Are you shopping for the perfect Ford on the new car market? If you can’t find one in stock, don’t settle. A Ford dealer can allow you to customize features and then make your order. Custom-ordering gets you exactly what you want, but prices are often no-haggle. Knowing how to navigate the customization process can help you get the best deal on your new ride.

There are several features and add-ons to choose from when building a custom Ford vehicle. But the best custom features depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider these customization options before ordering your dream Ford.

Exterior Colors

Every year, Ford vehicles come in various standard paint colors. While some paint colors, such as white, black, and gray or silver, are tried and true, more exciting options are available. If you can’t find the perfect color for your Ford, a custom factory paint job can give the vehicle the pizzazz you want. When choosing your preferred paint color, consider if you want your vehicle to stand out or blend in.

A bold, unpopular color like orange or purple may look flashy but you may be forced to leave money on the table to sell it in the future. Think about the vehicle’s purpose and resale value before picking your auto body paint color.

Interiors

While your Ford’s exterior primarily serves to get you noticed on the road, never overlook the significance of a thoughtfully designed car cabin. Customizing the vehicle’s interior trim, fabrics, and colors can help ensure a more comfortable and pleasant in-car experience. A uniquely-designed in-car space can also be an instant attention-grabber when you drive with the windows open.

Modern infotainment features such as phone connectivity, touchscreen displays, and button panels are a crucial customization option for car interiors. Picking the right ones will help you stay informed, connected, and entertained.

Wheels

If your preferred Ford vehicle doesn’t provide enough ground clearance at standard ride height, you may need to invest in larger tires. Larger tires will require custom wheels and rims to ensure a correct fit for performance and safety. When you custom order a Ford, your dealer will provide wheel fitments to match the vehicle’s exact performance and safety requirements. They can spruce up the wheels by adding custom colors and finishes to fit your style and budget.

With the vast array of vehicle makes and customization features available to Ford enthusiasts, creating your custom order can be daunting. But you don’t have to walk this journey alone. Contact us at Crain Ford of Jacksonville to see our new stock and request a custom quote for your new Ford. We can’t wait to turn your dream car into a reality!

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Looking for fun family activities to do in and around Jacksonville, AR? Well, have we got you covered. From comic shops to pools to history museums, Jacksonville has everything you need for a full day of fun for the whole family.

Kapow Comics

Here, it doesn’t matter if you prefer Marvel or DC or if you’d rather buy from indie publishing groups. Kapow Comics at 4047 E. Kiehl Ave has what you need, from comic classics to new editions and even action figures and other novelty items for the whole family. Plus, their trained and comic-loving staff are happy to answer any questions you have or just chat about your favorite comics while you browse.

Whether you’re looking to trade in some old comics, find a hidden gem in their $1 comic bins, or just want to find the newest issue of your family’s favorite superhero collection, Kapow is the place to find it.

Splash Zone

If the family is ready to relax and cool off for an afternoon, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Splash Zone. This fun park is conveniently located at 201 W. Martin St. and is fun for the whole family, and won’t cost a fortune. Their great concession stand means the fun doesn’t have to stop when it’s time to eat. Plus, with the water-resistant seats of your Ford Explorer XLT, you don’t have to worry if the kiddos don’t dry off fully before the trip home.

Then, the kids can race on their dual racer slides, or the whole family can relax in one of their three pools. There is a small play pool for kids under 48 inches, as well as a larger 25-yard pool complete with Jacuzzi jets and a diving board. Splash Zone also features a plunge pool, water slides, dew drop water showers, a splash dome, and a water tunnel, so the kids will never get bored.

Jacksonville Museum of Military History

Is your family full of history buffs? If so, you can’t drive by 100 Veterans Circle and the Military History Museum, where there is a variety of exhibits for the whole family to enjoy. While some exhibits are permanent, the gallery also features different specials throughout the year, so there’s something new to learn every time you visit. Be sure to walk around inside and outside to get the full experience.

If you’re looking to show your kids some local history while not spending a fortune, this is the Museum for you. At less than five dollars a person for entry, with admission going towards restoring their newest addition, a renovated tank, it’s well worth the price.

