Don Johnson’s Cumberland Motors – Can the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport tow your weekend gear around Rice Lake, WI?
Choosing a small SUV that confidently tows your gear can feel like a balancing act—until you look at the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport®. With up to 2,200 lbs of available towing when properly equipped, this SUV is ready to bring along the weekend essentials many drivers around Rice Lake, WI rely on: a lightweight fishing boat, a small utility trailer, or a pair of ATVs. The best part is how naturally the Bronco Sport® blends real capability with the daily comfort and technology you’ll appreciate every time you drive.
Under the hood, the Bronco Sport® offers two EcoBoost® engines: a 1.5L EcoBoost® in models like Big Bend®, Heritage, and Outer Banks®, and a 2.0L EcoBoost® in Badlands®. Every trim includes standard 4×4 and G.O.A.T. Modes® (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain), so traction is always part of the plan. That foundation matters when you’re backing a trailer down a ramp, easing out on a gravel lane, or pulling away from a grassy parking area. If you want an extra layer of confidence for rugged surfaces, consider Bronco Sport® Badlands® with available Advanced 4X4 and a twin-clutch rear drive unit that actively shifts torque side-to-side across the rear axle to help you keep moving.
How towing feels in everyday conditions
The magic of the Bronco Sport® is how composed it feels when the pavement ends or the surface gets loose. G.O.A.T. Modes® refine throttle, steering, and traction responses to suit the terrain under your tires. That means you can focus on line of sight, speed, and trailer angle while the SUV helps optimize traction in the background. Around county highways and two-lane roads, the chassis tuning brings reassuring stability, and the short overall length makes lane changes and parking lot maneuvering with a small trailer less stressful.
Inside, the 13.2″ center display and wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ compatibility make planning and logistics easier. Queue up your maps, favorite ramp locations, or trail drop-offs; keep an eye on conditions; and stay connected. The Ford Connectivity Package includes one year of connected features—like a Wi-Fi® hotspot—so your co-pilot can check weather, trail info, or lake conditions on the fly.
What can you realistically tow?
The 2026 Bronco Sport® can tow up to 2,200 lbs when properly equipped. Practically speaking, that covers many lightweight watercraft, compact utility trailers for yard projects, and small toy haulers for bikes or ATVs. If your setup falls near the upper end, consider your cargo, the weight of added accessories, and how you’re distributing that weight. It’s always smart to verify your specific trailer’s loaded weight and ensure your hitch and components match the task.
Badlands® models bring the 2.0L EcoBoost® and trail-focused hardware, which helps when your favorite launch point or trailhead involves a rutted approach or a soft shoulder. If your routine stays primarily on pavement and well-maintained gravel, Big Bend®, Heritage, or Outer Banks® will feel right at home while still offering valuable Bronco® capability.
Prepping your Bronco Sport® for towing
Before you hook up, take a few minutes to confirm your setup is dialed in. A quick precheck goes a long way toward confident, drama-free towing—especially when you’re heading for busy launches or popular trail access points.
- Know your numbers: Confirm your trailer’s loaded weight and match hitch components to your intended load.
- Balance the load: Distribute cargo so tongue weight stays within recommended guidelines for stable tracking.
- Check connections: Verify coupler latch, safety chains, and lighting connections before every departure.
- Mind your mirrors: Adjust mirrors and camera views to monitor trailer angle and surroundings.
- Choose the mode: Select the G.O.A.T. Mode® that best suits your current surface for smoother pull-offs and better traction.
Once you’ve got the basics covered, practice a few low-speed maneuvers—backing into a driveway or swinging into a boat launch access lane—so you can build muscle memory. The Bronco Sport®’s compact footprint and responsive steering help make these movements feel predictable and controlled.
Which trim should you pick for towing?
