Blog

At NorthStar Ford, we know what Northern Minnesota drivers need from a truck. Life in the Northland means long winters, rough roads, demanding jobs, and weekends spent at the cabin, on the trail, or at the lake. Whether you're commuting through fresh snowfall, hauling equipment to a job site, or towing your boat for a summer getaway, you need a truck that's ready for every season. That's why so many local drivers trust Ford. For generations, Ford trucks have earned a reputation for durability, capability, and reliability. They're built to handle the unique challenges that come with living and working in Northern Minnesota, making them a dependable choice no matter what the forecast or terrain has in store. Tough Enough for Northland Roads Northern Minnesota can be hard on vehicles. Between gravel roads, potholes, muddy trails, and road salt, durability isn't just a nice feature, it's a necessity. Ford trucks are engineered with high-strength frames, rugged suspension systems, and proven powertrains designed to withstand years of demanding use. Whether you're traveling to a remote job site, heading to hunting land, or making the drive to the cabin, Ford trucks are built to provide the reliability drivers count on day after day. Ready for Harsh Winters Of course, life in Northern Minnesota means being prepared for winter. Ford trucks are designed with features that help drivers stay confident when conditions become challenging. Available four-wheel drive systems, advanced traction control, and selectable drive modes help improve performance on snow-covered and icy roads. Features like available heated seats, heated steering wheels, and remote start make those frigid mornings a little more comfortable. When snow starts falling and temperatures drop, Ford trucks are built to keep moving. Built for Life Beyond Work In Northern Minnesota, a truck is more than just a work vehicle. It's often the vehicle that gets you to the lake, the deer stand, the campground, or your favorite trail. Ford trucks offer impressive towing capability for boats, campers, utility trailers, and recreational equipment, along with spacious beds for hauling everything from firewood to fishing gear. Available off-road packages, all-terrain tires, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems provide added confidence when your adventures take you beyond the pavement. No matter the season, Ford trucks are ready for whatever the Northwoods have to offer. A Ford Truck for Every Driver No two drivers have the same needs, which is why Ford offers a truck lineup built for a variety of lifestyles. The Ford F-150 is the perfect balance of capability, comfort, and versatility. With impressive towing and hauling capability, modern technology, and a comfortable interior, it's equally at home on the job site, at the boat launch, or during the daily commute. For drivers who need maximum power and capability, the Ford Super Duty ® lineup is built for the toughest jobs. Designed to handle heavy-duty towing and hauling, it's a favorite among contractors, farmers, and business owners who rely on their trucks every day. The Ford Ranger provides pickup capability in a more maneuverable midsize package. It's a great choice for drivers who want the utility of a truck without the size of a full-size model. Whether you're navigating city streets, backroads, or heading out for a weekend adventure, the Ranger offers the versatility to do it all. No matter your lifestyle, there's a Ford truck built to handle life in Northern Minnesota. Find Your Next Ford Truck at NorthStar Ford At NorthStar Ford, we're proud to help Northern Minnesota drivers find trucks that fit their lifestyle. Whether you're looking for the versatile F-150, the hardworking Super Duty ®, or the capable Ranger, our team is here to help you find the right Ford for your needs. Visit NorthStar Ford today and discover why Ford trucks continue to be the trusted choice for drivers across Northern Minnesota. When the weather gets tough, the roads get rough, and the work still needs to get done, Ford is built for the challenge.

