which features turbocharging and direct injection for maximum efficiency and power. This engine also connects to the class-exclusive Ford 10-speed transmission - popularized by the Ford F-150 and Ford Mustang. There are even more features to explore on the All-New Ford Ranger, including a built-in WiFi Hotspot, FX-4 Off-Road Package, Driver Assist Technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Keeping Assist, Ford SYNC 3 with FordPass, and more. This article published in the Ford Official Media Center gives us even more details about the 2019 Ford Ranger, including available trim options and a video showcasing options. Here is an excerpt from the article: An American Favorite Reinvented: New Ford Ranger Brings Built Ford Tough Innovation To U.S. Midsize Truck Segment https://youtube.com/watch?v=P-XxdvBuJGw Ford the all-new 2019 Ford Ranger for North America, bringing midsize truck fans a new choice from America’s truck sales leader – one that’s engineered Built Ford Tough and packed with driver-assist technologies to make driving easier whether on- or off-road. Production begins late this year at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant as customer demand is growing for midsize trucks. U.S. sales are up 83 percent since 2014 as a new generation of midsize truck buyers seek more maneuverable, fuel-efficient pickups. The 2019 Ford Ranger answers the call with an all-new midsize pickup featuring a new exterior design, chassis and powertrain developed specifically for North American truck customers. Powerful and strong, with a high-strength steel frame, Ranger is equipped with a proven 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine mated to the only 10-speed automatic transmission in the segment. “Ranger has always held a special place in the hearts of truck fans,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford executive vice president, Product Development and Purchasing. “The all-new Ranger is designed for today’s midsize truck buyer, delivering even more utility, capability and technology for those who blend city living with more off-the-grid adventures on weekends.” Ranger comes in entry-level XL, mid-level XLT and high-level Lariat trim series with available Chrome and Sport appearance and FX Off-Road packages, and in SuperCab or SuperCrew cab configurations. You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com, or Download the 2019 Ford Ranger Fact Sheet. Stay Tuned For Updates on the 2019 Ford Ranger from Borgman Ford The return of the 2019 Ford Ranger pickup is certainly welcome news, and we are pleased to share it with truck fans in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. If you'd like to stay up to date with the latest news on the New Ford Ranger, keep an eye on our blog, or sign up for our monthly newsletter. If you're looking for a high-quality Pre-Owned Ford Ranger to call your own, please feel free to visit us or check out our Used Inventory. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West! Remember to ask about our B-Protected Warranty on our pre-owned vehicles during your visit, and we hope to see you soon!

Start Your Journey in a New 2018 Ford Expedition from Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids One of the most sought-after vehicles on the Borgman lot is the New Ford Expedition, and it's no wonder. Families in West Michigan love the spacious and luxurious interior, the integrated tech for entertaining the kids, rugged on and offroad capability, towing power, and more. In addition to seating 8, the Ford Expedition also features enough space for whatever else you need to bring with you on your adventures, such as camping gear, sports equipment, or family luggage. In this article, we'll cover some key features of the 2018 Ford Expedition SUV,  showing that it's just as capable of going on grand adventures through West Michigan as it is keeping up with the needs of a busy family. If you're looking for a top-tier SUV in Grand Rapids, we invite you to visit our showroom where we can help you specify your made-to-order 2018 Ford Expedition. Contact Us to start building yours today. The New 2018 Ford Expedition at a Glance Even before you step inside the Ford Expedition, the clean and modern styling conveys a sense of capability and sophistication. Its stance tells you that this isn't your ordinary full-sized SUV - this is something special. The body is made from the same high-strength aluminum alloy as the Ford F-Series trucks, which on a practical level will never rust, is more 'ding' resistant than stamped steel, and reduces the curb weight - in this case over 300 pounds compared to the previous generation. The 2018 Expedition also sports a redesigned grille along with sleek wheel designs, and standard features like halogen fog lamps, running boards, and roof rack side rails. Need Even More Space? Check Out The Ford Expedition MAX The new 2018 Expedition MAX is for people who want to go bigger. It's nearly a foot longer than the Expedition and can accommodate an additional 16.9 cu. ft. of cargo for your next adventure. There’s also more than enough head- and legroom in the last row, ensuring added comfort for both children and adults. Interior Features of the New 2018 Ford Expedition What are you looking for in your next SUV's interior? Luxurious trim and styling? Useful, integrated tech and features? Seating flexibility? Maybe even just more glass for enjoying West Michigan's beautiful scenery. The New 2018 Ford Explorer has something to offer all of the above preferences. Inside the New Expedition, passengers can customize their riding comfort, thanks to three rows of flexible seating. Available