The Ford Maverick is one of America's most innovative pickups, paving the way for a new generation of tech-forward trucks that trade on their efficiency while still allowing owners to accomplish all of the expected pickup feats. The 2026 model was recently named MotorTrend's Truck of the Year, besting a solid field of contenders to take the crown for the first time in its four years on the market. It's easy to understand the accolade, especially if you've ever spent a little time in the driver's seat. The Maverick's compact design makes it easy to navigate around town, especially in tight city streets and crowded parking lots. The pickup's unique blend of value, efficiency, and versatility has earned it plenty of plaudits from drivers and critics alike, and the pickup is only improving with age. The newest model introduces new powertrain options, as well as some enticing new colors and options, not to mention the sporty Lobo trim that joined the lineup back in 2025. Let's explore a few of the key highlights and see why the compact Maverick has so many drivers seeking out their Ford dealer near Kingston. Best-In-Class Construction While the Maverick earns best-in-class distinctions all across the board, that accomplishment requires a bit of context. Sure, the pickup leads the compact segment in terms of performance, payload, efficiency, and cargo space, but the Maverick also doesn't face much competition. In fact, Ford's smallest truck is just one of two compact models currently available, with the Hyundai Santa Cruz as the only other option. But does Hyundai's contender even qualify? The company technically markets the model as a Sport Adventure Vehicle, and while it shares the Maverick's crossover-inspired unibody construction, the Santa Cruz falls short in some key pickup-related areas. Just take the truck's 4.3-foot cargo bed. This undersized storage area gives drivers just 27 cu.-ft. to work with, which could lead to some tough decisions when it comes time to haul building supplies, landscaping materials, or other cargo. The Maverick enjoys a much stronger showing with Ford's compact offering almost 25% more cargo space. The truck can also accommodate some 1,500 lbs of payload, and is equipped with a 13.2-inch infotainment display that bests the Santa Cruz by almost a full inch. The Santa Cruz's base engine is also a bit thirsty for a compact model, achieving as low as 21 MPG in the city when equipped with the AWD powertrain. Throw in the fact that the Maverick actually retails for less than the relatively underequipped Santa Cruz, and it's easy to see why Ford's compact pickup outsold Hyundai's by a 6-to-1 margin in 2025. Performance & Efficiency Ford offers drivers two ways to experience the 2026 Maverick, and it all starts with choosing the right engine. Efficiency has never been a major selling point in the pickup segment, but compact models like the Maverick fare better than most thanks to their modest dimensions. Ford doubled down on the segment's eco-friendly appeal with the introduction of the Maverick, which is powered by a hybrid base engine that opens the door to a new era of efficiency. The 2.5L I-4 hybrid uses an electric motor to deliver some 191 hp, but it's the pickup's impressive fuel economy that's really been turning heads. According to the EPA, the Maverick can achieve up to 42 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway when opting for the hybrid powertrain, giving the truck a 39 MPG combined as you cruise around Kingston. Adding AWD sees that figure slip to 37 MPG combined, but that's still a strong showing with the Maverick's estimated annual fuel cost totaling just around $1,600. That's impressive for any compact model, but it's especially notable when you consider the Maverick's workhorse resume. The truck can tow up to 4,000 lbs when properly equipped and also leads the segment in max payload at 1,500 lbs. In the mood for some extra power? Ford makes it easy to upgrade the Maverick with an available 2.0L turbocharged I-4. Rated for 250 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque, the turbocharged mill earns its keep in terms of both work and play. The torque-rich engine should have no problem pulling heavy loads or powering through off-road terrain, and it provides a hair-raising experience, able to sprint from zero to 60 MPH in 5.8 seconds. The hybrid isn't too far behind at 6.7 seconds, but if you're looking for some extra passing power, the turbocharged engine is the clear winner. Lobo Delivers 90s Nostalgia The Maverick made headlines in 2025 with the debut of a new trim. While most might have expected a new off-road option, or perhaps another premium model to slot in below the range-topping Lariat, but Ford took a decidedly different route. The Maverick Lobo is designed in the mold of the lowered sport compact pickups that were all the rage back in the 1990s. The model perfectly aligns with the current trend of 90s nostalgia and allows