First Look of the Ford Bronco: Coming in 2020 to Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Since Ford announced the return of the Bronco at the North American International Auto Show last year, Ford Truck and SUV fans in West Michigan have been waiting to catch their first glimpse of the new off-roader. Over here at Borgman Ford, we're just as excited about the Bronco's return, so when we saw the above promo image hit the internet, we wanted to make sure our readers saw it too! Regrettably, the body is covered up in the image, but we'll get a full reveal all in due time. more Read More We can still glean some info about the new off-roader - even if there's a big cloth over it. If you take into account the high ground clearance, short wheelbase, and bold, upright design, this is shaping up to be one tough little truck. The image also assuages fears that the New Bronco will simply be a re-badge of the Ford Everest, an SUV sold in international markets. Plus, there appears to be a full-sized spare on the back, which is preferred by many off-road drivers. Ford teased another off-road SUV too. It appears to be a part of the B-Segment, making it a bit smaller than the Bronco, but featuring a pretty aggressive design. The headlights and grille bring a fresh new look to the Ford SUV lineup, so take a look at the photo below to catch a glimpse of what's to come. These reveals came to us as a part of Ford's overall plan going forward, which is laid out in this article from the Official Ford Media Center. Below are some interesting excerpts, but you can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Ford Readies North America’s Freshest Lineup By 2020 With Onslaught Of Connected New Trucks, SUVs And Hybrids Ford is revamping its lineup, building on truck, SUV and commercial strengths, investing in new propulsion and delivering standard connectivity on new vehicles, paving the way for over-the-air updates. All new Ford vehicles will have 4G LTE connectivity by the end of 2019. By 2020, Ford will offer North America’s freshest lineup among all full-line automakers, with its average showroom age dropping from 5.7 to 3.3 years as it replaces three-quarters of its lineup and adds four new trucks and SUVs. Ford also plans to drive growth with two all-new off-road models: the new Bronco and a yet-to-be-named off-road small utility – both designed to win a growing number of people who love getting away and spending time outdoors with their families and friends. “Ford helped start the off-road phenomenon and has majored in off-road capability for decades – from the Bronco to the Raptor,” said Jim Farley, Ford president, Global Markets. “Now, we’re ready to reclaim our rightful place as the off-road vehicle leader.” Ford also will grow its lineup of performance SUVs. Two additions to the Ford Performance lineup include the all-new Edge ST later this year, and an Explorer ST will soon follow. These two new SUVs will help Ford Performance deliver on its promise of 12 new models by 2020, and will help extend the division’s growth, which has risen 81 percent in the last four years. Next-Gen Hybrid Electrics: Part of Ford’s new strategy includes going all-in on hybrids to bring more capability to customers of our most popular and high-volume vehicles like F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Escape and Bronco – and serve as a hedge for customers against higher gas prices. To read the full article, visit Media.Ford.com. Catch The Latest News & Updates from Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Want to stay up to date with the latest Ford News? We'll be covering any developments on the New Ford Bronco as they arise, and the best way to stay connected is by Signing Up For Our Monthly Newsletter. Every month, we send out an email packed with all of the latest and greatest offers, share what's new and exciting in the world of Ford, and show you a roundup of Manager Specials with huge savings on Ford Vehicles. Borgman Ford has been giving Grand Rapids and West Michigan car shoppers Fair Trades & Honest Deals since we opened our doors in 1960. If you're looking for a new vehicle, we invite you to visit and check out our enormous selection of New Ford Cars, Trucks and SUVs. Our friendly and courteous staff will help you find what you're looking for and answer any questions, but will never pressure into a sale. Come experience our legendary Redcoat Service and see why we're the Best in the West!
The 'California Special' is Coming Back for the 2019 Ford Mustang!
