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2020 Red Ford Explorer

Five Things You Need to Know about the 2020 Ford Explorer

The redesigned Ford Explorer is a capable and comfortable variation on the classic SUV. The 2020 Explorer's performance, technologies, and luxuries make it a vehicle that anyone on the lookout for something new to drive should consider. Below are the most important features of the new Explorer. An Impressive Exterior The Explorer for 2020 has a unique, powerful, and dynamic look. This year's body form is more angular than previous model years. The grille has an unusual layered patterning and comes in black and chrome with the Ford icon at its center. The 2020 Explorer is available in five trim levels: the Base, Platinum, ST, Limited, and XLT. From XLT up, the Explorer gains automatic headlights, 18-inch all-season tires, a power liftgate, and folding heated side mirrors. The chrome grille comes on the Platinum as do the adaptive headlights, available 20-inch wheels, and an auto-dimming driver's side mirror. The ST comes with a quad-tip exhaust, red brake calipers, available self-sealing tires, and black wheels. The Limited is equipped with a foot-activated liftgate, chrome dual exhaust, available rain-sensing windshield wipers, and powered folding side mirrors. more A Powerful Engine The 2020 Ford Explorer comes with one of three engines, depending on the trim level. The Platinum and ST trims are equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3-liter Ecoboost V-6 engine generating 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. A hybrid V-6 is available for the Limited trim. It is a 3.3-liter attached to a 1.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack of the lithium-ion variety that grants 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. Finally, the base and XLT trims are equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. A Spacious and Comfortable Interior Perfect for long road trips or lengthy commutes, the 2020 Explorer seats seven people very comfortably. All onboard can enjoy their favorite tunes as they flow from the Explorer's 12-speaker sound system with available SiriusXM satellite radio. Three-zone climate control, push-button start, remote start, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are available. Power-folding third-row seating, a rotary gear shifter, voice-activated navigation, and two touch-screen upgrades at 10.1 and 12.3-inches respectively, are available. High Performance The Explorer for 2020 has a max towing capacity of 5,600 pounds and is equipped with a 10-speed transmission. It comes in two and four-wheel-drive, but to gain access to the Terrain Management System, go with the four-wheel-drive version. This system can be set to run on trails, in deep snow or sand, on slippery terrain, and standard roads, as well as to eco or tow modes. Safety Features From front and rear warning sensors to the array of carefully positioned air bags, Ford has you covered where safety is concerned. Roll stability control and trailer sway control will help you retain traction in tough situations, and the lane-keeping assistance system ensures that your positioning is always being monitored for safety. If you begin to drift in your lane the system will restore the vehicle to a safe position. The experts at Elder Ford of Tampa have a huge inventory and are always willing to help find the perfect Explorer configuration for you. Head by to see the 2020 Explorer and all else that they have to offer. Image via Elder Ford of Tampa

