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SUV Comparison: 2014 Ford Flex vs 2014 GMC Acadia vs 2014 Dodge Durango

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2014 Ford Flex

2014 Ford Flex

There are so many choices when it comes to picking the right SUV and it can be an overwhelming process. That is why we created this comparison of the top SUV contenders for 2014. We put these SUVs to the test in our comparison video that includes the 2014 Ford Flex, 2014 GMC Acadia and the 2013 Dodge Durango (the 2014 Dodge Durango was not yet available) We compared these SUVs on engine performance, interior, technology and safety.

Check out the comparison video here…

The 2014 Ford Flex features a twin turbo V-6 EcoBoost engine churning out 365 horsepower with 350 foot pounds of torque.  The Flex produces this impressive power while still delivering similar fuel economy. Fighting for a close second is the Dodge Durango with 290 horsepower and 260 foot pounds of torque. Coming in last is the GMC Acadia with 288 horsepower and 270 foot pounds of torque.

Moving inside these top-of-the-line SUVs, you will notice ample space coupled with several comfort features.  Claiming the top spot again, is the Ford Flex with more rear passenger head, leg, and hip room.  The Flex also comes available with leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood inlay, ambient lighting, solar tinted glass, front-row center console and comfortable seating for seven.

The GMC Acadia is sufficient in space with ample front room and available heated and cooled seats. Finding their way to keep up, the Dodge Durango offers less interior room. The unique shifter may catch your eye. It resembles an old radio dial.

You want the best technology when on the road, right? The Dodge Durango offers UConnect access system, and a 7-inch customizable digital gauge display.

Ford Flex stands out with available rear view camera, BLIS® with cross-traffic alert, push button start, Sony Audio system with 12 speakers, Navigation System with SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, SYNC with MyFord Touch and HD Radio.

The GMC Acadia, offers the Intellilink system,  but according to Edmunds.com, “Intellilink is sometimes slow to process touch inputs, which can make it frustrating to use.”

Protecting your family and having the latest safety features is must have in a family SUV. This category was a three-way tie with all of these vehicles having advanced safety measures and receiving excellent safety ratings.

These SUVs brought it all to the table however it is clear that the Ford Flex is the real winner. Now that you have all the facts visit us online at www.ReedHasIt.com 

2014 FORD MUSTANG COBRA JET PROTOTYPE SELLS FOR $200,000

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Ford Mustang JET

2014 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet

Last weekend at the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company’s Las Vegas sale, the 2014 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet prototype fetched $200,000. Ford Motor Company auctioned it at no reserve with proceeds benefitting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The organization assists those living with this unpredictable and often disabling disease of the central nervous system.

After spirited bidding that electrified the auction block, an anonymous bidder purchased the Cobra Jet. The winning bidder is not only the proud owner of the NHRA-legal vehicle, but they are now an honorary member of Team Mustang with full backstage passes to the Ford Product Development Center, Ford Design Studios and Ford Racing. The winning bid also made an important contribution in the fight against MS.

“Watching the car cross the block in support of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society was very rewarding,” says Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “It is an amazing competition-ready car that will make any team an instant force in its class. This Mustang Cobra Jet will be an inspiring reminder for anyone who sees it on the drag strip to continue working to combat the effects of MS.”

This Ford is powered by a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 mated to a T4 racing transmission, and boasts an optional traction “wheelie” bar, 8.50 ET certified chrome-moly safety cage, exclusive Cobra Jet-branded Weld wheels, three-link rear suspension, lightweight racing brakes, 9-inch rear axle, and custom Cobra-branded Recaro seats. The purpose-built factory race car was the prototype for the 2014 model year racer, and carries a unique serial number of #2014 BJMS CJXX1. Clad in a fiery orange satin finish with dark gray reflective stripes, it also bears a distinctive license plate with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s logo.

