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One SUV, Many Personalities: A Closer Look at the 2025 Ford Explorer Trims

Blue 2025 Ford Explorer

From weekend escapes through Hudson Valley vineyards to cruises along the Taconic Parkway toward Putnam Lake, the 2025 Ford Explorer offers a trim level tailored to every part of your lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged practicality of the Base or XLT, craving the luxurious touches and tech-rich experience of the Platinum or Timberline, or ready for the sporty thrills of the ST, there’s a new Explorer waiting for you at Brewster Ford. Want to compare trims side-by-side? See our new Explorer inventory, explore detailed trim features and pricing, or get pre-approved in minutes to start planning your next Hudson Valley adventure in comfort and style.

Key Updates and Enhancements

Ford significantly upgraded the Explorer inside and out for 2025. Look at the exterior, and you'll notice a bolder front end with a larger grille, newly shaped headlights and taillights, and refreshed front bumpers. For more customization options, Ford also added a cool Vapor Blue metallic color to the exterior paint palette, and you can choose to add a black-painted roof to all trims except the base model.

The cabin's makeover centers on a 13.2-inch touch screen equipped with the Ford Digital Experience. This software system has Google Voice Assistant and Alexa built in, plus access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, YouTube, and more. With the 5G Wi-Fi hot spot capability, you can even stream videos while you're parked. Ford also made BlueCruise available for all but the base model. The Platinum even comes with a year-long subscription to this hands-free driving technology.

You'll also find more comfortable updates throughout the 2025 Ford Explorer interior. Ford offers a new range of interior colors to choose from, and you can further customize your ride with available ambient lighting to suit any mood you're in. You'll find high-quality, soft-touch materials throughout the cabin surfaces and seats, with luxurious touches such as heating, ventilation, and massage functions, particularly on the higher trims.

Understanding the 2025 Ford Explorer Trim Levels

Ford simplified things for 2025, cutting the Explorer's trim lineup in half from 2024. This gives you just four Explorer variants to choose from (though a fifth, geared primarily toward off-road enthusiasts, is set to be released later in the year). Each trim has its own look, with a unique grille and different customization options, and more convenience, safety, and tech features are added with each trim level. Let's take a look at each one in closer detail.

Active

2025 Ford Explorer ST

Starting at $39,785, the Active trim is your entry ticket to Explorer ownership. Don't let the fact that it's the base model fool you — the Active is packed with essentials that Brewster families will use daily. The standard 2.3-liter turbo engine delivers plenty of zip for school runs or weekend trips, and the 18-inch Sparkle Silver aluminum wheels add a touch of class.

Climb inside, and you'll find heated, power-adjustable front seats and three-zone climate control so nobody has to fight over the temperature. A 13.2-inch touch screen, equipped with the Ford Digital Experience, keeps everyone connected and entertained. Drivers will appreciate the 12.3-inch digital gauge display and the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, which includes adaptive cruise with stop and go, lane centering, and automatic braking that can spot pedestrians.

ST-Line

2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line

The ST-Line, which has a starting MSRP of $44,595, gives you a sportier look but without the full performance price tag. It's perfect for Brewster drivers who want to turn heads but don't need track-day capabilities. You'll stand out with 20-inch Ebony machined wheels and black exterior accents — plus, you can even opt for a black-painted roof to complement the look.

Cabin comfort is elevated with a heated steering wheel and soft, yet durable, cloth seats with unique red stitching. The ST-Line also extends heated seats to the second row. Music lovers will appreciate the 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and drivers will love access to Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving. This system is usable on over 130,000 miles of highways across North America, making commutes to the city a whole lot easier.

Platinum

2025 Ford Explorer Platinum

The Platinum, beginning at $52,100, brings all types of amenities and high-end features to the Explorer. This trim rivals luxury brand SUVs with its 20-inch luster nickel wheels, rain-sensing wipers, and adaptive headlights. If you want the best of both luxury feel and high performance, you can even choose to equip the Platinum with the ST's standard powertrain, a 3.0-liter V-6 that offers improved performance from the included 2.3-liter engine.

