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The New Ford F-150 Stole The Show at the TAWA Truck Rodeo Borgman Ford is delighted to let its West Michigan truck fans know that the New 2018 Ford F-150 was just named "Truck of Texas" at this year's Truck Rodeo! This is the second consecutive win for the F-150, and the 14th time it's been given the top honor of the event. The Texas Auto Writers Association or TAWA, holds their Truck Rodeo every year. At the event, member journalists in the auto industry have the opportunity to drive many different trucks from several manufacturers, putting them through a series of on and off-road trials. At the end of the event, a consensus is reached based on the opinions of more than 70 participants and a "Truck of Texas" is named - the association's highest honor. In the article from the Ford Media Center below, you can read more about the event and see how the F-150 did: New 2018 Ford F-150 Named Truck Of Texas At Annual TAWA Texas Truck Rodeo, Marking The 14Th Win For F-Series Ford, America’s truck leader, has once again secured top honors at the Texas Auto Writers Association Texas Truck Rodeo. The 2018 F-150 earned Truck of Texas at the 24th annual competition, marking the 14th time F-Series has roped in the most prestigious award. Additionally, F-150 Raptor won the Off-Road Pickup Truck category and earned the highest overall personal appeal score and best overall exterior score across all participating vehicles. “With the new 2018 F-150, we’re honored to earn back-to-back Truck of Texas awards for F-Series, a recognition that speaks to the truck team’s dedication to our hardworking customers,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president and president, North America. “That’s especially true in Texas – truck capital of the world.” At the Texas Truck Rodeo at Longhorn River Ranch, journalists evaluated trucks on both on- and off-road courses over a two-day period. The panel previously awarded Truck of Texas honors to Ford F-Series in 1993, 1997, 1999, 2003-09, 2011, 2014 and 2016. “The competition was incredibly fierce at this year’s Texas Truck Rodeo,” said Nic Phillips, TAWA president. “More than 70 member journalists put in more than 300 hours of driving time evaluating the vehicles presented. The results in several categories are separated by the narrowest of margins, just tenths and hundredths of a point, confirming just how competitive the trucks and utility vehicles are today. You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. New Ford F-150 Trucks For Sale in Grand Rapids, MI Want to test drive a truck like the one at the 2017 TAWA Truck Rodeo in person? Visit the Borgman Ford showroom in Grand Rapids today and take the 2018 Ford F-150 out for a spin! Our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will be more than happy to assist you, so please feel free to stop by and ask any questions you may have. Click Here to see our full lineup of New Ford F-150 Trucks. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West! Remember, if you find a better deal on a New Ford F-150, let us know and we'll match it - we will not be undersold!

Test Drive New 2018 Ford Mustang: Coming Soon to Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Borgman Ford is excited to share all of the new features of the New 2018 Ford Mustang with drivers in Grand Rapids. As the new sports car rolls out across West Michigan, we have been keeping an eye open for interesting stories about how the latest Mustang was designed and built, and the latest entry is fascinating. A pair of Ford engineers were able to alter the way the New Ford Mustang tackles corners with a single application of duct tape. By obstructing one of the openings on the front grille, they were able to change the vehicle's aerodynamics just enough to improve the steering. Seriously - what can't it do? more Read More While designing and engineering vehicles using computers has its merits, this particular story shows that the human ingenuity is an important part of the equation, and how the vehicle 'feels' can't always be quantified. Check out an excerpt from this article from the Ford Media Center below: How One Piece Of Duct Tape Improved Handling And Efficiency In New Ford Mustang In the data-driven, computer-monitored world of vehicle testing, sometimes there is no replacing the human touch. Ford engineers Jonathan Gesek and Mike Del Zio are proof that both the objective and subjective remain integral parts of car development. After driving a high-speed lap at the test track in a prototype Mustang, Del Zio, a vehicle dynamics engineer – the objective one – reported that despite wind tunnel numbers that would indicate otherwise, the car wasn’t responding around corners to his satisfaction. Gesek, an aerodynamics engineer – the subjective one – had a quick solution. Gesek applied a simple strip of duct tape over the lower gap of the grille. The goal was to reduce what is known as front-end lift. Del Zio re-tested the car, paying attention to the vehicle’s response when cornering at high speed. The result: a better-handling car and a modified grille. “That little strip of tape made all the difference,” Del Zio said. You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. New Ford Mustang For Sale in Grand Rapids & West MI If you want to experience the thrill of driving a New Ford Mustang around West Michigan, visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids today and go for a test drive! Our friendly and knowledgable staff will be happy to answer any questions you have about the car and show you all of the available options, such as MagnaRide Automatic Dampers, the Customizable Dashboard, and the "Good Neighbor Mode." To see our selection of New Ford Mustangs, check our inventory online or visit our showroom today! Get your next ride on the West Side, and remember, we will not be undersold!