The winning bidder also received Training at Roy Hill’s Drag Racing School in Sophia, N.C., their experience captured for a future Mustang book and documentary, and video of the vehicle build, testing and the action from Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas

“We cannot be more grateful to the entire team at Ford Motor Company for their tireless work for our cause,” said Elana Sullivan, president of the Michigan Chapter of the National MS Society. “Because of the incredible outcome of this auction, we will be able to move even closer to creating a world free of MS.”

“We’re pleased this Mustang Cobra Jet captured so much attention at the Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas sale,” says Steve Ling, North America car marketing manager for Ford. “Ford’s long-standing relationship with Barrett-Jackson gives us the opportunity to help charities such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society; Brain Injury Association of America; Carroll Shelby Foundation; and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation through unique vehicle sales.”

Cited: http://ford.to/15QOQOJ

For all of your Ford Mustang needs visit www.ReedHasIt.com

Ford Mustang II the “Unsung Hero”

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mustang dallasFord Motor Company has been successful in creating a unique culture and following around the famous Mustang.  Throughout the years the Mustang has been through numerous changes both inside and out with various reactions to different models.  Ford calls the Mustang II an “Unsung Hero.” The new 1974 design that some may say helped marked the end of the muscle-car glory days was actually a big seller.

While not the most popular of all the ‘Stangs; 40 years later, Ford is celebrating the ’70s version of this American Icon.  The 1974 design was a drastic change from the previous models. It was smaller, economic and a complete deviation from its well-known, hotrod roots.

Weighing in at 500 pounds less than it’s predecessor and 19 inches shorter, the trimmed down version was actually a return the svelte roots of the original 1964-1966 models. The 1973 model had grown large and heavy to some earlier Mustang enthusiast.

Regardless of what people think of this car of yesteryear, the numbers speak volumes. Per a Wall Street Journal article, it outsold other Mustang models and kept the nameplate alive until it could be revived in the 1980s.

What do you think of this ‘Stang of days gone by? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page.  To shop online for a new or pre-owned Ford Mustang, visit www.ReedHasIt.com!

Read the full Wall Street Journal story: http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2013/09/24/ford-touts-unloved-1974-mustang-ii-as-unsung-hero/

Ford and Lincoln Gain Momentum as Consumer Choice

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Ford Fusion

Ford Fusion help boost August growth in sales.

Ford is on a roll!  According to WardsAuto, Ford is continuing its sales momentum with an 8.1% gain in August on a daily-rate basis, and the outlook for Ford, is looking even better.

With the average age of vehicles on U.S. roads pushing 11 years, the publication says consumers are looking to replace their old cars. In addition, since many have higher mileage vehicles, the option of a new car, truck or SUV can be even more appealing.

“When consumers come in (to dealerships), they have the choice of high-mileage used vehicles or new vehicles with low interest rates,” Ken Czubay, Ford sales chief said. He said that he believes that will help sustain and build momentum of new-vehicle sales.

So, how popular is the Ford lineup?  Ford sold 216,017 vehicles in August, with 79% of those deliveries representing retail sales. That is the highest percentage since 2006.

Small vehicles are big! Overall Ford small-car deliveries were up 30%, compared with year-ago with the Fiesta surging 55.7% and Focus rising 3.0%.

Other hot sellers include the Fusion and Explorer. These vehicles posted increases of 9.6% and 8.7%, respectively. The Fusion’s performance marked its best-ever August/

Ford says things could have been even better for the Focus, Fusion and Explorer but there were inventory  constraints. There is good news, Ford recently began production of the Fusion at its Flat Rock, MI, assembly plant to boost inventory.

As for the ever-popular Ford F-Series pickup, it was another great month. Sales climbed 18.6%, compared with like-2012, to 66,728 units.

Look at Lincoln

According to WardsAuto, things are looking good for Lincoln’s MKZ. Once again, it was the volume leader with 3,652 deliveries, a 5.8% year-over-year increase. The MKS and Navigator were up 7.3% and 9.3%, respectively.