second-row tip-and-slide seats enhance access to the second row and allow you to leave a child safety seat secured in the process. Third-row power reclining seats even make longer trips more relaxing for both kids and adults. Behind the third-row, you'll find a clever cargo management system with an adjustable shelf - perfect for grocery runs and the like. If you have more cargo than passengers, the second and third-row seats fold flat, creating a space near the size of a pickup truck bed. Extra attention was paid to driver comfort in the 2018 Ford Expedition. The available leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front bucket seats help keep you at a comfortable temperature, no matter the weather. The seats also help relieve leg and lower back fatigue during longer trips. Woodgrain appliqué accents on the center console a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel add even more to the premium experience. To experience the height of Ford Expedition luxury, consider the Platinum trim model. This top-shelf SUV comes loaded with features including a B&O Play Premium Audio System by Harman, Panoramic Vista Moonroof, power-deployable running boards, Ford SYNC 3 Enhanced Voice Recognition Communications and Entertainment System, noise-canceling cabin, and more. Onboard Tech & Driver Assist Features of the New 2018 Ford Expedition The New 2018 Ford Expedition has a staggering number of tech-related features. Some of these are at the forefront, while others work behind the scenes to contribute to the ultra-luxurious experience. Two examples of seamless driver comfort features include the noise-canceling system mentioned above, which sends sound waves through the cabin to counteract engine, road and wind noise for a quieter ride, and a continuously controlled damping system that automatically adjusts the suspension for conditions - making your drive much smoother and more comfortable. At the helm of the 2018 Ford Expedition, you'll have access to an array of advanced features right at your fingertips, or simply by speaking. With Ford's advanced SYNC 3 system, you can ask for directions, control the audio system, answer calls, and more, all with the power of your voice. SYNC 3 also supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay with Siri. With the FordPass App, you'll also be able to lock, unlock, warm up, and send other commands to your Ford Expedition via your smartphone. Entertainment & Safety Features of the New 2018 Ford Expedition To keep your passengers better connected and more entertained, the Expedition may also be equipped with an in-vehicle 4G LTE WiFi Hotspot - capable of handling up to 10 devices at once. Also available is the dual-headrest rear-seat entertainment system, which allows passengers to view their home cable programming on either of two video screens or hand-held devices. They can play DVDs, plug in a gaming system, stream from a mobile device, and with a sling box they can even watch live TV. To help you stay safer on the road, the Ford Expedition also comes available with pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert, enhanced active park assist, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality. New 2018 Ford Expedition Capability & Engine Innovations Just because the 2018 Ford Expedition exudes luxury and comfort doesn't mean it isn't rugged or capable. The standard 3.5L EcoBoost Engine produces 375 HP and a whopping 470 lb.-ft. of torque - more than enough to deliver responsive power or haul a best-in-class 9,300 lbs. when properly equipped. Backing up your trailer is also much easier with Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which allows you to "steer" the trailer through the LCD screen and with the turn of a knob. If you're scratching your head wondering how a full-size SUV can produce that kind of power while maintaining an EPA-estimated 24 highway mpg, here's how: The Expedition features a direct injection system helps by maximizing power from every drop of fuel, and the intercooled twin turbochargers supply the engine with cooled, dense, and oxygen-rich air, which significantly improves combustion. On top of all of that, by adding start-stop functionality and replacing the steel body with the new high-strength aluminum alloy one, they were able to save fuel at idle and reduce curb weight - which improves fuel economy and towing/payload capacities. All of that sweet, sweet Ford power is passed through the 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission, which supports a Tow/Haul mode and a 4x4 driveline. On and off-road driving is made easier with features including an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential, Terrain Management System, Hill Start Assist with Descent Control, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, a 360-Degree Camera, and more. Build Your Perfect 2018 Ford Expedition SUV at Borgman Ford Today! Wherever your adventures in West Michigan will take you, it all starts at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI. If you'd like to get started or simply explore options, visit our Online Showroom to compare all of the New 2018 Ford Expedition or the Expedition MAX trim levels and packages, as well as our current selection. These SUVs do not last long on our lot, so we encourage you to meet with us and build the exact Ford Expedition that suits you or your family's needs. During the specification process, we strive for transparency. We want to make sure that all of your questions are answered and that you're making informed decisions about your new vehicle. We may offer some suggestions based on your preferences and lifestyle, but we will never pressure you into adding options you don't want or need. Our goal is to ensure you're 100% satisfied with your vehicle and our service. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to Contact Us. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