Whether you’re looking for some new comics, fun-zone swimming and poolside relaxation, or a fun and educational day of learning the local history, you can find plenty of fun things to do while driving around Jacksonville.  Once you’ve finished your ride around, be sure to pop over to Crain Ford of Jacksonville to check out a new vehicle as well.

Image via Pixabay.

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With the 2023 iteration of the Ford Mustang Mach-E you can say goodbye to gas and hello to quiet power. While maintaining all the visual style and character of Ford’s iconic Mustang, the Mustang Mach-E brings things firmly and boldly into the electronic age with hundreds of miles of range, terrific performance capabilities, and plenty of top-notch technological features. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from the 2023 Mustang Mach-E. 

Outstanding Acceleration

One of the most impressive features of the Mustang Mach-E is its exhilarating acceleration of up to 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds on the top trim. The GT model provides 480 horsepower and 600 pounds per foot of torque. It’s a heart-pounding ride made all the more pleasurable by its wonderful suspension, steering, and other handling features. 

Long-Lasting Charges

The battery life of the Mach-E is an excellent 250 miles per full charge at the lower end. The GT takes it up to 270 miles and if range is more important to you than speed, you can opt for the Extended Range Battery which provides an excellent 312 miles per full charge, still with a  very respectable 0 to 60 acceleration of 4.8 seconds. 

Fast Charging at Home or Away

You can recharge your Mach-E at home using a Ford Mobile Charger compatible with 120V or 240V outlets. If you want even faster charging, you can have a Ford Connected Charge Station installed in your driveway. While on the road, you have access to North America’s largest charging network: the BuleOval Charge Network, which your FordPass app can help you locate wherever you are. 

Sleek, Powerful Appearance

The gorgeous, world-famous Mustang silhouette with its muscle car contours and aggressive hood and front grill is maintained with Mustang Mach-E. But the Mach-E now has an added element of aerodynamic sleekness that makes it look swift as a bird in flight. It’s a beautiful car that’s almost as nimble and quiet as a bird on the wing as well.

Hands-Free Highway Driving

The cutting-edge Ford BlueCruise system allows for complete hands-free driving on 130,000 miles of prequalified highways across the nation. Sophisticated Adaptive Cruise Control adjusts the brakes and acceleration as required to keep your car constantly at a preset distance from other vehicles, while the lane-keeping assistance keeps you safely centered. There’s even an eye-facing camera that alerts you if you stop paying attention to the road. 

The best way to get to know any car is by settling behind the wheel. Test drive the 2023 Mustang Mach-E today at Crain Ford of Jacksonville. We’re a local one-stop shop for all things Ford, offering excellent customer service, financing, and purchasing deals. 

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As a reliable favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, the Ford Bronco Sport has cemented its place as an adventurous crossover SUV that takes to challenging terrains as easily as it does highways. The 2023 edition offers responsive engine performance, standard four-wheel drive, and plenty of creature comforts inside, as well as hi-tech safety sensor systems outside.

1. A Trail-Ready Engine

Although this edition gives you two engines to choose from, a 1.5-liter I-3 and a 2.0-liter I-4, it’s the latter engine that’s getting the most attention. In addition to pairing with an advanced 4×4 system and offering 249 horsepower, more than enough to tackle both highways and trails, this engine comes with Auto Start-Stop technology, allowing it to conserve fuel when you’re stopped at traffic lights.
 

2. Advanced Infotainment

The SYNC 3 infotainment system provides wireless smartphone connectivity, convenient apps, available access to SiriusXM services, and a breadcrumb navigation assistance program, making every drive more enjoyable. While the system comes with a full-color eight-inch touchscreen display, you also have the option of controlling it using your voice, so you can keep your hands on the wheel while making phone calls or performing other functions.
 

3. Multiple G.O.A.T. Modes

While the 2023 Bronco Sport has plenty of off-road enhancements that can help you take on demanding terrains, including standard four-wheel drive, it’s the G.O.A.T. Modes feature that gets the most limelight. With this terrain management system, you can quickly choose between multiple modes to optimize the vehicle for different surfaces, including rocks, sand, mud, and ruts.
 