As you can see, when you buy a Ford, you’re in good company.  Hundreds of thousands of savvy consumers agree that Ford and Lincoln have a great lineup that offers power, performance, technology and style. When you’re ready to shop a huge selection, check out www.ReedHasIt.com.

Source: http://wardsauto.com

2013 Lincoln MKZ Vs 2013 Cadillac ATS Vs 2013 Lexus ES-350

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2013 Lincoln MKZ Dallas, Houston

Lincoln MKZ

ReedHasIt.com is your place to find and compare, when you’re looking for your next Luxury Vehicle. There are many aspects of a car to take in consideration when purchasing your vehicle; engine performance, interior, technology and safety. Based on those categories, we compared the 2013 Lincoln MKZ, 2013 Cadillac ATS and 2013 Lexus ES 350, which are the top leading competitors in the mid-size luxury vehicle class.

Check out our comparison video below…

When it comes to engine performance, the Lincoln MKZ has two available engines including the 3.7L V-6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 278 pounds of torque.The Lexus ES-350, comes in second, with 268 horsepower and 248 pounds of torque. In last place is the Cadillac ATS with 202 horsepower and 190 pounds of torque.

When you step inside, the MKZ has more front leg, shoulder and hip room than both of its competitors. U.S. News & World Report says “The Cadillac ATS is a comfortable ride but has cramped second row seats. “Car reviewers also commented that the Lexus ES-350 interior was spacious, but it had fewer standard features than the 2012 model.

When you purchase a luxury vehicle you expect to get the latest and greatest technology.The MKZ has available My Lincoln Touch that allows you to stream music, audible turn-by-turn directions, change climate control, and more. U.S. News & World Report writes that the Lexus’ infotainment system Enform on the ES-350 is too clunky.The Cadillac ATS has the available Cue system, however there is no navigation available for this model.

Safety is a top priority for most car buyers. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety the 2013 Lincoln is a TOP Safety Pick for midsize luxury vehicles. The 2013 Lexus ES-350 also made the list but not in the plus category and the Cadillac ATS wasn’t tested by the IIHS.

Now that you know, compare for yourself and find what you are looking for at ReedHasIt.com

Ford Motor Company Uses Thermal Imaging Technology to Detect Interior Leaks

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Thermal imaging cameras that help detect air leaks in vehicles, helping create quieter cabins.

Thermal imaging cameras that help detect air leaks in vehicles, helping create quieter cabins.

The engineers at Ford Motor Company are now utilizing technology that has traditionally been used by law enforcement and our military to catch high-level criminals. They  are using this technology to help them find leaks and help improve the overall interior quietness of the vehicle.

Thermal imaging cameras capture the radiation present then display it as an infrared image. The engineers then use this information to look at hot spots where the heated air escapes from the vehicle.

Ford Vs. Competition

According to data from Ford’s U.S. Global Quality Research System, the 2013 Ford Fusion earned a 67 percent approval rating for interior quietness compared to 58 percent for the 2012 Toyota Camry.*

“Ford is redefining our vehicles through many innovations – both features to improve the driving experience and fuel economy, and advanced new tools to help engineer better vehicles,” said William Dedecker, noise, vibration and harshness engineering supervisor. “We are using thermal imaging to further improve quietness so customers can enjoy the other features our vehicles offer, such as audio systems… and even the sounds of silence.”

Closing the Gap

Not only does this help Ford reduce noise and control air leaks; it helps increases heating and cooling efficiency by reducing energy loss, similar to how sealing a home prevents leaks of heated air in the winter and air conditioning in the summer.

Before thermal imaging, Ford engineers relied on sensory findings to prevent air leaks. They would fill the car with smoke, then watch for the smoke to exit from small holes. They also walked around a vehicle and would feel for air leakage. In addition, they relied on non-medical stethoscopes to try to hear air leaking from the cabin, a method they still rely on to some extent.