If your towing needs are occasional and light, Big Bend®, Heritage, or Outer Banks® provide a great mix of comfort, tech, and capability. Want the most trail-ready configuration for rutted approaches or sandy pull-offs? Badlands® stands out with available Advanced 4X4 and a twin-clutch rear drive unit that helps you maintain momentum when surfaces get tricky. Across the lineup, the 13.2″ center display and wireless smartphone compatibility simplify navigation, access to ramp coordinates, and keeping your crew in the loop.
One of the best parts of Bronco Sport® ownership is how it flexes around your life. Monday through Friday, it’s a nimble commuter with an intuitive cabin. On weekends, it’s a willing partner for trail exploration and gear hauling. That dual personality is exactly what many shoppers want: genuine capability without giving up the everyday comforts that make daily driving easy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the 2.0L EcoBoost® required for towing?
No. The Bronco Sport® can tow up to 2,200 lbs when properly equipped, and capability depends on how your vehicle is configured and what you’re towing. The 2.0L EcoBoost® in Badlands® is a great choice if you frequently tow near the upper limit or expect rugged approaches to launches and trailheads.
How do G.O.A.T. Modes® help when towing?
G.O.A.T. Modes® adjust throttle response, steering feel, and traction control to better match the surface beneath you. That can mean smoother, more controlled pull-offs on gravel, grass, or dirt, and improved confidence backing down ramps or navigating uneven approaches.
Which trim rides best when I’m not towing?
All trims are tuned for confident, comfortable daily driving. Outer Banks® leans into premium touches like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, while Badlands® focuses on trail readiness. Big Bend® and Heritage deliver great all-around value with authentic Bronco® character.
If you’re sorting through engine choices, trims, or accessories, we’re happy to walk you through the details and set up a test drive that includes a route similar to where you’ll actually tow. Our team is serving Rice Lake, Almena, and Clear Lake with a personalized, low-pressure approach so you can make a confident decision that fits your routine.
When you’re ready to take a closer look, schedule time for a hands-on tour of the cabin tech, drive modes, and cargo solutions. Then, we can discuss how the 2026 Bronco Sport® aligns with your specific trailer and gear. From there, we’ll help you tailor the SUV to your plans so you head out prepared and confident for the first trip of many. For straightforward guidance and a seamless experience, connect with Don Johnson’s Cumberland Motors—your local resource for putting the right Bronco Sport® in your driveway.
Request more 2026 Ford Bronco Sport information
Which engine should you choose for a 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 for towing near Rice Lake, WI?
Don Johnson’s Cumberland Motors – Which engine should you choose for a 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 for towing near Rice Lake, WI?
Choosing the right engine is the single biggest decision you will make when ordering a 2026 Ford Super Duty® F-250®. It shapes how confidently you pull long grades, how relaxed the truck feels with heavy equipment, and how efficiently you handle day-to-day tasks around Rice Lake, WI and the surrounding area.
Ford gives you four distinct engine options for F-250®, each paired to the TorqShift® 10-speed automatic transmission. Below, we break down who each engine is for, how they feel in real-world towing, and which towing technologies can make any choice even better.
The Four Engine Choices Explained
Every Super Duty® powertrain is engineered for hard work, but they deliver that muscle in different ways. Think about how often you tow at max weight, how far you travel with a trailer, and how much stop-and-go or rural two-lane driving you do across Barron County.
- 6.8L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 Gas: With 405 hp and 445 lb-ft, this gas V8 is a dependable daily performer for light-to-moderate towing, local hauling, and mixed driving where simplicity and low-maintenance rhythms matter.
- 7.3L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 Gas: At 430 hp and 485 lb-ft, this big gas V8 flows more confidently with larger travel trailers and heavier equipment, ideal if you want stout power without moving to diesel.
- 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel: Producing 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft, it’s a fantastic long-haul partner for substantial trailers. Expect strong, early torque and composed passing with big loads.
- 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel: The heavy hitter at 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft — best-in-class diesel horsepower and torque — built for the most demanding gooseneck or fifth-wheel towing scenarios.
