Unlock Versatility and Power: Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Dominates Midsize SUVs

The choice between a compact truck and a midsize truck often comes down to how you plan to use the cargo bed and how you handle your daily drive. Drivers navigating State Route 170 in Calcutta, located in eastern Ohio, often find themselves weighing these two distinct designs: the unibody build of the Maverick and the traditional body-on-frame construction of the Ranger. While both trucks deliver the utility of an open bed and modern cabin technology, they serve very different lifestyles. At Tri State Ford, we see many buyers trying to decide which of these pickups fits their driveway and budget. If you are searching for a Ford dealership near me, our showroom is stocked with both models to let you compare them side by side. The compact Maverick is built on a unibody platform, giving it the smooth, comfortable ride of a crossover. The midsize Ranger uses a rugged truck chassis, making it the clear choice for heavier hauling, towing, and off-road weekend trips. When you purchase your next truck from us, we make ownership seamless by offering convenient perks like Ford pickup and delivery for your vehicle needs, as well as on-site assistance from Ford mobile service. To learn more about our current inventory or to ask questions about our available models, you can give our team a call at (330) 462-7578 or stop by our East Liverpool showroom to see these trucks in person. Table of Contents Comparing the Physical Size and Cabin Space of the Ranger and Maverick Towing Capacity and Performance Options for Both Ford Pickups Real-World Fuel Economy and Daily Commuting Efficiency Evaluating the Maverick as a First-Time Truck Versus the Ranger Pricing Ranges and Estimating Monthly Payments for Your Next Truck Common Questions About the Ranger and Maverick Lineups Find Your Perfect Ford Truck Comparing the Physical Size and Cabin Space of the Ranger and Maverick A difference of nearly 11 inches in total length changes how a truck behaves in tight spaces. The Maverick measures about 200 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 69 inches tall, making it highly maneuverable. Maneuvering through the busy parking lots of Boardman Plaza in Boardman is a great way to appreciate how easily this compact truck slips into standard parking spaces. In comparison, the midsize Ranger is about 211 inches long, 76 inches wide, and 74 inches tall, giving it a much more commanding presence. Despite the Ranger's larger exterior dimensions, cabin packaging reveals a surprising detail. The Maverick actually offers about 36 inches of rear legroom, which is slightly more than the Ranger's about 35 inches of rear legroom. However, the Ranger's extra width translates into more shoulder room and hip room for five passengers, making it feel more spacious overall. When it comes to the cargo box, the Ranger is the clear winner for hauling bulky gear. Its 5-foot bed provides about 44 cubic feet of volume, whereas the Maverick's 4-foot bed offers about 33 cubic feet of cargo volume. If you need even more space for serious commercial jobs, you might want to look at our F-Series work truck inventory. For those looking for pre-owned options, we also invite you to shop Carfax one-owner vehicles in our used lineup. Whichever truck you choose, we can help you find the right accessories, including using our tool to order tires by year, make, and model when it is time for a fresh set. ​ Towing Capacity and Performance Options for Both Ford Pickups Powering these trucks are two very different approaches to performance. The Ranger comes standard with a brawny 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine generating 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. For those who want maximum muscle, the available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 pumps out 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. This heavy-duty setup allows the Ranger to tow up to 7,500 pounds and carry a maximum payload of about 1,788 pounds when properly equipped. The Maverick keeps things highly efficient but surprisingly capable. Its standard 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain produces 191 horsepower, while the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine delivers 250 horsepower. The hybrid version has a standard towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, which is plenty for a light utility trailer or a pair of kayaks. Opting for the EcoBoost engine and the 4K Tow Package bumps that capacity to 4,000 pounds, alongside a respectable 1,500-pound maximum payload rating. If you are ready to upgrade your current ride to a more capable vehicle, you can easily check your KBB trade-in value online to see how much equity you can apply toward a purchase. We also have a rotating selection of used vehicle specials if you are shopping on a budget. To ensure your new or pre-owned truck stays in top shape, our team is always ready to assist with keeping your vehicle running smoothly, including