Blog

In the South Bay, we know that a truck isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a vital part of your livelihood. Whether you’re hauling materials to a job site in Redondo Beach or towing a boat for a weekend getaway, you need a partner as dependable as you are. That’s why we’re proud to share that the Ford F-Series has earned top marks in dealership service satisfaction among truck owners in the J.D. Power 2026 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study. For 49 years, the F-Series has been America’s best-selling truck lineup, but this latest achievement shows that our commitment to you doesn’t end when you drive off the lot. What the #1 Achievement Means for You This year’s J.D. Power study analyzed input from over 51,000 vehicle owners and evaluated key aspects of the service experience, such as repair quality and convenience. Ford holds the No. 1 position among truck owners for dealership service satisfaction, reflecting its strong focus on repair quality, efficiency, and customer experience. Here’s how that level of service impacts your daily life in Hawthorne and beyond: "Right the First Time": We understand our customers don’t have time for return visits. Ford has implemented enhanced repair quality protocols and technical training to ensure your F-150 or Super Duty is fixed correctly the very first time you bring it in. Increased Uptime: With the launch of Uptime Assist, we aim to significantly reduce repair duration. We use specialized technical support hotlines and improved parts availability to get you back to work faster. Innovative Convenience: At South Bay Ford, we bring service directly to you. Our Service Department offers Mobile Service at no extra charge, allowing certified technicians to perform select recall repairs and routine maintenance at your home or office. We also offer Pick-Up and Delivery for both business customers and consumers. We will pick up your vehicle, complete the service, and return it to you. Contact us for details or to schedule your appointment. Built for Work, Backed by the Best While this recognition is a major win, it’s only part of the story. The 2026 F-150 continues to lead with unmatched capability that makes every South Bay job easier: Unrivaled Power: Tow up to 13,500 lbs. or haul a best-in-class payload of 2,440 lbs. when properly equipped. The Ultimate Job Site Partner: Features like Pro Power Onboard™ turn your truck into a mobile generator, providing up to 7.2 kW of exportable power for your tools or camping gear. Your Mobile Office: Use the available interior work surface to finalize quotes, review blueprints, or simply catch up on emails between meetings in El Segundo. Experience Award-Winning Service at South Bay Ford Choosing a Ford F-Series means selecting a truck trusted by owners for reliable service. When it’s time for maintenance or repairs, South Bay Ford is here to help keep your truck running at its best. Is your truck ready for its next check-up? Visit us at South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, right off the 405. Experience firsthand the "Right the First Time" service that reflects Ford’s commitment to service nationwide.

Whether you’re a local contractor in Hawthorne, a delivery fleet based in Torrance, or a small business owner in the South Bay, fleet management can take time away from the work that drives your business. With maintenance schedules, fuel costs, and vehicle health tracking, the workload adds up quickly. Ford Pro™ is designed to simplify these tasks with connected tools that help improve uptime, visibility, and daily efficiency. Six Decades of Trust: The Transit Legacy Ford Pro builds on a sixty-year history of commercial reliability, beginning with the Ford Transit. This year marks the Transit’s 60th anniversary. Since the first model rolled off the assembly line on August 9, 1965, the Transit has been a dependable partner for businesses of all sizes. This longevity isn’t just a milestone; it’s a testament to the Transit’s adaptability and "real-world" design. For sixty years, Ford has used customer feedback to build a van that gets the job done efficiently, whether you are a baker needing high roofs for shelves or a construction crew requiring a heavy-duty chassis cab. When you choose a Transit for your South Bay business today, you benefit from six decades of know-how built into every generation. The Intelligence of Ford Pro AI While the Transit offers physical reliability, Ford Pro™ AI delivers digital intelligence. This new fleet assistant analyzes millions of data points, from vehicle health signals to driving behavior, and transforms them into actionable insights. Imagine you’re a fleet manager for a plumbing company. Instead of sifting through fuel logs