4. A Smart Cruise Control

While cruising on highways, you can use the innovative Adaptive Cruise Control to help alleviate some of the pressures of long-distance driving. After setting a specific speed within the system, this feature can keep you moving along at that speed like a traditional cruise control. Where it differs is that it can also keep you distanced from other vehicles in front of you by automatically controlling the vehicle’s acceleration and braking as needed.
 

5. A Moisture-Resistant Cabin

While many luxurious interior features are available, such as leather-trimmed seats, it’s the moisture-resistant features you’ll most appreciate when returning from off-road adventures. Not only does this edition offer both rubberized flooring and rubberized seat backs but also in-floor drain plugs, allowing you to quickly remove mud and dirt with ease.

With a sporty appearance, agile off-road capabilities, and the latest in today’s entertainment and driver-assist features, the 2023 Bronco Sport is more than ready for adventures, on or off-road. To test-drive it today, contact us at Crain Ford of Jacksonville, and get ready to see all of its impressive features in action.

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Are you ready to experience the latest tough-built Ford SUV? The 2023 Ford Explorer is here to impress with a lineup of features, including plenty of power, remarkable towing, and forward-thinking technology. Here’s a buyer’s guide to the all-new 2023 Explorer.

Overview of the 2023 Ford Explorer

The all-new Explorer SUV seats seven passengers with enough room and space for additional equipment for future adventures. In addition, eight trim models provide various options and customizations to fit your family’s needs. For example, a power liftgate is available to open with just one button, and rear parking sensors alert you while you back out of the driveway or parking spots.

Power and Handling

With three available engine options, power is not a problem in the 2023 Explorer. Two Ecoboost engines provide a turbocharger of 300 or 400 horsepower, and a 3.3-liter V6 Hybrid engine on upper trim models produces 318 horsepower and has a 5,000-pound towing capacity.

A 10-speed automatic transmission allows for smooth driving and handling, and side-wind stabilization also comes standard on all Explorer models. In addition, the 2023 Explorer comes equipped for off-roader enthusiasts with all-terrain tires. And the Terrain Management System features drive modes like deep snow and trail.

Exclusive Interior

The 2023 Explorer offers a unique 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen with navigation. Special Active Motion front seats, with massage features, provide extra comfort on long travel days. Additionally, ambient lighting with seven color choices accompanies the 12-speaker sound system for an exclusive driving experience.

The cabin’s interior can allow nature in with the twin-panel moonroof. And additional space for your belongings is available with the touch of a button in the PowerFold third-row seat feature.

Impressive Towing Package

Based on the trim model, the Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds. When you add the Class IV Trailer Tow package, you’ll get even more accessories to tow your gear. Roof rails are also available to bring along additional equipment. And the Trailer Sway Control feature helps you control what you haul while driving.

Technology Assistance

Amazon Alexa is not just in the home anymore; you can also use the voice command feature in the 2023 Explorer. Stay connected on the road with wireless charging for your smartphone and compatible electronics.

The Explorer SUV features driver assist technology to sure your safety on the road called Ford Co-Pilot360. The auto high beams can automatically detect low lighting, rearview cameras help you park, and pre-collision assist technology helps you avoid potential collisions.

Whether you’re planning a simple weekend adventure or cruising the city streets, the 2023 Explorer is ready for any driving experience. Contact us at Crain Ford of Jacksonville today to schedule a test drive and see the fantastic Explorer SUV first-hand.

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Springtime always lifts our spirits, but it’s also the perfect time to explore what the local area and community in Jacksonville, AR have to offer. Here’s our list of the best spring activities to get you out in the fresh air.

1. Market Madness Block Party

Held at 9 Municipal Drive on May 6, the Market Madness Block Party will be celebrating the start of the market season in Jacksonville with a bang. Come along for live music, the chance to sample delicious food from numerous vendors, and a selection of arts and crafts stalls. It starts at 2pm, and you’ll be able to shop for your favorite locally-produced fruits, flowers, vegetables, and preserves as well. 

2. Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

Whatever you do this spring, you must make time to visit the Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Gardens to view nature at its very best. Open from 8am to 7pm every day, you can adventure down the nature trails, or just to sit and drink in the beautiful scenery. There are even classes and cyber stations to help you enjoy a spot of yoga in the open air, so come on down to enjoy all the possibilities.