routine battery service and diagnostics. ​ Real-World Fuel Economy and Daily Commuting Efficiency Fuel efficiency is where the Maverick truly shines, especially for drivers who spend a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic. The standard Maverick Hybrid achieves an exceptional EPA-estimated 38 MPG combined, including up to 42 MPG city. If you opt for the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive, the real-world fuel economy remains highly practical at an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway, or about 25 MPG combined. The larger, heavier Ranger naturally trades some fuel efficiency for its brawny towing and hauling capabilities. The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with rear-wheel drive is rated at 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway, yielding roughly 23 MPG combined. Upgrading to the robust 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with four-wheel drive brings estimates of 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway, which is about 20 MPG combined. For businesses or drivers who need even larger cargo solutions, we also carry a great selection of Transit work vans to fit commercial fleets. If you already know exactly what features, colors, and options you want on your next truck, you can submit a new vehicle custom order directly through our site. Of course, the best way to feel the difference in acceleration and ride quality is to schedule a test drive with our sales team. ​ Evaluating the Maverick as a First-Time Truck Versus the Ranger First-time truck buyers often ask us whether the Maverick is a better starting point than the Ranger. For someone transitioning out of a sedan or a compact SUV, the Maverick is an incredibly approachable entry point. Its unibody construction means it drives, steers, and brakes just like a car, eliminating the learning curve of a traditional, heavier truck. It is the perfect option for those who want the everyday convenience of a cargo bed for weekend home improvement projects or outdoor gear without the bulk of a midsize platform. On the other hand, if your first truck needs to handle demanding towing tasks or rugged off-road trails right out of the gate, jumping straight into the Ranger is the smarter move. The Ranger's body-on-frame design, high ground clearance, and traditional selectable four-wheel-drive system are built for durability under pressure. It provides an authentic truck experience that handles rough terrain and heavy trailers with absolute confidence. We make it simple to explore both paths. You can browse our comprehensive new truck inventory to see what we have on the lot today. If you need a heavy-duty option for your business, feel free to check out our used work truck inventory. Before you buy, you can also get a firm valuation on your current vehicle by securing a KBB Instant Cash Offer through our online appraisal tool. ​ Pricing Ranges and Estimating Monthly Payments for Your Next Truck Price is a major deciding factor for most truck buyers, and these two models occupy very different price brackets. The Maverick is widely recognized as a popular pickup choice on the market, with starting MSRPs ranging between $28,145 and $41,425 depending on the trim and options you select. Trims like the street-performance Maverick Lobo or the off-road-focused Maverick Tremor sit at the higher end of that range but offer specialized styling and capability. Stepping up to the midsize Ranger requires a larger investment, reflecting its heavier chassis and brawnier engine options. The Ranger starting MSRP begins at $35,445 for the base XL trim and climbs to $45,850 for the premium Lariat trim. If you want the ultimate off-road machine, the high-performance Ranger Raptor sits at the top of the lineup, featuring a 405-horsepower twin-turbo engine and heavy-duty trail hardware. To help you find the perfect fit for your budget, we encourage you to check out our latest manufacturer vehicle specials for current purchase incentives. When you are ready to take the next step, you can fill out our secure online credit application to get pre-approved for financing. We also offer great long-term support for our customers, including rotating current service information to help keep your vehicle running like new. ​ Common Questions About the Ranger and Maverick Lineups Q: Will the Ford Maverick fit in a standard residential garage? Yes, the Maverick is specifically designed to be garage-friendly. With a total length of about 200 inches and a width of 73 inches, it fits comfortably inside almost any standard single-car residential garage. This makes it an excellent choice for buyers who want to protect their vehicle from harsh winter weather without sacrificing driveway space. Q: Does the Maverick Tremor package have the same capability as the Ranger Raptor? While both are off-road packages, they serve different levels of trail riding. The Maverick Tremor offers about 9 inches of ground clearance and upgraded trail hardware suitable for dirt roads and light obstacles. The Ranger