Kingston drivers to hit the road in a bold new trim, complete with both appearance- and performance-related upgrades. It all starts under the hood, where drivers will find the same brawny base engine that graces the rest of the lineup. The 250-hp motor is no slouch, but Ford's decision to equip the Lobo with an upgraded transmission that really solidifies its sporty credentials. The brand has swapped out the standard eight-speed automatic for a seven-speed model that allows drivers to exert a little more control thanks to a set of steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The Lobo also comes standard with an advanced torque-vectoring AWD system, but it's the truck's lowered sport-tuned suspension, sport-tuned steering, and performance brakes that really seal the deal. The suspension noticeably improves the Maverick's handling, allowing buyers to carve through corners with ease by lowering the truck's ground clearance to 7.4 inches. Speaking of laying down a little rubber, the trim also includes a dedicated Lobo drive mode designed to encourage drifting. Appearance upgrades range from rally-inspired 19-inch black-painted alloy wheels to a unique grille, exclusive front-end styling, Lobo badging, and custom synthetic leather upholstery. The model is also equipped with the full Ford Co-Pilot360 package, a robust array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) crafted to create a safe, confident driving experience. These features include: Intersection collision mitigation Rear automatic braking Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning Rear parking sensors Multiple Off-Road Options The Lobo certainly isn't the Maverick's only purpose-built trim. The entry-level XL represents a well-rounded base model that defies its low starting price by providing drivers with a generous suite of infotainment tech, as well as key ADAS features and even wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. The XLT introduced key comfort and convenience features, including upgraded upholstery and a rear-seat armrest, a heated steering wheel and heated front seats, and a remote starter and LED bed lighting when adding the XLT Luxury package. We've already touched on the new Lobo, and the Lariat earns its place atop the trim ladder with a strong resume of luxury features, including dual-zone automatic climate controls, synthetic leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, all sure to elevate your daily commute through Kingston. But what about those who primarily see their pickup as a means of kicking up a little mud? Ford has you covered with a few off-road options to choose from. The FX4 Off-Road package adds all the gear you'll need for a weekend full of off-the-grid fun to the XLT. All-terrain tires come standard, as does an off-road-tuned suspension and a set of front tow hooks that are sure to come in handy in a recovery scenario. The FX4 Off-Road package also includes a hill descent control feature that serves like a sort of off-road cruise control, allowing drivers to focus on steering down steep grades while the truck handles all braking duties. The comprehensive package also offers: Upgraded engine cooling Full-size spare tire Skid plates Off-road drive mode That said, there's no substitute for the Tremor trim if you're seeking the Maverick's most adventure-ready guise. The Tremor stands tall with 9.1 inches of ground clearance, a full 1 inch more than the base model. The trim offers all the expected features -- all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and a full-size spare tire -- as well as some premium upgrades one might not expect at this price. For example, the Tremor sees the standard hill descent control replaced with a Trail Control system that can handle both acceleration and braking at speeds below 20 MPH. The off-road trim also comes with an upgraded transmission cooler, exclusive exterior styling, an additional Off-Road drive mode, and the most essential of all off-road equipment: a locking rear differential that ensures consistent traction. Meet The Maverick At Ruge's Ford If you're a longtime sedan or crossover driver who is looking to enjoy a more rugged ride, the Ford Maverick provides the perfect introduction to the pickup segment. The compact model is just as comfortable and efficient as the average vehicle and can even outpace some models in efficiency thanks to its advanced hybrid powertrain. A comprehensive suite of advanced comfort, convenience, and infotainment tech delivers a thoroughly modern driving experience, and a versatile trim ladder lets every owner dial in the perfect pickup. When it comes time to put in a little work, the Maverick is up to the task with plenty of power, torque, and up to 4,000 lbs of towing capacity. It's a strong showing for the compact pickup, and it raises an important question: why would you settle for a run-of-the-mill crossover when you can enjoy life behind the wheel of the 2026 Ford Maverick?