manually, you can ask Ford Pro AI to analyze utilization and spot vehicles with unusual patterns. It can even generate recommendations to lower fuel costs, turning a long afternoon of data entry into a task that takes just minutes. Service That Comes to You In the South Bay, vehicle uptime is everything. If one of your vehicles is in the shop, your business slows down. Ford Pro Service is designed for quick service, prioritizing business customers so you don't have to wait. For maximum convenience, Ford Pro Mobile Service brings the shop directly to you. Certified technicians can handle routine maintenance like oil changes, brake service, and tire rotations wherever and whenever it’s most convenient, keeping your crews on the move while others wait for a service bay. Simplified Software and Charging The latest Ford Pro™ Telematics updates give fleet managers a clearer view of their operations than ever before. Near Real-Time Data: Trip processing speeds are faster than ever, giving you instant answers when a customer calls. Safety Alerts: Get automatic alerts for high-risk behaviors to enable proactive coaching. Electric Transition: For those moving to electric fleets like the E-Transit, Ford Pro E-Telematics simplifies managing home charging reimbursements with new bulk-export features. Powering Your Bottom Line The Ford Pro ecosystem is more than just a set of tools; it’s a commitment to your success. Whether you operate a single work truck or a full fleet of Transit® vans, the goal remains the same: more productivity, less downtime, and improved visibility across your operation. Ready to see what 60 years of expertise and cutting-edge AI can do for your business? Visit us at South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, right off the 405. Our commercial team is ready to show you how Ford Pro can revolutionize your workday.

Tax season is officially here. For many South Bay drivers, that refund check raises the same question every year: spend it, save it, or use it to upgrade something meaningful? If you have been considering a new vehicle, your tax refund can be the "secret weapon" for a smart down payment on something practical, efficient, and perfectly built for coastal California living. The 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid stands out as one of the most sensible upgrades you can make this year. Why the Maverick Makes Financial Sense The Maverick Hybrid is one of the most affordable trucks on the market, but it certainly doesn't feel entry-level. It delivers a combination of utility and efficiency that is hard to find elsewhere. Unmatched Efficiency: Excellent MPG makes the daily commute to Torrance, Redondo Beach, or downtown Long Beach much easier on the wallet. Lower Barrier to Entry: With a starting price significantly lower than full-size trucks, your refund goes much further here. Modern Tech & Safety: You aren't sacrificing features; enjoy available advanced driver-assist technology and the latest Ford connectivity. The "Flexbed" Advantage: A practical truck bed designed for weekend DIY projects or securely hauling beach gear. By using your refund to bolster a down payment, you can significantly reduce your monthly commitment, making a brand-new vehicle with full warranty coverage more attainable than you might think. Built for the South Bay Lifestyle The Maverick Hybrid isn't just a budget-friendly choice; it’s a lifestyle choice. It’s designed for the reality of Southern California life: Beach Ready: Toss your surfboards, coolers, and wet gear directly into the bed, no more worrying about sand in the upholstery. Urban Agility: Its compact footprint lets you snag that tight parking spot in Manhattan Beach that a full-size pickup would have to pass up. Versatility: From hauling home improvement supplies to weekend camping trips, it offers the utility of a truck with the drivability of a sedan. A Smart Alternative to Buying Used Many buyers assume a used vehicle is the only "safe" financial choice. However, when you factor in current new-vehicle incentives, the security of a bumper-to-bumper warranty, superior fuel efficiency, and the lack of "maintenance surprises," a new Maverick Hybrid often offers stronger long-term value. Put Your Refund to Work at South Bay Ford Rather than letting your refund disappear into everyday expenses, consider putting it toward a vehicle that supports your daily routine and future plans. Ready to explore your options? Visit us at South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, conveniently located right off the 405. Our team can walk you through the trims, available incentives, and financing options to help you maximize your tax refund. Your refund can do more than sit in a bank account; it can drive you forward.