Raptor is a high-performance desert racer featuring up to about 11 inches of ground clearance, a 405-horsepower engine, and a long-travel suspension designed for extreme terrain. Q: Which truck is better for a daily highway commute? The Maverick is generally the more comfortable highway cruiser due to its unibody construction and car-like suspension. However, the Ranger offers a higher seating position and a quieter cabin at high speeds, which many drivers prefer for longer trips. You can explore both driving dynamics by looking through our new vehicle inventory or checking our specialized new work truck inventory. Q: What drivetrain configurations are available on these pickups? The Maverick is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with an optional twin-clutch rear unit featuring an electronic-locking rear differential. The Ranger offers a more traditional truck setup, available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations with a selectable four-wheel-drive system. If you have questions about which drivetrain fits your driving needs, our finance department can help you explore options that match your budget. Q: Do both trucks offer modern safety and driver-assist technologies? Yes, both models feature Ford's advanced driver-assist suites, though standard features vary by trim. The Maverick comes standard with a 13-inch infotainment touchscreen on newer models, while the Ranger offers a vertical 10-inch infotainment touchscreen or an optional 12-inch infotainment touchscreen. Both support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you connected on the go. ​ Find Your Perfect Ford Truck Choosing between the Ranger and the Maverick comes down to matching a truck's physical capabilities with your daily routine and budget. The Maverick is an incredibly efficient, easy-to-park companion that handles everyday commuting and light weekend projects with ease. The Ranger is a robust, midsize powerhouse built for those who need to tow trailers, haul heavier payloads, and tackle demanding off-road trails. At Tri State Ford, our sales team is committed to helping you find the exact pickup that fits your lifestyle. We invite you to browse our latest new vehicle specials to find current information on our current inventory. When you are ready to experience these trucks in person, you can get directions to our dealership located at 1503 Pennsylvania Ave, East Liverpool, OH 43920. If you have any questions before making the trip, feel free to give us a call at (330) 462-7578 to speak with a member of our friendly team. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts Schedule Service Appt © 2026 Tri State Ford. All rights reserved.

Finding a vehicle that maximizes every drop of fuel is a top priority for local drivers looking to lower their monthly travel costs. At Tri State Ford, our team helps buyers navigate the highly efficient options in the current lineup to find the perfect fit for their daily driving habits. If you are searching for a Ford dealership near me to explore these fuel-saving models, our showroom is stocked with the latest hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology. The standout gasoline-only and hybrid models deliver exceptional efficiency without sacrificing the utility and cabin space that local families need. For instance, the suburban hills around Calcutta, especially near Beaver Creek, present the perfect terrain for a hybrid powertrain, as the regenerative braking system captures energy on downhill descents to keep the battery charged. Whether you want to browse our lot in person or coordinate a vehicle drop-off using Ford pickup and delivery services, we make the buying process simple and convenient. For those who prefer a remote shopping experience, our team also offers Ford mobile service options and off-site consultations to answer your questions. You can find our showroom easily by checking directions to our dealership or by giving our sales desk a quick call at (330) 462-7578 to discuss our current high-MPG inventory. Table of Contents Inside the Numbers of the Ford Maverick Hybrid Real-World Fuel Savings and Long-Term Value of Ford Hybrids Choosing Your Capability: Maverick Hybrid vs F-150 Lightning Hybrid Battery Longevity and Ownership Peace of Mind Common Buyer Questions About Ford Mileage and Efficiency Drive Home Your Next Efficient Ford Inside the Numbers of the Ford Maverick Hybrid The Maverick Hybrid stands out as a dominant force in the compact truck segment, combining the utility of a truck bed with the fuel economy of a compact car. It features a 2.5L hybrid engine paired with an eCVT that generates 191 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque, delivering an EPA-estimated 42 mpg city / 33 mpg highway and 37 mpg combined. This exceptional efficiency makes it an incredibly practical choice for buyers who want truck capability without the typical fuel bills. To put these numbers in perspective, we can compare them to the versatile Escape SUV lineup. The Escape Active trim starts at a base MSRP of $30,350 and