The New 2017.5 Mazda6: Coming Soon to Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids, MI Borgman Mazda is eagerly awaiting delivery of the New 2017.5 Mazda6 sedan, which is due to arrive this month at our dealership in Grand Rapids. This mid-cycle update adds a number of features that discerning West Michigan drivers are sure to appreciate, and makes them more accessible by restructuring the vehicle's trim options. When the New Mazda6 arrives, you can come take a closer look at available features, such as the leather seating surfaces and 8-way power driver’s seat with the Touring Premium Package, or the Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which is now standard on the entry-level 2017.5 Mazda6. What's more, the 2017.5's pricing structure will remain identical to the 2017 Mazda6, giving you more value for your money. more Read More Below, we've provided some excerpts from the official announcement on InsideMazda to give you a more in-depth look at some of the new features. Here are some excerpts from the press release: 2017.5 Mazda6 Sedan Adds Available Leather To The Core Of Mazda’s Midsize Mix The Mazda6 midsize sedan returns repackaged for the 2017.5 model year, with the Mazda6 Touring gaining leather seating surfaces, among other trim changes in both entry Mazda6 Sport and mid-trim Mazda6 Touring models, further bolstering Mazda’s award-winning midsize family sedan. The 2017.5 Mazda6 Sport adds standard Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, furthering Mazda’s continued commitment toward making ever-safer cars and crossover SUVs. In fact, Mazda6 was named a 2017 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety “Top Safety Pick+” recipient—the highest recommendation the non-profit safety agency awards. Mazda6 joins the entire Mazda family of cars and crossover SUVs tested by the IIHS to earn its highest distinction when equipped with optional headlights and equipment and is the only automaker able to make this claim in 2017. Mazda6 Sport comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating surfaces, power windows and keyless entry, electronic parking brake and backup camera, among a much longer list of features. The mid-trim Mazda6 Touring’s upgrades to 19-inch wheels and leatherette-upholstered seats. Mazda6 Touring models also add Advanced Keyless Entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear HVAC vents, a 6-way power driver’s seat, Smart City Brake Support low-speed automatic braking, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers. In addition to the biggest update for 2017.5—the newly available leather seating surfaces—navigation and heated front seats are now standard for the 2017.5 model year. All of Mazda6’s features are complemented by a host of improvements introduced for 2017, including improved sound insulation, available Nappa leather seating surfaces, standard G-Vectoring Control vehicle dynamics enhancement technology and available Machine Gray Metallic paint. These highlight the Mazda’s designers and engineers efforts to provide the latest improvements and updates as soon as they become available, foregoing the traditional route of simply adding midcycle updates every few model years. You can read the full article by visiting InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com. New Mazda6 Sedans For Sale in Grand Rapids, MI Borgman Mazda is your proud home of the New Mazda6 in Grand Rapids, and West Michigan's Exclusive Mazda dealer. We invite you to come for a visit, check out all of the exciting features the New 2017.5 Mazda6 when it arrives this month, and take your favorite vehicle out for a test drive. Our staff is highly knowledgeable and very friendly, and will never pressure you into buying. You can browse our New Mazda6 inventory online or during a visit, and feel free to ask any questions you may have. While you're here, ask about Borgman Mazda's Exclusive 20-Year 200,000 mile Warranty, which comes Free with every New Mazda Vehicle we sell. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

Back to School 2017 Ford Focus Deals: Save up to $5,000 Off MSRP at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids! If you're looking for a fun, sporty, and fuel-efficient new vehicle for cruising West Michigan in style, look no further than Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids! Right now, we're offering a special Back to School Deal on New 2017 Ford Focus models, saving you up to $5,000 Off MSRP. We have New 2017 Ford Focus Sedans for as low as $13,995, and hatchbacks for as low as $14,995, making them a very affordable option for college students, recent graduates, and commuters alike. more Read More You can see our full selection of New 2017 Ford Focus Sedans and Hatchbacks, or read more below to see some of the great features available on this high-quality and dependable budget vehicle! If you're interested though, hurry in because these deals won't last long! Attractive Design & Customization Options of the New 2017 Ford Focus The 2017 Ford Focus was designed to attract attention. Whether you choose a sedan or hatchback model, the sharp curves and directional forces of the design convey a sense of motion even when the vehicle is standing still. Different models of the Ford Focus all share these attractive design elements with their own unique flair and personality, whether it's the refined look of the sharp, chrome grille of the 2017 Focus Titanium, the sportier bumper and blacked-out grille accents of the 2017 Focus ST, or the friendly, rounded appearance of the Focus Electric. The 2017 Ford Focus RS pushes the envelope with ultra-aggressive styling and accents, which serve to improve handling at high speeds by manipulating the aerodynamics and give it a meaner, sportier stance. With 14 different colors to choose from and 11 different rims across 6 different vehicle trims, the 2017 Ford Focus can be configured and customized to match your personality and lifestyle. College students and recent graduates will enjoy budget-friendly options such as the plush cloth seating without compromising on quality. Busy professionals with either long or short commutes can still enjoy the luxury and comfort of the Titanium Trim, featuring leather seats with handsome French seams, alloy trim, a heated steering wheel, and more. Thrill seekers will enjoy a sport-driven interior on the 2017 Ford Focus ST and more so on the Focus RS, with full-leather trimmed heated RECARO® front