Red Ford Truck

Meet the 2020 Ford F-250

The Ford F-250 is one of Ford's Super Duty trucks and is available in six trim packages. Drivers can choose from the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and the Limited. In addition to its traditional Ford toughness, the F-250's new Godzilla engine and Tremor off-road package will make F-250 fans fall in love all over again. Here are some noteworthy features of the 2020 Ford F-250. Power The Ford F-250 has three engines available. A 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. A 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 Turbo Diesel is available on all models and is standard on the Limited. A third engine, affectionately known as Godzilla, is a whopping 7.3-liter gasoline engine. The diesel and Godzilla engines are paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is available for all models. The Electronic Shift On The Fly system is standard on all four-wheel-drive models and allows drivers to shift between drive modes with the turn of a knob. more Towing The Ford F-250 is made for carrying cargo of all kinds. All F-250 trucks come with a 2.5-inch trailer hitch receiver as well as tailgate assist and quick release. Tie-down hooks in the pickup box, tow hooks in the cargo bed, and lights in the pickup box and cargo area are standard. A standard trailer brake controller synchronizes the vehicle and trailer brakes for reliable braking. The new Pro-Trailer Backup Assist gives drivers more confidence when they are backing up with a trailer. A dash-mounted knob allows drivers to maneuver the trailer into place when the truck is in reverse. Driver-Assist Technology All F-250 trucks have a standard 4G LTE modem and Wi-Fi hot spot that connects up to 10 devices. Standard SYNC technology and Bluetooth allow drivers to control phone calls, text messages, entertainment, and navigation options via voice. There are several camera options available on the F-250. A tailgate-mounted camera shows the driver what is behind the vehicle. A suite of four optional 180/360 cameras allows drivers to see all sides of the truck. An available center high-mounted stop lamp camera provides a better view of the pickup box to make attaching a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch much easier. Extra Options Galore The 2020 Ford F-250 is endlessly customizable to suit a driver's unique needs. The FX4 Off-Road package is for those who do a lot of off-road travel and adds Hill Descent Control, specially tuned shocks, and fuel tank skid plates. The Tremor package is available on all models except for the XL and Lariat. This new package is designed for hardcore off-roading with cargo in tow. It includes an upgraded suspension, bigger shocks, 35-inch maximum-traction tires, locking rear differential, and an additional rock-crawl mode. Other options include a snow plow prep package, camper package, and fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailer tow prep package. Whether it's for work or play, the 2020 Ford F-250 promises to be an asset to anyone who needs to haul cargo or go off-road. With a myriad of engine, towing, technology, and custom options, the F-250 can suit any driver and any situation. Image via Ford

Silver 2019 Ford Fusion

Discover the Available Trims for the 2019 Ford Fusion

The 2019 Ford Fusion is a stylish midsize sedan built to appeal to a wide range of drivers. Its advanced technologies, safety features, and performance prove that it is a serious contender in 2019. The Fusion is an excellent choice for single commuters, businesses seeking company cars, or families. Take a look at the trim levels of the 2019 Fusion. You'll love what you discover. The S The first of the five trim levels, the S trim, includes automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, a proximity key, remote keyless entry, and optional cruise control with distance pacing. Other options include automatic temperature control, a voice-activated navigation system, a real-time weather display, and a first row LCD monitor. The S trim's engine is a 2.5-liter I-4 that generates 175 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The S is a six-speed automatic with overdrive and auto-manual capabilities. more The SE One up from the S is the SE trim, which has a 1.5-liter I-4 engine generating 181 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Like its brother, it is a six-speed automatic with overdrive and auto-manual capabilities. With front dual-zone air conditioning, a battery for retaining accessory power, two USB ports, auto temp control, remote engine start, and two 12-volt power outlets standard, this trim is sure to keep your tech charged. Options include a first row express open/close sliding and tilting glass sunroof, distance pacing cruise control, autonomous cruise control, and a voice-activated navigation system. The SEL While the SEL shares an engine with the SE trim, it differs from the latter in a number of ways. The SEL comes standard with steering wheel-mounted controls, FordPass Connect 4G LTE Wi-Fi, a radio data system, speed-sensitive volume, wireless phone connectivity, three first-row LCD monitors, Sirius XM radio, and more. Options include a real-time weather display and the options listed above for the lower trims. The Titanium Breaking out ahead of the pack is the Titanium trim, bearing an impressive 2-liter I-4 engine that produces 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. At the pump, remember that this engine requires premium gas. Go for metallic paint on the Titanium to give your Fusion a sharper look. The interior options that are listed above on the S, SE, and SEL are standard on the Titanium. The same is true with the entertainment options. The Titanium is loaded. The Sport The crown jewel of the Fusion lineup, the Sport has everything you could want in a sedan and more. It packs a 2.7-liter V-6 twin-turbo engine generating 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque with premium gas. Gas pressurized shocks, speed-sensing electric power-assist rack-pinion steering, independent multilink suspension, and a spare steel steering wheel for good measure, ensure that you'll be hitting the road with as much power as style. Ask your dealership for the mountain of features attached to this beauty. We certainly don't have room to list them all here. The experts at Elder Ford in Tampa have all of the details you need concerning the Fusion for 2019 and the rest of their massive inventory. Head over today and roll out in the vehicle of your dreams. Image via ElderFordofTampa.com