All four engines benefit from the TorqShift® 10-speed’s smart gearing and Tow/Haul logic. That means cleaner launches with weight behind you and steadier rpm on rolling terrain.
How To Match Your Towing Profile To An Engine
Start with your heaviest realistic trailer weight — not just what you typically pull, but the biggest you might take on. Then consider how often you will be near that limit, and the type of roads between your driveway and your destination.
- Local contractors and landowners: If your routine is equipment shuttles, pallets, and materials under heavy maximums, the 6.8L V8 gas offers straightforward strength with lower complexity.
- Weekend towers stepping up in size: Upgrading to larger campers or boats and wanting more headroom? The 7.3L V8 gas adds a satisfying cushion of torque without diesel ownership habits.
- Serious haulers and frequent long-distance towers: If you pull heavy most weekends or for work, the 6.7L Power Stroke® Diesel delivers confident, quiet torque and relaxed highway cruising.
- Maximum-demand operators: Moving multi-axle equipment or large fifth-wheels regularly? The 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® Diesel’s 1,200 lb-ft at 1,600 rpm provides next-level control and reserve.
If you are often on county roads with grades or headwinds, the diesel torque curve’s early surge can reduce driver fatigue and keep pace consistent. If you primarily do short trips and moderate loads, either gas V8 can strike the right balance.
Towing Technology That Makes Any Engine Better
Engine choice sets your ceiling, but technology defines your day-to-day ease. Three available systems are difference-makers from your first hookup.
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist™: Turn the dial in reverse and steer the trailer while the truck manages steering inputs — great for backing into narrow drives or storage areas.
- Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™: Camera and guidance cues help align ball and coupler, speeding hookups when you are on your own.
- Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch: Estimates payload and indicates tongue-weight distribution, so you load for stability and avoid guesswork.
Pair those with the available 360-Degree Camera for a composite overhead view and you get clearer sightlines around obstacles, posts, and equipment — essential in tight yards or when positioning at a campsite outside town.
What About Off-Road Approaches And Worksite Access?
If reaching your property, job site, or launch ramp requires unpaved stretches, consider adding the Tremor® Off-Road Package or FX4® Off-Road Package. Both enhance traction and control when surfaces get loose or rutted, making starts, stops, and tight turns more predictable — with or without a trailer in tow. Many shoppers also add an available 48-gallon fuel tank for fewer stops on longer runs and 2kW Pro Power Onboard™ to power tools at the destination.
Cab, Bed, And Axle Choices Matter Too
Engine is step one. Step two is selecting the right cab and bed combination for cargo and crew space. A Regular, SuperCab, or Crew Cab will shape payload headroom and maneuverability. Bed length influences tie-down flexibility and weight distribution. Finally, pick the axle and hitch setup that matches your peak tow weights so you are not pushing limits on busy corridor drives.
Putting It All Together
If you plan to tow near max capacity frequently, choose diesel. If you want strong, reliable pull with a simpler ownership rhythm for moderate weights, either gas V8 can be a smart fit. Then layer in towing tech and the right chassis configuration to create an F-250® that feels tailor-made for your life.
Have more specific questions about your trailer, hitch, or route? Don Johnson’s Cumberland Motors can help you map real-world use to the ideal engine and package configuration, so your truck feels effortless from the first mile and for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke® Diesel if I tow only a few times a year?
Not necessarily. If your peak trailer weight is moderate and trips are occasional, a 7.3L gas V8 or standard 6.7L Power Stroke® Diesel may be a better fit. The High Output diesel is designed for frequent heavy towing where maximum torque is beneficial.
How do the gas V8s feel with a mid-size fifth-wheel?
The 7.3L gas V8’s 430 hp and 485 lb-ft provide a stronger cushion for mid-size fifth-wheels than the 6.8L V8. We recommend confirming pin weight, payload needs, and axle/hitch options to ensure proper balance and braking with your trailer.
Will Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ help if I’m new to towing?