For years, the Ford Escape has been a go-to choice for customers who wanted a comfortable, easy-to-drive SUV with everyday practicality. Now that the Escape is no longer part of Ford’s new-vehicle lineup, many shoppers are asking the same question: “What should I look at next?” The good news is that Ford still has strong options for Escape customers depending on what they liked most about their previous SUV. Whether they want something similar in size, more space for family, or added utility for work and weekend projects, the Bronco Sport, Explorer, and Maverick each offer a different path forward. For Customers Who Want a Similar-Sized SUV: Ford Bronco Sport The Ford Bronco Sport is likely the most natural next step for many Escape owners. It keeps that compact SUV size customers appreciate, while adding a more rugged personality and standard 4x4 capability. For drivers who liked the Escape because it was easy to park, comfortable for daily errands, and practical year-round, the Bronco Sport checks a lot of the same boxes while bringing extra confidence for snow, gravel roads, cabin trips, and weekend adventures. Best fit for: Customers who want to stay in a compact SUV but would enjoy a tougher look, standard 4x4 capability, and a vehicle that feels ready for Minnesota weather and outdoor lifestyles. For Customers Who Need More Room: Ford Explorer If an Escape customer is ready to move up in size, the Ford Explorer is worth a serious look. With three rows, more passenger space, and extra cargo room, the Explorer is a great choice for growing families, road trips, sports gear, pets, and customers who simply want more breathing room than a compact SUV can offer. Best fit for: Customers who liked the Escape but now want more seating, more space, and a larger SUV that can handle busy family life with confidence. For Customers Who Want SUV Comfort with Truck Utility: Ford Maverick The Ford Maverick is a smart option for Escape drivers who are open to something different. It drives smaller and more comfortably than many people expect from a truck, but adds the convenience of a pickup bed for hauling mulch, tools, bikes, camping gear, small furniture, or weekend project supplies. Best fit for: Customers who still want everyday comfort but could use more utility than an SUV cargo area provides. How to Help Customers Choose Choose the Bronco Sport if they want the closest Escape alternative with a more adventurous style. Choose the Explorer if they need more room, more seating, or a family-friendly upgrade. Choose the Maverick if they want great everyday drivability plus the usefulness of a truck bed. Final Thoughts The Escape may be gone, but Ford customers still have plenty of great choices. The key is to match each shopper to what they loved most about the Escape — size, comfort, capability, space, or practicality — and then helping them find the Ford vehicle that fits their life today.

When shopping for a new vehicle, most people focus on the big things: reliability, capability, fuel economy, towing power, cargo space, and how it looks in the driveway. But after a few weeks of ownership, it is often the smaller everyday features that drivers start talking about the most. At NorthStar Ford in Duluth, we hear it all the time. A customer buys a Ford for one reason, then comes back and says, “I didn’t think I’d care about that feature, but now I use it every day.” From cold Minnesota mornings to long highway drives, these are five Ford features that tend to become favorites fast. 1. The Ford App The Ford app is one of those tools many owners download because they feel like they “should,” then quickly realize how useful it actually is. Depending on the vehicle and setup, the app can help with remote start, lock and unlock, vehicle status, fuel or charge information, GPS location, service history, Ford Rewards, and scheduling service. For Duluth drivers, remote start alone is a game changer. Starting your Ford from inside the house before a cold morning commute or checking your vehicle status before heading out the door is the kind of convenience that becomes part of your routine without even thinking about it. 2. The Keyless Entry Keypad Ford’s keyless entry keypad may not sound exciting at first, but owners who use it tend to love it. It gives you a simple way to unlock your vehicle without needing your key or key fob in your hand, which can be surprisingly helpful in everyday life. Heading to the lake, going for a run, loading groceries, sharing access with a family member, or realizing your keys are in the wrong coat pocket? The keypad is one of those features that feels simple until the first time it saves you time and frustration. 3. Adaptive Cruise Control Adaptive Cruise Control is a feature many drivers assume they will only use on long road trips. Then they try it on a drive down I-35 or a weekend trip to the Twin Cities and suddenly understand the appeal. Available Adaptive Cruise Control can help maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, and some Ford systems can include Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering capability. The result is a more relaxed driving experience, especially in traffic, on longer highway stretches, or during daily commutes. 4. Blind Spot Monitoring Blind Spot Information System, also known as BLIS, is one of those features you do not always notice until you drive a vehicle without it. It can alert you when another vehicle is detected in your blind spot, helping add confidence when changing lanes or merging. For busy roads, highway driving, parking lots, and unpredictable traffic, blind spot monitoring quietly works in the background. It is not flashy, but it is practical, and that is exactly why many Ford owners appreciate it every single day. 5. Heated Seats and a Heated Steering Wheel In Minnesota, comfort features are not just nice extras. Heated seats and an available heated steering wheel can make winter driving noticeably better, especially on early mornings, snowy days, or quick trips where the cabin has not fully warmed up yet. Many shoppers do not put heated comfort features at the top of their must-have list, but once they have them, they become hard to give up. It is a small detail that makes every cold-weather drive feel a little easier. Find Your Favorite Ford Feature at NorthStar Ford The best Ford features are often the ones that make everyday life easier. Whether it is starting your vehicle from your phone, unlocking your doors with a keypad, feeling more confident on the highway, or staying warm on a cold Duluth morning, these small conveniences can make a big difference. If you are shopping for a new or used Ford in Duluth, MN, visit NorthStar Ford to explore available Ford models and see which features fit your daily drive best.

