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Borgman Ford Thanking The Community For Helping Support The Grandville Band Program Borgman Ford would like to thank all of the people in the Grandville community, band parents, friends, and family who made time to stop by last Saturday to test drive a new Ford. Thanks to an excellent turnout, we are pleased to share that the Grandville Band Boosters raised over $4,000 for uniforms, equipment, student scholarships, and travel expenses! During the Ford Drive 4 UR School Event on Saturday, people came out and visited us at Grandville High School to test drive a New Ford. For every person who went out for a spin, Ford pledged $20 to the band program. To date, Ford "Drive 4 UR" events have helped schools and community organizations all across the country raise over $35 million dollars for their associated causes. For more information, visit FordDrive4URcom. Thank you again to everyone who came out and made Saturday a rousing success. We could not have asked for better weather and met so many nice people throughout the day. We enjoyed seeing some familiar faces turn up as well! Together, we really made a difference to further music education in the community. We hope to see you all again next year!

Review Features Of The New 2018 Ford Expedition: Coming Soon To West Michigan Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids is pleased to announce that the New 2018 Ford Expedition is on it's way to West Michigan, bringing with it a number of new and exciting updates. Below, we'll take a closer look at some of the new and existing features of Ford's comfortable, capable, and spacious SUV offering. Some of these include seating for 8, power-folding seats, a WiFi hotspot, LED lights, and more. more Read More Be sure to keep an eye on our New 2018 Ford Inventory, and feel free to visit us when it arrives to take one out for a test drive! New Exterior Styling & Aluminum Body For 2018, the New Ford Expedition sports all-new body panels, which give the SUV an air of refinement and visually conveys its capability. This year, the Ford Expedition also joins the ranks of other Ford vehicles built with the virtually rust-proof and tough-as-nails aluminum body. This upgrade comes standard and contributes to better vehicle protection and fuel economy. When you see the New 2018 Ford Expedition in person, there are other styling changes that will become apparent as you do a walk-around. The most noticeable are the impressive new headlights, luxurious grille design, and the extended body length of the New Expedition MAX, which makes SUV by about one foot longer and adds an additional 16.9 cu./ft. of cargo space. Experience The Lavish Interior of the New 2018 Ford Expedition The interior of the New 2018 Ford Expedition is one of the most luxurious Ford has to offer. It features a number of new innovations centered around comfort, convenience, and safety, including fold-flat seating, onboard WiFi Hotspot, Panoramic Vista Moonroof, and more. Starting in the driver's seat, you'll immediately know that this SUV, especially in the Platinum trim, is truly something special. Wrap your fingers around the leather-wrapped heated steering wheel. Feel the smooth wood finishes on the console. Experience the peaceful quiet in the cabin, or crank up the Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System and hear your favorite tunes with stunning clarity. Ford SYNC 3 keeps you connected with all of your favorite apps, and supports full integration with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. With the simple press of a button, you'll be able to perform a number of actions on your connected smartphone using intuitive voice commands, such as make phone calls, listen to music, ask for directions, and more! New 2018 Ford Expedition Powertrain Because Ford understands how important it is to have an engine that can keep up with avid adventurers, they made the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine standard on the New 2018 Ford Expedition. This engine makes use of the latest innovations from Ford to produce up to 375 horsepower and 470 lb./ft. of torque, all while achieving an EPA-estimated 20 combined miles-per-gallon - quite a feat for a vehicle of this size. Part of this boost in efficiency is owed to weight savings of almost 300 pounds, thanks to the New Expedition's light-weight aluminum body. With all of the enhancements included in the Platinum Trim, the Expedition is able to achieve even more with up to 400 horsepower. This year, Ford has also paired the new engine with their 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission, which features a tow/haul mode and distributes power where you need it, whether you're trekking down gravel roads or navigating through the West Michigan winter weather. Other features that make the 2018 Expedition the most adventure-ready to date include Continuously-Controlled Damping, Electronic Limited-Slip Differential, Independent Rear Suspension, and more. Towing Made Easy the New 2018 Ford Expedition With all of the above capabilities in mind, towing has never been easier than in the 2018 Ford Expedition. The exceptional torque-output of the 3.5L EcoBoost paired with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package allows the SUV to tow a best-in-class 9,300 pounds - more than your average camper, boat, set of dirt bikes. Other features such as Trailer Sway Control, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, available Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage, and the Electronic Limited-Slip Differential make long towing trips easier than ever. Arguably one of the most trying aspects of towing your toys across West Michigan has nothing to do with is backing the trailer up. Now, with the available Pro Trailer Backup Assist, you can "steer" the trailer using a knob on your center console, using the high-definition screen with a heads-up display. Whether you've had years of practice backing up a trailer, or this would be your first time, you can do so on the 2018 Ford Expedition with precision and confidence! Control the New 2018 Ford Expedition With Your Smartphone Compatible with the New 2018 Ford Expedition is the innovative new FordPass app. With this innovative tool, you'll be able to interact with your SUV in the following ways via your iPhone or Android device: Find parking, reserve and pay ahead of time Compare fuel prices at stations along your route Receive key vehicle info and schedule service Lock, unlock and start your vehicle remotely Get FordPass help from a friendly FordGuide For more information visit FordPass.com. New Ford Expedition SUVs For Sale in Grand Rapids, MI at Borgman Ford The New 2018 Ford Expedition will be arriving soon at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, so keep an eye on our lineup of New 2018 Ford Vehicles. When the capable and luxurious New SUV arrives, hurry in and take one for a spin! Our friendly and highly-knowledgeable sales staff will be happy to assist you, but will never pressure you into buying. Feel free to ask us any questions about the New Ford Expedition, including details on any of the above features. Come see why Borgman is the Best in the West!