Recognition matters, especially when it comes from independent experts who assess vehicles based on design, capability, efficiency, safety, and overall value. Announced at the Detroit Auto Show, the North American Truck of the Year award is decided by an independent panel of automotive journalists from the U.S. and Canada. In 2026, the Ford Maverick once again earned national recognition as part of that discussion, reaffirming what many South Bay drivers already value about this compact pickup. Across Hawthorne, Torrance, Redondo Beach, and Long Beach, the Maverick stands out because it matches how people actually drive in Southern California. It delivers real capability without the bulk, fuel costs, or everyday hassle that often come with full-size trucks. Validation like this helps simplify the decision process. In a crowded market filled with options, independent validation signals long-term value, thoughtful engineering, and everyday reliability. For South Bay drivers comparing compact trucks, it reinforces that the Maverick is not just popular, it is widely respected for how well it performs in real-world conditions. Built for Everyday Driving in the South Bay The Maverick’s appeal begins with practicality. Its compact footprint makes it easier to navigate narrow streets and parking structures, while the truck bed still carries the gear that defines weekend life along the coast. That practicality that shows up in daily driving: • Easy maneuverability through dense traffic and neighborhood streets • Practical space for surfboards, bikes, tools, and home-project supplies • Comfortable commuting across LA and the South Bay • Hybrid efficiency that helps reduce fuel stops It feels less like a scaled-down truck and more like a smarter one. Efficiency Without Compromise One reason the Maverick continues to earn industry attention is its balance of efficiency and usability. The available hybrid powertrain delivers strong fuel economy for everyday driving, while optional all-wheel drive and versatile bed features support both work and recreation needs. The benefits are straightforward: • Lower day-to-day operating costs • Real versatility for work and lifestyle use • Modern interior technology and driver-assist features • Long-term ownership value That combination matches what compact truck buyers increasingly want in 2026: capability without excess. A Smart Choice in Today’s Market As vehicle prices rise across segments, many drivers are rethinking what they truly need. The Maverick answers that question clearly. It offers meaningful utility, excellent efficiency, and everyday comfort at a price point that remains more approachable than that of larger trucks. For South Bay drivers seeking flexibility on both workdays and weekends, the Maverick continues to make a strong case. Support from independent industry experts reinforces its value, but for most buyers, the appeal is simpler: it fits real life. Experience the Maverick at South Bay Ford If you are considering a compact truck this year, the Ford Maverick deserves a closer look. Visit South Bay Ford in Hawthorne or browse our current Maverick inventory online to explore trims, features, and availability. Our team can help you compare configurations, review financing options, and find the right fit for how you drive. Industry recognition tells part of the story. A test drive tells the rest.

Spring break is just around the corner, and for many South Bay families, that means it’s time to trade the school run for a scenic highway. Whether you’re planning a trek to the central coast, a desert escape, or a week in the mountains, the right vehicle is the ultimate road buddy for every mile of the journey. At South Bay Ford, we see two main types of travelers this time of year: those who want a versatile, tech-forward ride for coastal cruising, and those who need a high-capacity sanctuary on wheels. Here is how to decide between the 2026 Explorer and the 2026 Expedition for your spring break adventure. The 2026 Ford Explorer: The Nimble Navigator If your spring break involves navigating the tight parking lots of a seaside town or the winding roads of a mountain pass, the Explorer is built for you. We currently have a lineup of Explorer inventory on the lot, so you can find the exact trim, from the sporty ST-Line to the rugged Tremor, that fits your family's style. The Space: It comfortably seats up to seven. The real magic for travelers is the PowerFold® third-row seat, which lets you swap between passenger space and cargo room with the push of a button, perfect for fitting that extra cooler or a last-minute souvenir. The Tech: For those long stretches of the 405 or the 101, BlueCruise hands-free driving technology is a game-changer. It lets you stay relaxed (while keeping your eyes on the road) during heavy holiday traffic. Efficiency: The Explorer is the