seats, carbon-fiber interior accents, and more. Other Exciting Features of the New 2017 Ford Focus The New 2017 Ford Focus S, SEL, and Titanium trims feature the 2.0L Ti-VCT Inline-4-cylinder engine. SE models have the option of selecting this engine as well, but come standard with the 1.0L I-3 EcoBoost engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology. Focus ST models come with a 2.0L EcoBoost I-4, and the Focus RS includes a spirited 2.3L EcoBoost I-4. To help the 2017 Ford Focus and the driver take command of curves, the standard Torque Vectoring Control feature was designed to help the front wheels keep their grip and improve steering while cornering or driving in slippery conditions. Also available is the PowerShift automatic transmission, which is designed to combine enhanced fuel efficiency and fun-to-drive performance with ease-of-use. Other performance-centered features on the 2017 Ford Focus are the electric power-assisted steering, Active Grille Shutters, and the new six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. Available Ford SYNC 3 helps you stay connected and manage entertainment options while driving your Ford Focus, all while keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. With the touch of a button, you'll be able to use voice commands to answer the phone, respond to a message, change the music, and more. What People Are Saying About The Ford Focus Below are a couple of statements from Ford Focus owners on Ford Social, as well as an excerpt from an in-depth review on Edmunds.com. "We bought a Ford Focus for our 18-year-old daughter, and what a fantastic little car it has been. Right now it's being driven by our 2nd teenage daughter. I don't know if you know how hard teenage girls are on things, but this poor car has been through a lot and it's still running great. Keep doing what you're doing!" -Michelle, Ford Social "Great little car. Not your grandma's Focus anymore. It corners great and kinda reminds me of my wife's Toyota MR2. Good job Ford!" -Gary, Ford Social "The 2017 Ford Focus has a lot going for it, including a comfortable ride, sporty handling and lots of high-tech interior options. ...overall the Focus is a smart choice for a small sedan or hatchback." -Edmunds.com New 2017 Ford Focus For Sale in Grand Rapids, MI Borgman Ford proudly offers Grand Rapids and West Michigan a wide selection of New 2017 Ford Focus Sedans and Hatchbacks to fuel-conscious, budget-conscious, and performance-conscious buyers in the surrounding areas. You can take a look at our New 2017 Ford Focus inventory online or stop by for a visit, and we'll make sure that all of your questions are answered, and that you're never pressured to buy. Remember, we will not be undersold, so if you see a better deal on a New Focus elsewhere, let us know and we'll match it! Come see what makes Borgman Ford the Best in the West!

See the 2017 Ford Explorer and the 2017 Mazda CX-9 Side-By-Side at Borgman Ford Mazda Borgman Ford Mazda in Grand Rapids has been driving the difference in West Michigan for three generations.  We owe our success over the years to our policy of being clear and honest with our customers, who in-turn come back to us when it's time to buy their next Ford or Mazda vehicle. In order to help our customers better explore their Ford or SUV options, we're putting two of our most popular SUVs Head to Head: The New Ford Explorer and the New Mazda CX-9. Both of these Full-Size SUVs are capable and spacious, meeting the needs of the average Michigan shopper. Read on below to see how they stack up against each other and feel free to visit our showroom in Grand Rapids to compare them yourself! more Read More Compare Ford Explorer & Mazda CX-9 Powertrains The 2017 Ford Explorer Powertrain & Performance The 2017 Ford Explorer features 3 different engine options to choose from. First up, the 3.5L Ti VCT comes standard on the Explorer trim or XLT, and for a base model engine can certainly hold its own. This V6 engine features 290 horsepower and 255 pounds per feet of torque, which will be plenty for exploring Michigan. Next up is the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engine, which trades displacement for extra torque and fuel economy -all thanks to its advanced turbocharger. Outputting 280 hp, 310 lb/ft. of torque, drivers will enjoy an EPA-estimated 27 mpg with improved responsiveness. This engine is available on the base model and XLT, and standard with the Limited trim. For the boldest West Michigan adventurers and winter warriors alike, Explorer Sport and Platinum models come equipped with the beefy 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine - boasting a best-in-class 365 horsepower and 350 lb/ft. of torque. All Ford Explorers come equipped with Ford's dependable 6-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission, with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. Standard on Sport and Platinum, but available on all trim levels is Ford's Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System and Hill-Descent Control. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 Powertrain & Performance In contrast to Ford's suite of engine options, Mazda has equipped all models of the 2017 Mazda CX-9 with their highly-capable and efficient 2.5L SKYACTIV-G engine. This allowed Mazda to focus on making the best engine they possibly could for the chassis and democratize it across the trim levels, rather than tailoring different engines to fill different roles. The turbocharged 2.5L SKYACTIV-G is capable of 250 hp, 310 lb/ft. of torque, and through some clever engineering, Mazda has nearly-eliminated turbo lag on the 2017 Mazda CX-9. Featuring an innovative "Dynamic Pressure Turbocharger," the response between pedal and power is nearly instantaneous. With "Turbo Lag" being something many drivers complain about, Mazda put a lot of extra effort into making sure that you get all of the benefits of a turbocharger - increased fuel-economy and torque - without the drawbacks. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 also comes equipped with the SKYACTIV-Drive 6-Speed Automatic Transmission with manual shift and Sport Mode, and the All-Wheel Drive options is available on every trim level. Compare Ford Explorer & Mazda CX-9 Interiors The 2017 Ford Explorer Interior Styling & Cargo Space The New Ford Explorer's capable lineup of engine options speak to its capability, but just because you're looking for a performance-driven SUV doesn't mean you have to settle for a plain, uninteresting interior. The 2017 Explorer features a number of amenities for traveling in comfort, whether it's the available 10-way power drivers seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel, which are both standard on XLT, or the heated steering wheel and cooled front-row seats, which are standard on Limited and Platinum models. A 500-Watt Sony Sound System is also available on Platinum and Sport trims. The 2017 Ford Explorer also features an optional Twin-Panel Moonroof, available 2nd-row heated seats, and more help your passengers enjoy the trip too. If you need to travel with a fair amount of gear, the Explorer has plenty of space. With the 3rd-row seats folded up, it can carry 21 cu/ft. of cargo, 43.8 with them folded down, and 81.7 cu/ft. 2nd and 3rd-row seats folded down. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 Interior Styling & Cargo Space When it comes to the interiors of their vehicles, Mazda does not believe that any detail should be considered "minor." Even on the base trim - the Sport - there is an air of sophistication throughout the cabin. Whether you're getting groceries or embarking on a long road trip, the elegant interior and a multitude of cargo configurations equip CX-9 to handle any kind of drive in style. While all 7 seats share this sense of refinement, special attention was given to the driver’s seat. The shifter and console are positioned slightly higher than in the previous-generation of CX-9, helping the driver experience a greater sense of connection and control. Even with the sleek, low profile, the CX-9 still offers more volume and more second- and third-row legroom than comparable Japanese SUVs. For making grocery runs or hauling luggage, the Mazda CX-9 can carry 14.4 cu/ft. of cargo with the 3rd-row seats folded up, 38.2 with them folded down, and 71.2 cu/ft. with both the 2nd and 3rd-row seats folded down. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature Trim is the pinnacle of the CX-9 luxury offerings. All 7 seats are trimmed with Napa leather, with 1st & 2nd row being heated, genuine Rosewood inlays and artfully crafted aluminum accents decorate the cabin, and the steering wheel and shifter knob are wrapped in leather with beautiful stitching. Compare Ford Explorer & Mazda CX-9 Driving Experience The 2017 Ford Explorer Tech, Driver Assist Features, and Entertainment Options To make your driving experience one filled with exciting adventure or comfortable commutes, the 2017 Ford Explorer comes available with a suite of high-tech driver-assist features. Some of these features, like Adaptive Cruise Control with Brake Support or Lane-Keeping Assist help you stay safe out on the open road. Others, like Active Park Assist, Forward & Reverse parking sensors, 180-degree front-mounted camera, backup camera with gridlines, help you navigate the tighter, urban streets of downtown Grand Rapids. The available SYNC 3 Enhanced Voice Recognition Communications and Entertainment System features an 8" color LCD capacitive touchscreen in center stack with swiping capability, 911 Assist, AppLink and 2 smart-charging USB ports keep you connected and entertained on short trips and long treks alike. Also, with Ford SYNC, you can make use of the FordPass smartphone app, with allows you to reserve parking, control various functions of your vehicle, contact Ford Guides, and more. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 Tech, Driver Assist Features, and Entertainment Options Whether you notice them or not, there is an array of high-tech systems in the Mazda CX-9 that amplify driving performance, keep you and your passengers extra-safe, or keep everyone in the vehicle entertained. The shining star of on the safety features, and of particular interest to West Michigan SUV shoppers is the available iACTIV All-Wheel Drive system, which monitors road conditions and adjusts itself accordingly. It also takes into account steering, speed, and more to keep your drive stable and smooth, whether you're driving in sunshine or a lake-effect snowstorm. To really bring the sound system to life on the interior, Mazda's solution works in tandem with their effort to reduce as much road noise as possible. This was achieved by adding 53 pounds of sound-deadening material to the vehicle, along with the use of special glass and better insulation. The result of this and over 100 other factors is a premium sound experience, using an available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint 2 Surround Sound System. No matter where you sit, you will hear rich, stunning sound that emulates a live performance. Capable New Ford & Mazda SUVs For Sale in Grand Rapids, MI There are so many features in the 2017 Ford Explorer and the 2017 Mazda CX-9 that we couldn't touch on all of them here. The best place to learn everything about this pair of capable SUVs is Borgman Ford Mazda in Grand Rapids, MI, as our friendly and highly-knowledgeable staff would be more to happy to assist you. Please feel free to check out our selection of 2017 Ford Explorers and 2017 Mazda CX-9s and stop by to take them out for a test drive. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

The 2017 Mazda CX-5: One of the Most Human-Friendly SUVs in West Michigan Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids is pleased to announce that the 2017 Mazda CX-5 was recently named as one of 10 vehicles with the best user experience, or UX, by Wards Automotive - a well-respected trends analyst in the industry. The list isn't just a rating of the vehicle's interior styling or features, but more of a broad assessment of how easily people can interact with those features and how the design affects them. We're glad that Mazda is being recognized for their meticulous attention to those little human-friendly details - a big part of what makes the Mazda CX-5 such a joy to drive. more Read More This article published on InsideMazda tells a little more about the Wards Auto "10 Best UX" list, as well as some of the features of the 2017 Mazda CX-5 that helped it earn a place on it. Here's an excerpt from the article: Leading Auto Industry Analysts Recognize Mazda CX-5’s Ease Of Use, Ergonomics, Layout, and Experience What’s the use of all the cool features if you can’t easily operate them? A great user experience in a vehicle is far more than how you choose a radio station or how easy it is to set a route in the navigation system. The