Is it time to get a new truck for your extreme jobs or adventures? Come visit us at Ruge’s Ford, your dedicated Ford dealer near Kingston, and test-drive the 2026 Super Duty. As the ultra-rugged and enhanced big brother of the famed F-150, the Ford Super Duty Series—which includes the F-250, F-350, and F-450—turns up the heat for when you need to take on New York’s highway system or the rugged Appalachian roads. What makes the 2026 Ford Super Duty special? These seven highlights show the full scope of the Ford Super Duty and why it’s the right truck. From the many engine choices to new personalization options and never-ending reliability, the 2026 Super Duty has something to offer every Kingston truck enthusiast. #1 - Four Dynamic Engines However much power you need from your truck, the 2026 Super Duty provides it. There are four engines that Kingston drivers can use from Interstate 87 to the banks of the Hudson River. The 6.8L V8 engine produces 405 hp and 445 lb-ft of torque, delivering impressive heavy-duty performance while remaining solid and efficient for daily use. The 7.3L Godzilla V8 jumps to 430 hp and 485 lb-ft, delivering excellent acceleration and speed with the convenience of regular gasoline. The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel delivers 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft, boosting towing and hill-climbing performance while delivering excellent highway efficiency. The Power Stroke High Output is the biggest beast with 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft for when your job or lifestyle demands the best. #2 - Unbeatable Hauling Capability You’re buying a heavy-duty truck in part because it can tow and haul more than a light-duty pickup. What you may not realize is how much more the 2026 Ford Super Duty can do. The Super Duty F-350 and F-450 boast a towing capacity of 30,000 lbs with a conventional trailer hitch, 35,000 lbs with a fifth wheel, and a whopping 40,000 lbs in a gooseneck setup. For good measure, its payload capacity reaches 8,000 lbs. From fully loaded campers and boats to construction machinery, multi-vehicle haulers, and raw landscaping materials, the Super Duty does it all. The Ford F-250 Super Duty is impressive as well for people who need a happy medium between a half-ton and a one-ton truck. It scorches the pavement with a maximum towing capacity of 23,000 lbs and a payload capacity of 4,240 lbs. #3 - Multiple Off-Road Packages Kingston is a quick jaunt from some of New York State’s finest trails, lakes, and nature preserves—and the 2026 Super Duty is perfect for exploring them. It’s a great off-road truck in “factory stock” form with its power, ultra-strong frame, available 4x4, and high ground clearance. But for an all-terrain edge, there’s a trio of off-road packages to upgrade your truck. The XL Off-Road Package is a great entry-level loadout featuring an electronic locking rear differential, 33-inch rugged-terrain tires, and protective skid plates. The long-running FX4 Package steps up for moderate off-roaders by adding specially tuned shocks, hill descent control, and a limited-slip rear differential on dually models. Then there’s the Tremor Package, which is the best Super Duty off-roader available. It has a suspension lift, a front limited-slip differential, 35-inch tires, a higher approach angle, Rock Crawl and Trail Control drive modes, and even water venting tubes to conquer the Hudson Valley. #4 - Premium Safety Technology Driving a big truck doesn’t make safety less important. If anything, it’s more crucial. With plenty of available driver assistance and other safety technologies, the 2026 Ford Super Duty helps you reach your destination. Most Super Duty trucks can be optioned with the latest Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. The blind-spot monitoring system includes trailer coverage, part of an impressive list of towing technologies that also includes sway control, Pro Trailer Hitch Assistance, onboard scales, and brake controllers. There are also advanced systems such as post-collision braking, lane centering, and intersection assistance. You’ll always feel confident with Ford Co-Pilot360 in your corner. #5 - New Appearance and Amenity Packages The 2026 Super Duty was already an amazing truck, but Ford continues to strive to make it better. Kingston drivers can now choose from multiple new packages and expanded availability of existing packages to personalize their rig. A new Lariat Premium package outfits the Lariat Crew Cab 4WD with Pro Trailer technology, Co-Pilot 360 2.0 driver assistance, power-sliding rear privacy glass, and special platform running boards. The STX Appearance package is now available on F-350 Dually trucks, offering LED reflector headlamps and fog lamps, body-color bumpers, polished wheels, a black grille, and more. The Tremor Package is now available with a regular-output diesel engine if you want extra torque for crawling around Ashokan Reservoir or scaling Overlook Mountain. Instead of the