sensible choice for families looking to maximize their miles per gallon while still having plenty of power to merge onto the freeway. The 2026 Ford Expedition: The Ultimate Travel Sanctuary When "packing light" isn't in your family’s vocabulary, or when you’re traveling with a full crew of teenagers and their gear, it’s time to move up to the Expedition. Our selection of Expeditions is curated for high-quality comfort, offering a premium, spacious experience that feels like a private lounge. Maximum Breathing Room: This is a true eight-passenger powerhouse. If you opt for This is a true eight-passenger powerhouse. If you opt for the Expedition MAX, you get even more cargo space behind the third row, so you don't have to choose between the strollers or the camping gear. Cabin Comfort: The Expedition is designed for the "long haul." With available massaging seats and a massive panoramic Vista Roof®, the journey becomes just as enjoyable as the destination. Heavy Duty Capability: Planning to tow a boat to the river or a trailer for a week of camping? With a best-in-class towing capacity of up to 9,600 lbs (when properly equipped), the Expedition handles the extra weight without breaking a sweat. Which One Fits Your Spring Break Plans? Choose the Explorer if: you want a versatile, tech-heavy SUV with plenty of options to choose from. It’s as easy to park at the beach as it is to drive to Big Bear. Choose the Expedition if: You want an uncompromising, high-quality luxury experience with maximum interior "breathing room" for a large crew and heavy gear. Get Road-Trip Ready at South Bay Ford Don’t wait until the day before your trip to realize you’ve outgrown your current ride. Visit us at South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, conveniently located right off the 405. Our team can help you compare these two legends side by side, test the cargo space, and ensure your family’s spring break starts on the right foot. Where is your spring break taking you? Come find the Ford that will get you there!

When you switch to an all-electric lifestyle with the Mustang Mach-E, you’re not just buying a car; you’re upgrading to a smarter way to drive. While our South Bay "winters" are famously mild, the cooler March mornings and weekend trips to the mountains are the perfect time to tap into the high-tech features that keep your Mach-E performing at its peak. The best part? Most of these "efficiency hacks" are handled automatically by your car, ensuring you have maximum range for your next adventure with no extra effort. 1. Let the FordPass® App Do the Heavy Lifting One of the most premium features of the Mach-E is the ability to set a "Departure Time" via the FordPass® App. Instead of waiting for your car to warm up while you’re behind the wheel, you can schedule it to warm up while it’s still plugged into your home charger. Your Mach-E will automatically bring the battery to its optimal operating temperature and pre-set the cabin to your favorite climate. By the time you’re ready to pull out of your Hawthorne driveway, your car is primed for maximum efficiency, and you haven’t used a single mile of your battery range to get there. 2. Experience the Comfort of Targeted Heat Ford designed the Mach-E with efficiency in mind, including how it keeps you cozy. On a crisp morning, using your heated seats and heated steering wheel is the most efficient way to stay warm. Because these features heat your body directly rather than warming the entire cabin, they use significantly less energy. It’s a more "targeted" luxury that keeps you comfortable while preserving your battery for long stretches of the 105 or 405. 3. "Set it and Forget It" with One-Pedal Drive If you’re navigating the typical stop-and-go traffic around Redondo or West LA, One-Pedal Drive is your best friend. It’s a smart feature that uses regenerative braking to recharge your battery when you lift off the accelerator. It’s not just a more relaxing way to drive in traffic; it’s an effortless way to boost your range throughout the day. 4. A Quick "Health Check" for Your Tires Just like a gas-powered vehicle, keeping your tires at the recommended pressure is key to efficiency. As temperatures fluctuate throughout March, a quick glance at your tire pressure helps ensure you have the lowest rolling resistance, keeping your drive smooth and your range high. Experience the Future at South Bay Ford The Mustang Mach-E is built to make your life easier, not more complicated. From its intuitive tech to its effortless performance, it’s the perfect companion for the South Bay lifestyle. Ready to see how the Mach-E fits into your routine? Visit us at South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, right off the 405. Our EV specialists are here to show you how these smart features work and help you find the perfect Mach-E from our current inventory.