user experience is everything you touch, look at or control in a vehicle, and more importantly, how it all works together. When the editors at Wards Automotive, an industry leader in automotive trends and analytics, choose their “10 Best UX” nominees, they look at more than just the size of the touchscreen or the texture of the climate control knobs. They’re looking at every interaction between the vehicle and the occupants inside. Wards rigorously evaluates every automotive brand sold in the U.S. Its independence and integrity have made it a respected arbiter of quality, and achieving a “10 Best UX” award is a major recognition for the 2017 CX-5. This year, the Wards Automotive editors selected the 2017 Mazda CX-5 as a “10 Best UX” winner, beating out many other nominees for the honor. “This is our second annual event rating the user-friendliness and overall effectiveness of a vehicle’s user experience,” said Tom Murphy, Wards senior editor. “Our scoring of 22 nominees this year was even more rigorous than it was last year, making the CX-5 truly deserving.” The award is an honor, but it’s also an achievement earned through Mazda’s dedication to creating vehicles focused on a human-centric design. To achieve the best user experience, the 2017 CX-5’s features must be both premium and have intuitive function. Mazda’s engineers performed a comprehensive study of driver ergonomics to learn how best to create a vehicle that will drive drivers the comfort and responsive performance necessary to achieve Jinba Ittai–“horse and rider are one.” You can read the full article by visiting InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com Visit Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids to Test Drive the New 2017 Mazda CX-5 If you're looking for a new SUV in West Michigan, visit Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids and test drive the New 2017 Mazda CX-5. The human-centric design of the CX-5 isn't really something we can describe, it's something you have to experience. Take one for a spin and feel how naturally and smoothly the CX-5 takes corners, the clear, crisp sound of the 10-speaker BOSE Sound System, and the overall, clean look of the interior design. Feel free to check out our selection of New 2017 Mazda CX-5 SUVs and stop by anytime to see one for yourself.

Ford Is Testing Ways For Autonomous Vehicles To Communicate With Pedestrians in Urban Settings like Downtown Grand Rapids Borgman Ford knows that many West Michigan drivers are at least curious about autonomous vehicles and the progress Ford is making toward bringing them to market. As these vehicles undergo more and more testing, we start to unearth some problems. Some of them are software bugs or mechanical flaws, and those are relatively easy to correct over time. It's the social hurdles that prove more difficult to overcome. If you've ever driven through downtown Grand Rapids, you know exactly how important it is to communicate with pedestrians or other drivers - even non-verbally. The head-nod, the wave, or even just eye contact can signal a driver's intent to others around them. How will autonomous vehicles do the same? Ford and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute are currently testing a solution: a series of lights mounted behind the windshield that flashes three easily-recognizable patterns to people around the vehicle. more Read More These patterns are fairly intuitive, with a solid light indicating that the vehicle is in "autonomous mode," back-and-forth pattern to show that the vehicle is yielding, and flashing lights to alert others that the vehicle is accelerating. This is not only helpful to pedestrians near the vehicle but to other drivers as well, such as in the awkward "who goes first?" scenario at 4-way stops. Here are some highlights: Ford, Virginia Tech Go Undercover to Develop Signals That Enable Autonomous Vehicles to Communicate with People Today, a simple head nod or hand wave from a driver is usually enough to indicate it’s okay for a pedestrian to cross the street, but in an autonomous vehicle future, how will a self-driving car with no human driver communicate with pedestrians, cyclists or humans operating other cars on the road? Looking to prepare for this eventual reality, Ford Motor Company partnered with Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, to conduct a user experience study to test out a method for communicating a vehicle’s intent by soliciting real-world reactions to a self-driving car on public roads. So Ford outfitted a Transit Connect van with a light bar placed on the windshield. To simulate a fully self-driving experience without using an actual autonomous vehicle, the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute team developed a way to conceal the driver with a “seat suit.” The suit creates the illusion of a fully autonomous vehicle, which is necessary to test and evaluate real-world encounters and behaviors. The simulated autonomous Transit Connect was driven on public roads in northern Virginia – home to a density of traffic and pedestrians – throughout August, with researchers capturing video and logs of pedestrian reactions. "This work is of value not only to vehicle users and manufacturers but also to anyone who walks, rides or drives alongside autonomous vehicles in the future,” said Andy Schaudt, project director, Center for Automated Vehicle Systems, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. “We are proud to support Ford in developing this important research.” You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com How Ford's Research Helps Grand Rapids Drivers Today Though seeing a fully-autonomous Ford vehicle cruise around West Michigan is still a few years off, you can visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids today to see some of the semi-autonomous features that are available in New Ford vehicles. Ford's research into self-driving cars has helped them integrate things like Enhanced Active Park Assist, the Blind Spot Information System, Lane-Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Pre-Collision Assist, and more into the current lineup. Stop by for a visit and ask one of our friendly and knowledgeable sales associates to show you these unique features on one of the many New Ford Vehicles that support them, such as the New 2018 Ford Fusion. Feel free to take any of our vehicles out for a test drive too - and see what makes Borgman Ford the Best in the West!