standard one-year subscription to the Ford Connectivity Package, owners can purchase a seven-year subscription with access to Google built-in, video conferencing, video streaming, and more. #6 - Any Cab and Bed Combo You Please Some truckmakers advertise a wide range of cab and bed options, but only let you order their trucks with certain pairings. Ford, though, puts everything at your disposal with the 2026 Super Duty. Do you want a truck that’s nimbler for tight Kingston streets and tighter trails? Choose the newly reinstated SuperCab/short bed duo. On the other end of the spectrum, the Crew Cab and long box provide maximum space for people, pets, and gear. You can also pair a Super Cab/long box to emphasize equipment capacity or a Crew Cab/short box if you often drive people around town. This truck is built to serve you and your lifestyle. #7 - Reliability for Serious Truck Enthusiasts Once you’ve made a big investment in a truck, you don’t want to constantly worry that it will break down in the middle of Washington Avenue—or worse, in the middle of Bluestone Wild Forest. The 2026 Ford Super Duty carries on the legendary Blue Oval reputation for dependable performance. The Super Duty is historically ranked among the longest-lasting trucks and the most likely to reach 200,000 miles. Ford will be by your side for much of that journey, as they provide a five-year/60,000-mile warranty on gas powertrains and a five-year/100,000-mile warranty on diesel powertrains or commercial use. If you ever want to trade up, the 2026 Super Duty also offers excellent value retention, increasing your buying power. Ruge’s Ford Has the 2026 Super Duty Whether it’s work projects, hobbies, or family life, you live big and should have a truck that does the same. The 2026 Ford Super Duty remains the king of its kind, and you’ll find it near Kingston at Ruge’s Ford. We have served the region’s drivers since 1935 and are ready to connect you with the right Super Duty model. Visit us today to test-drive a Super Duty truck and talk to our knowledgeable sales team about your needs. When you buy a 2026 Super Duty truck from us, you receive the best value and service, including complimentary pickup and delivery for scheduled maintenance, paintless dent repairs, key replacement, and more as part of the Ruge’s Advantage.

If you've lived in the Hudson Valley for more than one winter, you know how it goes. One week you're enjoying the leaves along Route 9, and the next you're scraping ice off the windshield at 6:30 in the morning and hoping the car starts. The good news? Most winter breakdowns are preventable. A little attention now, before the first real cold snap, can save you from a dead battery in a parking lot or a slippery ride home on the Taconic. Here's what to check, whether you're driving something brand new or a trusty used vehicle with a few miles on it. Winter Ready Special: Only $49.95! Our technicians will check the essentials on this list for you, and you'll get a digital inspection report texted right to your phone. Add it to any service visit or book it on its own. Offer expires 10/31/2026. See dealer for details. 1. Test Your Battery Before It Tests You Cold weather is tough on batteries. Low temperatures slow down the chemical reaction that gives your battery its power, while your engine needs more of that power to turn over on a frosty morning. A battery that seemed fine in September can quit on the first single-digit night. If your battery is three or more years old, or you've noticed slower starts or dim headlights at idle, get it tested. A quick battery and charging system test shows whether the battery, alternator, and connections are holding up, so you can replace a weak battery on your schedule instead of in a snowy parking lot. 2. Check Tire Tread and Pressure Your tires are the only thing touching the road, and in winter that road might be slush, black ice, or packed snow. Two things matter most: Tread depth. Worn tread can't push slush and water out of the way, which means less grip when you need it. Try the penny test: put a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, it's time to talk tires. Pressure. Tire pressure drops as temperatures fall, roughly 1 PSI for every 10 degrees. That's why your tire pressure light loves to pop on during the first cold morning of the season. Check pressure monthly and fill to the number on your driver's door jamb, not the number on the tire sidewall. Thinking about dedicated winter tires? Check out our post on When Should You Switch to Winter Tires in the Hudson Valley? for timing tips. 3. Look at Belts, Hoses, and Brakes Rubber gets stiff and brittle in the cold. A belt or hose that's already cracked or worn is much more likely to fail when temperatures drop, and a failed serpentine belt or coolant hose can leave you stranded fast. Brakes deserve a look too. Stopping distances get longer on wet and icy roads, so you want your pads and rotors in good shape before the season starts, not halfway through