Build Your Perfect Ford Mustang This Summer at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids! The summer of 2018 is shaping up to be an exciting time for Ford Mustang fans, and Borgman Ford can't wait to help enthusiasts in Grand Rapids and West Michigan get on the road to adventure. On top of the hotly-anticipated Bullitt Edition being released, Ford has announced that they're bringing back the California Special - a version of the Ford Mustang that caters more towards drivers looking for a more premium, open-air experience. more Read More This article published in the Official Ford Media Center tells more about what to expect from the California Special Mustang when it arrives this summer, as well as the origins of the iconic package. Take a look: California Special Returns For 2019 Mustang, Plus Enthusiast Updates Include Rev-Matching, B&O Audio System And New Colors America’s favorite sports car gets even more style and technology for 2019 thanks to the revival of the legendary Mustang GT California Special, new technology features including rev-matching on 5.0-liter manual-equipped models, the first-ever custom-tuned B&O Play premium audio system for Mustang and three new vintage-inspired colors and over-the-top stripes. California dreaming When Mustang first hit the streets in 1964, owners clubs sprang up around the country, with many regional dealers creating their own personalized pony car designs. One – inspired by the 1967 Shelby GT notchback coupe prototype – came to be called the California Special. That original version featured blacked-out grille, fog lamps and a side racing stripe that ended ahead of a new rear fender scoop. It wore a Shelby-inspired spoiler, custom tail lamps and twist-lock hood fasteners. Impressed, Ford put a limited number of California Special cars into production for 1968. Before long, the California Special had joined the ranks of Shelby, Boss and Mach 1 special-edition Mustangs. Today, the 2019 California Special for Mustang GT is a visual standout, featuring a trademark fading stripe that traces from the 5.0 side badge to the rear fender scoop. A signature Ebony Black and Race Red script California Special badge adorns the trunk lid. At the front, the car follows the blacked-out open grille and picks up the Mustang Performance Pack 1 splitter. The California Special wears unique five-spoke painted machined wheels. Inside, driver and passengers will discover rich black Miko® suede-trimmed seats with embossed GT/CS insignia and contrast red accent stitching, and custom embroidered GT/CS floor mats. Signature California Special script badging appears on the passenger-side dash panel. “Few things are more satisfying than dropping the top on a California Special and taking a drive down the majestic Pacific Coast Highway,” said Mark Conforzi, Ford designer. “This signature design takes its cues from the original California Special, while enhancing the personality of today’s Mustang.” You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Start Your West Michigan Adventures in a New Ford Mustang at Borgman Ford Can't wait to get on the road to your next adventure? Visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids and check out our selection of New Ford Mustangs on our lot, and take your favorite out for a spin! If you don't see the model, trim, or configuration you want, Contact Us or use our CarFinder Tool and we'll find it for you! Should you have any questions about the New 2018 or 2019 Ford Mustang, our friendly and courteous sales staff is always here to help, and will never pressure or rush you through the sales process. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!
Borgman How To: When Is It Time For New Shocks or Struts?
Shock & Struts Smooth Your Ride and Keep West Michigan Drivers Safe After the West Michigan winter finally clears, you might notice that your daily commute is a little bumpier than you remember, or that it's a little harder to turn the steering wheel. If that's the case, it could be a sign that you need new shocks or struts, and the Borgman Service Center is here to help! more Read More What Are Shocks & Struts? What Do They Do? Depending on which vehicle you drive, it will be equipped with either shock absorbers, struts, or both. It's worth noting that a single wheel will have one or the other - never both. Shocks and struts are parts of your vehicle's suspension, and they control how your body interacts with the wheels. This affects your steering, stopping distance, and weight dynamics. They also filter out bumps from the road and smooth out your ride. While these two parts have similar duties, they are not interchangeable. Here's the main difference: a strut is an integral, structural part of your suspension, and a shock is not. A shock, or shock absorber, is a pair of interleaved metal tubes that extend or shrink at a controlled rate, forcing the wheels to move or "travel" smoothly when going over a bump. It does this by squeezing oil through its own internal valves. Think of it like a bicycle tire pump that you can only go up and down at certain speeds. What this does is make sure that you don't feel every single bump in the road, and that your wheels are held firmly to the pavement to maintain traction. Without them, you're in for a very bumpy ride and your steering gets a bit sloppy. A strut, properly called a strut assembly, consists of a shock absorber (the actual strut) with mounts for the different suspension parts, and a huge spring at the top to hold up the body and chassis. A strut is functionally similar to a shock, except that it's designed to completely support the vehicle and tie all the suspension parts together. Without them, your vehicle would sit the ground and wouldn't be able to move. How Do I Know When It's Time For New Shocks or Struts? We don't really notice our suspension until there's an issue, but these unsung heroes can travel up and down a million times during their lifespan. If you're cruising along and you feel like you're riding in a bowl of jelly or on an old bumpy roller coaster, it's definitely time for new shocks or struts. However, sometimes the signs aren't as obvious. Here are a few things you can check for: The Bounce Test. Place your hands on the fender directly above the wheel and press the body down. Now let go and watch carefully. Your vehicle should rise back up and stop. If it bounces, your suspension needs to be inspected. This can give you vital clues but isn't an end-all-be-all test. How's Your Steering? If you feel like it's a little harder to turn the wheel, but your power steering is ok, it could be related to your suspension. Worn out shocks or struts also contribute to that "floaty, loosey-goosey" feeling when turning or going over a bump. The Brake Test. As we know, objects in motion stay in motion unless acted upon. If you think of your wheels and body as two separate objects, that means if one stops the other needs to be acted on to stop too. That's a big part of what your suspension does. Go to an empty parking lot, pick up a little speed and brake hard. If you feel like you're in a nose-dive, or your rear end bounces a bit, there's a suspension issue that needs to be addressed. Check Your Tires. Uneven tread wear or bald spots on your tires are a good indicator that there's something wrong with your suspension. It could be that worn shocks or struts are allowing the tires to wander around, but it could also mean you just need an alignment. For the mechanically inclined: Strut replacement should be done by a professional, and the biggest reason for this is safety. Without the proper tools or knowledge, removing the coil spring from the strut is extremely dangerous, and it could happen by accident. The second reason is that you will need an alignment afterward. While it's not impossible to do yourself, it's not fun and we have the know-how and equipment to do it quickly and accurately. What's The Benefit to Having Shocks or Struts Inspected Regularly? The big thing about having your suspension parts inspected is safety. With a well-maintained system, your input on the steering wheel is much tighter and your stopping distance shortens dramatically. Your traction in bumpy or slippery conditions is much better too. This helps you keep control of the vehicle if you need to stop suddenly. If shocks or struts are neglected, they can cause other serious problems in the long run. If your wheels aren't being held in place very well, your tires and the bushings in your suspension parts feel it the most. You might notice some bald spots on your tires from bouncing around or worse, the coil can rub against the tire and slice the inside sidewall. Bushings are little rubber donuts that help reduce vibration where suspension arms link together. Lots of movement will wear these down faster, and without them, the suspension parts will start to damage each other. Visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids for Shock or Strut Inspection or Repair If you think it's time for some new shocks or struts on your vehicle, or if something just doesn't feel right anymore, bring it into the Borgman Ford Service Center. Our highly-trained service technicians inspect your shocks or struts for leaking, dents, bends, or other more subtle signs of wear. You can easily Schedule an Appointment online or Contact Us to set one up or if you have any questions. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!