Comfort reigns supreme in the Platinum's interior, with heated and ventilated leather seats, a twin-panel moonroof that floods the cabin with sunlight, and ambient lighting as standard. The sound system adds four speakers, and a wireless charging pad makes it easier than ever to stay connected on the go.

ST

2025 Ford Explorer ST

Brewster gearheads, this trim's for you. Starting at $54,240, the ST packs a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that generates 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Paired with sport-tuned suspension, this powertrain handles curves as confidently as it devours straightaways. The ST also looks the part with 21-inch Magnetite wheels, quad chrome exhaust tips, and unique ST badging. Inside the cabin, sport seats hold you tight during spirited driving, and ebony doors with red stitching complement the sporty exterior.

Standard Features of All 2025 Ford Explorer Trims

While the powertrain differs depending on which trim you select, all models come with rear-wheel drive and six drive modes for different conditions. You'll have the option to upgrade to four-wheel drive on any trim, which is a smart move for Brewster winters. The 2025 Explorer is also well-equipped for weekend adventures, with the ability to tow campers, boats, or other gear up to 5,000 pounds.

Ford also designed the Explorer to be customizable for your passenger and cargo needs. All models seat up to eight passengers, depending on whether you choose second-row captain's chairs or a three-person bench seat. You'll have plenty of configuration options between the available 35/30/35-split folding second-row and 50-50-split folding third-row seats. With all seats folded, there's 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space to fit all kinds of luggage and gear, but even with the seats up, you'll still have 18.2 cubic feet of space available.

Experience the 2025 Ford Explorer Today

From the well-equipped Active to the plush Platinum, the 2025 Ford Explorer is sure to offer a model that fits your life perfectly. With its fresh styling, cutting-edge technology, and strong engine choices, this SUV is a great choice for your next new ride, whether you need it for daily use, commuting, or long road trips.

Ready to find your match? Contact us to schedule a test-drive, or stop by Brewster Ford in person. We'll even help you find and apply for financing to seamlessly finish your purchase. Our team can't wait to help you pick the Explorer that's just right for your Brewster adventures.

Images from ford.com

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Gray 2026 Ford F-150 towing a boat

2026 Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500: Which Full-Size Pickup Wins?