While successful, these approaches were not as consistent. With the use of thermal imaging, engineers can speed up development time by finding results at a faster rate.

Engineers have identified several key areas that are vulnerable to air leaks and letting noise into a vehicle, including moonroofs, window glass, door trim, trunk lids and liftgates, doors and the base of the windshield.

Check out the full Ford lineup at www.ReedHasIt.com!

Read the whole store here: http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=38210

 

Hybrid Face-off: 2013 Ford Fusion vs 2013 Toyota Camry

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2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid

2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid

As hybrid technology becomes easier to produce, the demand for these eco-friendly vehicles continues to increase year over year. That puts the pressure on the manufacturers to step up and focus their efforts on both producing the most efficient and the more stylish hybrids.

Ford Motor Company has emerged as the industry leader with their completely redesigned 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid. The Fusion has a 2.0L engine with a total 188 horsepower that produces 47 miles per gallon for city, highway and combined. According to U.S. News & World Report, the 2013 Ford Fusion ranked #1 in the most affordable midsize car and hybrid car. Not only is the Ford Fusion affordable with excellent fuel economy, but it also comes with Ford EcoGuide which coaches you to get the best MPG. Other technology available includes MyFord Touch, which allows drivers to access to their phone, navigation, climate and entertainment all hands-free.

2013 Camry hybrid Dallas

2013 Toyota Camry Hybrid

The 2013 Toyota Camry hybrid didn’t fall too short, and took the #2 spot as the most affordable midsize car, according to U.S. News & World Report. The Camry has a 2.5L engine and gets up to 43 city and 39 highway miles per gallon — which is less than the Fusion. Toyota offers the Entune infotainment system, which syncs with your smartphone and uses your data plan to access things like Bing and Pandora.

Overall it’s pretty clear the Ford Fusion is the winner in this segment based on exterior, interior performance and technology. When you have made up your mind, visit ReedHasIt.com to schedule a test drive of the 2013 Ford Fusion.

 

Reed Has It Compares the 2013 Focus, Civic & Corolla

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2013-Ford-Focus-front-three-quarter

The 2013 Ford Focus is Available at ReedHasIt.com

Thinking about a compact car but unsure of which one is right for you?  With such fierce competition it can be hard to choose. There are a large array of offerings in the the smaller car market.  So, we decided to look at some of the top competitors: The Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.

There’s only one that has what it takes to win with style, performance, technology and safety.  When you’re ready to take a test drive for yourself, we have a large selection of vehicles at our Reed Has It family of dealerships in the Houston, Dallas and Oklahoma City areas.

The 2013 Ford Focus, 2013 Honda Civic and the 2013 Toyota Corolla face-off in this comparison video. Watch, compare and decide.

How to Help Oklahoma Tornado Victims

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This picture can hardly describe the aftermath of this F-4 tornado.

Aftermath of the EF4 tornado that struck Moore, OK

Monday, May 20th, a deadly tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma leaving behind a path of disaster. Dozens of people, including children,  were killed and hundreds injured. The tornado, which the National Weather Service classified as  an EF4 (166 to 200 mph), is estimated to have been at least two miles wide as it moved through Moore. Now, the clean up and recovery efforts are underway and many people need help.

Randall and Sherry Reed, the Randall Reed Ford team in OKC and our family of dealerships in the greater Dallas/Fort Worth and greater Houston areas are working to gather much-needed donations.

In Oklahoma City, the Randall Reed Ford team is creating an on-site donation point (located on I-44 and May in Oklahoma City). Victims need bottled water, non-perishable food items, baby formula, diapers, clothing, etc. All collected items go to the local of the Red Cross.

Listed below are a number of other donation opportunities. Whether you can give $10, donate blood or drop off clothing, every contribution counts.  “When we all give a little, we can help a lot,” said Randall Reed, owner or World Class Automotive Group. “This community has been devastated. It’s our hope that everyone comes together to help lift the people of Moore up and strengthen them during this heart-wrenching time.”