Mazda Crowned "Best Car Brand" by U.S. News & World Report for Third Straight Year
Borgman Mazda was very pleased to hear that Mazda has been named "Best Car Brand" by U.S. News & World Report for three years running. In this annual report, top brands from all over the world are selected based on different criteria, including reviews from automotive journalists and customer experience. Mazda has been selected for this honor based on how easy and fun their cars are to operate, as well as their stunning MPG ratings and overall design. more Read more This article published on InsideMazda tells more about the award, including how the decision is made and why Mazda was selected. Here is an excerpt from the article: Mazda Named 2018 Best Car Brand By U.S. News & World Report For the third year in a row, Mazda has been awarded the “Best Car Brand” award by U.S. News & World Report. Mazda’s lineup was praised for offering engaging driving dynamics, accommodating seats, attractive cabin designs, and user-friendly technology. “Mazda won the car class on the strength of the Mazda3, Mazda6 and Mazda MX-5 Miata,” said Jamie Page Deaton, managing editor of U.S. News Best Cars. “All three models have top-notch performance that puts an emphasis on direct, sporty handling, as well as quality interiors that are more upscale than their price tags might suggest.” To determine the award winners, U.S. News Best Cars averaged the overall score of all the given brand’s products in each award class. The brand with the highest overall average score was named the winner in the category. The overall scores come directly from the U.S. News Best Cars rankings, which are based on a combination of the consensus of the automotive press, safety scores, and reliability data. You can review the full artice by visiting InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com. Find Your Next Mazda at Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids Gear up for spring and summer adventures at Borgman Mazda, Grand Rapids' home of Fair Trades and Honest Deals. Shop our wide selection of New Mazda Vehicles and find the perfect one for your lifestyle and your budget. If you want to take one on an extended test drive, sign up for our Day Trader Program, and be sure to ask about our Free 20-Year 200,000 Mile Warranty on every new Mazda! Come see why we're West Michigan's Exclusive Mazda Dealer!
What Makes The Sound of the Ford Mustang So Thrilling?
At Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, it still makes us giddy when we hear the unmistakable sound of a Ford Mustang GT roaring to life. When that low rumble of the exhaust turns to a powerful roar on the open road, you know there's something special about it. It doesn't matter if you're just getting into muscle cars or a devoted Mustang fan. Your hairs stand up on end, you may get the butterflies, or your pupils might dilate - this is all by design. more Read More Ford put considerable effort into the sound of their performance cars, with the 2019 Mustang being the most recent and dramatic example. Audio engineers have created a sound meant to provoke a primitive fight-or-flight response by studying the sound of things that were dangerous to early humans. If this all sounds a little too loud to be practical in suburbia, you can tame the wild Mustang into a little pony for the sake of your neighbors through the car's intuitive dashboard. The work Ford has done to awaken our ancient instincts is fascinating, and you can read more about it through this latest entry in the Official Ford Media Center. Below, we've gathered some excerpts from the article, but you can read the whole thing here and listen to some audio clips. Audio Engineers Tap Into Our Ancestral DNA To Enhance Our Emotional Connections To Products The next time you jump at the sound of thunder or feel an adrenaline rush when you hear the new active valve performance exhaust on the 2019 EcoBoost®-equipped Mustang, thank your prehistoric ancestors. It’s called an autonomic response, and it traces back to ancient humans who successfully learned to react quickly to loud and powerful sounds, like the roar of a lion or the crash of a tree. Over time, this fight-or-flight response to avoid danger was passed along in our DNA and hardwired into our minds and bodies. Beyond the basics of sound – loud, quiet, high/low pitch, simple or complex harmonic structures. In Dearborn, Michigan, audio designers of another sort create sounds that tap into our desire for power and thrills. “We’re probably the few engineers here who do not have to design to a number or a specification,” said Hani Ayesh, Ford exhaust development engineer. “Instead, we work to identify that signature sound DNA that connects drivers to the emotional expectation they have for a specific car.” These automotive sound engineers rely on computational analysis to design, for example, a computer-controlled active exhaust system that opens valves – much like a saxophone or a large pipe organ – to change the sound of the car based on the mood of the driver. “When I pick up my kids from school, they want to hear that growling rev of the engine,” said Ayesh, “but my wife and neighbors, not so much. So I can select the quieter ‘good neighbor’ mode, and keep them happy, too.” You can experience the powerful sound of the Ford Mustang and read the entire article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Drive a New Ford Mustang from Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Borgman Ford has been West Michigan's home for Fair & Square Deals since we opened our doors in 1960. If you're searching Grand Rapids for a great deal on a New Ford Mustang, visit today and experience our legendary Redcoat customer service. Our staff will ensure that all of your questions are answered and give you a Fair Trade Deal on your current vehicle. Borgman Ford will not be undersold on any of our new vehicles, so if you see a better deal on the Ford Mustang you want elsewhere, let us know and we'll match it. If you don't see the Mustang you've been dreaming about on our lot, we can help you navigate the ordering process too. Take a look at our New Ford Mustang lineup and stop by anytime for a test drive. Come see why we're the Best in the West!