features a 1.5L engine producing 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission in a Front-wheel drive configuration. For those seeking maximum electric-only driving, the Escape PHEV features a 2.5L engine and an eCVT that delivers 210 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque, while the all-wheel-drive Escape ST-Line Select utilizes a 2.5L hybrid setup producing 192 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque. Whether you are looking for a brand-new hybrid pickup or want to explore our one-owner used vehicle inventory, we have options to fit every budget. Buyers searching for commercial utility can also browse our new and used work trucks to find highly efficient fleet solutions. Be sure to check our latest current offers online to see how you can save on your next purchase. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Feature Active PHEV Platinum ST-Line ST-Line Elite ST-Line Select Engine 1.5L 2.5L 2.0L 1.5L 2.0L 2.5L Horsepower 180 hp 210 hp 250 hp 180 hp 250 hp 192 hp Torque 199 lb-ft 155 lb-ft 280 lb-ft 199 lb-ft 280 lb-ft 155 lb-ft Transmission 8-speed automatic eCVT 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic eCVT Drivetrain Front-wheel drive Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive ​ Real-World Fuel Savings and Long-Term Value of Ford Hybrids Studies show that hybrid vehicles can reduce fuel expenses by up to 30% compared to conventional cars over five years. For example, a daily commuter driving from Boardman along Market Street can save hundreds of dollars annually by upgrading to a hybrid powertrain. Over 100,000 miles of driving, the efficiency gap between a standard truck averaging 19 mpg and the Maverick Hybrid's 37 mpg combined rating translates to using roughly 2,770 fewer gallons of fuel, keeping a substantial amount of money in your pocket. The upfront cost of upgrading to a hybrid is highly manageable when looking at the overall lineup. For instance, the Escape ST-Line starts at $31,195 with a $1,495 destination charge, while the premium Escape Platinum is priced at $36,215 before destination. The top-tier Escape ST-Line Elite comes in at $37,210 with the same $1,495 destination charge, offering an exceptional balance of luxury and efficiency. To help make your upgrade even more affordable, our team can help you value your trade-in online using our secure appraisal tool. We also encourage shoppers to explore our current current offers to find competitive purchase offers. While you are researching, you can also view our current service offers to see how we help owners maintain their vehicles' efficiency over the long haul. Pricing Pricing by trim Feature Active PHEV Platinum ST-Line ST-Line Elite ST-Line Select Base MSRP $30,350 $35,400 $36,215 $31,195 $37,210 $33,890 Destination charge $1,495 $1,495 $1,495 $1,495 $1,495 $1,495 ​ Choosing Your Capability: Maverick Hybrid vs F-150 Lightning When deciding on an efficient utility vehicle, buyers often weigh the differences between a compact hybrid and a full-size electric truck. The Maverick Hybrid is a compact pickup that excels at daily commuting and light-duty tasks, offering an agile footprint and excellent fuel economy. However, it features a limited towing capacity compared to a full-size truck, making it best suited for light weekend projects and urban driving. In contrast, the F-150 Lightning is a pure electric powerhouse built for heavy-duty workloads. The F-150 Lightning offers a spacious cabin, massive payload capacities, and a robust towing capability that easily handles large trailers, boats, or equipment. The trade-off comes down to your daily needs: the Maverick Hybrid is highly efficient and budget-friendly, while the electric F-150 offers maximum capability with zero direct emissions. If you are ready to find the perfect truck for your lifestyle, you can browse our extensive new truck inventory online today. For business owners looking for heavy-duty electric or hybrid options, we also carry a wide selection of F-Series work trucks designed for demanding jobs. If you have a highly specific configuration in mind, our team can guide you through a custom factory order to build a truck tailored to your exact specifications. ​ Hybrid Battery Longevity and Ownership Peace of Mind Ford's hybrid batteries are engineered to last over 150,000 miles, ensuring peace of mind for long-term owners. Ford hybrid high-voltage batteries are designed for long-term durability, typically between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. For added peace of mind, every new Ford hybrid is backed by a robust 8-year/100,000-mile high-voltage component warranty, ensuring your investment is well-protected. Additionally, every new purchase includes access to Ford Roadside Assistance: 800-241-3673, providing manufacturer-backed emergency support, flat tire changes, and towing to authorized service centers. This manufacturer-backed warranty protection makes purchasing a hybrid a highly secure financial decision. If you are planning to finance your next vehicle, our finance department is here to help you contact our finance department for current financing information. We also make it easy to transition out of your current vehicle by allowing you to get a Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer directly through our website. To keep your hybrid operating at peak efficiency, our certified technicians are always available to perform specialized diagnostics and hybrid battery health checks. By maintaining your vehicle's electrical and hybrid systems, you ensure that you continue to get the maximum possible fuel economy for years to come. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Feature Active PHEV Platinum ST-Line ST-Line Elite ST-Line Select MPG 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined 42 city / 37 hwy / 40 combined 42 city / 36 hwy / 39 combined 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined 23 city / 31 hwy / 26 combined 23 city / 31 hwy / 26 combined ​ Common Buyer Questions About Ford Mileage and Efficiency Q: Does cold weather affect hybrid and electric vehicle efficiency? Yes, colder temperatures can temporarily reduce the efficiency of both hybrid and electric powertrains. In our local climate, electric vehicles typically experience a winter range loss of between 15% and 30% on the coldest days, though parking in a garage and utilizing cabin preconditioning can help minimize this effect. Q: What is the electric-only driving range of the Ford Escape PHEV? The Escape plug-in hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated 37 miles of all-electric driving range on a single charge. Once the electric battery is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly switches to standard hybrid gasoline operation to keep you moving without interruption. Q: How can I start the financing process for an efficient Ford model? You can start your purchase by completing our secure credit application online from the comfort of your home. Getting pre-approved ahead of time allows our sales team to present customized financing options that match your budget when you visit. Q: Do you offer fuel-efficient commercial vehicles for local business fleets? Yes, we carry a variety of efficient options, and you can explore our specialized new commercial inventory to find the right setup for your business. From compact hybrid trucks to highly capable work vans, we help local businesses lower their operating costs. Q: How can I view your current stock of fuel-efficient vehicles? You can easily browse our new inventory online to filter by model, engine type, and fuel efficiency. Our digital showroom is updated in real time, making it simple to find the exact hybrid or fuel-efficient model you want to buy. ​ Drive Home Your Next Efficient Ford Finding a vehicle that delivers outstanding mileage while meeting your daily demands is easy when you shop our extensive lineup. Whether you are drawn to the versatile Maverick Hybrid or the spacious Escape PHEV, our team is ready to guide you through the buying process with complete transparency and zero pressure. The best way to experience these fuel-saving technologies is to get behind the wheel yourself. You can easily schedule a test drive online to find a time that fits your busy schedule. When you are ready to visit, you can get directions to Tri State Ford at 1503 Pennsylvania Ave, East Liverpool, OH 43920, or give us a quick call at (330) 462-7578 to speak with a sales advisor today. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts Schedule Service Appt © 2026 Tri State Ford. All rights reserved.

Why Local Farmers are Upgrading to the 2026 Ford F-350 for Mid-Summer Harvest Prep ## Preparing for the Mid-Summer Harvest with the 2026 Ford F-350 I am Nick Pirl, Sales Manager at Tri State Ford, and over my nine years of helping folks find the right work vehicles, I have learned that timing is everything. Mid-summer is a critical window for agricultural operations, and preparing your equipment ahead of the rush makes all the difference when the crops are ready. If you are looking for a reliable partner to handle the heaviest demands of the season, our team is ready to show you how the latest heavy-duty lineup can transform your daily operations. You can find us easily by checking the map to our physical showroom or give us a quick call to discuss your specific work requirements. The agricultural properties and elevated valley terrain around Calcutta require vehicles that do not back down from steep grades or heavy payloads. As the harvest season approaches, farmers are realizing that older equipment might not cut it under tight deadlines. Upgrading to a modern heavy-duty truck ensures you stay on schedule without worrying about mechanical setbacks. For busy professionals who cannot take time away from the fields, we make the buying and ownership experience seamless. We offer convenient options like valet pickup and delivery for your vehicle needs, and we can even bring maintenance directly to your farm with our specialized on-site mobile vehicle care. If you have been searching for a reliable