Orange Ford Fiesta

All About the 2019 Ford Fiesta

The 2019 Ford Fiesta is fun to drive and easy to afford. This subcompact car is available in five trim packages, including the S Sedan, SE Sedan, SE Hatch, ST-Line, and ST. Besides the very affordable initial price, there are many reasons to love the 2019 Ford Fiesta. Interior The 2019 Ford Fiesta can seat five comfortably with lots of legroom in the front. The cabin is quiet, in part due to an acoustic-laminate windshield that blocks street noise. The hatchback can carry the most cargo, with 14.9 cubic feet of usable space. Dropping the 60/40 split back seats will increase the cargo space to 25.4 cubic feet. Heated front seats are available in the SE and ST models. The S Sedan, SE Sedan, SE Hatch, and ST-Line are equipped with an AM/FM stereo with CD player and MP3 capability. The ST adds a Sony audio system to the existing stereo. more Engine/Performance The 2109 Ford Fiesta S Sedan, SE Sedan, SE Hatch, and ST-Line are equipped with a 120 horsepower 1.6-liter Ti-VCT I-4 engine. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on these models but a six-speed automatic is also available. The six-speed transmission includes SelectShift, which allows drivers to shift gears without using a clutch. The ST model steps up to a turbocharged, 197-horsepower, direct-injected 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. This engine is paired only to a six-speed manual transmission. Front-wheel drive and four-wheel anti-lock brakes are standard on all versions of the Fiesta. The brakes feature torque vectoring control to ensure that drivers stay in control on curves. Safety The 2019 Ford Fiesta received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA as well as a rating of Good in four crash tests. Seven dual-stage air bags are standard, including a drivers knee and side-curtain air bags. MyKey is a unique feature found in the SE and ST models. MyKey allows drivers to place limits on maximum vehicle speed and audio volume. MyKey also gives drivers extra reminders for seat belts and earlier warnings for low fuel. A rearview camera, Hill Start Assist, AdvanceTrac electronic stability control, and the SOS Post-Crash Alert system are standard on all models. Tech Features All 2019 Ford Fiesta models have a line-of-sight multifunctional message center with an LCD screen. This message center allows drivers to monitor audio settings and phone information. The S Sedan is equipped with a 4.2-inch touch-screen display, while the SE and ST models upgrade to a 6.5-inch touch screen. The view from the rearview camera is shown on the touch screen when in reverse. A navigation system is available on the SE and ST models. SYNC is standard on the S Sedan. SYNC 3, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available options on the SE models and standard on the ST models. Two smart-charging USB ports are available on the SE models and standard on the ST-Line and ST. With its sporty engines and driver-friendly technology, the 2019 Ford Fiesta is a delight to drive. A low initial price and incredible fuel economy make the Fiesta a very affordable vehicle, as well. Owners of the 2019 Ford Fiesta get a lot of bang for very little buck. Image via Ford