What Borgman Means By "Fair Trades & Honest Deals" in Grand Rapids, MI
Treating Customers Right is a Borgman Family Tradition Borgman has been giving auto shoppers in Grand Rapids and West Michigan fair trades since we opened our doors almost 60 years ago. When Fred Borgman founded the dealership back in 1960, the concept of being honest and transparent with his customers served as the cornerstone of the business. Fred outfitted his sales team with red sports jackets to make them more visible – and therefore accountable – around town. Soon, Borgman became known as “The Home of the Redcoats,” which was synonymous with friendly, professional, and transparent conduct. more Read more Times have certainly changed since then, but our dedication to Fred Borgman’s vision has not. Borgman Ford Mazda is still family-owned and operated, with Fred’s grandson Matt sitting as General Manager and ensuring that everyone who visits is treated with respect. What is a Borgman Fair Trade Deal? When we say we give everyone a "Fair Trade Deal," here's exactly what we mean: when you bring your current vehicle to us, we offer you what it's worth. It doesn't matter if you intend to trade it for a new vehicle or sell it outright - the number is the same. No low-balling, "x-over-your-trade" shenanigans, predatory guaranteed-approval-style lending, or bull. Here's an excerpt from a review someone left us on Google: "Worked with them on my last 2 vehicles. Extremely knowledgeable and friendly throughout the entire process. I priced out the same vehicles at 2 other dealers and Borgman beat them both in price and trade in amount." Below are some of the practices we don't engage in and why. Here's The Deal With Those Minimum Trade-In Offers You Hear About We hear the "get (thousands) extra on any trade" offer quite a lot. What usually happens is the dealer will shuffle numbers around to make it work in their favor. According to this story on AutoNews.com, a woman visited a dealership after seeing an ad promising $3,500 extra for her trade. Her current vehicle didn't have much value, so the dealership made their losses back by adding $3,500 to the price of the vehicle she was buying. What's worse, a condition of that program prohibited her from negotiating the price. Then, she was saddled with a 14.95% interest rate and didn't feel that this was made clear to her while in the finance office, resulting in a lawsuit. Always check the fine print on any ads like these, because dealerships may put all sorts of stuff in there to legitimize a financing a shell game. If you look at the Better Business Bureau's advertising guidelines for West Michigan, they actually frown upon the practice of advertising a flat minimum trade value - see Item 15 on Trade Allowances or read this article on Mlive.com for more information. Watch Out For Predatory "Guaranteed Credit Approval" Ads We've all seen or heard these types of advertisements: "Bad Credit? NO Credit? If you make $xxx per month, our lenders can get you APPROVED!" Sound a little too good to be true? According to this page on AutoCheatSheet.com, it often is. Here's what they had to say about guaranteed financing offers: In some states, it's legal to advertise Guaranteed Credit Approval. These dealerships will blanket advertise they can get anyone approved. Approvals from these types of companies usually require very large down payments and they limit you to only one or two high-profit vehicles. The vehicles a dealer acquires for these types of programs are normally of poor quality. There are many avenues a dealer can take when attempting to sell you a specific car you really don't want to buy. Here are a few examples: The car doesn't matter. You're not buying a car, you're buying an opportunity to re-establish your credit. I only have one car I can approve you for, but it's a nice one! I know it's not the car you want. Just make payments for 6 months, come back, and you can trade it for a vehicle you want. You won't be able to get approved for a car anywhere else. We got you approved for this car and you can drive it home today. At Borgman, this will never happen. Our financing department will work to give you the best deal we possibly can, and we refuse to engage in these misleading practices. If you'd like to read more about auto loans in Michigan, the Department of Insurance and Financial Services put together a handy guide to keep buyers informed. You can download the PDF on Michigan.gov. Borgman Keeps The Car-Buying Process In West Michigan Honest & Transparent First and foremost, our business operates under the Golden Rule. We treat every customer that visits us as if they were family, and we ensure that they understand what's in front of them before making decisions. We don't participate in the types of "deals" mentioned here. They're gimmicky and needlessly complicated at best, and immoral and predatory at worst. We don't employ any high-pressure tactics or goad you into signing a deal that you don't feel comfortable with. We strive for 100% satisfaction on all aspects of the car-buying process and we completely understand if you need time to consider your options. If you're in the market for a New Ford or Mazda and want to make sure you don't get the runaround, take a look at Our Online Inventory and visit us to test drive your favorite! We'll always give you a Fair Trade Deal on your current vehicle, and we will not be undersold. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!