Introduction Searching for the perfect Ford SUV for your family in Duluth, MN? NorthStar Ford is your trusted local dealership, proudly serving families across Duluth, Superior, Hermantown, and the North Shore. Our 2026 Ford SUV lineup is designed for the challenges of Minnesota weather and the adventures unique to the Twin Ports region. In this comprehensive guide, we highlight the best Ford SUVs for families, key features, and helpful tips, all tailored for Duluth and optimized for NorthStar Ford’s expert service and selection. Why Ford SUVs Are the Top Choice for Duluth Families — NorthStar Ford Advantage All-Wheel Drive (AWD) & 4WD Availability: Duluth’s snowy winters and hilly terrain are no match for Ford’s advanced AWD and 4WD capabilities. Test drive your next Ford SUV at NorthStar Ford to experience real-world performance on local roads. Spacious Interiors: Ford SUVs offer roomy cabins and flexible seating ideal for Northland families, from soccer practice to weekend escapes. NorthStar Ford’s team can help you find the perfect configuration for your needs. Advanced Safety Features: With Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology standard and available on many models, NorthStar Ford ensures your family’s safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Modern Infotainment: SYNC® infotainment systems keep everyone entertained on long drives along Lake Superior or up to the Iron Range. Top 2026 Ford SUV Models for Families at NorthStar Ford Duluth 1. Ford Explorer At NorthStar Ford, the Ford Explorer is a favorite among Duluth families. Its three rows of seating, versatile cargo space, and advanced safety technology make it ideal for local commutes and snowy adventures. Seats up to 7 passengers SYNC® 4 with wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ safety suite Heated seats and steering wheel — perfect for Duluth winters 2. Ford Expedition For maximum family space and towing power, NorthStar Ford offers the full-size Ford Expedition and Expedition MAX. Perfect for large, active families, this SUV is ready for Northland adventures from Spirit Mountain to the Boundary Waters. Seats up to 8 passengers Best-in-class cargo space Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ for easy towing Tri-zone automatic climate control Power-folding third-row seats 3. Ford Bronco (Full-Size) For families who crave outdoor excitement, NorthStar Ford’s full-size Bronco brings rugged capability and modern comfort. Whether exploring the North Shore or tackling Duluth’s steep hills, the Bronco is ready for adventure. Available in 2-door and 4-door configurations Seats up to 5, with washable interiors and removable roof/doors Advanced 4x4 systems and G.O.A.T. Modes™ Cargo area designed for outdoor gear Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety features Roof racks and accessory mounts 4. Ford Bronco Sport Bronco Sport, another NorthStar Ford favorite, is agile enough for Duluth’s city streets and tough enough for rural trails. Its smart storage, standard AWD, and robust safety tech make it a great fit for local families. G.O.A.T. Modes™ for all terrain Rubberized cargo floor and washable seat backs All-wheel drive standard Roof rails and cargo management systems Advanced driver assistance features Tips for Buying Your Ford SUV at Northstar Ford Duluth Take a test drive at NorthStar Ford in Duluth, MN, to experience AWD and 4WD on local terrain and in real weather conditions. Ask about NorthStar Ford’s certified pre-owned and new SUV inventory for the best value and warranty coverage. Check NorthStar Ford’s website for local specials, incentives, and family-oriented packages on 2026 models. Explore accessories like cargo organizers, all-weather mats, and roof boxes available at NorthStar Ford Duluth. Consult NorthStar Ford’s expert staff for maintenance plans and service packages tailored for Minnesota driving. Compare trim levels and available options at NorthStar Ford to find your ideal balance of features and budget. Factor in resale value — Ford SUVs from NorthStar Ford hold their value well for Duluth families planning ahead. Ford SUV Ownership with NorthStar Ford Duluth Owning a Ford SUV from NorthStar Ford enhances your Duluth lifestyle. Our dealership’s reputation for reliability, service, and community engagement means you get more than a vehicle—you gain a partner. NorthStar Ford supports families with local maintenance clinics, community events, and responsive after-sales care, ensuring your SUV thrives from snowy downtown to summer days on Lake Superior. Conclusion If you’re ready to upgrade your family’s ride, visit NorthStar Ford Duluth for the latest 2026 Ford SUVs. Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through safety, comfort, winter-readiness, and flexible options. Test drive today and discover how NorthStar Ford can help your family enjoy every journey in and around Duluth, MN.