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 Joins The Rest Of The 2017 Mazda Lineup: All Top Safety Pick+ Recipients Borgman Mazda is pleased to announce that the newly-redesigned 2017 Mazda CX-5 was named as an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick+" for 2017, confirming that it's one of the safest SUVs you could drive in West Michigan. This is the highest designation for safety given by the IIHS, and the Mazda CX-5 has earned it every year since its launch in 2012. more Read More However, the 2017 Mazda CX-5's achievement carries some extra weight. Mazda is now the only full-line automaker with every vehicle in their 2017 lineup being rated as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, and that's also something Borgman Mazda is incredibly proud of. In this article below, Inside Mazda tells more about the 2017 Mazda CX-5 and the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. Here is an excerpt from the article: Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced that its 2017 Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick+” designation, the nonprofit institution’s highest rating. Every 2017 model year Mazda vehicle tested by IIHS has been rated a Top Safety Pick+, when equipped with optional front crash-prevention and specific headlights, leaving Mazda as the only full-line automaker able to make such a claim. CX-5 has been awarded as a Top Safety Pick every year since its debut in 2012. This marks the fifth-consecutive year as a “Top Safety Pick+” winner. CX-5’s standard Smart City Brake Support and the effectiveness of its standard LED headlights were both instrumental to CX-5 earning top scores in the latest, strictest additions to IIHS’s safety criteria. “Our Mazda Proactive Safety Philosophy guides us to develop cars and crossover SUVs that are nimble and direct-feeling to help a driver avoid incidents altogether. Our vehicles are designed and engineered to help protect the driver and passengers if a collision happens,” said Masashi Otsuka, VP of research and development, MNAO. “To Mazda, safety is about empowering the driver as much as helping to protect him or her. We’re proud of the accomplishments of the CX-5 development team and appreciative of the IIHS’s recognition.” To attain “Top Safety Pick+” honors, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of “Good” for 2017 in five crash-worthiness tests; an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating for front crash prevention; and an “Acceptable” or “Good” headlight rating. You can read the full press release by visiting InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com Safe & Dependable Mazda Cars, SUVs, and in Grand Rapids Looking for a great deal on a New 2017 Mazda CX-5, or any of the fun but safe vehicles in the Mazda lineup? Visit Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids and see what we have on the lot! Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you, and will never pressure you into a sale. Please feel free to visit us, ask us any questions, and take your favorite vehicle out for a test drive anytime! Be sure to ask about Borgman Mazda's Exclusive B-Free 20-Year 200,000 Mile Warranty with Every New Mazda!