Yes. It simplifies one of the most stressful towing tasks — backing — by letting you steer the trailer with a dial while the system manages the truck’s steering inputs. It’s a confidence-builder that shortens the learning curve.
Is the 48-gallon fuel tank worth it?
If you regularly travel across the region or run power tools at the destination, the available 48-gallon tank reduces stops and adds flexibility, especially when paired with the diesel’s broad torque band.
Wherever you are coming from — serving Turtle Lake, Rice Lake, and Almena — the right F-250® engine and towing tech can transform how easy it feels to haul. Once you outline your heaviest trailer, average trip length, and typical roads, the best choice becomes clear.
Request more 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 information
Evolution of Automotive Music Technology
The Evolution of In-Car Music Technologies Through the Decades
As long as we can remember, music and driving have always gone hand in hand.
Between road trips, daily commutes, or simple weekend drives, the enhanced effect that
music brings to our mundane traveling routines is undeniable and nearly unimaginable
without. Of course since the 1970s, in-car music technology has undoubtedly evolved
dramatically, transforming from basic radio and cassette players to advanced streaming
and AI-powered infotainment systems. Through Don Johnson Motors’ 109 years in the
automotive industry, we’ve seen it all! Let’s take a journey through the evolution of
music technology in vehicles and how it has shaped the driving experience across
decades.
1970s: The Reign of the 8-Track and Cassette Players
Going back to the early 1970s, the 8-track tape player was a popular option for car
audio, taking hold of a whole new category of essential in-car features that would soon
be advanced throughout the car industry. It offered a way for drivers to listen to their
favorite albums without relying on the radio, which became a key selling point. However,
by the mid-to-late ‘70s, the cassette tape had overtaken the 8-track due to its smaller
size, improved sound quality, and ability to fast forward and rewind. These cassette
players became a staple in cars, allowing drivers to create custom mixtapes and enjoy
personal music collections.
1980s: The Rise of the Cassette and Introduction of Compact Discs (CDs)
As the 1970s fell into the 80s, cassette players continued to dominate car audio
systems. Not only did they offer affordability and convenience, but they enabled
listeners to enjoy music without commercial interruptions. Later, this decade would see
the emergence of the compact disc (CD), which only began to gain popularity toward
the end of 1980s. CD technology promised improved sound quality and durability, which
eliminated the common issues of tape degradation and rewinding complications.
1990s: CDs Take Over and the Advent of Multi-Disc Changers
By the 1990s, CD players had largely replaced cassette decks in vehicles, providing
crystal-clear audio quality and the ability to skip tracks instantly. As drivers continued to
adapt to these changes of convenience, as did Automakers; Soon was introduced the
multi-disc changers, which allowed drivers to load multiple CDs at once, reducing the
need to swap discs while driving. The ‘90s also saw advancements in FM/AM radio
technology, with improved tuning and reception.
2000s: MP3s, Satellite Radio, and the Beginning of Bluetooth
Entering the 21st Century at a new level, the 2000s brought a digital revolution to car
audio. The rise of MP3 players, particularly Apple’s iPod, changed the way people
listened to music. Meeting the popular demand, many automakers introduced auxiliary
(AUX) inputs, allowing drivers to connect their MP3 devices directly to the car’s
speakers. Additionally, this is when satellite radio, such as SiriusXM, gained popularity,
offering hundreds of commercial-free stations with a diverse range of genres.
Quickly gaining on this new digital era, the mid-to-late 2000s saw the start of Bluetooth
technology, which allowed for wireless music streaming and hands-free phone calls.
This shift marked the beginning of seamless integration between our beloved mobile
devices and enhanced car audio systems.
2010s: The Era of Streaming and Advanced Infotainment Systems
The 2010s saw an explosion in music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and
Pandora. As smartphones became an essential part of daily life, car manufacturers
developed sophisticated infotainment systems featuring touchscreens, voice
commands, and app compatibility. USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and Wi-Fi hotspots
became standard, making it easier than ever to access your own personalized musical
experience on the go.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, introduced in the mid-2010s, revolutionized in-car
entertainment by allowing drivers to mirror their smartphones on their vehicle’s display.
