Matching the right new Ford model to your lifestyle depends on whether your priority is max towing capability, off-road exploration, three-row family seating, or efficient daily commuting. For heavy-duty hauling and job site utility, the Ford F-150 leads the lineup with an available maximum towing capacity of up to 13,500 pounds. Families needing seating for up to seven passengers benefit from the versatile cabin space of the Ford Explorer, while off-road enthusiasts turn to the standard four-wheel-drive capability of the Ford Bronco. Commuters seeking balanced efficiency find an ideal option in the Ford Escape, which delivers up to 26 city / 32 hwy MPG in its standard all-wheel-drive configuration.
Choosing between these lineup options comes down to how you plan to use your vehicle every day. Hardworking drivers who haul equipment or tow recreational trailers rely on the high torque output of Ford's truck family. If your routine involves transporting children, sports gear, and luggage, the flexible cargo layouts and advanced driver-assist systems in Ford SUVs deliver practical daily convenience.
Our team at Paul Thigpen Ford of Waynesboro is ready to guide you through every model, trim level, and feature package. You can visit our Waynesboro showroom address to compare vehicles in person, or reach out directly at (706) 554-2114 for answers to your specific questions. To see what is currently parked on our lot, explore our new Ford lineup online today.
Table of Contents
- How Does the F-150 EcoBoost Engine Affect Towing Capacity and What Does a Fully Loaded Model Cost?
- Does the 2026 Ford Bronco Have a Hybrid Engine Option?
- What Are the Key Interior Features and Third-Row Legroom Specs of the Ford Explorer?
- Is Oil Change Coverage Included in Ford Protect Extended Service Plans?
- What Ford Dealership Services, Delivery Options, and Hours Are Available Near Waynesboro?
- Common Questions About Buying and Servicing a Ford
- Next Steps to Find and Service Your Ford in Burke County
How Does the F-150 EcoBoost Engine Affect Towing Capacity and What Does a Fully Loaded Model Cost?
Equipping the Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine unlocks the truck's maximum available towing capacity of 13,500 pounds and a maximum payload rating of 2,440 pounds in a Regular Cab setup. The twin-turbocharged V6 architecture generates 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, delivering high low-end torque that helps pull heavy loads up steep inclines without straining the powertrain. Compared to naturally aspirated V6 options, the EcoBoost engine delivers its peak torque early in the RPM range, making it the preferred choice for pulling horse trailers, agricultural equipment, or heavy campers.
For drivers considering high-end luxury or off-road performance trims, pricing for a fully loaded Ford F-150 Platinum or high-performance Raptor ranges from $95,000 to over $110,000 depending on optional packages. The Platinum trim emphasizes highway comfort with multi-contour leather seating, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. On the performance side, the Raptor features long-travel FOX live-valve shocks, 37-inch all-terrain tires, and an available supercharged V8 engine.
Shoppers looking for high capability at a lower entry price can also browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory for late-model trucks featuring EcoBoost powertrains and heavy-duty tow packages.
Does the 2026 Ford Bronco Have a Hybrid Engine Option?
The 2026 Ford Bronco does not offer a factory hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain option. The entire model lineup relies strictly on turbocharged EcoBoost gasoline engines paired with standard four-wheel drive. The standard engine across the Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, and Heritage Edition trims is the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder, generating 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through either a standard 7-speed manual transmission with a dedicated crawler gear or an available 10-speed automatic transmission.
For higher performance requirements, the Stroppe edition steps up to a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 producing 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the range-topping Raptor features a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engineered for 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. Every model comes equipped with a terrain management system to tackle mud, sand, and rough trails. Drivers wanting factory-installed off-road hardware can add the Sasquatch Package, which includes 35-inch mud-terrain tires, electronic-locking front and rear axles, and high-clearance suspension components.
If you are exploring previous model years or lower-mileage trade-ins with standard 4x4 capability, check our certified pre-owned Ford selection to find thoroughly inspected options backed by factory warranty coverage.
What Are the Key Interior Features and Third-Row Legroom Specs of the Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer provides 32 inches of third-row legroom, giving rear passengers more leg clearance than the Toyota Highlander, which offers 28 inches of third-row space. This extra room makes the rear seats far more accommodating for growing children and adult passengers on longer trips. Inside the cabin, the SUV offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, flexible sliding second-row seats, and up to 86 cubic feet of total cargo capacity when the second and third rows are folded flat.
Key interior features include the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system centered around a standard 13-inch touchscreen. The system integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Maps navigation, and voice assistant capabilities. High-tier trims like the Platinum and ST add multi-contour massaging front seats, plush Miko suede or ActiveX upholstery, and ambient cabin lighting.