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!

Learn More About How To Care For Your Tires by Understanding How They Work Tires are an integral part of your vehicle, and Borgman is here to help you make sure they stay in good shape for as long as possible. Tires have quite the job description: they carry the vehicle everywhere throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan, they keep road noise down, the ride smooth, and keep your grip in slick conditions. To achieve all of this, there is a fair bit of physics and chemistry at play, but you don't really have to worry about any of that. Getting peak performance out of your tires from Borgman is as simple as giving them a look-over every month. Below, we've provided a punch list of what to look for and tips to keep your tires in tip-top shape. more Read More Anatomy of a Tire & Fast Tips: Tread: The part that comes into contact with the road. This part can vary in composition or pattern depending on intended use. Snow tires will have deeper treads and a different blend of rubber than all-season tires and so on. Sidewall: Shows all of the technical information about the tire, protects the tire against minor scrapes with the curb, and provides structure to the tire. Bead: A rigid ring along the tire's openings at the base of the sidewall that wraps around the rim, producing that nearly-airtight seal. Air pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi.) Typically, tires should be inflated to 33 psi, but check your vehicle's specified number. Tires naturally lose about 1 psi of pressure every month. Because cold air is denser than warm air, tires also lose an additional 1 psi for every 10-degree drop in outside air temperature. That can be why they all appear to be going flat in the fall months. Those little 'hairs' on a new set of tires are actually called 'vent spews,' and are a result of air being forced out of the tire mold during production. Other than proving that a tire is new, they have no bearing on performance whatsoever. If you get a flat, installing your vehicle's spare tire is always preferable. If you absolutely have to use an aerosol sealant, please let us know during your visit. That way we know to clean everything and check your tire pressure monitoring system. Things to Know When Checking Your Tires First, read the safety and roadside emergency information in your owner’s manual. Frankly, it's much better to be familiar with the contents before it's a necessity. Step by step directions for changing the spare tire is in here. There is also an important distinction that we need to point out, and that's the difference between the maximum and operating tire pressure. Maximum pressure is molded onto the tire's sidewall, and pressure in the tire should never exceed this number. Operating tire pressure is what you aim for when filling your tires. Before we take an air pressure reading, ask yourself, "Are the tires warm?" To get the most accurate reading, your tire pressure needs to be checked “cold,” meaning the vehicle has been parked for at least an hour and in the shade. Even if it's a cool day and you only drove a mile, friction between the road and the rubber builds up heat and expands the air in the tire which throws off your reading. If you have to check them warm, subtract about 4 to 6 psi from your reading to compensate. Remove the tire valve cap, and place the tire pressure gauge on it firmly. Make sure you don’t hear any air leaking. A digital or dial gauge should give you a reading on the screen or dial; stick-type gauges have a stick that pops out the bottom—the highest pressure shown is your current tire pressure. Remove the tire gauge and measure again. If the pressure is low, add air by placing the end of an air pump hose over the tire valve. If you’re using a high-pressure air hose at a gas station, only fill the tire for five seconds, then stop. Lower-pressure personal air pumps can stay on for longer, especially if the tire is very low. Never leave the pump alone as it could overinflate the tire and damage it. Recheck the pressure. If the tire is overinflated, you can release air by pressing the valve inside the tire valve stem. An ink pen works great for this. Once you have confirmed your tire is inflated to the proper level, replace the valve cap. Repeat these steps for each tire, and don't forget to check your spare too! Everything you need to know will be printed on a sticker on the spare tire's rim or in your owner's manual. How Do I Know When I Need New Tires? While you're kneeling down checking the tire pressure, it's a good idea to take a close look for visible signs of wear and tear. In general, tires last about 6 years, but may need to be replaced if you notice any of the following: The tread has worn down to less than 3/32".  This is about the distance from the top of a penny to the top of Honest Abe's head. If any part of his head is covered, you should be ok for a while longer. Any bulges, blisters, or bubbles Cracking in the tread grooves Punctures, cuts, peeling, snags, or separation in tire tread or sidewall Sudden loss of tire pressure Poor handling or traction on slippery surfaces Pulling to one side while driving Sudden vibration while driving Tires that have been driven while flat Get Complete Tire Care at Borgman Ford Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI Keeping your tires inflated is essential for good fuel economy, responsive handling, safety, and getting the most miles out of them. However, there are other things that need to be done as well, such as rotations, balancing, and alignments. Making sure these are done as needed ensures not only tire health, but the longevity of other parts such as your brakes, suspension, and steering. If you need new tires, or just want to have them checked out by a certified and trusted technician, give us a call at 616-534-7651, or schedule an appointment online. Be sure to visit our Service Specials page for the latest coupons and offers. Drive safe, West Michigan!