For South Bay contractors, landscapers, and small business owners, March through April isn't just "spring break" season - it’s strategy season. As you sit down with your tax professional to look at your 2025 filings and plan for 2026, one of the most impactful moves you can make is upgrading your primary work tool: your truck. At South Bay Ford, we know that a new F-150 or Super Duty is more than just a ride; for a qualifying business, it can be a strategic investment that may help lower your future tax liability. Heavy-Duty Deductions: Leveraging Section 179 for Your F-150 If you use your vehicle for business more than 50% of the time, you may be eligible for significant tax deductions. Under Section 179 of the IRS code, many small businesses can deduct a substantial portion—or even the full purchase price—of a qualifying vehicle in the year it’s placed in service. The "Heavy" Benefit: Because most F-150 and Super Duty models have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 6,000 lbs., they often qualify for accelerated depreciation, which is not available to standard passenger cars. Pro Tip: While we love the tech in these trucks, we aren't financial advisors! Always consult your tax professional to see exactly how these deductions apply to your business structure. More Than a Write-Off: A Productivity Powerhouse A tax-advantaged truck only works if it actually helps you get the job done. The 2026 F-150 is designed to be the ultimate job-site partner: Pro Power Onboard: Turn your truck into a mobile generator. Whether you’re running power tools at a job site in Torrance or keeping a laptop charged between client meetings in El Segundo, you have up to 7.2 kW of exportable power at your fingertips. Best-in-Class Capability: With a maximum available towing capacity of 13,500 lbs. and a payload of up to 2,440 lbs., the F-150 handles the heavy lifting, so you don't have to. Smart Utility: Features like the available interior work surface turn your cab into a mobile office, perfect for finalizing quotes or reviewing blueprints on the go. Upgrade to a Super Duty Need even more muscle? For South Bay businesses hauling heavy machinery or large trailers, the Ford Super Duty offers the next level of commercial power. These "heavyweight" trucks are built for the toughest jobs in Southern California and often qualify for more favorable tax deduction categories because of their specialized nature. Visit South Bay Ford in Hawthorne The best time to plan for your business’s future is now. Visit us at South Bay Ford, conveniently located right off the 405. Our commercial vehicle team can help you find the right F-150 or Super Duty configuration to meet your needs, while your tax professional helps you maximize the financial benefits. Your refund can do more than sit in the bank. Let’s put it to work on the road.

If you follow Mustangs, you know every new chapter carries weight. From the original pony car to today’s modern performance machines, Mustang has always evolved with purpose. The anticipated arrival of the 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC signals what may be the most aggressive, track-focused Mustang ever destined for the street, and a performance moment rarely seen in the South Bay. Positioned as the next evolution in Ford’s high-performance Mustang lineup, the Dark Horse SC is expected to slot between the standard Dark Horse and the ultra-exclusive Mustang GTD. It is designed for enthusiasts who want uncompromising performance without stepping into limited-production supercar territory. For Southern California drivers who value power, precision, and daily drivability, the Dark Horse SC offers a rare balance. 700+ Horsepower: Built to Dominate At the heart of the Dark Horse SC is an anticipated 5.2-liter supercharged Predator V-8, expected to produce more than 700 horsepower. This engine configuration builds on Ford’s proven high-performance architecture, delivering relentless acceleration and track-ready durability. Paired with a Tremec® seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Dark Horse SC is engineered for rapid, seamless gear changes. Whether launching out of a corner on the track or accelerating along the Pacific Coast Highway, the power delivery is expected to feel immediate, controlled, and unmistakably Mustang. Precision Handling, Purpose-Built Performance Managing this level of power requires advanced chassis engineering. The Dark Horse SC is expected to feature MagneRide® adaptive suspension, Brembo® performance brakes, and Variable Traction Control, allowing drivers to tailor handling characteristics to driving conditions and skill level. Aerodynamics play a critical role as well. Enlarged cooling vents help manage heat under demanding conditions, and an aggressive rear spoiler is designed to generate significant downforce at speed. Every exterior element serves a functional purpose, reinforcing the Dark Horse SC’s track-first mindset. A Driver-Focused Interior Inside, the Dark Horse SC translates its aggressive exterior into a cockpit built around the driver. Expected features include a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, carbon-fiber interior accents, and Alcantara-trimmed seating designed to keep the driver firmly connected to the car. For those planning regular track time, available RECARO® racing seats provide added lateral support during high-G cornering, ensuring control remains the priority even in extreme conditions. Coming Soon to South Bay Ford Although final pricing and specifications have not yet been announced, the 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC is expected to be available for ordering in March 2026. Whether you are tracking updates on the Dark Horse SC or looking to experience Mustang performance today, the team at South Bay Ford is ready to help. Visit us in Hawthorne to explore our current Mustang inventory and stay informed on what is coming next in this legendary lineup.