New 2018 Ford F-150 with 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel Engine Coming Soon to Grand Rapids, MI West Michigan truck fans rejoice! Borgman Ford is pleased to announce that the hotly-anticipated New 2018 Ford F-150 Diesel will be available for pre-order this month! The trucks will start arriving at our dealership in Grand Rapids this spring, so whether you need some powerful new pickups for your business, or you want to reap the benefits of a diesel engine for your personal truck, don't delay and come talk to us now. We can help you build and order the exact truck you want, and seeing us early means you'd be among the first in West Michigan to drive one this spring! If you'd like to learn more about the upcoming 2018 Ford F-150 Diesel, take a look at the article below from The Official Ford Media Center, feel free to Contact Us, or visit the Borgman Ford showroom in Grand Rapids. First-Ever F-150 Diesel Offers Best-In-Class Torque, Towing, Targeted Epa-Est. 30 Mpg Full-size diesel truck fans have reason to celebrate this year as Ford – America’s truck sales leader – delivers the first-ever F-150 Power Stroke diesel with a targeted EPA-estimated 30 mpg highway rating, a best-in-class 11,400 pounds of towing capacity and 2,020 pounds of payload capacity, plus best-in-class diesel 250 horsepower and 440 lb.-ft. of torque. “For every truck owner who wants strong fuel economy while they tow and haul, we offer a new 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 engine that dreams are made of,” said Dave Filipe, vice president global powertrain engineering. “The more you tow and the longer you haul, the more you’ll appreciate its class-leading towing and payload capacity and how efficient it is at the pump.” This all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel now makes for six engine choices for F-150 customers. F-150’s all-new Power Stroke diesel features commercial-grade design The highly anticipated F-150 Power Stroke diesel shares proven commercial-grade technology with F-Series Super Duty’s larger 6.7-liter Power Stroke – America’s most powerful, capable heavy-duty pickup truck ever. The very same Ford powertrain team behind the 6.7-liter Power Stroke for Super Duty trucks since 2011 designed and engineered this all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 diesel engine to the specific needs of North American F-150 customers who tow and haul frequently. Peak torque comes at just 1,750 rpm with strong torque delivery continuing throughout the rpm range, which is ideal for towing or hauling heavy loads over long distances. Order now for delivery this spring In mid-January, Ford dealers begin taking orders for the 2018 F-150 with all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine. Deliveries begin this spring. The all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke is available for both 4x2 and 4x4 F-150 pickups. Retail customers can choose this engine option for 2018 F-150 Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum edition SuperCrew trucks with either a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed configuration, and SuperCab trucks with a 6.5-foot bed configuration. For fleet customers who use their truck for work, the 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine will be available on all F-150 trim levels with SuperCrew 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed configurations and SuperCab trucks with a 6.5 foot bed. You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com, or Download a Ford Diesel Fact Sheet here. Order Your 2018 Ford F-150 at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Whether you're looking for a truck for work or play, the capable 2018 Ford F-150 is more than up to the task. Borgman Ford has an enormous selection of New Ford F-150 Trucks with gasoline engines, but if you'd like to be one of the first in West Michigan to drive one with a Diesel engine talk to us today and pre-order! Our friendly and courteous sales staff would be happy to assist you, so please feel free to reach out for more info. If you're looking to add some Diesel-powered F-150s to your fleet of work trucks, get in touch with one of our Commercial Truck Specialists. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

Check Out New Fords at DeVos Place: February 1-4 2018 The 20th Annual Michigan International Auto Show is right around the corner, and Borgman Ford can't wait to share new features of the Ford lineup with auto enthusiasts in West Michigan! Mark your calendars for February 1st through the 4th and come see us at the DeVos Place in Downtown Grand Rapids. There will be plenty of New Ford Vehicles on display, including the mighty New 2018 Ford F-150 and the hot New 2018 Ford Mustang, as well as many other SUVs and Cars from the 2018 lineup. While you're there, be sure to check out all of the impressive New Mazda Cars & SUVs on display too! This year also marks the 20th Anniversary of the Michigan International Auto Show, and there will be many other fun activities and exhibits to enjoy! Check out the popular Million Dollar Motorway, explore a selection of vintage cars from the Gilmore Car Museum, and be on the lookout for Gizmo the Robot wandering the show floor! For more information and to get a $2 Off Coupon, visit GRautoshow.com. We hope we see you at the show and stay tuned for more updates!