If you're cross-shopping trucks on Route 22 this year, you've probably narrowed it down to two names: the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado 1500. Both are capable, both have loyal followings, and both come up constantly in truck debates at job sites and diners across Putnam County. Below we go engine by engine and feature by feature so you can decide with confidence. You can book a test drive at Brewster Ford anytime this week. 2026 Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500: The Battle for Full-Size Supremacy The 2026 Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 matchup comes down to towing capacity, job-site power, and how much tech you actually use behind the wheel. Both trucks bring strong engine lineups and long histories of durability. But when you line up towing numbers, hybrid efficiency, and onboard power, the F-150 pulls ahead in ways that matter for buyers around Brewster, NY, and the greater Hudson Valley. Towing and Hauling: Why the F-150's 13,500 lbs Beats the Silverado's 13,300 lbs Numbers on a spec sheet only matter if they hold up on the road. Properly equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the F-150 can tow up to 13,500 lbs, edging out the Silverado's best conventional tow rating of 13,300 lbs, which comes from the 3.0L Duramax diesel in the right configuration (the 6.2L V8 tops out at 13,200 lbs). Payload tells a similar story: the F-150 tops out at 2,440 lbs, while the Silverado's max payload, offered on the 2.7L TurboMax, reaches 2,260 lbs. That's a 200-lb towing advantage and a 180-lb payload advantage for the F-150. On paper, that might not sound dramatic. In practice, it's the difference between towing your boat off a lake in northern Westchester County with margin to spare or towing right at your limit. F-150 buyers also have flexibility across the engine lineup: the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 handles 8,400 lbs, the 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid manages 11,600 lbs, and the 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 covers 12,800 lbs. There's a configuration for nearly every towing need without forcing you into a single powertrain. Real-World Towing on Route 22 and Beyond Anyone who's pulled a trailer through the Hudson Valley knows the terrain isn't flat. Grades on I-84 and the hills around Route 22 put real strain on a drivetrain, and extra towing and payload capacity matters most on those climbs. Ford backs up that capacity with Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which takes a lot of the guesswork out of backing a trailer down a tight boat ramp or job site driveway. With the Duramax diesel, the Silverado holds its own on long highway hauls, and buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency on extended trips will find that engine appealing. But when you're loading up for a weekend at the lake or hauling equipment across Putnam County, the F-150's higher ceiling gives you a bit more breathing room, and that margin adds up over years of ownership. If you'd rather see the towing specs in person, browse our new Ford trucks for sale and we'll walk you through exactly which trim fits your setup. PowerBoost Hybrid Efficiency vs. Silverado's Powertrain Lineup Ford's PowerBoost hybrid produces 430 hp and 578 lb-ft of torque, with a max tow rating of 11,600 lbs and payload up to 1,740 lbs. EPA estimates land at 22 city and 24 highway, 23 combined mpg, a strong number for a half-ton truck with this kind of output. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers 17 city and 25 highway, 20 combined mpg, while the 5.0L V8 comes in at 16 city and 24 highway, 19 combined mpg. Chevrolet doesn't offer a hybrid Silverado at all. Instead, the lineup runs on the 2.7L TurboMax (310 hp, 430 lb-ft), the 5.3L V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft), the 6.2L V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft), and the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel, which produces 305 hp and 495 lb-ft with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg highway. That diesel mileage is genuinely impressive and worth acknowledging if long highway commutes to Danbury, CT, or beyond are your priority. But for buyers who want strong power and hybrid efficiency without adding diesel to the equation, the comparison tilts firmly toward PowerBoost. Pro Power Onboard: Real Power for Putnam County Job Sites If you work a trade in Putnam County, this section might matter more than anything else on this page. Every F-150 comes standard with a 2.0 kW Pro Power Onboard system, essentially a built-in generator that runs off the truck. Step up to the Platinum Plus trim and you get 7.2 kW standard, also available across all hybrid powertrains. For contractors who need serious power on remote sites, the PowerBoost Hybrid offers a 7.2 kW Pro Power Onboard system capable of running heavy tools and lighting rigs. Paired with a GenerLink transfer switch, that same 240V outlet can feed a home's main panel during an outage, and Ford estimates a full tank will keep an average household running for up to five days. The Silverado, by comparison, offers only standard 120-volt outlets in the cab and bed. That's fine for