Build Your Own 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback in LEGO Form
As many West Michigan Mustang aficionados will tell you, 1968 Ford Mustangs are an absolute treasure. Apart from just plain looking cool, this generation saw the addition of the powerful 4.9L V8 engine and was prominently featured in the film ' Bullitt ' starring Steve McQueen. If you love classic Mustangs, Borgman Ford is happy to share that The LEGO Group and Ford have teamed up to produce a faithful recreation of this iconic car - complete with stickers to personalize the vehicle to your own tastes and to celebrate Ford's racing heritage. The set will join LEGO's Speed Champions line on March 1st, complimenting the recent arrival of the 2018 Ford Mustang in Grand Rapids. more Read More This article published in the Official Ford Media Center tells more about the LEGO set as well as the designers' collaboration with Ford to bring this sports car icon to life in glorious brick form. Take a look at some excerpts below: New Lego Speed Champions 1968 Mustang Fastback Is A Personalized Vintage Ford Race Car For Your Desk Ford and LEGO® are celebrating Ford’s heritage by adding a 1968 Mustang fastback race car to the LEGO Speed Champions lineup. As a tribute to America’s favorite sports car, the 183-piece Ford Mustang kit features green bodywork with gold dual stripes and wheels, race graphic stickers, removable windscreen and a mini-figure driver wearing a classic racing suit. For added fun, the race car set includes a Ford-branded timing board. “The new Ford Mustang LEGO Speed Champions set gives parents and children the chance to share their passions – generations of fans have grown up building LEGO sets and spending time together behind the wheel,” said Myra Lind, LEGO Speed Champions marketing manager. “This partnership of iconic brands allows kids of all ages to enjoy the latest products from two great companies.” As a natural fit for the new 2018 Mustang launch – the most personalized Mustang ever – Ford’s Design and Licensing teams worked closely with LEGO to create a 1968 Mustang fastback race car set that speaks to the passion, creativity and personalization pony car fans will appreciate. You can read the rest of the article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Find Your Next 2018 Ford Mustang at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Ford Mustang fans looking to build their own '68 Fastback should be able to find this LEGO Speed Champions set where LEGOs are sold on March 1st, but if you're in the market for a real-life New 2018 Ford Mustang, look no further than Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids! The 2018 Ford Mustang is the most customizable model to date, and our staff is here to help you build the perfect Mustang for your needs. Should you have any questions about the New Ford Mustang, we'll make sure they're all answered before you make a decision, and will never pressure you into a sale. Take a look at our selection of New Ford Mustangs for sale, and visit Borgman Ford for a Fair Trade and Honest Deal. Come see why we're the Best in the West!