Photographic Mural

Hottest Spots in the Tampa Art Scene

Whether you live in the Tampa area or are just visiting, if you enjoy art, there are several museums and galleries worth checking out. Let's explore some of these art scene hot spots and what they have to offer. Cracker Country Cracker Country combines art and historical artifacts to tell the story of the settlers who arrived in Florida in the late 1800s. The museum has a collection of buildings constructed between 1870 and 1912. These buildings include the Terry Store, Okahumpka Train Depot, and Carlton House. The homes feature furnishings similar to the ones owned by the original inhabitants. The Governors Inn building houses the first complete collection of oil portraits of Florida's governors. In the Church building, you'll find a Packard Reed Organ from the early 1900s. During your visit, you can observe historically dressed educators create arts and crafts. The Dali Museum The Dali Museum is home to the most extensive collection of Salvador Dali's works outside of Europe. Highlights of the 2,400-piece collection include the surrealist's famous Lobster Phone sculpture and paintings such as "Catalan Bread" and "Landscape of Port Lligat." The museum is also home to several of Dali's book illustrations, prints, and personal photographs. The Dali Museum's 7,000-volume library is an excellent resource for students and scholars. While visiting the museum, you don't want to miss out on exploring the AvantGarden, situated on the Tampa Bay waterfront. This peaceful oasis features a grotto, a stunning collection of orchids, and olive trees. Throughout the year, the museum hosts yoga classes, opera performances, and film presentations. more Florida Museum of Photographic Arts The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA) is dedicated to the preservation of historical and contemporary photographs while presenting them in a way that is relevant to modern life. The museum's collection includes works from such renowned photographers as Cindy Sherman, Olivia Parker, and Blake Yeager. If you're interested in honing your photography skills, FMoPA offers classes ranging in subjects from basic photography to mastering social media. Henry B. Plant Museum The Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, is a Moorish-inspired architectural wonder. Original furnishings and artifacts allow you to experience the luxury and history of the 1891 hotel. The museum also houses the Asian art collection that once belonged to the Plant family. The gardens, overlooking Tampa Bay, feature flowering plants, tropical trees, and unique statues. A visit to the Plant Museum is a unique glimpse into the beginnings of Florida's tourism industry. Morean Arts Center Founded to provide arts education to the Tampa Bay Community, the Morean Arts Center also houses stunning works of art from renowned local and international artists. An impressive Dale Chihuly collection features "Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier," a piece created specifically for the Center. The Morean Center for Clay is the southeast's largest working pottery studio and features a collection of historical and contemporary pieces. These are just some of the hottest spots for art in the Tampa area. No matter which one you visit, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Image via Pixabay.com

Ice Cream Plate

Great Places to Get Fantastic Ice Cream in Tampa, FL

A cold ice cream cone is the perfect after-dinner treat on a warm night in Tampa, Florida. Fortunately, you have many exceptional ice cream destinations to choose from. Little Midway Little Midway might be newer to the Tampa area, but they have already earned a favorable reputation with the locals. This ice cream shop began as a little cafe that was owned and operated by local Tampa residents. The cafe eventually transitioned into a homemade ice cream spot. You can enjoy a wide variety of tasty ice cream flavors including apple pie, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and vanilla bean. Little Midway also serves sorbets, cookie sandwiches, and celebration ice cream cakes. more Dairy Inn The Dairy Inn will take you back to your childhood when you had to order your ice cream through a service window. This favorite ice cream spot was once a Dairy Queen until the owners decided to create their own ice cream menu made specifically for Tampa locals. Today, they maintain the old-school theme with an extensive menu that has something for everyone. If you ask anyone about the Dairy Inn, chances are they will rave about the burgers and tater tots, but will also recommend the soft-serve ice cream. Grab a picnic table and enjoy a tasty treat at the Dairy Inn. The Revolution Ice Cream Co. If you are looking for something unique, then you will want to check out the Revolution Ice Cream Co. This outside-of-the-box ice cream spot aims to offer you a creative menu with flavors you won't find anywhere else. Try the bacon ice cream or the habanero pepper ice cream. Of course, if you prefer traditional ice cream, they also have something for you. The mint or caramel flavors are both good options. The Revolution Ice Cream Co. also serves vegan coffee and Oreos. Larry's Larry's has been an important part of the Tampa community since it first opened in 1984. Conveniently located by the beach, it is the perfect place to stop after a hot day on the water. You can choose from over 100 different ice cream flavors or grab a bite to eat with a burger or flatbread pizza. Many customers also enjoy that the waffle cones are kosher and made locally in Florida. Candy Kitchen Tampa residents have come to learn that Candy Kitchen is the place to go when you are craving a hard-to-find candy from your childhood. What you might not know though, is that Candy Kitchen also serves tasty ice cream. Choose your flavor of homemade ice cream or Italian ice and then top it with your favorite flavor of candy pieces. Choose a banana split with sprinkles or go with a vanilla bean ice cream with Harry Potter chocolate frogs. Whether you enjoy a traditional vanilla bean ice cream cone or you are looking to try a different flavor, you will find it at one of these local Tampa shops. Grab the family and enjoy a few of Tampa's best ice cream spots. Image via Pixabay.com