charging a phone or running a small tool, but it's not in the same category as a multi-kilowatt onboard generator. Anyone who's had to haul a separate generator to a job site will recognize this as one of the clearest, most practical advantages the F-150 holds here. It's not a flashy spec, but it's one you'll use every single week if your work depends on it. Interior Tech and Comfort for Commuters Crossing the Connecticut Border Commuting across the Connecticut border into Danbury or down through northern Westchester County means spending real time behind the wheel, and both trucks know it. Every F-150 trim comes standard with SYNC 4, featuring a 12-inch center display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud-connected features, AppLink, 911 Assist, and natural-language voice control. Higher trims step up to SYNC 4A, which includes a portrait touchscreen up to 15.5 inches and over-the-air update capability, so your truck's software keeps improving without a dealer visit. Move further up the lineup and you'll find a head-up display, a 12-inch driver display, wireless charging, and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen Unleashed Sound System. Ford also offers BlueCruise across several trims and spreads Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features broadly across the lineup, not just the top-tier models. Chevrolet starts the Silverado with Infotainment 3 on a 7-inch touchscreen, moving up to a 13.4-inch display paired with a 12.3-inch digital cluster on LT trims and above. It's worth being fair here: Chevrolet's Super Cruise, available on the High Country trim, offers class-exclusive hands-free driving that works even while towing, a genuine strength if that's a priority for your commute. Premium Silverado models also offer Google Built-in and up to 14 camera views, both useful for tech-focused buyers. Still, weigh how broadly Ford spreads its advanced features across the F-150 lineup against how Chevrolet reserves some of its best tech for top trims only, and the comparison favors accessibility on Ford's side. Price and Value: Getting More Truck for Your Money The real value here lives in trim structure and financing more than in numbers that shift week to week. The F-150 lineup is built around eight clearly defined trims: XL, STX, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Tremor, and Raptor, each with a clear identity and feature set. That makes shopping straightforward. You know what you're getting at each level, whether it's the work-focused XL or the off-road-ready Raptor. The Silverado, by contrast, spreads numerous configurations across 9 core trim levels, which gives shoppers plenty of granularity but can also make comparing configurations more complicated. When features like Super Cruise or Google Built-in are locked to specific packages, it's easy to end up paying for a tier just to unlock one feature you want. On the ownership side, Kelley Blue Book named the 2026 F-150 its Best Buy of the year among full-size trucks. At Brewster Ford, we also offer on-site financing with competitive rates and flexible terms, so whether you're eyeing a work-ready XL or a loaded Platinum, we can structure a payment plan that fits your budget without the back-and-forth of outside lenders. Why Local Truck Buyers Choose the 2026 Ford F-150 near Brewster Ask around Putnam County and northern Westchester County, and you'll hear the same reasons come up again and again. The towing and payload edge, that 300-lb and 180-lb margin, matters when you're pulling a boat off a Hudson Valley lake or hauling materials to a job site. Pro Power Onboard has become a real selling point for contractors who need dependable power without a separate generator. And the PowerBoost hybrid gives commuters and weekend haulers a rare combination of strong torque and genuine fuel savings. Beyond the truck itself, plenty of buyers choose the 2026 Ford F-150 near Brewster because of who they're buying from. Brewster Ford has been family owned and operated for over 50 years, and we've earned the Edmunds Five Star Dealer Award for the kind of service that keeps customers coming back. As the only dedicated Ford store in the Volz Auto Group network, we focus entirely on getting Ford trucks and SUVs into the hands of drivers across the region, backed by factory-trained technicians and genuine Ford parts. Browse New Truck Specials and Book Your Test Drive at Brewster Ford See the Numbers for Yourself You've now seen the towing numbers, the hybrid output, the Pro Power Onboard specs, and the tech breakdown side by side. If the F-150's real-world advantages make sense for how you tow, work, and commute, the next step is simple. Come take a look at our new Ford F-150 for sale in Brewster, or if you want to compare the full lineup, check out our new Ford trucks for sale inventory. Ready When You Are Ready to get behind the wheel? Book a test drive at our Route 22 showroom, or reach out to our team with any questions about financing, trims, or availability. We're here Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 7 PM, Friday and Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, and our team is ready to help you find the F-150 that fits your life across the Hudson Valley.