it. If you hear squealing or grinding, or the pedal feels soft, don't wait. 4. Make Sure Your Coolant Is Up to the Job Coolant, also called antifreeze, does exactly what that second name says. It keeps the fluid in your engine from freezing and protects against corrosion. Over time it can get diluted or break down, which lowers its freeze protection. A quick strength test tells you whether your coolant can handle a true Hudson Valley cold snap. 5. Swap Wiper Blades and Top Off Washer Fluid Road salt spray can turn your windshield into a gray smear in about a mile. Streaky or chattering wiper blades make that worse, especially at night. Fresh blades are inexpensive and make a huge difference. Fill your reservoir with a winter-rated washer fluid that won't freeze, and keep an extra jug in the trunk. You'll go through more than you think. 6. Check Your Heater, Defroster, and Lights Your defroster isn't just about comfort. If you can't clear your windshield, you can't see. Make sure the heater blows warm, the front and rear defrosters work, and every exterior light is shining. With shorter days, you'll be driving in the dark more often, and other drivers need to see you too. Driving Something New? You're Not Off the Hook A new vehicle has a fresh battery and fresh fluids, but a few winter basics still apply: Tire pressure drops in the cold no matter how new the tires are Factory all-season tires may not be the best choice for regular snow driving Get to know your vehicle's winter features, like drive modes, remote start, and heated mirrors, before you need them Pack a winter emergency kit (more on that below) Bought Used? Winter Prep Matters Even More If you picked up a pre-owned vehicle this year, you may not know exactly how old the battery is, when the coolant was last changed, or how much life the belts and hoses have left. That's not a knock on used vehicles. It just means a winter inspection is a smart first step. Our Winter Ready Special is a great way to get a baseline. You'll get a digital inspection report on your phone showing what's in good shape and what to keep an eye on, so you can plan ahead instead of being surprised. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit Whether you're commuting to Poughkeepsie or heading up to the mountains for the weekend, keep these in your vehicle from November through March: Ice scraper and snow brush Blanket, gloves, and a warm hat Flashlight with extra batteries Phone charger Jumper cables or a portable jump starter Small shovel and a bag of sand or kitty litter for traction Water and a few snacks Extra washer fluid And a simple habit that helps: try to keep your gas tank at least half full in winter. It gives you a cushion if you get stuck in traffic or a storm. Let Us Handle the Checklist for You You could work through all of this on your own, or you could let our technicians knock it out in one visit. Our Winter Ready Special is just $49.95 and includes: Battery and charging system test Tire tread, pressure, and condition check Belts, hoses, and brakes visual inspection Coolant and antifreeze strength test Wiper blades check and washer fluid top-off Heater, defroster, and exterior lights check Plus a digital inspection report texted right to your phone Add it on to any service visit, or book it as a standalone service. The offer runs through October 31, 2026, so now's the time to get on the schedule before the first storm rolls in. Call Ruge's Ford in Rhinebeck at 845-876-4440 to book your Winter Ready service. We'll help you head into winter with confidence. Frequently Asked Questions When should I get my car ready for winter in the Hudson Valley? October and early November are ideal. You want your battery, tires, coolant, and wipers checked before the first hard freeze and first snowfall, not after. Why does cold weather drain my car battery? Cold slows the chemical reaction inside the battery, so it delivers less power, while the engine needs more power to start. Older or weak batteries often fail on the first very cold morning. Why does my tire pressure light come on when it gets cold? Tire pressure drops as temperatures fall, roughly 1 PSI for every 10 degrees. Fill your tires to the pressure listed on your driver's door jamb. Does a new car need winter prep? Yes. A new vehicle still needs correct tire pressure, winter-rated washer fluid, and an emergency kit, and you may want winter tires if you drive in snow often. What's included in the Ruge's Winter Ready Special? For $49.95, you get a battery and charging system test, tire tread and pressure check, belts, hoses, and brakes visual inspection, coolant strength test, wiper and washer fluid service, heater, defroster, and lights check, plus a digital inspection report texted to your phone. The offer expires 10/31/2026. Winter Ready Special $49.95. Offer expires 10/31/2026. Add on to any vehicle service visit or as a standalone service. Parts, fluids, and repairs identified during inspection are additional. See dealer for details.