Slot Car Racers Helped Raise $10,000 For New York City Public Schools Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids would like to congratulate the Ford Drive 4 UR School program on their 10th anniversary! This program has given us the opportunity to help the Grandville Band Boosters year after year, with members of the community test driving New Ford Vehicles to raise up to $6,000. To celebrate 10 years and helping schools raise over $30 million to date, Ford decided to go big with a 2-day event at the Oculus at Westfield World Trade Center in New York City.  The event featured amazing on-site activities, such as a larger-than-life slot-car racetrack, a chalk and mural wall stationed with a swing for photos, and even a kiddie course. These activities centered on the impact school makes and showcased the difference Ford and Drive 4 UR School have made for education over the past 10 years. On top of highlighting the importance of education and raising awareness for the program, Ford donated $10 to New York City Public Schools for every person who drove a slot car on the oversized track - up to $10,000! If you'd like to see the full article about the event and learn more about Ford Drive 4 UR School, visit FordDrive4UR.com. Borgman Ford Drive 4 UR School Events in Grandville, MI For years, Borgman Ford has teamed up with the Grandville Band Boosters to help them raise money for new instruments, equipment, and other necessities. The event is usually held at the Grandville High School during the fall, so be on the lookout later this year for info on the next event. Check out other articles we've posted about Community Events in West Michigan and abroad.

Register To Win Toby Keith's "Stays In Mexico" Sweepstakes! It's not every day someone hands you the keys to a new truck and introduces you to a country music star. However, one lucky Ford fan this summer will get a New 2018 Ford F-150 to call their own and a spend a weekend in Cabo with Toby Keith! The winner of Toby Keith's "Stays In Mexico" Sweepstakes will be able to take three friends with them on a VIP trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where they’ll get to hang out with Toby at his beachfront hideaway. This means round-trip plane tickets, four days/three nights accommodations at an all-inclusive resort, local ground transportation, and be sure to pack your swimwear because there'll be a pool party at Toby Keith’s place too! When you get back, you'll have a beautiful New 2018 Ford F-150 pickup waiting for you to commemorate the trip! Click Here To Enter The Sweepstakes!

