Blog

The Mustang Mach-E takes Ford into the future with its all-electric powertrain and crossover body style. Ford gave it two battery options with a larger one to extend its range, and it has strong acceleration and athletic handling abilities. Inside, you'll get the latest infotainment technology, and it comes standard with the FordPass mobile app. Meet the all-new, all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E. more The Model Lineup The Mach-E lineup starts with the Select. It has 18-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, Ford's E-Latch electronic doors, and keyless entry. The California Route 1 adds black-painted wheels and black exterior trim elements, power-folding side exterior mirrors, and a panoramic fixed-glass roof. Stepping up to the Premium gets you 19-inch wheels, a hands-free liftgate, and acoustic insulated windows in the front. The First Edition has unique scuff plates and painted brake calipers along with the features of the Premium, and the GT will also have similar features to the Premium. The Powertrain The powerful EV rear-wheel powertrain uses an electric motor with 266 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive system adds another electric motor to power the front wheels, bumping the torque up to 428 pound-feet. Extended range models have even more power, with the rear-wheel drive putting out 290 horsepower and all-wheel drive increasing to 346 horsepower. The Mach-E has a maximum range of 305 miles with the extended range motor and rear-wheel drive. The Technology Features The base Mach-E Select has a 15.5-inch touch screen in the center of the dash, a digital instrument panel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and navigation. It also comes standard with a wireless charging pad and a six-speaker stereo. The Premium upgrades the stereo to a nine-speaker Bang & Olufsen system. The Mach-E has Ford's latest generation SYNC infotainment system, which learns driver's preferences and customizes their experience. It has the capability to support three different drivers and a guest. The Cabin Comfort With the battery situated under the floor of the Mach-E, there is plenty of space in the cabin. A power-adjustable driver's seat comes standard, and even the base Select has simulated leather upholstery. The California Route 1 adds driver's seat memory settings, while the Premium has heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a customizable ambient interior lighting feature. In the back, the Mach-E has a 29-cubic-foot trunk, which opens up to 60 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Safety Features Every Mach-E comes with the Co-Pilot360 suite of driver aids. It includes an adaptive cruise control system, forward collision warning and mitigation, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-centering. Rear parking sensors also come standard. The California Route 1 adds Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0, which is a semi-automated driving system. It also has a 360-degree surround camera and an automated parking system. The new Mach-E is an exciting addition to the Ford lineup. The all-electric powertrain is powerful, with quick acceleration and lots of passing power. The Mach-E has the latest cutting-edge technology and safety features.

Have you finished your search for the best new vehicle for you and your family? Before you move forward with your new vehicle purchase, be sure to take the vehicle for a test drive. To ensure you get a vehicle that fits your needs and lifestyle, you'll want to consider a few essential points during your test drive before you make your purchase. more Exterior Appearance and Size While driving a fast sports car may seem fun, it isn't always the most practical choice. On the same note, if you're the only one who travels in your vehicle, you likely don't need to purchase a three-row SUV. When you select your ideal vehicle, make sure its size is suitable for your needs. A larger vehicle will be more challenging to park and maneuver through city traffic, but you'll get more space for people and gear on the inside. Think about how easy getting into and out of the vehicle will be. A tall person may struggle to enter a sedan, whereas someone else may have trouble climbing into a large truck or an SUV. Interior Comfort and Space You'll also want to consider how many people will realistically fit in the back seat or the third row. Bring some of the people who frequently travel with you to sit in the seats. If you test drive the vehicle on your own, climb into the back and determine whether passengers will be able to get into the seats easily before you depart for your travels. You'll also want to think about cargo space. If you're looking at a sedan, open the trunk and estimate how many grocery bags or suitcases you can fit inside. With SUVs, rear cargo space can vary considerably. Be sure you have an idea of the space you need for gear. Think about how the driver's seat feels, whether you can adjust the steering wheel to a comfortable position, how easy it is to glance in the mirrors, and whether you have good visibility. Engine Performance and Handling One of the most important reasons to test drive a vehicle is to find out how it performs and handles when you're behind the wheel. The only way to do this is by driving it. Take the vehicle on the highway and get it up to cruising speed. Highway driving lets you test out the cruise control and enables you to feel the steering and braking responsiveness at a higher speed. Listen to the engine and the transmission to ensure you don't hear any rattling, banging, or grinding. Remember that even if the vehicle sounds good and seems to operate as it should, you may not find it to your liking. Never purchase a car that you aren't 100% comfortable driving. When you're ready to take your dream vehicle out for a test drive, visit Mike Dorian Ford. We have a great selection of vehicles, and we're always happy to show off our exceptional cars, trucks, and SUVs.