Borgman Ford is always pleased to share the unique and highly-customized vehicles Ford produces with fans in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. These vehicles are usually sold at charity auctions to benefit relevant causes, and this latest one, an F-22-inspired Ford F-150 Raptor, raised $300,000 for the Experimental Aircraft Association's Young Eagles program. This totally tricked-out Ford F-150 Raptor pickup was inspired by the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor fighter jet and features a number of customizations from Ford Performance Design Team. Some of the modifications were purely aesthetic or thematic, such as the red and green position lights on the mirror skull caps, and others were to push the truck's capabilities to the limit, like the Whipple-intercooled, high-output 3.5l twin-turbo EcoBoost engine, which delivers 545 horsepower and 660 lb.-ft. of torque. more Read More An article published in The Official Ford Media Center tells more about the truck and the Experimental Aircraft Association's Young Eagles program. Here's an excerpt from the article: Mighty U.S. Air Force Fighter Jet Inspires One-Of-A-Kind High-Performance Ford F-22 F-150 Raptor Combining the best attributes of the world’s finest high-performance machines for air and ground, Ford’s design team created a Ford F-22 F-150 Raptor based on the U.S. Air Force’s Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor fighter jet for auction at AirVenture Oshkosh. The one-of-a-kind truck fetched $300,000 for the Experimental Aircraft Association Gathering of Eagles – an organization and an event committed to aviation and encouraging youth involvement in flight. Ford design manager Melvin Betancourt and Ford Performance led design and engineering of the F-22 F-150 Raptor. “Our job – both in the air and on the ground – is to intimidate the competition,” said Betancourt. “The money we raised will enable Young Eagles to reach for the skies as well.” Todd Eckert, Ford truck group marketing manager, said the F-22 F-150 Raptor celebrates the fighter jet’s dominance of the skies and the consistent leadership of F-Series on the ground. “Our long-standing commitment to Young Eagles encourages new talent to enter the world of flight, while highlighting the freedom, power, speed and agility shared by the Ford F-150 Raptor and the F-22 Raptor fighter jet,” he added. Highlights of the Ford F-22 F-150 Raptor include: Whipple-intercooled, high-output 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost ® making 545 horsepower and 660 lb.-ft. of torque – taking off-road performance to intimidating new levels Modified Addictive Desert Design front suspension and bump stop kit Deaver rear spring pack to provide a smooth, progressive suspension Fox bypass series shocks with adjustable compression and rebound valving to customize damping for on-road and off-road use Innov8 Racing custom forged beadlock wheels with Falcon Wildpeak tires Upgraded Alcon six-piston painted calipers, oversized rotors, high-friction pads Modular off-road 1.3-million candela LED lighting system by KC Hilites Kicker audio system with 1,500 watts of amplification Unique Sherwin-Williams exterior paint integrating F-22 Raptor jet cues including titanium grille with front silhouette of the aircraft; jet cues featured on the interior as well Amp Research power retracting steps DeBerti two-tire, gas and ProEagle jack holder LineX sprayed bedliner All-stainless-steel cat-back Borla exhaust system with carbon fiber tips DeBerti carbon fiber fender flares, hood and fender vents Paint hand-cut and polished to a mirror finish by Independent Detail You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. The Ford F-150 Raptor: The Ultimate Truck for West Michigan Adventures If you're looking for your own Ford F-150 Raptor pickup truck to tackle the West Michigan wilds, visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids! Our friendly and courteous sales staff would be more than happy to show you our Current Selection on Ford F-150 Raptors, or help you order the perfect configuration for your budget and lifestyle. If you have any questions about the Ford F-150 Raptor, please feel free to Contact Us or stop by for a visit. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

Build, Configure, & Deploy a Ford Medium Duty Truck to Tackle The Toughest Jobs in West Michigan The Ford F-Series of Trucks have been hauling materials, towing trailers, moving supplies, carrying tools, and plowing snow in some form or another in West Michigan for decades. However, when there's a big, dirty, or difficult job that comes along, the Ford Medium Duty Trucks answer the call. more Read More What makes the Ford Medium Duty Trucks more than suitable for roles such as a Tow/Wrecker, Snow Plow & Salt Truck, Utility Truck with Aerial Lift, Rescue Vehicle or any other rough gig around town lies in its Ford Tough construction and high versatility. Below, we've highlighted a few notable features of Ford Medium Duty Trucks: Your choice of 6.8L V10 Gas or 6.7L Turbo Diesel V8 Engine Whichever the job requires or you prefer, the choice of engines is yours to make. Alternative Fuel Options are also available - ask about upfits! Available Live-Drive Power Takeoff (PTO) Provision Pull power from the transmission for accessories including hydraulic equipment. With the diesel engine, you can tap into as much as 300 lb/ft. of stationary torque - split-shaft applications are possible too. Wide Range of GVWRs Spec your F-650 or F-750 GVWR to your exact job requirements. You can go as low as 20,500 lbs. with the F-650 Pro Loader, or choose the F-750 with GVWRs between 30,200 and 37,000 lbs. - Class 8 capability. Reduced Cabin & Engine Noise At idle, the diesel engine is 45% quieter inside the cab and 35% quieter outside in front of the grille than the previous generation. Need some help? Have any questions about the 2017 Ford F-650 or F-750 Medium Duty Trucks? Stop by the Borgman Ford Commercial Vehicle Center to explore your options with our highly-knowledgeable staff. Browse our Ford Commercial Vehice Inventory or feel free to Contact Us today to get started!