2019 Ford Expedition in Tampa FL

3 Things Families Will Love About the 2019 Expedition

Whether you're driving the kids to school or embarking on a family road trip, you want an SUV that the entire family can enjoy. The 2019 Ford Expedition is just the SUV that you've been looking for. Let's discuss some of the features that make it so family friendly. Spacious Interior From headroom to legroom, the 2019 Expedition provides plenty of space for the family to stretch out and get comfortable. Parents will appreciate the six-way power driver's seat and front-seat ventilation that assists in reducing leg and lower back fatigue. Each of the Expedition's three rows of seating come equipped with cup holders and USB chargers. The kids will enjoy the panoramic vista roof that makes every drive an adventure by providing awesome views and exhilarating breezes. more Up to eight people can comfortably ride in the 2019 Expedition. Available Tip and Slide bucket seats make it easy for passengers to enter the vehicle and load cargo. And speaking of cargo, with its various seating configurations, the Expedition provides up to 104.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. An available advanced cargo manager makes it easier to store and organize everybody's luggage and travel supplies. Cool Technology Road trip boredom is a thing of the past, thanks to the 2019 Expedition's exciting technology features. The SUV is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This compatibility allows you to access your favorite music, apps, and navigation tools with just the sound of your voice. You can also make calls and send texts, hands-free. With an available dual-headrest rear-seat entertainment system, passengers can watch DVDs, play video games, stream from their favorite devices, and watch live TV. Your favorite movies and music will sound fantastic when played over the premium 12-speaker sound system by Bang & Olufsen. While the kids stay entertained, parents will enjoy the Expedition's practical technology. 3D mapping, featuring voice-guided, turn-by-turn directions, is provided by an available GPS. With the SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link system, you can access live traffic updates, weather reports, gas station locations, and other travel data. Safety Features You can rest easy knowing that the 2019 Expedition comes equipped with the latest technology to keep your most precious cargo safe and sound. Standard safety features include brake assist, traction control, and a total of six occupant-sensing air bags. Remote keyless entry, a panic alarm, and rear child safety locks also come standard. The SUV's tire pressure monitoring system alerts you if your tires are unsafe to drive on. If your Expedition is disabled due to an accident, the SOS post-crash alert system will alert other vehicles. An advanced security package is available and includes features like a SecuriLock anti-theft system and intrusion sensors. Advanced driver-assist features include a blind spot information system, which can alert you to cross-traffic, and enhanced park assist. These are just some of the family-friendly features of the 2019 Ford Expedition. Consider taking a test drive so you can see for yourself why it should be your next family vehicle.

