Ford: Better than Ever

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration's recent crash testing has yielded Ford-friendly results: 2013 Ford models have been awarded five stars overall.

The 2013 Ford Taurus and 2013 Ford Explorer, according to the NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program, have earned the top scores for overall vehicles. The assessment takes into consideration frontal and side impacts and the vehicle's resistance to rollovers. Though Ford models have always been commended for their comfort, style, and safety, this is the first time that these models have made such high marks. 

Ford attributes the coveted five-star ratings to the redesign of the passenger airbag and the new restraint systems. The Explorer, in addition, has added a new airbag on the passenger side at knee height. Both models come with airbags on both the driver and front passenger, and both are dual-stage. 

Especially in the northeast, having a vehicle that is suited to the ever-changing weather conditions is important. In the NJ area, weather has been harsh so far this winter. There's ice on the roads in the early morning, and the winter season hasn't been light on precipitation. Plus, in the summer, you want a vehicle that's great for heading down the shore and taking camping trips.

You should never compromise safety, no matter what you want your car to do. For New Jerseyans that are looking for vehicles that suit their lifestyle and location, have plenty of style, and don't skimp on the safety, there are plenty of Ford dealers in NJ that will point them in the direction of the highly-ranked 2013 Explorer or Taurus models.

Which Used Chevy Model is Right for your Lifestyle?

Shopping for a vehicle – yes, even a pre-owned vehicle – is an investment that requires a lot of thought. If you're going to spend thousands of dollars on any item, you should make sure that it's exactly what you need first. With cars, it's fairly easy to narrow down your search; say you're searching for a used Chevrolet in NJ – there are already many factors about the make and your location to consider that will help you determine which model to purchase. 

Many drivers in New Jersey have a long commute to work. It borders on Philadelphia and NYC, so many have to travel with traffic each morning to get to their jobs. Those who have a long commute usually look for two specific features in a vehicle: comfort and fuel efficiency. If this sounds like you, and you want a newer vehicle, consider checking out a used Chevrolet Malibu ECO. The car has many premium features that make your commute a little more tolerable, like driver memory and a high-tech stereo and dashboard. However, it's also a hybrid vehicle that gets an amazing fuel economy so you won't feel like you're breaking the bank.

However, you do live in New Jersey, and those winter months can be brutal. Not to mention, this area is famous for its pine barrens, so maybe you like getting down and dirty. If that's the case, consider looking into a used Chevy Avalanche. These trucks have the suspension you need to be able to take on piles of snow or mud – whatever comes your way. Not to mention, they have the cab and cargo space to pack up and head down for a weekend down the shore. You can even bring your kayaks!

There's nothing wrong with wanting something a little flashier, though – some people go for speed and aesthetics as well as interior luxury. If that's the case for you, consider shopping Chevy Camaros. They offer lots of power so you can rev up the engine like you love to do, but they also present a fully-loaded interior that is spacious, comfortable, and full of luxury features. It doesn't matter who you are – you'll look good in a Camaro.