local commercial vehicle source, our showroom is fully equipped to help you gear up for the busy season ahead. Table of Contents How the 2026 Ford F-350 Towing and Payload Capacity Handles Heavy Farm Equipment Comparing the 2026 Ford F-350 Gas and Power Stroke Diesel Engine Options Evaluating the Price Difference Between Gas and Diesel Engines on the 2026 F-350 Maximizing Your Farm Write-Offs with the Section 179 Tax Deduction and F-350 GVWR Why Farmers Upgrade to the 2026 F-350 Super Duty Over Half-Ton Pickups How the 2026 Ford F-350 Towing and Payload Capacity Handles Heavy Farm Equipment Now, when it comes to hauling heavy gravity wagons, seed tenders, and massive livestock trailers, you need a truck built for extreme physical demands. The 2026 Ford F-350 is designed to handle these exact agricultural challenges with ease. When configured properly with dual rear wheels and the gas engine, this heavy-duty workhorse offers a maximum payload capacity of up to 8,000 pounds. This massive payload rating means you can load up the bed with heavy tools, fuel tanks, or feed bags without stressing the suspension or compromising vehicle control. Navigating the steep riverfront bluffs and Appalachian elevation changes in East Liverpool requires robust frame construction and dependable braking power. The truck's high-strength steel chassis and heavy-duty axles provide a solid foundation for pulling massive gooseneck trailers through uneven pasture gates and onto paved state routes. To make hooking up these large rigs simpler, the optional 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package provides factory-installed under-bed frame brackets and a bed-mounted 7-pin connector, allowing you to drop in a ball and secure your trailer in minutes. For those looking to trade in a lighter truck or expand their current commercial fleet, we offer a wide variety of high-quality pre-owned options. You can explore our single-owner used vehicle inventory to find dependable heavy-duty models that are ready for the field. We also make sure our buyers get the best possible value, which is why we encourage you to check our current manufacturer vehicle incentives before making a decision. To keep your investment running strong through the grueling harvest months, you can also take advantage of our monthly manufacturer service promotions for expert care. ​ Comparing the 2026 Ford F-350 Gas and Power Stroke Diesel Engine Options Let's talk about the engine options available for work-focused buyers, who can choose from four distinct powerplants engineered to match specific agricultural demands. The standard engine on the entry-level XL trim is a 6.8-liter gas V8 that generates 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, paired with a heavy-duty TorqShift-G 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission designed to deliver power early in the rev range. If you need more gas-powered muscle, the available 7.3-liter gas V8 steps things up to 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent mid-range pulling power for moderate towing duties. For the ultimate in heavy-duty capability, the diesel lineup delivers unmatched torque and efficiency under continuous load. The standard 6.7-liter turbo diesel V8 pumps out 475 horsepower, while the top-tier high-output 6.7-liter turbo diesel V8 pushes performance to a massive 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. This high-output Power Stroke diesel is the go-to choice for farmers who regularly pull the heaviest multi-implement haulers or fully loaded grain wagons across soft fields and up steep highway ramps. Finding the exact combination of engine, bed length, and cab style is easy when you work with our sales team. You can easily browse our new Ford inventory online to see what configurations we have available on the lot today. If you prefer a highly specific setup, such as a dual-rear-wheel regular cab with the high-output diesel, we can help you submit a new vehicle custom order directly to the factory. To narrow down your search specifically to heavy-duty pickups, feel free to explore our dedicated new truck inventory page to find the perfect match for your farm. ​ Evaluating the Price Difference Between Gas and Diesel Engines on the 2026 F-350 Many customers wonder about the price difference between gas and diesel engines, which represents a significant upfront financial decision that requires careful calculation. Choosing the diesel engine typically adds several thousand dollars to the manufacturer's suggested retail price, reflecting the complex engineering and robust components required to produce high torque. For example, the base XL Crew Cab short bed with the standard gas engine starts at an MSRP of about $51,495, while premium trims like the Platinum Crew Cab 4WD can start around $80,265 before adding diesel power. Buyers must weigh this initial cost against the long-term benefits of superior fuel efficiency under heavy loads and exceptional resale value. Diesel engines excel at maintaining fuel economy when pulling heavy loads, making them