Where to Get Vegan Food in Tampa FL

Where to Eat Vegan in Tampa

Whether you're thinking about becoming a vegan or you've been one for some time, there are several spots in Tampa where you can enjoy a good meal. Let's discuss some of these spots and what makes them so vegan friendly. Farmacy Vegan Kitchen & Bakery Farmacy Vegan Kitchen & Bakery creates familiar dishes with a delicious vegan twist. Burgers and Philly sandwiches are made with "Impossible" burger and topped with the fresh ingredients like tomatoes, pickles, and mushrooms. The California Cuban consists of tofurkey deli slices, vegan gouda, pickles, and mustard on sourdough bread. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try the kale Caesar salad, avocado BLT wrap (made with smoked tempeh "bacon"), or the jerk tofu wrap. You can purchase a casserole to go for a vegan meal you can enjoy at home. more Farmacy also serves up acai bowls, smoothies, and waffles, made fresh to order. The selection of baked goods includes donuts, cupcakes, and sticky buns. These treats go great with double espresso or Americano. Dixie Dharma If you're looking for vegan-friendly Southern comfort food, head to Dixie Dharma. Start the day off right with biscuits n' gravy, a wet burrito, or the flapjack platter. Lunch favorites include a vegan sloppy Joe, barbecued jackfruit, and a fried green tomato sandwich. No meal at Dixie Dharma is complete without a side of Cajun boiled peanuts, creamy cashew mac n' cheese, or tater salad. If you're planning a party, the Dixie Dharma staff is happy to provide vegan catering. Loving Hut Cuisines from around the world inspire the vegan dishes at Loving Hut. Start your meal off with a plate of chili cheese fries, vegan wings, or spring rolls. The kale, orange, and vegan tuna salads are highly recommended. Loving Hut also serves up a variety of wraps, sandwiches, and burgers. Gluten-free soups include corn chowder, pistachio mushroom, and asparagus. If you're in the mood for something a little heartier, try the pineapple delight with rice, teriyaki tofu, or vegan pepper steak. You don't want to miss out on Loving Hut's version of pad Thai. For the younger diners in your party, the kid's menu features grilled cheesy bread, quesadillas, and vegan nuggets. Complete your meal with vegan cheesecake, carrot cake, or a dark chocolate brownie. Loving Hut also serves smoothies made fresh to order. New Leaf Elementals At New Leaf Elementals, you won't just find a delicious vegan meal, but you'll also find a selection of unique gifts. The shop sells crystals, wind chimes, and soy candles. The New Leaf Cafe serves up breakfast favorites such as a tofu scramble platter, vegan omelet, and French toast stack. Don't forget to order a side of hash browns, field roast sausage, or toast. Specialty sandwiches include the Dante, made with seasoned soy strips, mushrooms, caramelized onions, and vegan cheese sauce. New Leaf also serves up pizzas with your choice of toppings. These are just some of the fantastic vegan restaurants in the Tampa area. No matter which one you visit, you're sure to enjoy a delicious meal.   Image via Flickr by crd! under use of CC BY-SA 2.0

2019 Ford Taurus Tampa FL

Why You'll Want to Drive to Work in the 2019 Taurus

If you're looking to buy a car that's a good fit for your morning commute, you can't go wrong with the 2019 Ford Taurus. It's the perfect combination of reliability, safety, entertainment, and comfort. Let's talk about why you'll want to drive to work in the Taurus. Interior Comfort The 2019 Taurus's cabin was designed with your comfort in mind. Soft-to-the-touch, high-quality materials are featured throughout. Extra insulation provides peace and quiet for your morning drive. The available heated front seats feature extended thigh-support and four-way adjustable head restraints. When it's your turn to drive the carpool, your passengers will appreciate the heated outboard rear seats and the dual-zone climate control. Adjustable ambient lighting gives the cabin a warm and inviting feel. more Technology The Taurus comes equipped with the latest technology to keep you informed and entertained. With the SYNC 3 system, you can use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. Stay connected to the office with hands-free phone calls and texts. The Ford+Alexa app allows you to control supported smart home devices. No more worrying about whether you turned the lights off on your way to work. Available SiriusXM radio gives you the latest music, news, and live sports. SiriusXM Traffic and TravelLink provides up-to-date weather reports, traffic information, and alternate routes. You can also use the service to find the nearest ATM or coffee shop. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, it will all sound fantastic when played over the 12-speaker Sony audio system with Clear Phase technology. Safety Features When it comes to safety, the 2019 Taurus delivers the latest features to provide peace of mind and make your morning commute a little less stressful. With the Intelligent Access feature, you can unlock your Taurus by remote and start the car with just the push of a button. Adaptive cruise control helps you maintain a safe distance between your Taurus and other vehicles. This feature comes in handy when traffic is moving at a stop-and-go pace. The lane-keeping system detects when the car is drifting out of its lane and applies corrective steering as necessary. The blind spot information system alerts you to vehicles that may be out of view. It also lets you know if a vehicle is approaching as you're backing out of a parking spot or driveway. Active parking assist makes parallel parking a breeze. Performance Dynamics The Taurus's performance dynamics make it a fun car to drive, even to and from work. The six-speed automatic transmission gives you a smooth and peaceful morning drive. However, if you need an after-work boost of energy, you can override automatic operation with the shifter button activation feature. You'll enjoy the feel of a manual transmission. Available steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters will make you feel like you're on a race track. These are just some of the features that make the Taurus an excellent choice for your morning commute. Consider taking a test drive to experience them for yourself.

