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The Best Parts of Getting a Ford Bronco Stuck in the Sand

With the reprise of the iconic Ford Bronco and birth of the Ford Maverick, the new generation of vehicles are shaping the landscape of future car buyers' expectations. Efficient, customizable, all terreran, everyday drivers with enough storage capacity to sleep in during a camping trip will be the standard for a generation filled with wanderlust and “what if’s”. As adventure becomes more accessible due to the advent of the internet and various recreational conservation efforts, making vehicles more accessible is vital in reaching these emerging consumers. As the market tends to this emergence of our primal lust of natural thrill, car buyers will be presented with al-la carte options when purchasing their next vehicle; giving them the flexibility to build around their lifestyle.

Ford is stepping ahead of the curve with their latest lineups of vehicles like the Bronco and Maverick, both geared towards young groups looking for the flexibility of customization and efficiency of a new vehicle. In this series we will be focusing on the features of these vehicles, our experiences with the Bronco, news related to these vehicles, and various anecdotes we feel could be helpful to anyone interested in these vehicles.

As with many new 2021 vehicles, the release of the new off-road focused Bronco SUV is being delayed and some models like the “Sasquatch” package are being pushed back to a 2022 release date. Fortunately, the Bronco Sport models have made it to the road and are beginning to fill driveways across the nation.
We have been fortunate enough to secure multiple Bronco Sports at our dealerships and even drove a Rapid Red Big Bend model down the coast and throughout the state of Oregon
(more information and content to come from that ride soon). To say the least, we are big fans of the Bronco Sport. It’s versatility as an everyday driver has been very exciting, providing ease when traversing through backcountry to highway. I personally learn something new about the vehicle everytime I drive it. Without taking the time to study its various specs, you’ll never utilize them all - so let’s dive into some of my favorite Bronco Sport features.

AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAM CONTROL
You never knew you needed automatic high beam control until you're driving through the emptiness of night desperately looking for a place to set up camp. When you are driving through the vastness of Montana or weaving trees of Northern California with nothing but the moon and your headlights illuminating the road, your focus needs to be dialed in. It is a huge help to have your brights activated to give you a brighter, wider field of view to avoid any nocturnal animals running in front of your vehicle or sudden drop offs in the road. With that, you must also put other’s safety into serious consideration if another vehicle is driving ahead of you about to pass coming from the opposite direction. It seemed almost like magic when my headlights automatically switched from the high beams to low beams when the sensor detected oncoming headlights in the far distance. As soon as the vehicle passed, the high beams were reactivated; creating a smooth transition while not losing visibility for a split moment. This is something I was not expecting in the Bronco Sport and a taste of the great safety and tech features Ford is committed to implementing in their new line of vehicles.

G.O.A.T MODE
The “G.O.A.T Mode” feature in the Bronco Sport is a given when it comes to exciting specs. The acronym stands for “Going Over Any-type of Terrain”. This also is a great salute to Ford history as the first African-American designer hired by Ford, McKinley Thompson Jr, coined the G.O.A.T term when designing the original Bronco in the early 1960’s. There are 7 modes available including Eco, Mud, Normal, Rock Crawl, Sand, Slippery, and Sport (varies depending on trim level). I am not too sure how efficient each terrain mode is, but you could definitely feel an enhanced powertrain control when powering the throttle in Sport Mode, and Eco Mode will make the most out of your gas tank. I got the thing stuck pretty badly in the sand on the Oregon coast line and the Sand Mode was no saving grace. As the different modes do optimize your 4-wheel drive capabilities and electric power steering, the vehicle still has its limitations. I would assume the new Broncos coming out will handle nasty terrain better, but since I see the Bronco Sport as an everyday driver, it doesn’t lose any points there for me. Thankfully we were able to eventually dig the Bronco Sport out of the sand. We probably shouldn’t have been ripping donuts on a wet rainy beach; but ultimately it was a pretty epic time - most vehicles would have gotten stuck long before we did.

GAS MILEAGE
There have been mixed reviews online about the Bronco Sport’s fuel efficiency with a 1.5L 3 cylinder engine. I am here to say that we had a rather positive experience with gas mileage on our road trip. Driving through the backcountry with little traffic or along the coastlines in Eco Mode provided for optimal fuel performance as we clocked in around 30 mpg. We even switched over to Sport Mode every now and then without sacrificing any fuel efficiency, so it seemed.