highly cost-effective for farms that log high annual towing miles. The immense torque also reduces strain on the transmission, which can translate to fewer mechanical issues over years of hard labor. However, for farms that primarily use their trucks for shorter utility runs, light hauling, and stationary power supply, the standard gas engines offer a lower entry cost and simpler maintenance requirements that might make better financial sense. Our team is here to help you analyze these costs and find a payment structure that fits your farm's operating budget. You can start by checking our external new commercial vehicle inventory to compare current pricing on gas and diesel models. If you have an older truck to trade in, you can get a quick, reliable valuation using our online trade-in appraisal tool to see how much equity you can apply to your new purchase. Once you have a clear picture of your trade-in value, our finance department specialists can walk you through customized commercial purchasing options. ​ Maximizing Your Farm Write-Offs with the Section 179 Tax Deduction and F-350 GVWR Another important thing to know about buying a new work truck is how it affects your tax planning and agricultural business write-offs. Under the current tax guidelines, the Section 179 tax deduction allows qualifying agricultural businesses to immediately write off up to $2,560,000 of eligible equipment placed in service during the year. This deduction begins to phase out once total qualifying equipment purchases exceed $4,090,000. Because heavy-duty work trucks are primary business assets, they represent an excellent opportunity to reduce your overall tax liability while modernizing your fleet. Vehicle weight plays a critical role in determining how much of the purchase price you can deduct immediately. Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) between 6,000 and 14,000 pounds qualify for substantial immediate write-offs, while passenger-focused SUVs in this weight class are subject to a specific $32,000 limitation. The F-350 easily surpasses these minimum thresholds, with a standard GVWR of 10,500 lbs and a Gross Combined Weight Rating of 21,000 lbs. This commercial-grade rating means that when the truck is used more than 50% for business, it qualifies as a non-passenger work vehicle, allowing you to deduct the full purchase price in the first year. To take advantage of these tax savings before the year-end deadline, our team can help you secure the right vehicle and financing quickly. You can get a head start on the paperwork by submitting our secure online credit application from the comfort of your home. We also encourage you to browse our external inventory of new commercial work trucks to find models that meet the exact weight ratings your business needs. To maximize your savings even further, be sure to keep an eye on our current new vehicle pricing for promotional offers on our heavy-duty lineup. ​ Why Farmers Upgrade to the 2026 F-350 Super Duty Over Half-Ton Pickups One thing I always tell customers about choosing a heavy-duty truck over a light-duty option is that half-ton pickups quickly reach their physical limits under the demanding conditions of a busy farm. A standard light-duty truck typically tops out around 13,000 pounds of towing capacity, which is insufficient for hauling loaded grain wagons, large tractors, or multi-bale hay trailers. Upgrading to the heavy-duty chassis of the F-350 provides the structural rigidity, advanced cooling systems, and heavy-duty braking needed to pull up to 38,000 pounds safely. This massive capability gap ensures that you can move your largest implements without putting excessive wear on your vehicle. Durability and long-term peace of mind are also major factors when choosing a heavy-duty truck for agricultural work. Every new model comes backed by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty, including a basic bumper-to-bumper warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles, a powertrain warranty of 5 years or 60,000 miles, and corrosion protection for 5 years with unlimited miles. In addition to these strong warranty terms, owners benefit from manufacturer-backed emergency support. If you ever run into an issue in the field or on the road, you can rely on manufacturer-backed roadside assistance or use the direct helpline at Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673 to coordinate towing, flat tire changes, or fuel delivery directly to an authorized service center. Making the switch to a heavy-duty truck is a straightforward process that starts with evaluating your current vehicle's worth. Our team can help you easily value your trade-in online to see how much value you can carry over toward an upgrade. When you are ready to explore the lineup in person and find the right truck for your farm, stop by our showroom to speak with our experienced sales staff. Keep Your Vehicle Running Strong Keep your vehicle performing at its best with our service team: Order Parts Schedule Service Appt © 2026 Tri State Ford. All rights reserved.