At South Bay Ford, our Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program delivers a near-new driving experience without the wait or the premium price tag of a brand-new vehicle. Whether you are commuting from Palos Verdes or heading to the office in El Segundo, you want a vehicle that reflects your success and still makes financial sense. A Certified Pre-Owned Ford strikes that balance, combining modern features, factory-backed assurance, and long-term value that resonates with today’s informed buyers. What Sets Ford Certified Pre-Owned Apart A Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is more than a used car. It is a carefully vetted alternative for drivers who want confidence without overpaying. When you choose a CPO Ford, whether it is a well-equipped Ford Explorer Platinum or a capable Ford F-150 Lariat, you are selecting a vehicle that has passed a rigorous 200-point inspection by factory-trained technicians. Every major system, from the powertrain to advanced technology features, is thoroughly reviewed to meet Ford’s exacting standards. Each CPO vehicle also includes a factory-backed limited warranty and powertrain coverage, often extending protection beyond the original ownership period. That added layer of coverage gives you confidence well beyond the showroom, helping you drive with peace of mind long after you leave the lot. Because most CPO vehicles are recent model years, you still enjoy the technology and comfort features modern drivers expect. Advanced safety systems such as Ford Co-Pilot360, wireless smartphone connectivity, and premium interior materials are commonly included, all at a significantly lower cost than first-owner pricing. A Smart Financial Strategy For many drivers, a CPO is not just a purchase; it is a strategy. By choosing a vehicle that has already absorbed its initial depreciation, you benefit from lower monthly payments, stronger value retention, and more flexible financing options without compromising performance or design. The Best of Both Worlds at South Bay Ford At South Bay Ford, our Certified Pre-Owned inventory meets the same standards as our new-vehicle showroom. From fuel-efficient hybrids to rugged, work-ready trucks and refined SUVs, our selection is designed to meet the expectations of our South Bay community. Visit South Bay Ford in Hawthorne to explore our Certified Pre-Owned inventory and see why CPO is a smart, fulfilling way to get behind the wheel of the vehicle you have been waiting for.