There’s no question that drivers in the U.S. have been driving fewer miles than usual.  Working from home, online shopping, and delivery have contributed to fewer trips. Recent studies have indicated that people will prefer driving a personal vehicle over ride-sharing and road trips over air travel into the future. more As more companies transition from communal office space to a work-from-home model, it’s possible up to 14 million cars could be removed from the roads. Even though personal vehicles are being used as the main method of transportation, time spent in vehicles decreased. This can cause missed mileage goals and regular car maintenance. Dorian Ford makes it easy to schedule your car service. Fuel prices saw a sharp decrease at the beginning of the pandemic, but have been on the rise. Ford Motor Credit recognizes the needs of its customers and recently announced an Ultra-low mileage lease option.  This ultra-low lease option allows for a 7,500 mile per year lease option on all Ford cars, trucks, and SUVs. This ultra-low mileage lease deal has been created specifically for our unique low mileage driving customers. Dorian Ford understands how important matching a customer’s driving habits with the correct allowable mileage provides transparency and drives trust, loyalty, and satisfaction. Dorian Ford is dedicated to providing a hassle-free enjoyable car-buying experience.

If you thought the Ford F-150 Raptor was outstanding in previous model years, wait until you see what 2021 has in store for this popular model. This year, the Raptor will be bulkier and better equipped for all your outdoor adventures and will appeal to anyone who wants to do some serious off-roading. Take a closer look at the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor. more More Capable Equipped with plenty of performance upgrades for taking on rough and rugged terrain, the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor is a strong contender among its competitors. Next-gen FOX shocks with Live Valve technology make for a smooth ride with their ability to adjust damping to accommodate the terrain. The available terrain management system will be available with a new mode, Trail Control. This mode will help you gain more traction and improve agility when the road gets exceptionally rough. Opt for the Raptor 37 Performance Package for 37-inch BFGoodrich tires that give the truck 13.1 inches of ground clearance. More Comfortable Available only with the SuperCrew cab, plenty of space and comfort defines the inside of the redesigned 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor's cabin. The standard seat covering is a stylish cloth-and-leather combination, and the seats react to your movements for the ultimate comfort. Upgrading will get you Recaro performance seats covered in light blue leather upholstery with orange stitching. You'll also find either aluminum or carbon fiber accents throughout the interior for added style. With the new Ford Performance steering wheel in your hands, you'll feel in control when you're on the road. More Appealing Ford has improved the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor 's look. If you opt for the Raptor Performance Package, you'll also get a modified frame enhanced to support the larger tires and the new five-link coil-spring suspension system. With the available off-road fog lights from Rigid Industries, you'll have no problem seeing the path ahead, while the blacked-out grille gives the truck an unmistakable look. The 17-inch wheels come in three styles, two of which have beadlock capability. A durable front skid plate gives the underside of your truck more protection when going over logs, rocks, and other objects that get in your way. More Safety Focused Ford Co-Pilot360 technology provides the safety features you need for peace of mind, whether you're on the highway or the trail. The lane-keeping system will alert you if you start to drift out of your lane. If this drifting occurs a few times, a coffee cup icon will appear, indicating that it's time to take a break. The system also includes a pre-collision system with automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlamps, and hill-descent control. A rearview camera with dynamic hitch assist enables you to easily back up and hitch up your trailer. At Dorian Ford, you'll find a great selection of Ford trucks, including the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor. If you have any questions or want to take out this truck for a spin, stop by and talk to one of our friendly sales staff. We love helping our customers find the vehicle of their dreams. Image via Ford.com

Detroit, Michigan, has a rich and fascinating history within the automotive industry. The city offers several engrossing attractions and museums that focus on the history of vehicle manufacture. Here are four locations that will capture the imagination of the whole family. more The Henry Ford Museum The Henry Ford Museum covers 9 acres and celebrates the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and innovation of everyday people as they sought to shape a better future. The Driving America exhibit traces the influence of American cars on our culture over the past 100 years. It features cars from the oldest surviving U.S.