These systems enabled hands-free music control, navigation, and messaging, creating
a safer and more user-friendly experience.
2020s and Beyond: AI, Voice Control, and Personalized Experiences
Today, car audio technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. AI-driven voice
assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, have allowed
drivers to control music, navigation, and other features with simple voice commands,
eliminating a driver’s urge to pick up their phone that puts people on the road at risk
every day. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are being developed with
entertainment features to further minimize distractions while driving.
High-fidelity sound systems—such as those developed by Bose, Bang & Olufsen, and
Harman Kardon—have been designed to provide superior audio experiences, that rival
even professional-grade home audio setups. Many modern vehicles now come
equipped with adaptive sound technology that adjusts volume and equalization based
on road noise and vehicle speed, or older models can be customized with the latest
audio or entertainment accessories to bring your music experience up to date!
Looking ahead, innovations like 5G connectivity, personalized music recommendations
through AI, and even holographic displays are set to redefine in-car entertainment. As
technological advancements steer us closer to the normalization of self-driving vehicles,
the focus on user-experience may further shift to accommodate immersive, high-quality
audio experiences that will essentially transform vehicles into mobile entertainment
hubs.
The Road Ahead
From the humble 8-track player to AI-powered streaming services, car music technology
has come a long way in just a few decades. As automakers continue to push the
boundaries of innovation, one thing remains certain: music will always be a fundamental
part of the driving experience. At Don Johnson Motors, we’re excited to offer new vehicles
equipped with the latest in-car entertainment systems to keep you connected and
entertained on every journey. Check out one of our five locations today!
The Top Automotive Technologies Revolutionizing 2025
At Don Johnson’s Cumberland Ford in Cumberland, WI, we’re excited to spotlight the future of the automotive industry. Looking back at our 109 years in the automotive sector, groundbreaking technologies have often transformed how we drive, maintain, and enjoy vehicles. Here’s a preview of what’s on the horizon for drivers in Cumberland and beyond 2025.
1. Electric Vehicle Advancements
The electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, and 2025 is poised to deliver EVs with even longer ranges—many exceeding 500 miles per charge. Innovations in fast-charging technology mean you’ll be able to recharge in as little as 10-15 minutes, perfect for busy schedules. At our dealership in Cumberland, WI, you’ll find cutting-edge models like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, combining power, efficiency, and sustainability.
2. Autonomous Driving Technology
Self-driving technology is quickly becoming a reality. By 2025, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) will offer near-autonomous driving on select models. Ford’s BlueCruise technology, available on vehicles sold right here in Cumberland, provides hands-free driving on designated highways. These features enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, which is perfect for long Wisconsin road trips.
3. Connected Car Features
Ford’s SYNC technology is evolving into a smart driving assistant that integrates with your devices and driving habits. From real-time diagnostics to personalized settings, your vehicle will anticipate your needs. Imagine your car adjusting to Cumberland’s winter weather conditions or suggesting the fastest route to nearby landmarks, or even scheduling updates or service visits—all from your dashboard.
4. Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing
Ford is leading the way in eco-friendly initiatives, incorporating sustainable materials like recycled plastics and bio-based composites. These advancements reduce environmental impact while enhancing comfort and durability for drivers in Cumberland, WI, and beyond.
5. Next-Gen Safety Systems
Safety is at the core of every Ford vehicle. Features like 360-degree cameras, collision avoidance systems, and pedestrian detection will become standard in 2025 models, offering peace of mind for families in Cumberland and the surrounding areas.
At Don Johnson’s Cumberland Ford in Cumberland, WI, we’re proud to be your local destination for innovative vehicles. Ready to experience the future of driving? Visit us today to explore the 2025 Ford lineup and discover the technology shaping tomorrow.
Visit Don Johnson’s Cumberland Ford—where innovation meets the road in Cumberland, WI.
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