3. Mount Holly Cemetery Picnic

Despite their spooky reputation, cemeteries are a wonderful place to spend a spring’s day. Peaceful, pretty, and packed with history, the Mount Holly Cemetery 1200 South Broadway in Little Rock will be hosting a fundraising Spring Picnic on April 30 at 5pm. With a box supper and appetizers, along with music from the Central High School jazz ensemble, you’ll be able to drink in the atmosphere and enjoy the family-friendly spirit.

It may arrive every year but each springtime is special, so be sure to make the most of the chance to celebrate family, friendship, and fun. And if you’re looking for the perfect car to take everyone and everything you need, visit us at Crain Ford Jacksonville to view our extensive variety of new and used vehicles. 

Image via Pixabay.

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We are thrilled to announce that we have the 2023 Ford Expedition in stock, and we can’t wait to take you through its features and capabilities. As one of the most reliable full-size SUVs, the Expedition offers an impressive array of amenities and performance capabilities that will exceed your expectations. Below are some of the things to love about this full-size SUV.

Engine and Performance

The Expedition packs a punch under the hood, with a 3.5L EcoBoost® engine standard across the lineup. This means you’ll enjoy plenty of power and torque whether you opt for the base XL STX trim or a higher model. If you’re looking for even more power, the Limited trims can be equipped with a high-output variant of the EcoBoost® engine.

Shifting duties are handled by a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission, which provides smooth and precise gear changes. Moreover, the Expedition features a multi-link independent rear suspension that provides exceptional stability and handling.

Seating Capacity

This SUV is designed with family in mind. The base model can comfortably seat up to five passengers: ideal for smaller families or groups of friends. But if you need more room, models like the Timberline and XLT Max have a seating capacity of up to 8 passengers, with 7-person seating available as well.

Technology

The Expedition is loaded with high-tech features that will make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient. First, the Expedition offers the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite, which includes advanced safety and driver-assist features to help keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

The Expedition also offers awe-inspiring audio and entertainment options, such as the available B&O® sound system with 22 speakers and a subwoofer. This three-row SUV also boasts an available 15.5-inch touchscreen display. Plus, you can keep track of all your important vehicle information in one convenient location with the available 12.4-inch dynamic digital cluster display.

Off-Road Capability

If you love to get off the beaten path and explore the great outdoors, you’ll love the Expedition Timberline model. This SUV is specially designed to handle rugged terrain and challenging conditions, allowing you to take your adventures to the next level. The Timberline comes standard with a high-output engine that generates 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Also, you can upgrade your ride with an available heavy-duty trailer tow package to boost towing capacity up to 9,300 pounds.

If you’re interested in seeing this fantastic SUV in person, visit us at Crain Ford Jacksonville. We would love to show you around and let you experience all the features and capabilities of the Expedition for yourself. Plus, we’re always offering great specials on our pre-owned vehicles, allowing you to get behind the wheel of your dream car without paying full price.

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Crain Automotive, RV, Powersports, and Collision Centers would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to all of those impacted by the devastating storms. For years, Arkansans have been here for us, now we would like to be there for you. We have partnered with the American Red Cross to assist in the recovery of our local communities. The Crain Team is dedicated to helping those in our community and across the state. We are Arkansas Driven and community focused.

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The city of Jacksonville, AR is located in the central region of the state and just a few miles northeast of Little Rock, making it a great base to explore the region, go on weekend getaways, and take your family on fun adventures in your 2023 Ford Bronco. Here are three of our favorite spots for a memorable weekend away from the city.

1. Lake Chicot State Park

With cozy rustic cabins, pecan groves, and a beautiful natural lake that offers endless opportunities for fishing and boating, Lake Chicot State Park is one of the most beautiful places you can visit while traveling around Arkansas. Covering an area of a little over 200 acres, this state park was established in the late 1950s and is managed by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.

As its name indicates, the park’s main attraction is Lake Chicot, which was formed about 300 years ago and is the largest natural lake in the state of Arkansas. Lake Chicot State Park is located less than 150 miles southeast of the Jacksonville city center and can be reached in a little over two hours by car via routes I-530 and US-65. Some of the amenities you can find here include numerous campsites, a swimming pool, and picnic pavilions.