Spend a Day at Busch Gardens

Spend the Day at Tampa's Busch Gardens

Spend the Day at Tampa's Busch Gardens. This world-class adventure park combines thrilling rides with educational animal experiences in one exciting location. There are tons of things to see and do around every corner. You're going to want to plan ahead. Have the best day ever when you follow these four visitor tips. Animal Experiences Did you know that Busch Gardens is home to 12,000 animals representing 300 different species including gorillas, cheetahs, elephants, and sloths? If visiting the animals is on your must-list, do this activity first. Many of the park's residents are most active first thing in the morning when the temperatures in Florida are still cool. more Learn more about the furred and feathered residents when you check out the Busch Garden's animal care center. While this exhibit requires a reservation and an extra charge, it's worth it. From a general wellness checkup to first aid, the center does it all to get its patients back on their feet. Witness the passionate crew firsthand and the high level of care these animals receive every day. If you don't have a ton of time to visit each habitat, grab a lift from the Serengeti Railway. This relaxing railroad ride shuttles guests around the Serengeti Plain where you can spot giraffes, zebras, and lions right from your seat. It's a terrific choice for families with kids. Keeper Talks Busch Gardens animal keepers host educational presentations with a few hand-picked animals scheduled throughout the day. Visitors will learn all about the animal's habitat, what they like to eat, and their social life. During this time, the keepers will inform you all about the critters' habitat, food, and more. Thrilling Rides Busch Gardens is a roller coaster fanatic's ideal destination. With 15 exhilarating rides, plan to holler, squeal, and screech at the top of your lungs. Since the rides are dotted throughout the park, the best approach may be to walk in a counterclockwise path. This strategy will put you right in front of the Cheetah Hunt, a 4,400 foot-long, triple-launch roller coaster. Continue along this way to encounter all of Busch Gardens' best thrill rides. If you're looking for a ride that's less fear-inducing, climb aboard the SkyRide for a leisurely 10-minute glide between the Egypt and Congo sections of the park. This cable car journey offers guests breathtaking, panoramic views of the park. It's a terrific way for the whole family to see the landscape and capture aerial pictures of the animal residents. Attend a Show or Festival When Florida's hot sun has you looking for an indoor escape, why not check out a show or attend a festival? From kids' productions to adult-only events, Busch Gardens offers a variety of entertaining options for everyone. The thrills are on tap every weekend from Aug. 17 through Sept. 8 at Bier Fest. Before you make your way over to Busch Gardens Tampa, browse our helpful guide. Spend the day enjoying all the attractions instead of trying to decide what to do first.   Image via Flickr by Roller Coaster Philosophy under use of CC BY 2.0