How The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Will Appeal To Baby Boomers in West Michigan
Drive a New 2019 Ford Transit Connect This Fall at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids Borgman Ford has been keeping an eye on the Chicago Auto Show, and we are happy to share that Ford just unveiled the 2019 Ford Transit Connect! This vehicle has been a favorite of local businesses and busy families in West Michigan, and this latest model will add even more features these customers are sure to enjoy, including new LED headlamps, a redesigned interior and front fascia, and segment exclusives such as wireless phone charging and a standard 4G LTE modem. more Read More However, this capable people/equipment-mover has been immensely popular with baby boomers who grew up driving vans. The spacious interior, convenience features, comfort, and low price point have all contributed to its appeal, and the 2019 Ford Transit will expand upon those key attributes. The article below talks more about the Ford Transit Connect Van's popularity with baby boomers and gives a good example of one being used to its full potential. Check out some excerpts from the article below: Life’s Still A Trip: New Transit Connect Wagon Is Today’s Magic Bus For Active Baby Boomers And Entrepreneurs Ford has reinvented the van for Baby Boomers whose idea of rocking doesn’t involve a chair. Today, Ford unveils the redesigned Transit Connect Wagon at the Chicago Auto Show. The last Transit Connect Wagon won over Boomers-born from 1946 to 1964 that grew up driving vans-with its unique combination of affordable, fun and easy-to-use people mover attributes and cargo hauling capabilities. At 111 million strong and holding 63 percent of American financial assets, the 50+ demographic is the number one consumer demographic in the United States - far exceeding Gen X’s 61 million and Millennials’ 75 million. And one in three Boomers plans to purchase a car in the next three years, according to AARP. Surfer Grandpa Gets His Van Kevin Brown, age 63, of Nassau Bay, Texas, is the kind of “active Boomer” who loves the Transit Connect Wagon. Brown grew up driving vans in the 1970s and now, this Gulf Coast surfer and grandfather of nine drives a 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon for his work as an illustrator and custom T-shirt printer. “If I’m not shuttling family to the beach, I’m working,” he said. “My Transit Connect lets me pull double duty.” With room for five to seven passengers and offering easy conversion to cargo duty, the 2019 Ford Transit Connect Wagon takes care of business with a versatility and maneuverability that make everyday adventures easy. The wagon features all-new gas and diesel engines and a suite of driver-assist technologies, including standard Automatic Emergency Braking. The feature is included with Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection – a segment-exclusive. “Baby Boomers have always embraced life’s adventures and to them age is just another experience to master,” said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “From being easy to get in and out of, plus flexible seating and cargo space, Transit Connect Wagon makes it convenient for Boomers to keep enjoying family time or explore new hobbies and careers.” You can read more about the 2019 Ford Transit over on Media.Ford.com. Visit Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids For Great Deals on Ford Transit Connect No matter if you're host to a larger, active family, a busy entrepreneur, or just enjoy the space, comfort, and convenience of a van, Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids always has exciting deals on the Ford Transit Connect. We have a huge selection of New Ford Transit Connect Vans and Wagons for work and play, and if you have more specific needs, our friendly staff will be more than happy to order one to your exact specifications. Take a look at our selection of New Ford Transit Connect models, and if you need a van for your business, be sure to get in touch with our Commercial Vehicle Specialists. They can offer business owners exclusive deals and upfit assistance, so be sure to get in touch. If you want to be sure you'll love the New Ford Transit Connect, go for an extended test drive with Borgman's Day Trader Program before you make your decision. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!
Explore The Rigorous Testing Process of New Mazda Vehicles
Borgman Mazda prides itself on providing reliable, high-quality, and fun-to-drive New Mazda Vehicles in West Michigan. Mazda has always paid special attention to the driver experience, whether that means perking up a repetitive daily commute, spending less time at the repair shop, or creating a more luxurious driving experience with the right blend of noises being allowed in with the rest phased out. How they research, develop, and test these aspects of their vehicles is truly astounding. more Read More This article from InsideMazda gives us a glimpse inside the testing facility just north of Hiroshima, Japan. You could call these tests cruel and unusual, with the prototypes being blasted with hurricane-force winds, damaging amounts of light, and extreme temperatures. In addition, engineers barrage a vehicle with a cocktail of radio waves test the mettle of the electronics. Here are some excerpts from the article: https://media.flixel.com/cinemagraph/i6ogel4f06xj8ot96hs5?hd=true The Wind Tunnel Mazda made great strides in the refinement of the Mazda CX-5, and much of that comes down to time spent in the wind tunnel. Here, in the path of a 140 mph blast of air, the car’s aerodynamics were fine-tuned to improve high-speed stability, while increased insulation and improved window and door seals were developed to reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency by reducing air resistance. “My job is to reduce the noise level caused by the wind," says Takuya Fujita, an engineer working at the Thermal & Fluid Function Development grounds. "If we can create a silent, relaxing, sophisticated atmosphere, drivers will be able to focus more on the driving.” https://media.flixel.com/cinemagraph/3ln8rfi3u1rb6kig97oq?hd=true Climate Testing Laboratory At the flick of a switch, the sun appears. Row upon row of huge halogen bulbs turns night into day with a Death Valley intensity of light and an accompanying barrage of heat. In a matter of minutes, the temperature will reach 130°F and an array of endurance tests will begin on this Mazda MX-5. During development, all new Mazdas spend up to 30 days in here, tested for performance and emissions in the most extreme conditions. Cars are driven at speeds of up to 124 mph on the rolling road or simply left under the lamps to examine the effects of heat soak. A matching chamber sits on the other side of the control room; this one a giant refrigerator that chills to -40°F ensuring that all temperature extremes are covered. https://media.flixel.com/cinemagraph/1bhvxplzsqb11ym635ww?hd=true Anechoic Chamber With Wi-Fi, cell phones, GPS, digital radio, and television all competing for space, our airwaves are a constant buzz of broadcasts on an increasing number of frequencies and wavelengths. Modern cars are packed with electronic systems—typically up to 100 computers—that need to be protected from potential malfunctions. That’s where this striking anechoic chamber comes into play. Inside the huge space, insulated with carbon tubes and polystyrene, sealed off from the outside world, Mazda engineers bombard vehicles with radio waves—powered by a transmitter that’s more powerful than a national radio station. After testing here, all Mazdas are guaranteed to be totally safe from harmful electromagnetic waves, anywhere in the world. Test Drive a New Mazda Vehicle at Borgman Today If you're looking around West Michigan for a dependable and exciting new vehicle, visit Borgman Mazda in Grand Rapids and see our selection of New Mazda Sedans, Hatchbacks, and SUVs! These vehicles are built and tested for driver enjoyment, comfort, and reliability, and that's why Borgman stands behind the product with our Exclusive 20-Year 200,000 Mile Warranty on every New Mazda we sell. Check out our New Mazda Inventory online or visit our showroom to find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle. Our staff will ensure that all of your questions are answered and that you've had adequate time with a new vehicle before making your decision. Our dedication to service is what sets us apart, and it's why we're West Michigan's Exclusive Mazda dealer.