2. Memphis

If you are searching for a vibrant urban destination full of famous landmarks, great restaurants, historical monuments, and cultural centers, the city of Memphis is the place to be. As the second most populous city in Tennessee, Memphis is one of the most historic and culturally significant urban areas in the southern United States, as well as a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all around the world.

Driving from Jacksonville to downtown Memphis takes a little under two hours via route I-40. Some of the places you should check out while exploring this city include the National Civil Rights Museum, Sun Studio, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Graceland, the Blues Hall of Fame, the Memphis Zoo, Beale Street, and the Memphis Pyramid.

3. Ouachita National Forest

Covering an area of nearly 1,800 acres, Ouachita National Forest is another fantastic destination if you want to spend a weekend surrounded by nature, go camping with your favorite group of friends, or check out some of the local wildlife species that inhabit the region. Located about 50 miles west of Jacksonville, this national forest can be reached in a little under one hour by car via route AR-10.

Getting behind the wheel and going on memorable adventures with your family is always better in a spacious and comfortable vehicle. Give us a call today at Crain Ford of Jacksonville, schedule an appointment, and take one of our great models on a test drive.

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Tourist traps are well-documented and often overrated, but a region’s hidden gems can easily emerge as the greatest icons. Find memories that endure at some of Jacksonville, AR‘s best-kept secrets.

1. Bayou Meto Urban Canoe Trail

The Arkansas River Trail is this region’s most well-known aquatic attraction, with attention-grabbing features like Big Dam Bridge and the Clinton Presidential Bridge. Nestled between Jacksonville’s Dupree Park and Reed’s Bridge Battlefield Heritage Park, you can enjoy two miles of scenic and shaded waterway perfect for leisurely canoeing and kayaking.

This peaceful getaway provides picturesque views of cypress trees and wildlife, such as dam-building beavers, that you will not find anywhere else in the region.

2. Reed’s Bridge Battlefield

The Jacksonville Museum of Military History, located at 100 Veteran’s Circle, gives in-depth insight into major wars impacting the region, from the Civil War to World War II. For an intimate glimpse of one of the Civil War’s defining regional battles, you can go directly to where the action took place at this field steeped in history.

The well-maintained grounds include placards that offer details about this battle, and you may even visit during a reenactment. The battlefield’s also a literal haunt for ghost hunting groups, as it’s rumored to be frequented by spirits.

3. Rail and Sprue Hobbies

This local hobby shop is a paradise for lovers of all things scale replica. They began in 2000 and continue to be driven by a passion for model railroads and trains in particular. Pay a visit to this location, and you’ll have your choice of countless affordable train sets and more, sold by experts who know their stuff. The inventory does not end on the rails, though, as slot cars, model boats, model spaceships, and more are available.

Plus, you can lay eyes on the incredible Moon Southern Line model railroad, going strong since 1965. Marvel at this masterpiece by visiting 1200 John Harden Drive. If you prefer your vehicles, life-size, the Ford F-150 pickup has a hidden gem of its own in the key fob. This nifty device can program your seat positions, locate your ride from a longer distance, and even resurrect itself from the dead when its battery dies.

4. Delightful Eats

Wee Betty’s Cafe at 9B Crestview Plaza is no lightweight when it comes to serving up amazing sandwiches, rolls, biscuits, pies, cakes, and other baked treats, all with a distinctly Scottish twist. In addition to these delicious delights served with piping hot tea or coffee, you can enjoy an authentic Irish breakfast every morning from Wednesday to Sunday, beginning at 10:30 most days. Indulge in all the overseas fixings like bangers, black and white pudding, and potato scones.

If you’re on the hunt for more hearty fare, journey on over to Smokin’ Buns Barbecue, stationed at 25401 Highway 107. Once you step inside, you won’t regret it. Take your pick from the state’s best BBQ, Pride of the Pond catfish, or another selection from an undeniably Arkansas menu.

Find a treasure trove of impressive autos. Stop by Crain Ford of Jacksonville and browse an inventory packed with pleasant surprises. 

Image via Pixabay.

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