- Seating Capacity: Standard 7-passenger seating or 6-passenger layout with second-row captain's chairs
- Infotainment: Standard 13-inch touchscreen display with wireless smartphone integration
- Cargo Space: Up to 86 cubic feet behind the front row for luggage and gear
- Driver Comfort: Available heated, ventilated, and massaging front seating
When families visit our lot to compare midsize three-row SUVs, they frequently ask to test the second-row seat sliding sequence to see how easily children can reach the back row while a car seat remains installed. To prepare for your upgrade, you can value your trade-in online to estimate your current vehicle's worth toward a new SUV.
Is Oil Change Coverage Included in Ford Protect Extended Service Plans?
Standard Ford Protect Extended Service Plans (ESP) do not cover routine oil changes, as these plans focus specifically on mechanical repairs and component failures after the factory warranty expires. However, engine oil and filter changes are fully covered when you purchase a Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plan. This specialized maintenance contract includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, cabin filter replacements, and multi-point inspections for a chosen time and mileage interval.
Standard ESP coverage is divided into distinct tiers tailored to different protection levels:
- PowertrainCARE: Covers fundamental mechanical components, including the engine, transmission, and drive axle assemblies.
- BaseCARE: Expands coverage to steering, brakes, front suspension, and air conditioning components.
- ExtraCARE: Adds coverage for advanced electrical systems, instrument clusters, and high-tech safety modules.
- PremiumCARE: Provides comprehensive bumper-to-bumper protection for over 1,000 key components.
Combining a Premium Maintenance Plan with a Ford Protect ESP protects both your vehicle's mechanical components and your maintenance budget. When it is time for routine maintenance, you can schedule a service appointment online with our factory-trained technicians. For DIY maintenance or specialized upgrades, you can also order genuine Ford parts directly through our department.
What Ford Dealership Services, Delivery Options, and Hours Are Available Near Waynesboro?
Local vehicle shoppers and owners in Burke County have direct access to complete automotive care, transparent financing assistance, and factory-authorized maintenance services. Our sales showroom operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The service department opens early on weekdays to accommodate morning drop-offs for working drivers and local business owners.
To make vehicle purchasing convenient for busy schedules, we offer doorstep test drives and home vehicle delivery within a designated local radius. Buyers can complete trade appraisals, credit applications, and vehicle selection online, after which our team delivers the sanitized vehicle directly to their home or workplace.
For highway commuters making the 30-mile drive into Augusta along Highway 25, our service center provides flexible appointment scheduling and loaner vehicle coordination to keep your day moving without interruption. Whether you need an emergency repair, scheduled maintenance, or guidance on selecting a new truck, our team offers straightforward, knowledgeable service backed by factory training and genuine Ford parts.
Common Questions About Buying and Servicing a Ford
Q: What paperwork should you bring when applying for vehicle financing?
Bring a valid driver's license, your current auto insurance card, your two most recent pay stubs or proof of income, and a recent utility bill to verify your residential address. If you plan to trade in your current vehicle, bring the vehicle title, current registration, and any loan payoff information. Completing these document checks early streamlines the underwriting process and gets you behind the wheel faster.
Q: Can the 2026 Ford Bronco be flat-towed behind a motorhome?
Yes, all four-wheel-drive 2026 Ford Bronco models can be flat-towed with all four wheels on the ground. To flat-tow safely without damaging the drivetrain, you must shift the electronic transfer case into its neutral setting by following the step-by-step display instructions in the owner's manual before towing.
Q: How does the Ford Escape 2.0L EcoBoost towing capacity compare to the standard engine?
The standard 1.5L EcoBoost engine in the Ford Escape is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is sufficient for light utility trailers. Upgrading to the available 2.0L EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive increases maximum towing capacity to 3,500 pounds, providing the necessary power for small outboard boats, pop-up campers, or loaded cargo trailers.
Q: What warranty coverage comes standard on new Ford vehicles?
Every new Ford comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. Powertrain coverage includes internal engine components, transmission systems, and drive axles. Additionally, Ford provides 5 years or 60,000 miles of complimentary roadside assistance, which includes emergency towing, flat tire changes, and fuel delivery.
Q: Are doorstep test drives available for local shoppers?
Yes, doorstep test drives can be arranged for shoppers residing within our local delivery radius. Our sales staff will bring the model of your choice directly to your home or office, giving you the opportunity to evaluate its seating comfort, cabin tech, and road performance on familiar routes before making a purchase decision.
Next Steps to Find and Service Your Ford in Burke County
Finding the ideal truck, SUV, or service plan begins with straight answers and trusted local expertise. Whether you are comparing towing capacities on the F-150, evaluating interior cargo room on the Explorer, or scheduling routine oil changes for your current vehicle, our staff is committed to supporting your automotive needs.
You can take the next step today by visiting finding our dealership along Highway 25, or submit a credit application online to get pre-approved before your visit. If you have questions about current inventory or service availability, give our team a call to speak directly with our local staff.
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