From making donations at Randall Reed Ford in Oklahoma City to making a charitable contribution to organizations such as the Red Cross or Salvation Army, there are a number of ways you can help. In addition, there are links listed for those who need assistance.

OKC Tornado Relief Donation Drop-Off Point:

Randall Reed Ford
2800 West I-44 Service Road
Oklahoma City, OK 73112

Victims of Storms Need the Following:

Bottled Water
Non-perishable Foods
New Baby Formula
New Baby Food
New Diapers
New Wipes
New Clothes
Donations of all new goods will be donated to the Red Cross

Other Ways to Help:

Donate blood via Red Cross
Donate funds via Red Cross
Salvation Army
United Way
Feeding America

Text to Help:

– Red Cross: Send a $10 donation to the Disaster Relief fund by texting REDCROSS to 90999
– Salvation Army: Text the word “STORM” to 80888 to make a $10 donation. To confirm your gift, respond with the word “Yes.”

Resources for Those in Need:

Red Cross Shelters
Register or search safe and well listings
Disaster Recover Guide
United Way
Feeding America

Our heartfelt thanks to all those who are both onsite helping in the recovery efforts and those who contribute anyway they can. From Randall and Sherry Reed and our family of dealerships, we continue our ongoing thoughts and prayers for all of those affected. www.ReedHasIt.com/Help

2013 RAM 1500 VS 2013 FORD F-150

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2013 F-150

2013 Ford F-150

Photo: RAM Trucks.com

Photo: RAM Trucks.com

 

 

 

 

 

The 2013 RAM 1500 versus the 2013 Ford F-150 with EcoBoost, the best-selling truck in America for 36 years. Who has the power, performance, technology and safety you need in a truck?

The new RAM 1500 has been updated for 2013. It is available with five grill options and nice different trims levels. Check out new interior features on select models, including the new feature old radio-knob style rotary dial that shifts gears. It also touts an air-leveling suspension system, though critics have said it has a stiffer ride. In a tow-off, the RAM comes up short. The 3.6L V-6 can only tow 6500 LBS. with a maximum payload of 1524 LBS. while delivering 305 horsepower and 269 pound foot of torque.**

The Ford F-150 also has updated their look and offers 10 available trims from which you can choose. The F-150’s V^ with EcoBoost produces  365 horsepower — that’s 16% more than the average for all Pickup Trucks —  and 420 pound-feet of torque — 15% more than the average for all Pickups. If you’re wondering, yes, that’s more than than standard V-8 engine.

The 2013 Ford F-150 can tow up to 11,300 LBS with a maximum payload of 2,060 LBS.** Go ahed and scroll back up to see how much more that is than the RAM.

At the heart of the RAM 1500’s interior is the UCONNECT infotainment system, which is available for the first time. On the higher level trim models, you will notice are interior updates, however one bump that remains is that transmission hump that takes up valuable leg space and cargo room.

In the 2013 F-150 you’ll find the popular SYNC with available MyFord Touch, which provides you with hands-free calling, climate control, navigation, 911 assist, streaming apps, vehicle health reports, and more. And don’t worry, no big transmission hump to get over here. Ford has a fully-flat load floor that allows you to take full advantage of your truck.

The RAM 1500 has several safety features including front-side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that the RAM 1500 produced marginal roof strength test results.

The Ford F-150 performed well in all of their crash test. It come with ABS; electronic traction and stability control; front and front seat side-impact airbags; side curtain airbags for both front and rear passengers on the SuperCab and SuperCrew. In fact, The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2013 Ford F-150 their TOP SAFETY PICK.***

Power. Performance. Technology. Safety. What drives you? Now, you have the power to choose.

When you do choose a 2013 Ford F-150, look no further than ReedHasIt.com. It’s the one-stop shop for all your automotive needs!

Source: Ford.com, RAMTrucks.com. **cars.findthebest.com, ***IIHS.org