Happy Holidays from Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids! Borgman Ford would like to wish all of our readers in Grand Rapids and West Michigan a very happy holiday with friends and family! In keeping with the spirit of the season, we'd like everyone to think of those less fortunate and consider some ways you could help. That's exactly what Ford did in Puerto Rico recently, where many communities are still without power or necessities by the Category Five hurricane swept the area in September. Ford sought to help with the disaster relief in a unique way: by funding college educational grants for community building, vehicle donations of Transit Connect cargo vans and an F-150, water filters and 10,000 new books! This article from the Official Ford Media Center tells more, here are some excerpts: Ford Expands Disaster Relief Efforts In Puerto Rico; Invests More Than $1.2 Million For Food And Community Aid Ford Motor Company Fund is investing more than $1.2 million for expanded disaster relief efforts in Puerto Rico and spearheading a collaboration with nonprofits to bring much-needed vehicles, supplies and services to hurricane-devastated communities on the island. Organized as a multiyear social mobility program, the Ford-led Centro de Movilidad Social will connect children and families with a range of services – from basic needs such as food, water, clothing and transportation, to longer-term recovery assistance through educational grants and job skills development. “This effort is at the heart of Ford Fund’s mission to provide opportunities and access for people in need,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund – the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company. “Centro de Movilidad Social allows us to expand our ongoing efforts to help rebuild the lives of thousands of Puerto Ricans following Hurricane Maria.” The program begins this month at Centros Sor Isolina Ferré in Ponce, where families can access food, water and other basic necessities, learn new skills, and engage with their community members in recovery efforts. Ford is donating three immediate-response vehicles – two Transit Connect cargo vans and an F-150 – to travel across the island as pop-up mobile resource centers helping The Salvation Army and Red Cross Puerto Rico deliver food, water, clothing, shoes, medical assistance and educational resources to people in need. Ford’s investment includes 10,000 new books for students, plus water filters complete with guidance on how to clean water for use at home. In 2018, Centro de Movilidad Social will expand to provide multiple temporary, community centers across the island. Additional educational and technology resources are in development to further assist with long-term and strategic recovery efforts. You can read more by visiting Media.Ford.com. Spread Some Holiday Cheer Of Your Own In West Michigan or Abroad If you're looking for ways to spread holiday cheer this holiday or throughout 2018, Borgman Ford has put together some links below to help. First, if you'd like to learn more about Ford Motor Company's community outreach, visit Corporate.Ford.com to check out their volunteer corp and see some of their most recent accomplishments. If you'd like to chip in for the victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, PBS.org has outlined how you can best help them in an article here. We saw an excellent turnout for our Marine Toys For Tots toy drive this year, and even got to ride along with them on a pickup run! If you'd like to help out for next year, you can reach out to them at Grand-Rapids-MI.ToysForTots.org. Another local organization that we've worked with and trust is LoveINC. You can read more about their mission and get involved by visiting their website. Once again, from all of us at Borgman, we'd like to wish you and yours a very Happy Holidays and safe travels! We hope to see you soon!

The New 2018 Ford EcoSport: Coming Soon to Borgman Ford in West Michigan! Very soon, drivers in West Michigan that want to go small and live large in 2018 will be able to drive home a New Ford EcoSport from Borgman! Ford's newest addition to their growing SUV lineup is packed with features from two capable engines, Intelligent 4WD, onboard WiFi Hotspot, and more! Explore a few of the New 2018 Ford EcoSport's features below, or visit our showroom when it arrives to take one out for a test drive! 2018 Ford EcoSport Engines & Driveline The 2018 Ford EcoBoost will come available with two capable engines: a standard 1.0L EcoBoost Turbocharged engine, and a naturally-aspirated direct-injected 2.0L TiVCT engine, which is paired with Ford Intelligent Four-Wheel drive system. Both engines feature Auto Start-Stop Technology to help you save fuel too! What's Inside The 2018 Ford EcoSport The interior of the 2018 Ford EcoSport is a surprising treat, with available amenities which include an 8" Touch Screen, remote start via your smartphone and FordPass, a built-in WiFi Hotspot, Bang & Olufsen sound system, and more! There's plenty of leg room in the rear seats for your passengers, and the rear cargo hatch offers plenty of space for whatever you'll need on your adventures around West Michigan. Have more cargo than passengers? The 60/40 rear seats fold flat for even more space! There's More To Explore at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Anxious to test drive the New 2018 Ford EcoSport? We don't blame you, and the good news is that the wait is almost over! Keep an eye on our New 2018 Ford EcoSport inventory and head on over to take one for a spin when they arrive. If you want to go small and live large in West Michigan your way, talk to one of our experienced and friendly sales associates and we'll order the exact Ford EcoSport you want! Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

