Used Ford buying guide

The Ford F-150 has long been a great choice of pickup, but how do you choose between the traditional, gas-powered model or the electric Ford F-150 Lightning? The F-150 provides a very familiar experience from Ford's mainstream pickup. It is highly capable, with 2024 and newer models boasting an estimated towing capacity of 13,500 pounds when properly equipped (with the optional, twin-turbo V6).¹ There are also several different trim levels and configurations, allowing you to determine the right fit for your needs and budget. The 2022-2025 F-150 Lightning has an electric powertrain that offers fast acceleration, but towing is limited to an estimated 10,000 pounds (when properly equipped).

Which is the best pickup truck for you? Take a look at our car comparison tool!

Ford offers many SUVs to choose from, but those seeking three rows of passenger space are likely looking at the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition. The Explorer offers many trim and powertrain options, all of which deliver strong acceleration. The third row in the Explorer can feel a little cramped, but it delivers what most need from a three-row SUV. The Expedition offers a super-sized experience with plenty of cargo and passenger capacity from its larger footprint — and it's available even larger with the Expedition Max. It also offers a split rear gate to help keep cargo in place, and it can be found with many luxury features. When looking at the best 3-row SUVs, both of these SUVs are solid options.

If you are still torn, our car comparison tool can help you figure out what's right for you.

Ford is well known for its great trucks, but how do you choose between their smaller offerings? The Ford Maverick is a unique offering, offering a car-like driving experience and a hybrid powertrain. It's not as capable as other traditional trucks with lower towing and payload estimates, but it makes up for that by being easy to drive and offering strong fuel economy. The Ford Ranger is a more traditional truck, offering a full-size bed and a higher estimated towing capacity. Ultimately, if you need more capability, the Ranger is likely the better truck for you. Otherwise, the Maverick provides most of the capabilities many customers need with improved efficiency and on-road refinement.

Take a look at our small truck comparison to see how the Maverick and Ranger stand up to competition — and use our model comparison tool if you need help making your final decision.

If you are looking for a rugged, off-road SUV, it's likely the Bronco is on your radar. But how do you select between the Ford Bronco and the Ford Bronco Sport? While these two share a name, they are very different vehicles. The Bronco is Ford's true off-road SUV, pairing modern technology with classic good looks and a focus on off-pavement capability. Its various trim levels offer locking differentials and many levels of off-road suspension and accessories such as winches and off-road lights. The Bronco Sport shares a platform with the more car-like Ford Escape. While it has rugged looks and some off-road capability, the Bronco Sport is more balanced between daily on-road use and the occasional off-road adventure. To see how these SUVs stack up on RepairPal® reliability, check out our ranking of the most reliable SUVs. If you are going to be frequently off-roading, the Bronco is likely your best bet. For many buyers, the Bronco Sport's balance of better on-road driving dynamics and fuel economy, paired with some off-road chops, is a better match.

Try our model comparison tool if you need additional guidance on picking your best match.

While the Ford Mustang and Ford Mustang Mach-E share a name, that is about where their similarities stop. The Mustang is Ford's venerable muscle car, having been on-sale for more than sixty years. Put plainly, the Mustang is a two-door sports car offered as a coupe or convertible, both available with powerful engine options. While the Mustang has retro style, the Mustang Mach-E is futuristic in almost every way. Its electric powertrain offers blistering acceleration, and the interior offers a 15.5-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. Unlike the Mustang, the Mustang Mach-E is a crossover SUV, offering much more space, available AWD, and an elevated ride height. If you are looking for a sports car, the Ford Mustang is a better match. If you want brisk acceleration, the convenience offered by a crossover SUV, and are ready to go electric, the Mustang Mach-E is an excellent choice.

If you need help deciding between the two, try our model comparison tool.