In the South Bay, we are no strangers to a fast-paced, tech-forward way of life. From the aerospace innovation in El Segundo to the smart, connected homes of Manhattan Beach, our community values technology that simplifies everyday routines. That is why we are excited to introduce the next evolution of the Ford Digital Experience: the Ford AI Assistant. Designed to be far more than a traditional voice command system, the Ford AI Assistant acts like a digital co-pilot, a “genius” in your dashboard that learns your habits, understands your preferences, and anticipates your needs every time you get behind the wheel. Technology That Understands You Conventional voice assistants often struggle with natural speech or multi-step requests. The Ford AI Assistant is different. Powered by advanced generative AI, it understands conversational language, letting you speak naturally, just as you would to a passenger riding shotgun. Smarter navigation: You can say, “I need a coffee shop near the Hermosa Pier with outdoor seating,” and your Ford will identify the best match and automatically plot the route. Vehicle Health: If a tire is low after a cold night, it won't just beep. It can alert you if tires are overinflated for your current terrain and even suggest which drive mode would be best for the local canyon roads or beach access routes. Visual Intelligence: Imagine you are at a home improvement store looking at a pallet of mulch. Instead of guessing, you can simply snap a photo on your phone and ask, "How many of these will fit in my truck bed?" The assistant analyzes the photo and confirms exactly how many you can haul based on your Ford's specifications. Your Seamless Link to the South Bay The Ford AI Assistant integrates with the FordPass app, keeping you connected even when you are away from your vehicle. You can check whether the doors are locked after a hectic morning or prepare the cabin to your preferred temperature before heading out into the afternoon heat. For South Bay commuters navigating the daily grind on the 405, this technology becomes a digital sanctuary. It can summarize your morning emails, manage your calendar, or cue up a calming playlist to help you unwind during stop-and-go traffic, all while keeping your hands on the wheel and your focus on the road. The Future in Your Pocket, Arriving in 2026 The future is closer than you think. Starting in the first half of 2026, the Ford AI Assistant will roll out through the Ford and Lincoln smartphone apps. This app-first approach lets you experience advanced AI capabilities with the Ford you already own, even before the assistant is fully integrated into vehicle dashboards starting in 2027. Experience the Future at South Bay Ford If you are curious about how Ford’s latest technology will fit into your daily drive, our team at South Bay Ford is here to help. Visit us to explore current Ford models, learn more about upcoming digital features, and see how innovation continues to shape the Ford driving experience. Stop by South Bay Ford or browse our inventory online to stay connected to what’s next.

The Ford Explorer has long been a familiar sight on Southern California roads. It’s the SUV families rely on for school drop-offs during the week and beach days or weekend road trips. For 2026, the Explorer builds on that versatility with updates that simplify daily driving and add reassurance when the road leads beyond the city. This year’s updates focus on two priorities that matter most to SoCal drivers: added stability when the road gets rough and less stress when the freeway gets crowded. Meet the New Explorer Tremor The biggest update for 2026 is the introduction of the Explorer Tremor, a new trim designed for drivers who want to explore a little farther off paved roads without sacrificing family comfort. The Tremor sits slightly higher than other Explorers and comes equipped with tires designed for dirt, sand, and uneven terrain. Protective panels underneath help shield key components when you venture onto rougher paths. In everyday terms, that means easier travel on gravel roads, campground trails, or beach access routes. It also includes a smart all-wheel-drive system that automatically directs power to the wheels with the most grip. You don’t have to think about it; the Explorer adjusts on its own when roads turn slick, sandy, or muddy. When you want extra muscle, the Tremor can be equipped with a powerful turbocharged V6 engine. The result is strong acceleration and plenty of power for merging, passing, or towing without feeling strained. A Smarter Way to Handle Freeway Driving Southern California commutes can be exhausting, especially on busy stretches of the 405. The 2026 Explorer introduces BlueCruise 1.5, Ford’s latest hands-free highway driving system, designed to make long drives easier and less tiring. On approved highways, BlueCruise allows the Explorer to help steer, accelerate, and brake while you keep your eyes on the road. New for 2026, the system can even change lanes on its own when needed, like passing slower traffic or moving away from an ending lane. It also subtly shifts the Explorer within its lane to provide extra space when driving alongside large trucks, creating a more relaxed, natural driving experience on crowded freeways. Comfortable Space for People and Gear Inside, the 2026 Explorer continues to focus on comfort and simplicity. Every model features a large central touchscreen and a fully digital driver display, so navigation, music, and vehicle information are easy to access. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard, so your phone connects without wires. Ford has also improved seat cushioning throughout the cabin, making longer drives more comfortable for everyone. Upgraded trims include quilted seating and front seats with a massage feature, a welcome touch for commuters and road-trip drivers. Ready to Tow and Go Every 2026 Explorer comes standard with a Class III Trailer Tow package, enabling a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Whether you’re pulling a small boat, jet skis, or a trailer for a mountain getaway, the Explorer is ready without extra upgrades. See the 2026 Explorer at South Bay Ford From the sporty ST-Line to the refined Platinum and the adventurous new Tremor, there’s a 2026 Explorer built for how you live and drive. Visit South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, just off the 405 at Rosecrans, to test drive the 2026 Ford Explorer and see how these updates can make your everyday drive more comfortable, capable, and enjoyable.