Ford Transits From Borgman Help Volunteers Work More Efficiently Contrary to popular belief, gifts aren't always delivered for Christmas morning by a team of reindeer pulling a sleigh. In the case of the Marine Toys For Tots organization in Grand Rapids, MI, those gifts will need to be picked up from drop-off points all over Kent County, sorted, then given for children in need throughout West Michigan - all before Christmas. This is a monumental task, and Borgman sought to help make the job easier by loaning two Ford Transit Vans to the local Marine Corps Reserve Unit and volunteers for making toy pickup runs. I met up with Pete and Ben, two volunteers for Toys For Tots, and they invited me to follow along as they made their pickup run in a new Ford Transit-250. We trekked across town to the Toys For Tots distribution center - an unassuming warehouse where donated toys are sorted and re-distributed. When we arrived, one of the guys remarked how quickly the van heated up despite being so large - a blessing on a cold, rainy morning like this. They were also excited about the sheer size of the cargo bay, which was tall enough for me to stand upright inside of it and lined with slip-resistant flooring - another thing I was grateful for given today's weather. A Peek Inside The Toys For Tots Warehouse Soon after, we'd be back on the road and filling the spacious van with toy donations, but first, I was invited into the warehouse to see the "North Pole" of the Toys For Tots operation. This is also where I met Rich, who has been a volunteer at Toys For Tots for many years after his friend asked him to come lend a hand. "I said I'd help out just this one year, and that was 27 years ago!" Rich tells me that this facility serves Kent County, but will also help neighboring Montcalm and Ionia Counties where donations may be fewer. He says that while the primary focus is on serving the community in which the toys are donated, he believes that spreading holiday cheer shouldn't stop on county borders and that every child deserves something to open on Christmas morning. Soon, this warehouse will be full of toys from donation points all over the city, and when it empties again, thousands of spirits will be made brighter. Our Experience Picking Up Toys In The Ford Transit-250 Van But, this warehouse isn't going to fill up by itself. As Pete and Ben climbed back into the Transit-250, it was time to start the pick-up run. After a 15-minute drive on the expressway, we arrived at our first stop outside of town and got to work loading up the van. It was heartwarming seeing the number of toys people brought in for the cause, even in small local shops like the one pictured to the left. We visited a number of different businesses, ranging from restaurants, retail outlets, antique stores, offices, and even an education center to collect donations. After bagging up the toys at each site to make them easier to transport and protect them from the rain, I turned back to look at the Transit's cargo bay. By then, it wasn't even close to full - and that's good news! This means Pete and Ben could visit more places than they normally could before going back to the warehouse, and that saves a significant amount of both time and fuel - both of which are crucial to nonprofits and businesses. How'd The Ford Transit Handle "Santa Sleigh" Duty? Before I parted ways with Pete and Ben, we talked for a moment about their thoughts on the Transit-250. They both loved the spacious cargo bay and roomy cabin, the smooth ride quality, and that there was much less road noise than they'd expect from a van of this size. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 also gave them responsive, on-demand torque when they needed it, such as when merging out onto a busy road or climbing a steep driveway. Being able to stand upright in the cargo bay is a huge plus, as is the side-loading or rear cargo doors - as we were never sure which side we'd be able to use when making stops. If you'd like to see these features and more on the New Ford Transit yourself, you can Contact Borgman Commercial and schedule a demo, or check out our inventory online! Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids: Thanking All Volunteers! First, we'd like to thank everyone who visited us or your usual donation site and gave toys this year! All donations, both big and small, do add up and make a big difference to children in need across West Michigan. We'd also like to thank all of the volunteers and Marines who put in the work and make Toys For Tots possible year after year. If you'd like to learn more, or want to get involved, visit The Grand Rapids Toys For Tots Website today! For more information on the Ford Transit Vans, or other Ford Commercial Vehicles, please feel free to Contact Us!