-made car from 1865 to GM's 2016 self-driving test vehicle. Other exhibits include Driven to Win, the story of American auto racing; a collection of presidential vehicles; and the Rosa Parks Bus. You can also explore the history of the railroads, aircraft, agricultural machinery, and general manufacturing. The museum is next to the 80-acre Greenfield village where you can step back in time, take a ride in a model T Ford, and explore farms and workshops. Ford Rouge Factory Tour During the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, you will learn about the factory's significant history and the development of the production line. The first products from the factory were Eagle Boats for the U.S. Navy, and it has subsequently produced tractors, cars, military vehicles, tank engines, and amphibious vehicles. In later years, the legendary Ford Thunderbird and Mustang, among others, were built at the plant. It is now the home of America's best-selling vehicle, the Ford F-150 truck. Highlights of the tour include the Legacy Gallery with some of the most famous Ford vehicles on display; the Assembly Plant Walking Tour where you get a bird's eye view of the F-150 final assembly line; and the Manufacturing Innovation Theater, which shows you the manufacturing process of the F-150 from concept to the highway. Detroit Historical Museum The Detroit Historical Museum celebrates the city's past from being a rural frontier town to becoming an industrial giant. Included in the exhibits is America's Motor City with its collection of classic cars, which details not only how Detroit built cars, but also how cars built Detroit and why Detroit became the Motor City. You can discover the part that the city and people played in freeing slaves and shaping the outcome of World War II. Explore the Streets of Old Detroit exhibit to experience how the city's streets developed from the 1840s and 1870s to the 1900s. Motor City Music is an interactive exhibit exploring the legacy of Detroit's music from Gospel to Motown. Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Constructed in 1904, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant was the Ford Motor Company's first purpose-built factory. It's also the birthplace of the Model T, once the world's most popular car. The first 12,000 “Tin Lizzies” were assembled here. You can now walk the worn floorboards and admire the collection of beautifully preserved cars from the era. Whether you are a visitor or a resident in Detroit, these four locations provide a unique insight into the history of the city and the importance of the automotive industry in its development.

Ford unleashed the all-new Bronco Sport for the 2021 model year. This vehicle is the ultimate adventure machine with strong off-roading capability, robust engine performance, and user-friendly features. Explore the following five reasons you need to take the new Bronco Sport on your next excursion. more Serious Off-Road Cred The all-wheel-drive 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is the ideal choice if you're shopping for a compact SUV that can tackle the trails. Its rugged design can take a surprising amount of abuse thanks to standard hardware such as multiple skid plates and a hardy suspension. This vehicle is more than a match for all-terrain rivals, thanks to its high driving position. This SUV offers drivers a commanding view of the trail ahead, as well as exceptional visibility around the vehicle. Venture back into town, and the Ford Bronco Sport impresses the harshest critics with its civilized ride. The new vehicle model is a cinch to maneuver around town and into tight parking spaces. Powerful Turbos The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offers a stock 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine lurking underneath its hood. This vehicle puts out 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. Upper trims come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that produces 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of axle-twisting force. Both powertrains come with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends this SUV swiftly down the road less traveled. Rugged Good Looks If you're all about driving around in an SUV with rugged good looks, select the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. This vehicle fulfills the need for an adventure-ready vehicle with its chunky profile and athletic stance. Inside the vehicle, the cabin looks as good as the exterior package. Upgrade with posh amenities such as leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and available heated and power-adjustable front seats. Room to Spare Pack away sporting equipment in the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport's massive cargo area. Fold the rear seat down to reveal 65.2 cubic feet of room for camping gear, rappelling tools, or a pair of mountain bikes. Ford's engineers added a rear window that operates independently of the liftgate. This innovative feature allows you to easily stow small items, such as a backpack, without opening the hatch. You'll find plenty of convenient small-item storage scattered around the cabin, plus a hidden compartment under the back seats. High-Tech Connectivity Stay connected wherever your ultimate journey takes you with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment software. The package is one of the most user-friendly setups for vehicles in its class, with simple menus and a responsive display. This SUV comes outfitted with many buttons to easily manage audio and climate controls while keeping your eyes on the road. The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport's technology package includes an 8-inch touch screen, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Your passengers will also approve of the Ford Bronco Sport's Wi-Fi hot spot, Bluetooth, and four USB ports. Upgrade with HD radio and a premium 10-speaker stereo and blast your adventure's soundtrack.