110V POWER OUTLETS / CARGO STORAGE
I decided to put these two sections together because they went hand in hand on this trip. The multiple 3 prong 110V outlets (or the 12v power outlets depending on your Bronco Sport Model) could come in handy for a variety of reasons based on the person utilizing the vehicle. Personally, I was shooting various commercial spots with my run and gun camera package which included a Sony A7iii mirrorless camera, Macbook Pro for footage review / storage, and a DJI Mavic Air 2 drone. The drone being the beefiest in power needs, I was able to set up a base for my video equipment in the spacious back trunk with outlets to charge gear. It was like a mobile office and perfect since we were camping for multiple days. Although our model did not come with the 110V 3 prong outlets like the Badlands model does, I was able to plug an adapter into the 12V outlet that worked well for my needs. I would pay more money to have that feature, without a doubt. The all weather floor mats also provided a durable, slip free area that complimented my mobile office well. This allowed me to leave certain gear charging without worry about them sliding when driving (of course, not when your ripping donuts getting stuck on wet beaches).

I couldn’t conclude this section without highlighting the ease of throwing all our gear into the front seats, putting the back down, and transforming the Bronco into our sleeping quarters for multiple nights.

SHAPE AND LOOK
The overall look and shape of the Bronco Sport was very sharp and turned lots of heads. We had the Rapid Red Big Bend and the shade of color was muted enough to not stand out like a cherry colored sports car, but prominent enough to be the baddest whip at the campground. I’ve never driven a car that stopped people in their tracks to come talk my ear off like the Bronco Sport. I couldn’t count the number of times someone would approach me to ask about the engine, drive feel, gas mileage, new tech, or my favorite; when someone would tell a story about having an original Bronco when they were younger. Our Rapid Red 2021 Bronco Sport seemed to be a timemachine for a lot of people, it brought back memories when they were running wild ripping donuts in a Bronco themselves. They installed this sense of nostalgia. Made us feel that these moments of getting stuck on a beach and driving lost through the backcountry under western moonlight were worth living. That we would look back on these times and feel proud of how we got to our destination, even if the road was rocky.

These are just a few takeaways from my experience driving the new Bronco Sport, Big Bend Edition. There are plenty more specs and features that make these vehicles special, and each model of the 5 trims are slightly different; but at a glance these really stood out to me. I’m looking forward to learning more about this lineup of vehicles and fully diving into their capabilities. The legacy of the Bronco lives on, and I myself will be a part of that legacy when opportunity strikes to park one in my driveway.


Nick Schultz
Creative Specialist
Mark Williams Auto Group
Beechmont Ford - Mt.Orab CDJR - Mt. Orab Ford

"Onward weary traveler, continue to climb those tall mountains. As the path forward seems rough, the journey is worth traveling"

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Fall Bronco Sport

Fall in Cincinnati: The Perfect Road Trip for Coffee, Books and Adventure in a Ford Bronco Sport