Ford Mustang at Elder Ford in Tampa FL

5 Reasons You'll Love Driving a Ford Mustang

The 2019 Ford Mustang combines the enormous power of old muscle cars and the advanced technology of modern cars. In addition to its attractive exterior and interior design, powerful engine, and tuned suspension, it comes with many advanced interior features and driver assistance systems. Here are five reasons why you will love driving the 2019 Ford Mustang. Sound You will just love the 2019 Ford Mustang for the sound of its engine. The active valve performance control will let you control the volume of the exhaust for more convenience. If you don't want to wake up your neighbors in the morning, you can set it on Quiet Start. However, for a loud roar, you can select the Sport mode. Other available modes include Track and Normal, and the feature is now standard on all the Mustang's models. more Power The 2019 Ford Mustang comes with two engines: a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four engine and a 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The 2.3-liter engine delivers 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, while the 5.0-liter engine delivers 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. There are also two available transmissions: a 6-speed manual transmission and a 10-speed automatic transmission. All models of the Mustang come with limited-slip rear axle differentials, and you can also opt for an engine block heater for more efficiency. Launch Control and Electronic Line-Lock The Electronic Line-Lock feature of the 2019 Ford Mustang is perfect for drag races, and it comes standard with all models. Now, in order to heat your rear tires before any drag race, you don't have to balance your foot on the gas and brake pedals anymore, as the system will do that for you by locking the front brakes and releasing the rear ones. As for the launch control system, it combines the powertrain control, traction control, and brakes so as to ensure a fast start on the track. Handling The 2019 Ford Mustang comes standard with vented four-wheel disc brakes and selectable drive modes that will let you control your Mustang's driving dynamics. The modes include Normal, Snow/Wet, Track, Sport, and Drag Strip. So, you can now select the mode that best suits your favorite track. Moreover, Ford's AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control system will automatically apply individual brakes and induce the engine's power output for maximum stability on the road, especially on corners. Safety Features The safety features and systems that come standard with all models of the 2019 Ford Mustang will make you feel more secure on the road. In addition to eight air bags and side-impact bars, the Mustang comes with a rearview camera, a reverse sensing system, a blind spot information system, pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, and lane keeping assist. The 2019 Ford Mustang is an advanced muscle sports car that is perfect for the daily city life and the race track. It comes with a choice of powerful engines that deliver a lot of horsepower and torque. Choose your favorite Ford model online now and come and visit us for a test drive at Elder Ford of Tampa.   Image via Flickr by crash71100 under use of CC0 1.0

Helicopter Rides in Tampa FL

4 Activities for Thrill Seekers in Tampa, FL

Are you on the hunt for an activity that's a bit out of the ordinary? From a flight over the Bay to a 60-mph roller coaster ride, there's something for every adventurer to do in the area. Discover these four exciting activities for thrill seekers in Tampa, Florida. Embark on a Helicopter Ride Adrenaline junkies will love going on a helicopter ride over Hillsborough Bay. There's no better way to see the sites than from the air. Hang on as your pilot dips toward the water, where you just might spot a bottlenose dolphin frolicking in the ocean, then get a glimpse of Downtown Tampa in the distance. more This scenic flight is a top agenda item for thrill-seekers of all ages, and it's a great opportunity for those who have never experienced a helicopter flight. Tours are available Monday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. A minimum of two people is required to book a ride in this bird. Ride the Tigris at Busch Gardens Step outside of your comfort zone at Busch Gardens. It's one of the most iconic theme parks in all of America since it first opened its doors in 1959. Today, this world-famous attraction covers 335-acres featuring extraordinary rides for the whole family and thrilling wildlife exhibitions that are home to more than 200 species of animals. Plus, visitors can catch a variety of shows and family-friendly, live entertainment by talented performers. Climb aboard the Tigris, if you dare: It's Florida's tallest launch coaster standing 150 feet high and reaching a top speed of 60 mph. Hang on tight for the dramatic, 360-degree heartline roll. The party at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay starts to heat up at sundown with "Summer Nights" from now through Aug. 11, 2019. Watch an exhilarating fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. Zip On at Empower Adventures Embrace the challenge of a 2.5-hour guided zip line experience at Empower Adventures. Get ready to have your mind blown when you encounter 3,000 feet of highly-acclaimed aerial challenges that overlook the waters of Bayou Wilderness and Tampa Bay. Traverse the 200-foot suspension bridge, and finish up with a stimulating rappel. Located between Tampa and Clearwater, you can awaken your spirit of adventure at this premier outdoor adventure park that now features paddleboard excursions. Cool Off at Adventure Island Water Park Take a break from Tampa's hot summers and make a splash at Adventure Island Water Park. Decked out in a classic tropical theme, the park comes to life with lagoons and bayous that remind guests that they're in the deep South. Make sure to lounge on the man-made “Gulf Coast “ beach and enjoy Caribbean-inspired attractions like the thrilling Calypso Coaster. After an electrifying day on the rides, grab a bite to eat at the Surfside Café, where you can enjoy an icy adult beverage. The state of Florida is a prime destination for thrill-seekers of all ages. Which exciting activity will you pick to get your heart pumping today?   Image via Flickr by Bennilover under use of CC BY-ND 2.0

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