With the 2021 Mustang Mach-E, Ford is bringing its first all-electric vehicle to the market. As opposed to other mainstream manufacturers that are focusing on an eco-friendly image with their electric models, Ford is trying to appeal to a market that doesn’t want to sacrifice performance and capability for the sake of efficiency. This blend of efficiency and performance is expressed most clearly with the Mach-E GT model, which delivers the legendary Mustang GT performance. Here’s what you can expect from this efficient pony. more Plenty of Power The Mach-E is available exclusively as an all-electric vehicle, which means there are no gas-powered or hybrid versions on offer. A choice of two battery packs is available with this EV and you can also go for either a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive system. The base Select and Premium trims, both come standard with the smaller 75.7-kWh battery, which delivers an estimated electric range of between 210 to 230 miles. Those who want to hit the open road with their Mach-E can opt for the California Route 1 trim, which features a 98.8-kWh battery and an impressive estimated range of 300 miles. With the Select and Premium trims, you’ll get an output of 266 horsepower with both all-wheel and rear-wheel-drive models, while the rear-wheel-drive-only California Route 1 trim generates 290 horsepower. If it’s power you’re after however, opt for the high-performance GT trim that kicks out 459 horsepower and 612 pound-feet of torque. Spacious Cabin You don’t have to skimp on space or comfort with the Mach-E, either. The cabin provides ample legroom for up to five passengers and there’s plenty of storage space throughout. The fact that the battery is located under the floor of the car means that you’ll get more than enough cargo space as well. In fact, the Mach-E offers two trunks. In the front of the vehicle, there’s a 4.8-cubic-feet trunk, or rather a frunk, that can accommodate an overnight bag. The frunk comes with a drainage function, so you can also use it as an icebox. In the rear is a respectably sized cargo area of 29 cubic feet, which you can extend to 60 cubic feet by folding the rear seats down. State-of-the-Art Technology The Mach-E will keep you entertained and safe on the road with the latest and greatest in technology features. This EV boasts the latest version of Ford’s Sync system called Sync 4A, which is designed to memorize a driver’s preferences over time. The imposing 15.5-inch interface, which is mounted in portrait position in the center of the car, is used to control the primary functions of the car. Standard infotainment features include a Wi-Fi hot spot, SiriusXM, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Impressive standard driver-assist systems are offered with the Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 suite that consists of pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, a lane-keeping system, a rearview camera, automatic high beams, a reverse brake system, a reverse sensing system, and post-collision braking. You can also opt for active drive assist, which is a hands-free automated driving system. The Mach-E offers an attractive blend of efficiency and performance. To find out more about what this all-electric pony has to offer, drop by Mike Dorian Ford in Clinton Township, MI and chat with one of our consultants.