New Ford F-150 Truck A Favorite Among Veterans
Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids was pleased to hear that the Ford F-150 was named the top truck choice among veterans of our armed forces. Many features of the New Ford F-150 are likely a part of the appeal to veterans, including the tough-as-nails frame, high-strength aluminum-alloy body, powerful engines, and numerous tech features like the onboard WiFi Hotspot and SYNC 3. more Read More Below is an excerpt from an article published in the Official Ford Media Center, recognizing the Ford F-150 as the favorite truck of veterans. Ford F-150 The Favorite Vehicle Of America’s Military Ford F-150 has again been named most popular vehicle among America’s active and retired military service members, according to an analysis of former and active-duty military personnel using United Services Automobile Association’s car buying service. This honor reflects 41 years of Ford’s uncompromising commitment to quality, durability and resilience with F-Series as America’s best-selling truck and 36 years as America’s best-selling vehicle. According to Jimmy Spears, auto analyst for USAA, a financial services group, Ford F-150 was the No. 1 purchase choice across all branches of the U.S. military last year. “We are proud and humbled that those who protect and defend our country choose Ford F-Series,” said Todd Eckert, Ford truck group marketing manager.“F-150’s high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body is designed to serve customers who are used to performing in the harshest of environments and who rely on the capability, durability, and functionality delivered consistently by Built Ford Tough.” You can read the full article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Shop New 2018 Ford F-150 at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids If you're looking for a New 2018 Ford F-150 in West Michigan, visit Borgman Ford and check out our huge selection! We have many different styles, trims, and configurations for both personal and commercial clients, and if you're not sure you're going to love the New F-150, take one out for a full day with our new Day Trader Program! We have exclusive offers for members of the U.S. military and their families too - stop by for a visit and we'll make sure you get the best possible deal on your next vehicle. Check out our full stock on New Ford F-150 Trucks, and if you have any questions, our team will gladly assist you. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!
Five Fords You Have To See At The Grand Rapids Auto Show
Visit DeVos Place in Downtown Grand Rapids Through February 4th Looking for something fun to do this weekend? The 20th Annual Michigan International Auto Show is going on now at DeVos Place! Our staff was there at the beginning of the show chatting with local Ford fans about what's ahead, helping present a large sample from the 2018 - 2019 lineup. There were many New Ford vehicles on display, but we wanted to share a few that really stood out this year. Take a look at our list of New Ford Vehicles you don't want to miss during your visit below or Click Here for more information about the Michigan International Auto Show! more Read More The New 2019 Ford Ranger We were very excited to see this new prototype on display, giving West Michigan truck fans the chance to see it in person well before it makes it's debut next year. The New Ford Ranger features a rugged high-strength steel frame backbone, the proven Ford 2.3L EcoBoost engine, and the class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission. If you'd like to receive an email alert when the 2019 Ford Ranger arrives at our showroom, click here to sign up! The New 2018 Ford EcoSport This is Ford's most recent addition to the SUV lineup and gives drivers who favor smaller vehicles some options they'd normally only find in larger SUVs. For West Michiganders, perhaps the biggest draw to the New Ford EcoSport is the availability of 4WD on a vehicle nimble and dexterous enough for navigating our downtown area. The low price point also makes this an attractive vehicle for younger shoppers along with amenities geared more towards tech-savvy drivers. We already have a 2018 Ford EcoSport in stock, with plenty more on the way. Take a look at our inventory here! The 2019 Ford Mustang 'Bullitt' Edition Ford decided to treat West Michigan auto enthusiasts by sending the 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt Edition to the auto show in Grand Rapids. This limited-edition Mustang pays homage to the 1968 film 'Bullitt' starring Steve McQueen, with design elements of the Ford Mustang from the film translated to the 2019 model. The retro-cool green paint, sophisticated chrome accents, hand-stitching on the interior, and the shiny 'Bullitt' badge all need to be seen in person to be truly appreciated. The 2019 Ford Edge ST One of the most welcome surprises from the Detroit Auto Show this year was the 2019 Ford Edge ST, and you'll find one out on display here. At a passing glance, it looks similar to the 2018 Ford Edge SUV, but if you look closer and you'll notice the more aggressive stance, larger wheels, slicker tires, and beefier brakes. The finished model will also boast the most powerful V6 engine in its class with a specially-tuned 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine. The 2018 Ford Shelby Super Snake Mustang Though it wasn't officially a part