Blue 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid

2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid: Fuel Efficiency, Utility, and Why Buyers Love It

The 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid makes you wonder why you ever considered anything else. It's a compact pickup that squeezes impressive fuel economy out of a hybrid powertrain, hauls gear on weekends, and fits into a parking space without drama. For drivers in Brewster, NY and the surrounding Hudson Valley, it checks an unusually long list of boxes. If you're ready to see one in person, browse our current Ford Maverick for sale in Brewster, NY or read on for the specifics. Why the 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid Is a Hudson Valley Favorite You might commute down to Westchester County or New York City on a Tuesday, then load up the truck bed for a Saturday project in Putnam County. The Maverick's compact footprint makes it comfortable in suburban neighborhoods and tight urban lots, while its truck DNA means it can actually work when you need it to. Ford built the Maverick Hybrid to balance capability and efficiency rather than sacrifice one for the other, and that's a big reason it has developed a loyal following in communities like Brewster, Patterson, and Carmel. Buyers here aren't just chasing horsepower. They want a smarter, more practical vehicle that fits real life. Class-Leading Fuel Efficiency for Everyday Driving Fuel costs add up fast, especially for drivers covering longer commutes or running errands across hilly terrain. The Maverick Hybrid takes a real bite out of those expenses. Standard Hybrid Powertrain: MPG and Real-World Range The 2026 Maverick Hybrid pairs a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle inline-4 engine with an electric motor for a combined 191 hp. It's EPA-estimated at 42 city / 35 highway / 38 combined MPG with front-wheel drive, well above what most compact trucks deliver. With a 13.8-gallon tank, that translates to real-world range of up to 579 miles city / 483 miles highway, figures that depend on driving conditions and shouldn't be treated as guaranteed. The hybrid system is tuned for stop-and-go conditions, so it performs best in the kind of traffic most Hudson Valley drivers deal with daily. FWD comes standard on hybrid models, which helps those efficiency numbers while keeping the starting price accessible. AWD is available on select trims, though it does bring fuel economy down slightly due to the added drivetrain weight, as you'll see in the trim comparison below. Commuting to Westchester or NYC on a Fraction of the Fuel Cost For anyone making regular runs down Route 22 or I-684 toward White Plains or the city, the 42 MPG city rating adds up fast. A conventional truck or SUV averaging 20 to 25 MPG will burn through gas money that a Maverick Hybrid commuter simply won't spend, cutting annual fuel costs roughly in half and keeping more money in your pocket instead of at the pump. That efficiency pairs well with Brewster's role as a Metro-North commuter hub. Plenty of Maverick Hybrid owners drive to the station, park, and take the train on busy days, then use the truck for weekend work around Putnam County. Compact Truck, Big Utility: FLEXBED™ and Cargo Smarts Ford's FLEXBED™ system transforms what you can do with a compact truck bed, and it's one of the reasons buyers who test-drive the Maverick tend to come back ready to buy. FLEXBED™ Storage Features and DIY-Friendly Design The 4'5" FLEXBED™ contributes to 33.3 cu ft of total cargo volume, with integrated tie-downs and a low load floor that make loading tools, lumber, and project gear straightforward. For landscaping runs, light contracting jobs, or hauling kayaks to a Putnam County lake, the configurable bed gives you practical options right out of the factory. Ford designed the Maverick assuming owners would want to build out the bed themselves. There's a strong community of Maverick owners sharing DIY FLEXBED™ projects online, and Ford leaned into that culture by keeping the system open and adaptable. If you're a hands-on person, this truck fits you. Towing and Payload for Weekend Projects Around Putnam County The Maverick Hybrid offers a standard towing capacity of 2,000 lbs, which climbs to 4,000 lbs with the optional 4K Tow Package, enough for small trailers, boat transport, or weekend equipment runs. Payload capacity reaches up to 1,500 lbs on select trims, plenty for most Hudson Valley homeowner projects. If you regularly move heavier loads, the Hybrid pairs its optional 4K Tow Package with AWD to reach a 4,000-lb maximum, double the 2,000-lb standard rating and the top of what any Maverick can pull. Versatility