There is something about fall in Cincinnati that makes you want to get out and drive. Maybe it is the cooler mornings, the changing leaves along the Ohio River, or the fact that Cincinnati has no shortage of places worth exploring. From historic neighborhoods and local coffee shops to independent bookstores and scenic drives, fall is one of the best times of year to enjoy everything our area has to offer. Working in automotive marketing, I spend a lot of time talking about vehicles and features. But every now and then, it is fun to think about the reason people buy a vehicle in the first place. It is not always about the commute. Sometimes it is about the Saturday morning plans that turn into an entire day of exploring. That is where the Ford Bronco Sport really fits in. Compact enough to navigate Cincinnati neighborhoods but built with the capability and versatility to take the scenic route, the Ford Bronco Sport makes a great companion for a fall road trip around Cincinnati. So, grab a jacket, bring an empty tote bag for the books you are probably going to buy, and plan a fall day around some of our favorite local stops. Start Your Morning in Over-the-Rhine There is no better way to begin a fall road trip around Cincinnati than with coffee. Over-the-Rhine is especially enjoyable in the fall. The historic architecture, tree-lined streets and walkable atmosphere make it easy to park your vehicle and spend some time exploring. Before you start wandering, though, coffee is a good idea. One of the more unique stops in the neighborhood is Iris Book Cafe. Located on Main Street, Iris combines several things that naturally belong together on a cool fall morning: coffee, books, art and a quiet place to slow down. The café is surrounded by bookshelves and features a collection of used and vintage books alongside locally focused food and coffee. There is something refreshing about putting the phone down for a few minutes, ordering a warm drink and browsing shelves without being in a hurry to get somewhere. That is the kind of stop that can turn an ordinary Saturday into an actual road trip. Why the Ford Bronco Sport Makes Sense for Cincinnati Adventures The best road trips do not always require hundreds of miles. Sometimes the best adventures are close to home. The Ford Bronco Sport is a great fit for exploring Cincinnati because it gives drivers the flexibility to move between city streets, scenic backroads and destinations outside the city. Whether you are heading downtown for coffee, crossing the river into Northern Kentucky or taking the long way home to enjoy the fall colors, the Bronco Sport is designed for drivers who enjoy getting out and exploring. It also has the kind of versatile interior space that comes in handy for a day like this. Coffee shop? Easy. Farmers market? Plenty of room. A stack of books you did not plan on buying? There is room for those, too. And if your Cincinnati fall road trip turns into a weekend adventure, the Ford Bronco Sport gives you the capability to keep going. Cross the River for Coffee and Books After spending some time in Cincinnati, head toward the river. One of the great things about living in this area is how quickly a drive can take you somewhere completely different. Cross the Ohio River and you can find yourself exploring Northern Kentucky in just a matter of minutes. For anyone who loves bookstores and coffee shops, Roebling Books & Coffee - Covington is worth adding to the itinerary. Located near the Roebling Bridge, this independent bookstore and coffee shop offers exactly the kind of atmosphere you want on a fall afternoon. Browse the books, order a specialty coffee or tea and take your time. The location is also convenient for exploring Covington and enjoying views of the river and Cincinnati skyline. There is something particularly enjoyable about bookstores in the fall. Maybe it is the cooler weather. Maybe it is the idea of finding a new book to bring home for the season. Either way, a bookstore and coffee shop combination is difficult to beat. Take the Scenic Route This is where I would encourage you not to rush back home. The Ford Bronco Sport was made for drivers who appreciate a little spontaneity. Instead of immediately heading back to the interstate, take a different route. Drive through some neighborhoods you have not visited in a while. Find a local park, like Devou Park. Stop here for one of the best views of Cincinnati. Take a few pictures of the fall colors. Cincinnati is full of places that can be overlooked when we are focused on getting from Point A to Point B. Fall is a good reminder that the drive itself can be part of the experience. That is one reason the Bronco Sport stands out among compact SUVs. It encourages a different mindset. It is practical for everyday life, but it also feels ready when your everyday plans suddenly turn into an adventure. Make One More Coffee Stop If you are heading back toward Cincinnati, consider making one more stop before calling it a day. Coffee Emporium has been a familiar name for coffee lovers in the Cincinnati area, and its Hyde Park location offers a comfortable neighborhood setting for an afternoon coffee break. This is the perfect time to order something seasonal, sit outside if the weather cooperates and talk about the rest of your fall plans. Because once fall arrives in Cincinnati, one road trip usually leads to another. You start with coffee and a bookstore. Then you start thinking about apple orchards. Hiking trails. Weekend drives. Football tailgates. Fall festivals. Before long, your weekends are booked. Your Fall Adventure Starts Close to Home You do not have to travel across the country to have a memorable road trip. Sometimes all you need is a good vehicle, a free Saturday and a reason to explore your own city. The Ford Bronco Sport offers versatility, capability and adventurous personality that make those spontaneous plans easier to say yes to. Whether you are navigating downtown Cincinnati, heading into Northern Kentucky or finding a scenic route surrounded by fall colors, it is ready to go where the day takes you. From our perspective at the dealership, that is what we enjoy most about seeing customers find the right vehicle. It is not just about handing over the keys. It is about everything that comes after. The road trips. The weekends away. The coffee runs. The books in the back. And the memories you did not necessarily plan for. This fall, take the long way. Explore Cincinnati. Support a local coffee shop. Buy a book you did not need. And see where your Ford Bronco Sport takes you.