Dedicated Volunteer Work of Ford Employees Helps Communities Across The Globe Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids is pleased to share that Ford employees have contributed to more than 1,700 volunteer projects in 2017. We're tremendously proud of the hard work they have been doing throughout the year, whether it's building homes, providing clean water for the developing world, aiding disaster relief efforts, and more. An article recently published by Ford highlights some accomplishments of Ford volunteers throughout the year. It also explains some of the steps Ford is taking to grow their volunteer corp and do more good work year over year. Here is an excerpt from the article: Ford Employees Are Leading The Way To A Better World, Energizing Ford’s Impact On Making People’s Lives Better From disaster relief contributions to community service projects, Ford Motor Company employees around the world went beyond their daily jobs in 2017 to leave a positive impact where they live and work. In total, the Ford Volunteer Corps filled 36,488 volunteer opportunities in more than 1,700 community service projects during 2017 – an increase of more than 3,000 participants and 200-plus projects from last year. Ford employees installed clean water systems, built homes, renovated shelters and schools and fed the hungry in 40 countries, working more than 237,000 hours for people in their cities, towns and villages. The time donated by Ford volunteers is the equivalent of a financial investment of $5.72 million. Ford volunteers put their engineering know-how to work for children facing mobility challenges by making modifications to toy trucks that help the kids move about with their friends who can run and walk. Ford employees created music playlists for dementia patients, hoping to stimulate happy memories and connect them with deep-rooted feelings of peace and joy. And Ford volunteers helped vacant city lots spring back to life with flower and vegetables gardens that benefit entire neighborhoods. “Our employees are the heart and soul of this company,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. “Their energy, creativity and dedication to making people’s lives better is what makes Ford truly special.” Ford employees also contributed to disaster relief efforts following hurricanes, floods and wildfires in 2017. As Ford and Ford Fund contributed vehicles and financial aid to disaster relief teams in Texas, Florida and Mexico, Ford employees and dealers reached into their own pockets to personally donate more than $500,000 to help people get back on their feet in the wake of this year’s devastating wave of natural disasters. Ford volunteers also stepped up to assist families with cleanup and held collection drives for essential items identified by local non-profits. You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, Michigan Borgman Ford has been serving Grand Rapids and West Michigan with quality Ford vehicles since 1960. As a family-owned business, now in our third generation, we are extremely proud to represent a Ford - a company that shares our values of community. Ford's efforts here in Michigan, across the country, and all over the world are working to make the future a little bit brighter, and we're glad to be a part of it. To learn more about Ford's volunteer programs, visit Volunteer.Ford.com. If you want to help us bring smiles to children in need this holiday season, please bring new and unwrapped toys to our dealership in Grand Rapids for our Toys For Tots Toy Drive. It will only take a moment of your time, but it can change the life of a child forever.

Learn How To Recover From Different Skids, Retrain Your Pedal Foot, and More! The winter weather has arrived in Grand Rapids and West Michigan, and it looks like it's staying for the season. While it's undeniably beautiful to look at, snow and ice can make driving hazardous, especially with the influx of cars on the road during the holiday shopping and travel season. In the interest of making sure everyone arrives at their destinations safely, Borgman has put together a few advanced tips for winter driving, which include a quick hit on some vehicle physics plus 4 types of skids and how to recover from them. To further sharpen your winter driving skills, keep on reading! One thing we have to say is that this article is merely a guide, and will not apply to every situation. If you perform these maneuvers, you do so on your own volition. A Quick Note About Vehicle Physics: Just like anything else, you and your vehicle are bound by the natural laws of physics. You utilize and compensate for them every time you drive, perhaps without realizing it. The trouble with winter driving is that most of your ability to control your vehicle all hinges on friction, which there is much less of to work with! Here are some of the physical forces acting on your vehicle, and how they relate to driving: Inertia & Momentum: Think of a shopping cart that's full of groceries. It's much heavier than an empty cart, so it's harder to start and stop. Momentum, put simply, is a resistance to changes in speed. Inertia (a property of objects) and your velocity both add up to your momentum, so the weight of your vehicle and the speed you're going will both influence your ability to stop. Increase either, and you'll need more distance and more braking (force) to slow down. Centripetal/Centrifugal Force: This is what you experience when taking a turn too fast. Everything in the car flies opposite way you're turning. This is due to Newtonian Physics: everything wants to stay in motion, and their inertia and momentum keep them moving in the direction they were going - regardless of what your car is doing. What these forces basically mean is that Objects moving on a curved path will be forced away from the center of the Friction: This is where the rubber hits the