of the Ford display, the exhibit it belongs to sits directly next to it. The "Great American Muscle Cars" display shows three sterling examples of Detroit Steel, including this ultra-rare 50th Anniversary Ford Shelby Super Snake Mustang. The monstrous 5.0L V8 with forced induction makes 670 horsepower, though turbochargers can be added to push that number beyond 750. It launches from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and makes the quarter-mile sprint in just under 11. This isn't your average Mustang GT! Bonus: 1908 Ford Model T After getting your ticket from the box office, you'll immediately see The Gilmore Car Museum's stunning display of antique and classic cars, including a 1908 Ford Model T and a 1928 Ford Model A. It's fascinating seeing these vehicles juxtaposed with the 2018 Ford Lineup, so go check them out and chat with the museum representative! See Something You Like at the Auto Show? Find it at Borgman Ford! If you see a New Ford car, SUV or Truck at the Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids this weekend and fall in love, stop by our showroom and take it out for a spin! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will happily answer any questions you may have about the vehicle, and will never pressure you into buying. In fact, if you feel you need more time with a vehicle to make your assessment, sign up for our Day Trader Program and get a full day to decide! Remember, if you ever see a better deal on a New Ford, bring it to us and we'll match it. Come see why we're the Best in the West!
Driving a Ford Sports Car Around West Michigan Is Fun, And Science Proves It
Ford Studies Emotions While Driving Ford Performance Vehicles Ask any sports car owner in West Michigan and they'll tell you - driving a performance car like the New Ford Mustang or the Ford Focus RS is an absolute joy, and Borgman agrees. The on-demand power and responsive handling add a little thrill to something as ordinary or mundane your morning commute. more Read More However, did you know that there is research showing it's good for you? This article recently published by Ford will go over what they call "buzz moments," or small periods of excitement that contribute to our overall wellbeing. They also worked with some neuroscientists and vehicle designers to produce a "Buzz Car" which syncs the passengers' emotions to a stunning LED light show. You can check out this video showcasing the modified Ford Focus RS Buzz Car, and read an excerpt from the article below: Want To Feel Good? Forget Kissing, Football And Dancing – Get A Sports Car Forget romance, fine dining or an epic boxset binge – new preliminary research reveals that driving a sports car on a daily basis is among the best ways to boost your sense of wellbeing and emotional fulfillment. The study measured “buzz moments” – peak thrills that play a vital role in our overall wellness – as volunteers cheered on their favorite football team, watched a gripping Game of Thrones episode, enjoyed a passionate kiss with a loved one or took an intense salsa dancing class. Only the occasional highs of riding a roller coaster ranked higher than the daily buzz of a commute in a sports car. Working with neuroscientists and designers, Ford brought the research to life with the unique Ford Performance Buzz Car: a customized Ford Focus RS incorporating wearable and artificial intelligence technology to animate the driver’s emotions in real time across the car’s exterior. “A roller coaster may be good for a quick thrill, but it’s not great for getting you to work every day,” said Dr Harry Witchel, Discipline Leader in Physiology. “This study shows how driving a performance car does much more than get you from A to B – it could be a valuable part of your daily wellbeing routine.” Study participants who sat behind the wheel of a Ford Focus RS, Focus ST or Mustang experienced an average of 2.1 high-intensity buzz moments during a typical commute; this compared with an average of 3 buzz moments while riding on a roller coaster, 1.7 while on a shopping trip, 1.5 each while watching a Game of Thrones episode or a football match, and none at all while salsa dancing, fine dining or sharing a passionate kiss. “We think driving should be an enjoyable, emotional experience,” said Dr. Marcel Mathissen, research scientist at Ford of Europe. “The driver-state research Ford and its partners are undertaking is helping to lead us towards safer roads and – importantly – healthier driving.” You can read the entire article by visiting Media.Ford.com. Add A Little Excitement To Your Daily Driving at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI If you're shopping around West Michigan for a New Ford sports car, stop by Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids to see our selection of performance vehicles! From hot hatches to fastbacks to dune toys, come take a look at our New Ford Mustangs, Ford Focus ST and Focus RS models, as well as the ever-popular New Ford F-150 Raptor pickup. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to answer any questions you might have about these or any other Ford vehicles you're interested in. If you see something you like, take it for a spin, and if you're not quite finding what you're looking for, we can order it for you too! Remember, if you see a better deal on a New Ford somewhere else, let us know and we'll match it. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!