Safe driving habits can help you dramatically reduce your risk of getting into an accident on the road. No matter whether you're a new driver or more experienced behind the wheel, you can always adopt smarter habits that can make you a better driver. Follow these clever tips to improve your driving and become even safer on the road. more Remove Distractions and Focus on the Road It sounds simple, but removing the distractions that make you multi-task can make you much safer on the road. Consider how many times you take your eyes, mind, or both off the road when you're snacking, changing radio stations, and chatting with friends. When you're occupied with other activities, you might not respond fast enough to a child rushing onto the road or a motorist acting unexpectedly. Remove the distractions and start focusing on the job at hand to react much faster. Heed Speed Limits and Recommendations Speed limits and signs recommending you reduce your speed for tight turns exist to keep you and other road users safe. If you exceed these speeds, you may be unable to manage your vehicle. This can be especially problematic in suburban or urban areas where there are people about. The faster you're going, the more serious any collision will be. Pay attention to those signs and stick to the limits and recommendations at all times to stay safe. Drive to the Conditions Certain conditions call for different driving techniques. When the roads are wet or icy or visibility is poor from fog or rain, driving slower than the speed limit can be the safest choice. Brakes can struggle in very cold or icy weather too, so you may use them less to keep control of your vehicle. Check the weather every time you leave home and adjust your driving accordingly. Allow Extra Time When you're pushed for time, you'll naturally take more risks when reaching your destination. For example, you might travel a little faster or make a left turn at an intersection without waiting for a large gap. Worrying about time can also elevate your stress levels, which impacts your decision-making behind the wheel. Hitting traffic or roadworks can put you even further behind, leading to more risky behavior and more stress. Keep Calm Stress isn't the only emotion that can impact your decision-making behind the wheel. Getting hot under the collar can also undermine your driving ability. We've all encountered people that frustrate us on the road, from motorists that travel at a snail's pace to those drivers that sit too close to our bumpers. You can't control what they do, but you can control how you deal with them. Take a few deep breaths and keep your emotions under control. Staying calm will help you make sound driving decisions that keep you and your passengers safe. A safe driver needs a safe car to make the most of their skills. For a modern vehicle with the latest safety features, visit Dorian Ford, your trusted Ford dealership in Clinton Township. We have an extensive range of reliable new and used vehicles with the best safety tech for your peace of mind. Image via Pixabay.com

For many years, the Ford Bronco was known as one of the most powerful, dependable, and durable vehicles in its class. Production was discontinued in 1996, but Ford has decided to revive the classic SUV. Another form of the Bronco, the more compact Bronco Sport, is available. Check out the details related to these excellent SUVs so you can decide which version suits you best. more Engine Options and Capabilities They may have similar names, but the roles of these two vehicles are quite different. The new Bronco, like its predecessors, is geared toward heavy hauling, towing, and off-road driving, while the Bronco Sport is made for commuting to and from work and handling crowded city streets efficiently. Two engines are available for each of these SUVs. The Bronco gets either a 2.3-liter inline-four engine or a 2.7-liter V-6 engine. The first gets 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, while the second gets 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The Bronco Sport gets either a 1.5-liter inline-three engine or a 2.0-liter inline-four engine. The first provides 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, while the second delivers 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The Bronco has a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the Bronco Sport gets an eight-speed automatic. Both transmissions have auto-manual and overdrive. Either of these models can tow up to 2,205 pounds, but the Bronco can carry 1,370 pounds of cargo, while the Bronco Sport maxes out at 1,000 pounds. Entertainment and Convenience The entertainment and convenience features in the two Bronco models are somewhat similar, but there are notable differences. The 2021 Ford Bronco and the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport both come with a Bang & Olufsen 10-speaker sound system, voice-activated radio, wireless phone connectivity, the SYNC infotainment system, and an amplifier. However, one of the major differences between the models is the cruise control system. The Bronco Sport has basic cruise control with steering wheel controls, whereas the Bronco is equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 adaptive cruise control system with a following distance indicator. The Bronco comes standard two sunroofs, one of which is made of composite material. It's fixed rather than adjustable, but can be easily removed. An opaque sunroof is available for the 2021 Bronco, but the 2021 Bronco Sport gets a panoramic sunroof. Both vehicles have six USB ports and three 12-volt DC power outlets, but the Bronco gets an AC outlet as well. Body Style and Exterior Features The 2021 Ford Bronco looks vastly different from the classic Bronco that was discontinued in 1996. It has gained ground on the capabilities of its previous iterations, but it looks far less boxy than it once did. The Bronco Sport has a more compact body but retains similar body lines and headlights. The Bronco has a convertible hardtop, while the Sport's is a standard non-convertible version. The 2021 Bronco Sport has 10 paint options, while the 2021 Bronco has 11. The number of paint options varies by trim level. Both of these great SUVs have a lot to offer drivers. Take a look at both in greater detail at Dorian Ford in Clinton Township, MI. Our Ford family will be glad to guide you through the expansive inventory to help you find your ideal Bronco.