The 2025 Ford Escape Hybrid, available now at NorthStar Ford in Duluth, MN, offers an impressive combination of fuel efficiency and SUV versatility. Its 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder hybrid engine produces 192 horsepower while achieving up to an EPA-estimated 42 MPG city. In Adolph, MN, the Escape Hybrid's standard AWD on the Platinum trim provides confident traction and handling. Across its four available trims - ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum - the Escape Hybrid provides a range of features for safety and comfort. Esko, MN drivers will appreciate standard Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies like Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Lane-Keeping System. Inside the cabin, available amenities include a 13.2-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated ActiveX-trimmed front seats, and a panoramic Vista Roof. Experience the efficiency, capability, and technology of the 2025 Ford Escape Hybrid for yourself. Browse our new Ford inventory to see current Escape Hybrid availability at NorthStar Ford in Duluth, MN. The Escape Hybrid's blend of fuel savings and SUV practicality makes it the smart choice for your next vehicle.

The 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E is a groundbreaking electric SUV that delivers exhilarating performance, advanced technology, and impressive range. At NorthStar Ford, we're thrilled to showcase the Mustang Mach-E's cutting-edge features that make it stand out from the competition. Seamless Connectivity with SYNC 4A Stay connected on the road with the Mustang Mach-E's SYNC 4A infotainment system. The expansive 15.5" LCD capacitive touchscreen offers swipe capability, wireless phone connection, cloud connectivity, and more. With enhanced voice recognition, you can easily control your music, navigation, and phone using natural language commands. Plus, enjoy wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless smartphone integration. Confidence-Inspiring Driver Assist Technologies The 2025 Mustang Mach-E is equipped with a suite of advanced driver assist features to enhance your safety and peace of mind. Standard technologies include: Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Stop-Go Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) Lane Keeping Alert with Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking Evasion Assist and Intersection Assist With these cutting-edge features, you can drive with confidence knowing that your Mustang Mach-E is looking out for you and your passengers. Immersive Audio Experience Elevate your driving experience with the available B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen. This premium audio system features 10 speakers, including a subwoofer, to deliver crystal-clear sound throughout the cabin. With B&O Beosonic, you can fine-tune the audio to your preferences for a truly personalized listening experience. Experience the future of driving with the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E. Visit NorthStar Ford in Duluth to explore this cutting-edge electric SUV for yourself.

Adventure enthusiasts in Duluth, MN will love the trail-ready design of the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport. This compact SUV boasts a bold, boxy silhouette with short overhangs and high ground clearance that hints at its go-anywhere capabilities. Signature round headlamps and a one-piece grille create an unmistakable connection to the iconic Bronco nameplate. The 2024 Bronco Sport is available in five unique trims - Heritage, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Free Wheeling, and Badlands - each with its own exterior upgrades. St. Louis County, MN drivers who opt for the base Heritage trim will get stylish 17-inch Oxford White aluminum wheels, while the Big Bend adds eye-catching Carbonized Gray aluminum wheels. LED fog lamps provide extra illumination on misty mornings in Adolph, MN. The range-topping Bronco Sport Badlands has 17-inch Carbonized Gray-painted aluminum wheels wrapped in rugged 225/65R17 all-terrain tires for maximum off-road prowess. It also features off-road tuned suspension, bash plates, tow hooks, and a full-size spare tire mounted in the cargo area. If you're eager to get behind the wheel of Ford's most adventure-ready SUV, browse NorthStar Ford's new inventory to see our current selection of 2024 Bronco Sport models.

The 2024 Ford Ranger is built for adventure, with impressive capability features that make it a top choice for tackling tough terrain. Whether you're hitting the trails near Adolph or hauling gear to your cabin in Esko, the Ranger is up for the challenge. This midsize pickup is available in four trim levels - XLT, XL, Lariat, and Raptor - so you can find the perfect match for your lifestyle in Duluth. Under the hood, the Ranger offers three robust EcoBoost engine options, including a powerful 3.0-liter V6 in the off-road-ready Raptor trim. When properly equipped, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds, making it ideal for boating on Lake Superior. Advanced technology like Trail Control and the Terrain Management System gives you confidence in all conditions. Discover the rugged capability of the 2024 Ford Ranger for yourself by browsing our new Ford inventory at NorthStar Ford in Duluth. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to help you find the perfect Ranger to fit your adventures in the Northland and beyond.