The team at Borgman Ford is more than excited for the launch of the 2018 Ford Mustang GT, which arrives in Grand Rapids later this year! Although the sweet, glorious sound of a Mustang GT's powerful V8 engine is something Mustang fans savor, their neighbors in quiet West Michigan suburbs might not feel the same way about it - especially in the mornings and evenings. Because respecting your neighbors is the right thing to do, and loud engine noises have made Ranker.com's list of "Most annoying noises neighbors make," Ford has introduced Quiet Start – an available feature on the New 2018 Ford Mustang GT. This allows drivers to set their Mustang GT’s V8 engine to a schedule of when it will roar and when it will merely purr. This article below describes the feature in greater detail. more Read More Here's an excerpt from the article, published on the Ford Official Media Center: New Mustang GT Owners Can Now Hush the V8 Growl To Be Good Neighbors Someone called the cops on Steve von Foerster. The former head of vehicle engineering for Ford Motor Company wasn’t thrilled, but he understood why. On an otherwise peaceful morning in his suburban Detroit neighborhood, von Foerster had just backed a Shelby GT350 Mustang out of his driveway. As the car’s V8 engine thundered, an annoyed neighbor set aside their coffee cup and dialed 911. Von Foerster had left before the officers arrived, and he didn’t end up with a ticket. Nor did he get angry. What he got was an idea for the new Mustang. “I love the sound of the V8, but it can be loud, and you can’t annoy people like that in your neighborhood,” said von Foerster, who now leads Ford’s user experience team in product development. “It sounds so cool, but I thought, ‘There has to be a way to give people more control over the engine’s sound.’” The experience fueled a discussion between von Foerster and fellow Mustang program team members that led to development of Quiet Exhaust mode and industry-first Quiet Start, known as “Good Neighbor Mode” among Mustang engineers. The new features on properly equipped 2018 Mustang GT vehicles allow drivers to keep engine sound at a minimum if they wish and to program quiet start-up times in advance. While some sports cars offer active exhaust systems with on/off functionality, Mustang’s Quiet Start is the first to allow scheduling of times. Using steering wheel-mounted thumb controls, drivers toggle through a menu in the instrument cluster to select when they want to fire up their Mustang GT without sharing the event with neighbors. For example, between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m., drivers can keep the peace by scheduling their car to start, minus the roar. You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com Check Out Borgman's Selection of New & Used Ford Mustangs in Grand Rapids Looking for a New or Used Ford Mustang for your adventures around West Michigan? Visit the Borgman Ford Showroom in Grand Rapids to see our selection of quality Ford Mustang Coupes and Convertibles we have on the lot. If you're really excited about the updated styling and cool features of the 2018 Ford Mustang, keep and eye on our New Ford Inventory, as it will be arriving sometime this fall. As always, feel free to visit or Contact Us with any questions - our team will be happy to help. We hope to see you soon!

Borgman Ford is celebrating the 100th Birthday of the Ford Truck, which has been delivering packages, hauling supplies, and doing other tough jobs in Grand Rapids and West Michigan since 1917. Starting with the Model TT, Ford has made many different types of trucks over the past century, with lessons being learned with each iteration - whether they be from listening to the needs of customers, building the toughest trucks possible for the pre-war military and bomber engines during WWII. Today, the Ford F-Series reigns as the best-selling truck in America for 40 straight years. more Read More Borgman Ford first opened their doors in 1960, and soon after, Ford released the 4th generation of the Ford F-Series. It was around this time Ford also released the Ford Falcon Ranchero, a combination of a sedan and a pickup, which performed well enough to spawn a competitor. Since then, we've continued to offer the latest and greatest Ford Trucks to Grand Rapids and West Michigan families, farmers, businesses, or anyone looking for the best deal on a quality Ford Truck. To explore the full story of Ford Trucks in America, this article published in the Official Ford Media Center tells the tale. Here's an excerpt from the article: One hundred years ago, Ford introduced its first purpose-built truck, the 1917 Ford Model TT, forever changing the auto industry – and the very nature of work itself. Henry Ford marketed his early trucks heavily in rural areas, according to Bob Kreipke, Ford historian. “Model AA trucks, in particular, had a certain class to them,” he said. “Customers could use them on the farm, yet still take them to church on Sunday.” A century later, Ford trucks are among the most iconic vehicles in the world. F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 40 consecutive years and best-selling vehicle for 35 straight years. In Canada, Ford F-Series has enjoyed 51 consecutive years as best-selling pickup and now marks seven straight years as best-selling vehicle. Throughout this rich history, Ford continuously has worked to improve its trucks by listening to truck owners and developing new innovations that improve their ability to get the job done. These innovations give today’s Ford truck owners greater towing and hauling capability, advanced engines for improved efficiency, and driver-assist technologies that make it easier and more convenient to operate. Ford is credited with putting the world on wheels, and Ford trucks helped build America. “Ford trucks carried the loads, the people, and the products necessary to get the job done,” Kreipke said. You can continue reading this article by visiting Media.Ford.com Borgman Ford has been your home for quality Ford trucks in Grand Rapids since 1960. Customers from all over West Michigan have come to us seeking high-quality and dependable vehicles, and keep coming back because of our unparalleled Redcoat Service and our fair-and-square deals. Feel free to browse our current lineup of New Ford F-Series Trucks, and visit us anytime for a test drive!