Southern California offers some of the country’s most diverse outdoor landscapes, from the sandy shores of the Pacific to the rugged terrain of the Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests. Living in the South Bay means you need a vehicle that handles weekday commutes as confidently as it tackles weekend escapes. The 2026 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are built for that balance, combining real off-road performance with everyday comfort and style. Whether you’re a lifelong off-road enthusiast or exploring trail-capable SUVs for the first time, the 2026 Bronco family at South Bay Ford is engineered to exceed expectations both on the trail and on the commute. What’s New for the 2026 Ford Bronco in Southern California For 2026, Ford focuses on refinement, heritage, and everyday usability, enhancing what drivers already love about the Bronco rather than reinventing it. The headline addition is the 60th Anniversary Package, celebrating six decades since the original 1966 Bronco. Available on select Outer Banks models equipped with the Sasquatch™ Package, this limited offering blends classic design with modern performance. Heritage-inspired paint options like Wimbledon White and Ruby Red are paired with distinctive details, including “1966” wheel center caps, vermilion-red Bronco grille lettering, and Ebony and Alpine White leather seating with embossed anniversary logos. Across the lineup, the Bronco continues to deliver smooth, predictable handling on sand, pavement, and mountain trails. The Bronco Sport receives notable technology upgrades for 2026, including a standard 13.2-inch center touchscreen and the latest SYNC® system for faster, more intuitive connectivity. Built for Beaches, Backroads, and Everything in Between At the heart of Bronco capability is its Goes Over Any Type of Terrain (G.O.A.T. Modes™) system, designed to adapt seamlessly to Southern California’s changing conditions. Sand Mode is ideal for loose terrain and coastal driving, helping maintain momentum during trips to places like Pismo Beach or sandy access roads near the coast. Slippery Mode adds confidence during sudden rain on the 405 or when navigating damp mountain fire roads in the San Gabriel Mountains. Baja Mode unlocks the Bronco’s high-performance off-road character. The Ultimate Open-Air Experience Few vehicles capture the spirit of SoCal driving like the Ford Bronco. The full-size Bronco offers removable doors and roof panels, making it easy to enjoy open-air cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway or expansive desert views near Joshua Tree. Adventure isn’t always clean, which is why available washout interior flooring with integrated drain plugs and durable seating materials make cleanup easy. After a day at the beach or on muddy trails, the interior can be rinsed out and ready for whatever comes next. Full-Size Bronco vs. Bronco Sport: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle? The Bronco lineup offers two distinct paths to adventure, depending on where and how you drive. The full-size Ford Bronco is built for drivers who prioritize serious off-road performance, including available Trail Control™, impressive ground clearance, removable body panels, and hardware engineered for deep trails, rock crawling, and towing. It’s ideal for frequent trips to destinations like Big Bear, Anza-Borrego, or more remote trail systems. The Ford Bronco Sport delivers a more compact, versatile approach. With standard 4x4 capability, a city-friendly footprint, and improved technology for 2026, it’s a great fit for drivers who want easy parking during the week and the confidence to head out for weekend camping or mountain getaways. Gear Up at South Bay Ford Whether you’re drawn to the rugged strength of the full-size Bronco or the city-to-trail versatility of the Bronco Sport, South Bay Ford has the inventory and expertise to help you find the right fit. Our team understands the local landscape and can guide you through trim levels, G.O.A.T. Modes™, and factory-approved accessories to match how and where you drive. Ready for a new view? Visit South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, just off the 405 at Rosecrans, to test drive the 2026 Ford Bronco lineup and Bronco-ready accessories.