The 2024 Ford Expedition is brimming with modern technology to enhance your driving experience. It comes equipped with the intuitive SYNC 4 infotainment system featuring a large 12-inch touchscreen display. Wireless charging and connectivity allow you to integrate your smartphone seamlessly. Drivers in Duluth, MN will appreciate the convenience of the Expedition's advanced driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Expedition also offers plenty of technology features focused on passenger comfort and convenience. Enjoy amenities like a power liftgate, power-folding second and third-row seats, and an available panoramic Vista Roof to let in ample natural light. If you're in the Esko, MN area, head to NorthStar Ford to browse our extensive selection of 2024 Ford Expeditions. Our friendly sales team would be happy to set you up with a test drive so you can experience these premium tech features for yourself.

Get ready to feel your heart race behind the wheel of the 2025 Ford Mustang, available now at NorthStar Ford in Duluth. This iconic muscle car delivers breathtaking performance that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. The Mustang GT Premium comes equipped with a beastly 5.0-liter V8 engine, unleashing a thrilling 480 horsepower. With the choice between a 10-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission, you can take control of this raw power just the way you like. The GT Premium also boasts an impressive 0-60 mph time and agile handling for an incredibly engaging driving experience. For those seeking even more adrenaline, the Mustang Dark Horse steps it up with a modified 5.0-liter V8 pumping out a whopping 500 horsepower. Its sport-tuned adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, and wide summer tires allow the Dark Horse to confidently devour twists and turns. This track-ready Mustang variant is sure to satisfy the most demanding performance enthusiasts. If you prefer your pony car with a more efficient punch, the EcoBoost trims harness a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder to generate 315 horsepower while achieving up to 32 mpg highway. With nearly as much power as the GT trims of yesteryear, the EcoBoost Mustangs offer an ideal balance of potent performance and fuel-sipping practicality. Experience the Thrill at NorthStar Ford No matter which Ford Mustang trim you choose, you'll be treated to an exhilarating driving experience day in and day out. Visit NorthStar Ford in Duluth, MN to feel the power and performance of the 2025 Mustang for yourself.

The 2024 Ford Maverick has a potent 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine that produces 250 horsepower paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers in Adolph, MN will appreciate the available all-wheel drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and control in varying road conditions. Choose from three Maverick trims - the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The mid-range XLT adds desirable features like 17-inch aluminum wheels, power mirrors, and smart keyless entry. The Lariat trim boasts standard goodies like ActiveX trimmed seats, a B&O sound system, and a spray-in bedliner for those in Esko, MN seeking top-tier amenities. With an array of available packages like the FX4 Off-Road, 4K Tow, and Tremor Off-Road, you can further customize your Maverick to suit your lifestyle. Experience the 2024 Ford Maverick's impressive performance firsthand by visiting NorthStar Ford's new Ford inventory in Duluth, MN. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you find the perfect Maverick to match your needs and budget. Stop by NorthStar Ford at 1420 Miller Trunk Hwy, Duluth, MN to take this capable compact truck for a spin today!

The 2024 Ford Edge offers a refined interior across its five available trims: SE, SEL, Titanium, ST-Line, and ST. At NorthStar Ford in Duluth, MN, we're impressed by the high-quality materials and thoughtful design found inside this midsize SUV. Drivers in St. Louis County will appreciate available amenities like ActiveX trimmed heated bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a B&O sound system. The Edge provides generous passenger space, with 42.6 inches of front legroom. Behind the second row, you'll find a spacious 73.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity - plenty of room for luggage, gear, or shopping bags. Adolph, MN residents looking for even more convenience can opt for a hands-free foot-activated liftgate on select trims. Other interior upgrades include a panoramic Vista Roof, wireless charging pad, and front seats with cooling ventilation. If you're shopping for a new Ford near Duluth, come experience the comfortable and well-crafted interior of the 2024 Ford Edge for yourself. Visit NorthStar Ford to explore the Edge interior firsthand and take this impressive SUV for a test drive.