Life is too short not to go on every possible adventure, and with the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, you'll never have to pass up an opportunity for fun and excitement. It has a rugged yet iconic style, along with modern amenities and safety features. Wherever you go, the Bronco is sure to turn heads. Check out the great features found on the new Bronco Sport. more Iconic Appeal While the Bronco of old is gone, the latest Ford Bronco Sport more than lives up to its iconic relative. You'll notice its squared-off, boxy shape that has curves in all the right places. It's available in several vibrant paint colors that show off its unique style. Popular colors that will get you noticed include Kodiak Brown, Cyber Orange, and Alto Blue. Choose from five different trim levels, each offering its own features and look. The Base is the entry-level model, which is followed by the Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, and First Edition trims. Superior Capability Regardless of the terrain, road conditions, or weather, the Bronco Sport is more than capable of getting you where you need to go. Thanks to G.O.A.T. modes, which stands for goes over any terrain, this SUV can take on anything. It lets you choose from either five or seven driving modes, depending on your model. Additionally, all models come standard with four-wheel drive, making this the rough and rugged SUV you've been waiting for. Some models allow you to add off-road tires that give you extra grip when you're on the trails. Adventure-Ready Cabin When an outdoor adventure calls, you'll be ready with your 2021 Bronco Sport. This SUV has a versatile cabin that can accommodate the people and gear you need for any road trip. Opt for the rear cargo management system that helps you keep your gear organized. When you need more space for gear than people, you can fold down the rear seat to create an impressive 65.2 cubic feet of space for your stuff. To make cleaning your Bronco Sport a breeze, add the available rubberized cargo area floor and rear seatback. No matter where you go, you can stay connected using the Bronco Sport's built-in Wi-Fi hot spot. Plus, the 8-inch touch screen found in the center stack lets you access your favorite playlists, maps, and more. Confidence-Boosting Safety Tech Whether you're on city streets or back road trails, you'll feel confident in the Ford Bronco Sport. This SUV comes equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies. With this system, you get access to safety tech such as pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot information system with rear cross-path detection, a lane-keeping system, and automatic high-beam headlamps. All models also feature a rearview camera that makes it easy to see what's behind you when you're backing up. Are you ready to experience the excitement of driving the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport? Then come by Dorian Ford and check out the great selection of Bronco Sports on the lot in Clinton Township, MI. We'd love to help you find the model that suits your needs and style.