That Fits Your Hudson Valley Lifestyle Beyond the powertrain and the bed, the Maverick lineup offers a thoughtful range of trims and features that let you dial in exactly what you want without overspending. Our new Ford hybrids in Brewster lineup includes every hybrid trim below, ready to compare side by side. Trim Levels at a Glance: XL, XLT, and Lariat Trim Engine Horsepower Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Comb) XL 2.5L Hybrid 191 hp 42/35/38 MPG XLT 2.5L Hybrid 191 hp 42/35/38 MPG Lariat 2.5L Hybrid 191 hp 39/32/36 MPG (AWD) The XL is the entry point, delivering the hybrid powertrain and core truck utility at a price that genuinely surprises people. The XLT adds convenience features most buyers end up wanting anyway, while the Lariat steps up to a more refined, comfort-focused experience with premium leather, dual-zone climate control, and wireless charging. The Lariat comes only with all-wheel drive as a hybrid, which brings fuel economy down slightly to 39/32/36 MPG compared to the front-wheel-drive XL and XLT. Buyers who want light off-road capability or street-performance styling can step outside the hybrid range to the EcoBoost-powered Tremor or Lobo, though those trims trade the hybrid's efficiency for a turbocharged gas engine. Standout Tech and Comfort Features Across the lineup, the 2026 Maverick comes with available Ford Co-Pilot360™ driver assistance, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and an 8-inch cluster display alongside a 13.2-inch center touchscreen. Lariat adds heated front seats, premium leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and wireless charging. on top of everything else. 2026 Maverick Hybrid Pricing and Value in Brewster, NY Pricing is a big part of what makes the Maverick Hybrid so compelling. Starting around $28,145 MSRP for the XL, it undercuts most compact SUVs, and the hybrid powertrain comes standard with no premium charge for efficiency. Factor in fuel savings from that 42 MPG city rating plus the everyday utility of a pickup bed, and the math works in the Maverick's favor for a lot of Hudson Valley households. Our team at Brewster Ford can walk you through the full pricing picture, including current incentives and financing options that make monthly payments more manageable. Remember that all figures above are approximate; confirm exact pricing and configuration with our sales team. Why Buyers Keep Choosing the Maverick Hybrid Owners talk about the Maverick Hybrid online, recommend it to friends, and hold onto it longer than average, which isn't all that common in the compact truck segment. Part of the appeal is personality. The Maverick fits into daily life instead of demanding your life fit around it. It's easy to park, fun to drive, and cheap to fuel, all while staying capable enough for the jobs most people actually need a truck for. For Hudson Valley buyers who were on the fence about owning a truck, the Maverick often turns out to be the answer they didn't know they were looking for. Find Your 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid for Sale in Brewster, NY Brewster Ford is the only dedicated Ford store in the Volz Auto Group's four-dealership network, and we've been serving northern Westchester and the surrounding area with the kind of personalized service larger dealerships often can't match. Our team knows the local roads, the commuting patterns, and the specific needs of buyers from Brewster, Carmel, Patterson, and beyond. Check Inventory, Custom Orders, and Financing Options Brewster Ford carries new 2026 Maverick Hybrid models alongside used and certified pre-owned inventory shared across the Volz Auto Group, which opens up your options considerably. If the exact trim or color you want isn't in stock, our team can help you place a custom order directly with Ford. On-site financing is available to help you secure competitive rates and payment terms that fit your budget, whether you're buying or leasing. You can browse current Maverick inventory online anytime, or reach our sales team directly at 845-205-7019 during regular business hours: Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 7 PM, and Friday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Schedule a Test Drive at Brewster Ford Today The hybrid powertrain's responsiveness, the comfortable cabin, how the truck actually handles on familiar roads, none of that comes through on a spec sheet. You have to drive it. Stop by at 1024 Route 22 in Brewster, NY, or schedule your visit through our contact page online. Our team can answer your questions, walk you through the trim differences, and help you figure out which Maverick configuration fits your life best.