Ford Fathom: The Affordable Electric Truck We Have Been Waiting For

There is something exciting happening in the electric truck market, and the new Ford Fathom could be one of the most important electric vehicles to arrive in years. Ford is preparing to introduce an affordable electric pickup designed to bring the benefits of electric driving to people who do not necessarily want to spend a premium price on a new truck. The Ford Fathom is expected to start at just $28,350 with its standard range battery, putting it directly in conversation with some of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. Pre orders are expected to begin in early 2027, with the Fathom arriving as a 2028 model. For anyone who has been waiting for an electric truck that feels practical, approachable, and genuinely attainable, the Ford Fathom is a vehicle worth watching. A New Kind of Ford Truck Ford has a long history of building trucks for everyday Americans. From the legendary F Series to the compact Ford Maverick, the company understands that not every truck buyer needs a massive vehicle with a massive price tag. The Ford Fathom takes that idea into the electric era. With a footprint comparable to the Ford Maverick, the Fathom is designed to provide the versatility of a pickup without the size and expense associated with many larger electric trucks. It will seat five adults and is projected to provide more passenger volume than a Toyota RAV4. That combination could make the Fathom particularly appealing to people who want a truck for weekend projects, commuting, errands, outdoor activities, and everyday family life. The goal is not simply to create another electric pickup. Ford is trying to rethink what an affordable electric truck can be. The $28,350 Starting Price Gets Our Attention Price is one of the biggest reasons the Ford Fathom is generating so much interest. The starting MSRP of $28,350 with the standard range battery places the Fathom in a part of the market where electric pickups have been largely absent. Electric trucks have traditionally carried significant price tags, making them difficult for many buyers to justify. Ford appears to understand that affordability will be critical if electric vehicles are going to reach a much wider audience. The Fathom is not positioned as a luxury truck. Instead, it is designed around value, functionality, and thoughtful technology. That could ultimately be its biggest strength. Ford Fathom Performance Could Be Surprisingly Quick Affordable does not necessarily mean slow. Ford has set a target of 4.5 seconds for the Fathom to reach 60 mph. If the production truck delivers on that goal, it could provide a level of acceleration that feels downright impressive for an entry priced electric pickup. Instant electric torque should make the Fathom responsive around town, while the compact dimensions could make it easy to maneuver in crowded streets and parking lots. For buyers who want an electric truck that is enjoyable to drive without paying for a high-performance model, this could be a very appealing combination. Practicality Is at the Heart of the Fathom One of the things we find most interesting about the Ford Fathom is the attention being given to everyday usefulness. The truck will have both a frunk and a bed, giving owners multiple options for carrying gear. That matters because a pickup should be useful beyond simply transporting passengers. The Fathom is also expected to offer bidirectional power capability. That feature could make the truck useful away from home, whether someone needs power for equipment, outdoor activities, or other situations where access to electricity is limited. Ford is also giving the Fathom a digital key, adding another modern convenience to the package. Technology Without Losing Simplicity Inside, the Ford Fathom will feature a large, high resolution touchscreen and support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. One particularly interesting part of the Fathom is its integration with Apple Maps. Ford says the next generation BlueCruise system will work with Apple Maps to provide a more seamless experience from highway entrance to highway exit. Every Fathom will also be equipped with the hardware required for Ford's next generation of BlueCruise capability. Once activated, BlueCruise is designed to provide a hands off, eyes on driving experience on designated highways known as hands free Blue Zones. That technology could give the Fathom an impressive technology story without requiring buyers to step into a luxury price range. Built on Ford's Universal EV Platform Perhaps the most important part of the Ford Fathom is what sits underneath it. The Fathom will be the first vehicle built on Ford's new Universal EV Platform. The platform has been designed around simplicity and cost efficiency, using fewer parts and a 400-volt electrical architecture. This is important because the Fathom is not supposed to be a one-off experiment. Ford says the Universal EV Platform will eventually support a range of affordable electric vehicles, including vans, three row SUVs, and smaller B segment vehicles. The Fathom is effectively the beginning of a much larger electric vehicle strategy. The Slate Truck Competition The Ford Fathom will enter a market that is also attracting attention from the Slate Truck. The Slate is expected to target buyers looking for a very affordable electric pickup, making it an obvious competitor for the Fathom. Ford may have an advantage when it comes to standard equipment. While both trucks are focused heavily on affordability, the Fathom is expected to include features such as power windows, an audio system, modern connectivity, and advanced driver assistance hardware. That could make the Ford Fathom feel more like a conventional vehicle while still delivering an accessible price. Why We Are Excited About the Ford Fathom The excitement surrounding the Ford Fathom goes beyond its price. This truck represents a shift in how Ford approaches electric vehicles. Instead of simply adding expensive technology to existing vehicle formulas, Ford is designing a new platform around efficiency, simplicity, and affordability. Ford has even described the arrival of the Fathom as a Model T moment for the company. That is a big statement, but the idea behind it is easy to understand. The original Model T helped make automobile ownership accessible to a much broader audience. Ford now appears to believe the Fathom can play a similar role for electric transportation. With a starting price of $28,350, seating for five, a truck bed, a frunk, bidirectional power, digital key technology, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available BlueCruise capability, the Ford Fathom has an intriguing formula. There is still plenty we do not know, including important details about range, towing, payload, charging speed, and final equipment levels. Those details will matter. But the basic idea is incredibly promising. The Ford Fathom could be the electric pickup that makes going electric feel less like a compromise and more like a smart decision for everyday drivers. If Ford delivers on its promises, this compact electric truck could become one of the most interesting new vehicles of 2028. And that is exactly why we cannot wait to see it on the road.