You don't have to leave Macomb County to experience the natural beauty of Michigan. In fact, you'll find several beautiful hiking trails right in the vicinity of Clinton Township, whether you prefer a short trek or a full-day journey. more Tomlinson Arboretum Located right in Clinton Township, this site has a multi-use path that wanders through 24 acres of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. Guests can enjoy the changing landscape over time as these plants go through their annual lifecycle and attract native wildlife species. You can also purchase a memorial tree for a family member at the Tomlinson Arboretum. Canal Park This park in Clinton Township spans more than 16 acres on Clinton River Road. Here, you'll find the trailhead to the Don Green Nature Trail, which allows you to hike the 2.7-mile route to Budd Park. The forested trail features wood-chip terrain and welcomes leashed dogs. When you arrive at Budd, you'll find another nature trail along with playground equipment, soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, and picnic pavilions with grills. Six Rivers Land Conservancy This expansive land trust protects forested land in Macomb, Genesee, Lapeer, St. Clair, and Oakland Counties, including several nature preserves with miles of trails to explore. Some of our favorite spots in this area are in Anchor Bay Woods Preserve, just a short drive from Clinton Township in New Baltimore and one of the newest tracts protected by Six Rivers. Stroll through more than 171 acres of the largest wetland forest in Michigan, home to dozens of threatened and endangered reptile species and hundreds of native birds. Hikers should also visit East Pond Creek Preserve, about a 30-minute drive from Clinton Township in Bruce Township. This 20-acre wetland location traverses a conifer swamp filled with northern white cedar. Belle Isle Conservancy If you don't mind a drive to Detroit, Belle Isle gives you the chance to explore an honest-to-goodness island without leaving Michigan. On this 982-acre park site, you'll find miles of nature trails through this unique landscape. You can also take to the paved bike trails or rent a kayak to paddle around the Detroit River and surrounding canals. Well worth a day trip, the island also features historic sites, museums, an aquarium, fishing, tennis, recreational rowing programs, and so much more. Macomb Orchard Trail This 24-mile multi-use path uses old rail lines to connect Shelby Township with Richmond and the towns along the way. Eventually, the Michigan rail-to-trail project will connect the Macomb Orchard Trail with more than 180 miles of trails throughout the southeast part of the state. Paved along its entire length, this section passes through grassy valleys offering glimpses of farms, bridges, animals, and other bucolic sights. This trail is open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset and allows leashed pets only.  You'll find restrooms, picnic pavilions, parking facilities, and other amenities at several points along the way. Add our five favorite hiking spots to your list of fun springtime activities. You'll be able to observe nature reawakening after the long, cold winter months. Image via Pixabay.com

Ford has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality vehicles that offer budget-friendly value. If you want to purchase a new car without spending too much, check out these three affordable new Ford models. more Ford Escape Completely redesigned for the 2020 model year, the Ford Escape is a compact SUV named the Best New Car for Teens by U.S. News and World Report for its exceptional reliability and safety scores. While Escape has an average MSRP compared to similar vehicles, it offers an incredible value with the latest and greatest equipment and its fun-to-drive spirit. You'll appreciate the expansive cargo space and the high-tech available gear like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hot spot, satellite radio, and an 8-inch infotainment touch screen. Choose from two impressive turbocharged engines as well as an available hybrid model. The Escape gets better gas mileage than most of its competitors, clocking in at 27 city/33 highway mpg for the base model. The Escape has a five-star crash-test score from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration and is packed with standard driver assistance tech. Every trim comes with a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, driver drowsiness monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, curve control, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2021 Ford Escape, which has limited updates from the 2021 model, has a starting MSRP of $26,130. Ford Ranger After returning to the market in 2019 after an eight-year hiatus, the Ford Ranger has landed at the top of the compact pickup competition, thanks to its impressive towing and hauling capabilities, off-roading prowess, and class-leading gas mileage. The turbocharged engine, paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, produces 270 horses and 310 pound-feet of torque with your choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Select either a crew cab model with a 5-foot bed or an extended cab model with a 6-foot bed. You can upgrade either with an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system, premium auto, HD and satellite radio, USB ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Each trim also has automatic emergency braking, forward collision, and a rearview camera along with Ford MyKey system. The 2021 Ford Ranger carries over most features from 2020 but adds an optional Tremor off-roading package, with a starting MSRP of $24,820. Ford Fusion If you're looking for a classic midsize sedan with a cushy interior and athletic handling, look no further. The Ford Fusion gets high marks from drivers and industry experts alike for its expansive cabin and user-friendly tech features. Depending on your needs, you can choose from three different engines for the Fusion offering up to 245 horsepower. An outstanding predicted reliability rating of 4 out of 5 from J.D. Power and Associates means the Fusion can stand up to your busy lifestyle for years to come. Every Fusion model comes equipped with the Ford CoPilot360 system, which includes forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The 2020 Ford Fusion has a starting MSRP of $23,170. For 2021, Ford will replace this model with the new Fusion Active. Visit Mike Dorian Ford Inc. to check out these and other affordable Fords. We'll be happy to help you find an exciting new vehicle that's within your budget.