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!

Drive One for the Grandville Band: Ford Donates $20 For Every Person Who Test Drives - up to $6,000! Want to help the Grandville Band Program raise up to $6,000? Join us at Grandville High School on Saturday, October 21st, 2017 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and take part in Ford Drive 4 UR School! For every person who comes by for a test drive, Ford will donate $20 to the Band Booster program. With enough people, they could raise up to $6,000 for new instruments, uniforms, and other band-related expenses. Anyone 18 years or older with a valid driver's license may participate, but only one valid test drive per household. It only takes a few minutes, but your participation makes a big difference! more Read More In 2007, Ford launched the Drive 4 UR School program to help raise funds for education. This allowed schools and their various programs to continue or expand their operations through participation with the community. Following the success of the program, Ford also launched Drive 4 UR Community to help other charitable and community organizations. Together, the two programs have raised over 35 million dollars nationally. To learn more about the program, visit forddrive4ur.com. We invite you to stop by, support the Grandville Band, and have some fun cruising around in a Brand New Ford Vehicle. We hope to see you there, and Go Dawgs! Grandville High School 4700 Canal Ave. SW Grandville, MI 49418 Get Directions Here

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!

From Holograms to West Michigan Roads: See How Ford Designers Make Use of Cutting-Edge Tech At Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, we've always been amazed by the talents of Ford Vehicle designers, especially the sculptors that produce mockups of concept cars out of clay based on an artist's sketches. The unfortunate truth is that sculpting these representations of a future Ford vehicle is a slow, expensive process. Looking for a better way to bring their vehicles to places like West Michigan faster, Ford has been experimenting with Microsoft HoloLens: a mixed-reality technology that can accomplish what used to take weeks or months in mere days. more Read More Using the powerful wireless headsets, Ford designers can see changes "projected" onto a Ford vehicle in real time, add notes to specific design elements using their voice, and collaborate with other designers on the project whether they're in the building or halfway around the world. Microsoft HoloLens also allows designers to study practical aspects of a New Ford Vehicle's design, such as seeing and adjusting a driver's field of view from the side mirrors, which is represented by ovals "projected" on a wall behind the vehicle. Pleased with the added capability and efficiency of Microsoft HoloLens, Ford has recently announced its plans to broaden their tests of the platform with their design teams around the world. You can read more about the Microsoft HoloLens and watch a video of this exciting new technology in action below. Here's an excerpt of an article published in the Official Ford Media Center: Make Way For Holograms: New Mixed Reality Technology Meets Car Design as Ford Tests Microsoft HoloLens Globally Ford designers have been swapping some clay-sculpting steels and rakes for mixed reality headsets and visualization software that can change vehicle design elements – side mirrors, grilles, vehicle interiors and more – in mere seconds. Designers have been piloting Microsoft HoloLens technology for a year now in Ford’s Dearborn studios, allowing them to see proposed virtual design elements as if these pieces were part of physical vehicles. They’ve been able to explore different shapes, sizes and textures of future vehicle attributes in minutes and hours instead of the weeks and months it can take to create clay models. And now, Ford is expanding this pioneering testing across the globe. “It’s amazing we can combine the old and the new – clay models and holograms – in a way that both saves time and allows designers to experiment and iterate quickly to dream up even more stylish, clever vehicles,” says Jim Holland, Ford vice president, vehicle component and systems engineering. “Microsoft HoloLens is a powerful tool for designers as we continue to reimagine vehicles and mobility experiences in fast-changing times.” HoloLens technology uses mixed reality, which enables designers to see holograms in photo-quality backdrops through wire-free headsets. They can scroll and preview at the flick of a finger through numerous design variations projected virtually onto an actual car or clay model. “We may not be able to teleport yet, but HoloLens allows us to review full-size 3D designs with designers and engineers around the world in real time,” says Craig Wetzel, Ford manager, design technical operations. “And we’ve only just scratched the surface, so possibilities for the future seem almost limitless. This is very exciting.”You can read the full article by visiting https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2017/09/21/ford-tests-microsoft-hololens-globally.html The Latest Ford Vehicles at Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, MI Ford is always pushing forward with new technology, whether it's in how they design their vehicles, make their operations more sustainable, or integrate exciting new features in their vehicle lineup for drivers in West Michigan to enjoy. During your visit to Borgman Ford in Grand Rapids, you can learn more about the exciting new technology available on New Ford Vehicles. For example, Ford SYNC 3 with AppLink and FordPass opens up a wide range of functionality between your Ford and your smartphone, including starting your vehicle, locking or unlocking the doors, hands and eyes-free calling, entertainment, navigation, and more. You can browse our full lineup of New Ford Cars, F-Series Trucks, and SUVs online, or visit us to take one out for a test drive. Come see why Borgman is 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!