White 2026 Ford Mustang

2026 Ford Mustang vs. Dodge Charger: Performance Showdown

Few debates run hotter among American car enthusiasts than the one between the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Charger. Both carry decades of muscle car heritage, and both attract drivers who genuinely care about what's under the hood. But in 2026, these two icons have taken noticeably different roads. Ford keeps the Mustang focused on driver engagement and track-ready precision, while Dodge has shifted the Charger toward turbocharged power and electrification. If you're weighing the 2026 Ford Mustang vs. Dodge Charger, the right choice comes down to what kind of driver you are and what kind of roads you plan to tackle. more Engine and Performance: Mustang's V8 Roar vs. Charger's Straight-Line Speed Performance is where this comparison gets exciting, and the engineering philosophies behind these powertrains are genuinely different. We stick with a naturally aspirated tradition on our V8 trims, while Dodge bets on turbocharged torque and electrification. EcoBoost and Coyote V8 Power by Trim The 2026 Mustang lineup gives buyers three strong choices. The turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (EcoBoost / EcoBoost Premium) makes 315 hp and 350 lb-ft, paired exclusively with a 10-speed automatic. Step up to the GT or GT Premium and you get the 5.0L Coyote V8, rated at 480 hp and 415 lb-ft, or 486 hp and 418 lb-ft with the available active valve performance exhaust, available with a six-speed manual or the 10-speed automatic. The Dark Horse coupe pushes the Coyote further to 500 hp and 418 lb-ft, with a 10-speed automatic standard and a six-speed manual optional. That V8's presence and sound are things a turbocharged engine simply can't replicate. Charger Sixpack and Daytona Powertrain Options Dodge retired the Hemi V8 in the 2026 Charger in favor of a twin-turbocharged 3.0L I6, badged the Sixpack. Dodge equips the Charger R/T with roughly 420 hp, while the Charger Scat Pack climbs to about 550 hp, with a manufacturer-claimed 0-60 time near 3.9 seconds. The all-electric Charger Daytona adds instant torque delivery, though it lacks the traditional V8 sound and mechanical engagement enthusiasts associate with the nameplate. It's a genuinely quick powertrain, but a significant departure from what built the Charger's muscle car reputation. 0-60 Times, Quarter-Mile, and Top Speed Manufacturer-claimed figures put the Mustang GT at roughly 4.2 to 4.3 seconds to 60 mph, with the Dark Horse at 4.1 seconds; an EcoBoost with the Performance Package runs about 4.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph on the GT and 166 mph on the Dark Horse. The Charger Scat Pack's standard AWD helps it launch quickly off the line, and it offers a selectable rear-wheel-drive mode as well, but the Mustang's available six-speed manual on the GT and Dark Horse adds a layer of driver involvement that changes the experience. The Mustang's performance feels earned and interactive, which matters to a driver who wants to feel the car beneath them. Handling and Drivetrain: RWD Precision on Putnam County's Winding Roads A quick 0-60 number only tells part of the story. Drivers in Putnam County know this better than most, since the backroads here demand a car that can actually handle a tight bend without drama. This is where the Mustang's rear-wheel-drive layout and purpose-built suspension separate it from the Charger in a meaningful way. Suspension Tuning for Croton Reservoir Curves and Route 22 Cruising Every Mustang trim is RWD, with an independent rear suspension refined for performance driving. Whether you're sweeping through the curves near the Croton Reservoir or cruising Route 22 on a weekend morning, the Mustang communicates clearly through its steering and chassis. The Dark Horse adds a Torsen limited-slip rear axle for stronger grip out of corners. Dodge's Charger, by comparison, comes standard with AWD and a selectable rear-wheel-drive mode you engage through the touchscreen, which brings all-weather stability with the option to switch to a more traditional muscle-car feel. It's a genuinely capable setup, but the Mustang's dedicated RWD layout and performance-tuned chassis are built around driver engagement from the ground up, and that focus comes through on a winding two-lane road. Track-Ready Features Standard on the Mustang Ford has built the Mustang with a genuinely complete set of performance features. Standard equipment across the lineup includes launch control and line lock, with an available active valve performance exhaust, and GT Premium and Dark Horse Premium add Brembo brakes. This is a car that's just as capable on a circuit as it is on a Sunday drive. Digital