road, so to speak. Friction can be described as a resistance to motion between two surfaces. Your tires maintain friction with the road to help you start, stop, and turn. With snow and ice comes less friction, therefore you'll need more surface (distance) to overcome your vehicle's forward motion. Learn What Your Vehicle Does When It Loses Traction - Safely Every vehicle is different, and those differences will affect how it handles in low traction. Your wheelbase, driveline, curb weight, power, and center of mass will all play a part, and the best thing you can do according to NHTSA.gov is to experiment in an empty, snowy parking lot. This gives you a chance to see how your vehicle behaves when it loses grip, and familiarize yourself with any onboard countermeasures, such as Ford's Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive. This will also give you a good idea of how much space your vehicle needs to stop - relative to its speed - in a controlled, safe environment. "Stomp and steer!" Remember that Anti-Lock Brakes do not help you stop faster, they let you keep steering while braking. If you feel the brake pedal vibrating, or hear a weird noise, that's just the ABS pump doing its thing. Stay focused on your destination, not your obstacle and don't make any sudden movements. Three of the most common causes of accidents when driving on ice are the Forward Skid, the Oversteer Skid, and the Understeer Skid. These situations can almost always be prevented by taking it slow in ice and snow, but here's how you could mitigate them if you find yourself in them: The Forward Skid Uh oh. The car in front of you that kept gingerly tapping their brakes? Well, they're actually stopping now, and you've got to do something quick. Don't Panic: You hit the brake pedal hard and as soon as you see this happen. Your wheels, ABS or no, don't have enough friction to overcome your forward momentum and you slide into their rear bumper. Do This: First, learn to spot nervous drivers like the one above and give them a bit more space than usual. If you need to stop suddenly, during your parking lot tour you may find that you can actually brake pretty hard in slippery conditions as long as you do so smoothly! If you have Anti-Lock Brakes, give them a smooth, firm press and hold. If you don't have ABS, pump the brakes. Check your blind spots to find a safe way around them if you won't be able to stop in time. The Understeer Skid There's your turn, and you're coming in a little too fast. What Happens: Too little too late. You hit the brake pedal as normal and start turning the wheel - except you're not turning. Your front tires are turned but have lost traction and you're plowing diagonally across the road. Centripetal force is pushing you out away from your turn because you have too much forward momentum. How To Save It: If you turned the wheel and you're not turning, the problem is in the pedals. Release the gas and gently apply the brake. This will transfer weight from the back of the car to the front - where you need the grip. Palm, don't clench the wheel. Now, focus on where you want the car to go, and not what you're trying to avoid. Once your nose is lined up, gently press the gas to pull your car forward towards where you want to go, being mindful that this will shift weight back to the rear wheels. The Oversteer Skid There's your turn, and you're coming in a little too fast. You hit the brakes... What Happens: Too much too late. You hit the brake pedal hard and start turning the wheel. Now, your vehicle's weight has shifted to the nose and your rear wheels have completely lost traction. You start doing a "donut." How To Save It: Again, the problem is in the pedals. Release the brake and focus on where you want the car to go. Once your nose is lined up, gently press the gas to shift the weight back to the rear wheels and pull your vehicle toward where you're looking. You're not out of the woods yet though, because oversteer often leads to... Fishtailing A Counterskid or "Fishtailing" usually happens when drivers correct late, overcorrect, and then repeat until they're in a ditch - or worse. Your rear end swings back and forth, picking up speed with each pass. Needless to say, they're dangerous and the best possible thing you can do is keep your cool and focus on where you want the vehicle to go. What Happens: The back of the car is sliding all over the place because the rear wheels have no traction! How To Save It: Lock your eyes on the middle of your lane. Keep both hands on the wheel at 9 and 3 and gently press the gas. If you focus on a spot while driving, your hands will work the wheel to get you there if you let them. Gently pressing the gas will shift weight towards the back of the vehicle and help the rear tires maintain grip while pulling the car forward. The Key To Safe Driving in West Michigan Weather Borgman Ford put this article together because we want everyone to be safe while driving - especially during one of Grand Rapids' infamous snowstorms. The wisest of Winter Warriors out there, whether they're driving a powerful Ford F-150, and agile Ford Focus know that the best way to avoid the situations we described above is to slow down and give themselves enough space. Understanding the physical forces acting on your vehicle and how to recover from common skids is important, but avoiding them altogether is best. For more winter driving tips, visit NHTSA.gov. If your tires aren't gripping as well as they used to, take a look at our current Service Specials and contact the Borgman Ford Service Center for a great deal on a new set. If the winter has gotten you into a spill, we can repair your vehicle to pre-accident condition! Visit the Borgman Collision Center and we will prepare the estimate, negotiate with the insurance company so you can relax. Stay safe out there, and enjoy the West Michigan Winter!