Back the Heroes Rumble Car Show Brings Cincinnati Together to Honor Our Heroes

The roar of powerful engines, the shine of beautifully restored classics, and the unwavering support of an incredible community made this year's Back the Heroes Rumble Car Show an unforgettable event. Hosted to recognize and support first responders, active-duty military members, veterans, and their families, the show brought together hundreds of automotive enthusiasts and community members for a day filled with appreciation, patriotism, and horsepower. As a proud member of the Greater Cincinnati community, Beechmont Ford was honored to sponsor and participate in this meaningful event. Giving back has always been at the heart of who we are, and supporting those who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities is a responsibility we proudly embrace. A Cincinnati Car Show with a Greater Purpose While attendees enjoyed rows of incredible vehicles, from vintage classics and American muscle cars to modern performance machines and custom builds the Back the Heroes Rumble Car Show was about much more than automobiles. The event exists to recognize the sacrifices made every day by our nation's heroes. Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, military personnel, veterans, and their families often serve without expecting recognition. This event gave the community an opportunity to say something simple but meaningful: Thank you. Seeing local families, businesses, veterans, first responders, and car enthusiasts gathered in one place created an atmosphere that reflected the very best of the Cincinnati community. Incredible Cars, Passionate Owners, and Great Conversations Car shows have a unique way of bringing people together. Throughout the day, attendees explored an outstanding collection of vehicles that showcased decades of automotive history. Beautiful restorations sat alongside modern sports cars, lifted trucks, unique customs, and high-performance builds. Each vehicle represented countless hours of dedication and craftsmanship. Owners shared stories about restorations, modifications, family traditions, and lifelong passions for automobiles. Whether visitors were lifelong gearheads or simply appreciated beautiful vehicles, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Perfect Weather Made for a Perfect Day Mother Nature certainly cooperated. Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures created the ideal backdrop for an event centered around community, conversation, and appreciation. Families strolled through the show, children admired their dream cars, and friends gathered to celebrate a cause bigger than themselves. It was one of those days that reminded everyone why community events remain so important that they create lasting memories while supporting meaningful missions. Beechmont Ford Is Proud to Support Our Community At Beechmont Ford, serving our customers goes beyond helping them find the perfect vehicle. We believe strong communities are built by supporting local organizations, charitable events, and the people who make our neighborhoods safe places to live and work. That's why participating in the Back the Heroes Rumble Car Show was such an easy decision. Supporting veterans, active-duty military members, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and their families aligns with our values as a locally owned dealership serving Cincinnati and the surrounding communities. Community involvement isn't something we do occasionally, it's part of who we are. Thank You to Everyone Who Made It Possible Events like this don't happen without tremendous support. We want to thank: Every attendee who came out to support the cause. Every vehicle owner who proudly displayed their car, truck, or motorcycle. Every volunteer who dedicated countless hours behind the scenes. Every organizer whose hard work made the event such a success. Most importantly, every veteran, active-duty military member, first responder, and family member were honored to celebrate. Your dedication and sacrifice inspire our entire community. More Than a Car Show The Back the Heroes Rumble Car Show wasn't simply another weekend event, it was a celebration of service, sacrifice, and community. It demonstrated how a shared passion for automobiles can unite people from all walks of life around a common purpose: honoring those who put others before themselves. Watching families interact with veterans, meeting local first responders, and seeing businesses rally around such an important mission served as a powerful reminder that Cincinnati is strongest when we come together. Looking Ahead Beechmont Ford is grateful to have been part of such an incredible event and looks forward to supporting future opportunities that strengthen our community. To everyone who attended, thank you for making this year's Back the Heroes Rumble Car Show such an overwhelming success. Your support helps ensure that our local heroes know how deeply they are appreciated. We can't wait to see everyone again next year for another day filled with amazing vehicles, meaningful connections, and unwavering support for those who serve. From all of us at Beechmont Ford, thank you for helping us celebrate the heroes who make our communities stronger every single day.