Cockpit and Technology: Mustang's Driver-Focused Interior Step inside the 2026 Mustang and the interior reflects the same driver-first philosophy as the chassis. A 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster sits directly in the driver's line of sight, and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen runs SYNC 4 with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features. The Charger's interior is spacious and well-appointed, particularly for rear-seat passengers, but its layout prioritizes comfort and practicality over the immersive, driver-focused experience the Mustang creates. Trim-Level Pricing and Value Comparison Value in this segment comes down to how much performance and technology you actually get for your money. Pricing is subject to change and should always be confirmed with us, but the 2026 Mustang EcoBoost starts at around $32,995, the GT around $46,800, and the Dark Horse around $64,080. The Charger Sixpack is priced in a similar range to the Mustang GT in comparable trims, though adding higher trims or the Charger Daytona EV pushes costs up quickly. For buyers in the Brewster area who want the most engaging performance per dollar, we think the Mustang lineup consistently delivers more of what makes a muscle car worth owning. Spec Mustang GT Mustang Dark Horse Charger R/T Charger Scat Pack Engine/Powertrain 5.0L Coyote V8 5.0L Coyote V8 Twin-turbo 3.0L I6 Twin-turbo 3.0L I6 Drivetrain RWD RWD (Torsen LSD) AWD AWD Transmission 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic 10-speed auto standard, 6-speed manual optional Automatic Automatic Horsepower/Torque 480 hp / 415 lb-ft 500 hp / 418 lb-ft ~420 hp ~550 hp 0-60 (mfr.-claimed) ~4.2-4.3 sec 4.1 sec ~4.6 sec ~3.9 sec Top Speed 155 mph 166 mph 168 mph 177 mph Why Local Enthusiasts Choose the Mustang Over the Charger Ask around Putnam County and northern Westchester County, and a few themes come up again and again. For the daily commuter, the EcoBoost's 315 hp and 10-speed automatic deliver responsive power without sacrificing efficiency. The spirited weekend driver gravitates toward the GT's Coyote V8 and manual gearbox for real engagement on Route 22. The track enthusiast wants the Dark Horse's Torsen rear axle, launch control, and 166-mph top speed. Across all three, the RWD layout and V8 soundtrack combine into a package that feels alive in a way the Charger's AWD-based Sixpack doesn't quite match. The Charger's instant-torque Daytona EV and standard AWD are real strengths, especially in wet conditions, but the Mustang is still fundamentally about the joy of driving. Frequently Asked Questions Is the Dodge Charger Faster Than the Mustang in 2026? The Charger Scat Pack posts an impressive manufacturer-claimed 0-60 time of about 3.9 seconds, aided by standard AWD grip off the line, and it can outpace a base Mustang GT in a straight line. It's worth noting the Charger also offers a selectable rear-wheel-drive mode, so it isn't AWD-only. But the Mustang Dark Horse, with its 500-hp Coyote V8 and Torsen limited-slip rear axle, is genuinely competitive in both acceleration and lap-time comparisons, and its handling precision often delivers a more satisfying experience on real roads and tracks. Does the Charger EV Perform Like a Traditional Muscle Car? The Charger Daytona delivers instant torque and quick acceleration, and Dodge has worked to replicate some sensory elements of a performance car electronically. But losing the combustion engine changes the experience. The Mustang, with its available Coyote V8, still provides the sound and raw mechanical connection to the road that define the traditional muscle car experience. Experience the 2026 Ford Mustang for Sale Near Brewster Today If the 2026 Ford Mustang vs. Dodge Charger debate has you leaning toward the Mustang, the best next step is getting behind the wheel yourself. Visit Us and Take a Test Drive Brewster Ford, located at 1024 Route 22 in Brewster, NY, is the only dedicated Ford store within the Volz Auto Group. We invite you to browse our new Mustang inventory or check out our current 2026 Ford Mustang for sale near Brewster alongside a wide selection of used and certified pre-owned vehicles. Our team can walk you through the trims, options, and financing solutions available, and on-site financing means you can explore competitive rates without leaving the lot. Schedule a test drive to hear the EcoBoost or Coyote V8 firsthand, browse our current performance vehicle specials, or contact us online anytime. Sales hours run Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 7 PM and Friday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, and you're welcome to call our sales team directly at 845-205-7019.