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The Ford Mustang continues to be one of the most exciting and thrilling cars on the market. Rule the open road with the adrenaline-pumping 2018 Ford Mustang. Completely Customizable The 2018 Ford Mustang truly lets you express your personality with many customization options. You can choose between four exterior trim levels and 12 exterior colors. You can also customize your digital gauge layout and swap between normal, sport, and track driving modes on a whim. Most Mustang enthusiasts will tell you how much they enjoy the roar of its engine. The 2018 Ford Mustang even gives you the ability to control just how much growl you want under the hood. more Power Choices The customization options don't stop there. You can choose between two engine options in the 2018 Mustang. The standard option is a 2.3-liter Ecoboost that can pump out 350 pound-feet of torque power. Drivers can also upgrade to the available 5.0-liter V-8 GT engine to achieve up to 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. The direct-injection fuel engine and dual-fuel exhaust system give this model optimal performance and a roaring sound that's sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The 2018 Mustang also comes with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that provides faster and more efficient performance than most automatics. For even more control of your Mustang's performance, opt for the available steering wheel mounted shifter paddles. The unique launch track control system gives you the right amount of brakes and traction, warming up the tires quicker and giving you an ideal off-the-line launch effect. Additional Performance Options Heighten the performance capability of the 2018 Ford Mustang with the available add-on packages. The EcoBoost Performance Package includes upgraded chassis tuning, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and an improved braking experience. The GT Performance Package gives drivers upgraded brake calibers and an advanced limited slip differential. Both options give you the ability to swap between five drive modes for an experience that meets your current driving needs. Swap between normal, sport, track, snow/wet, and drag strip modes to improve your Mustang's performance. Driver-Focused Cockpit As a Mustang driver, it is important to think of the driver seat as your control center. The driver-focused cockpit of the 2018 Ford Mustang is equipped with plenty of technology to assist you with your performance desires. For example, this model's advanced safety features will allow you to focus on the exciting drive ahead without worry. The available 12-inch LCD driver infotainment screen gives you access to your most important vehicle controls, including drive mode, music selection, and access to the Ford Sync 3 system. The premium leather-wrapped seating will give you ideal comfort and grip for the most thrilling off-the-line experience. The 2018 Ford Mustang might look similar to the models that have preceded it. The 2018 model, however, is more customizable than ever before with performance capability that is incomparable. Come by the Ford Store Morgan Hill today to check out the impressive features of the 2018 Ford Mustang. Photo by SoulRider.222 | Licensed under cc BY-ND 2.0

Strolling through a used bookstore simply cannot compare to buying books online. If you are one of the few people that still enjoys the smell and feel of used books, make sure you check out these wonderful used bookstores in the Morgan Hill, California, area. Recycle Bookstore Recycle Bookstore has been selling used books since before it was considered a trendy thing to do. They have been a favorite local bookstore in the San Jose and Morgan Hill communities for over 40 years. They have a wide variety of inventory with over 100,000 books in different categories. more You can also trade-in or sell your used books to restock your own collection of books. Make sure you come and visit the resident cats in the bookstore, too: Recycle Bookstore is home to four local cats that will gladly help you choose a new favorite book. Booksmart Booksmart has one goal: to give local Morgan Hill residents a place to learn that is also entertaining. This 5,000 square foot bookstore has been in the Morgan Hill community for over 22 years. In addition to books, they also sell toys, magazines, and games. You can also grab a cup of coffee or snack at the on-site cafe to accompany your book shopping experience. The cafe serves hot dogs, sandwiches, and desserts. Check out one of Booksmart's local events, including an upcoming gallery show reception and a coffee meeting with city council candidates. ThinkerToys Founded in 1969, ThinkerToys has three separate locations in California with one conveniently located right in Morgan Hill. Although this small shop primarily focuses on children's toys and games, they also have a wide selection of children's books. Visiting here is sure to be a fun experience for both children and adults alike. Not sure what to buy? The weekly staff picks are a perfect way to try out a new book or to select the perfect gift for the favorite child in your life. ThinkerToys also regularly gives back to the community through donations to local nonprofits. BookBuyers BookBuyers in downtown Gilroy focuses on trading gently used books. They have recently moved to Gilroy from their previous location in Mountain View. They have a large collection of books, music, DVDs, audiobooks, and even vinyl records. This is a great spot to stop on a rainy day. The bright LED interior lights of the bookshop give you a sense of sunshine. You can also spend some time visiting with the bookstore's cat. The prices are affordable, the staff is helpful, and you just might get lost among the stacks. Keep in mind that the shop is currently a work in progress as new bookcases and shelves are still being built. However, they are open for business and gladly welcome all types of book enthusiasts. There are many used bookstores worth checking out in the Morgan Hill, California, area. Spend an afternoon searching for your next read and getting to know the important bookstores of your community. Photo by Tiomax80 | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

One of the best ways to keep the value of your car and to prevent costly repairs is with regular maintenance. Make sure you are keeping up with these important preventative maintenance tasks recommended by Ford. Change Your Fluids Most car owners know their car needs regular oil changes. However, that is not the only important fluid that needs to be regularly checked in your Ford. You should also have your radiator fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluids checked often. Additionally, your air conditioning coolant can affect your car's ability to reach a comfortable interior temperature. Low windshield wiper fluid can reduce visibility and result in a dangerous driving situation. Make sure that your vehicle inspection includes each of these important fluid checks. more Maintain Your Tires Your vehicle's tires may be more important than you realize. Not only are they responsible for getting you where you need to go, but they can also affect your fuel efficiency, wear and tear on the mechanical components of your car, and the overall safety of your car. You should have your tires rotated as often as you have your oil changed. It is also important to regularly check your tires' treads and to replace them when they are low. In many cases, choosing the cheapest tires is not usually the safest choice. Regular Car Washes Car washes serve more purpose than having a clean car: they also protect your car's exterior paint. Large amounts of dust or debris that is not removed can scratch the paint over time. Additionally, if your windshields and windows are covered in dirt, it can present a dangerous situation, reducing your visibility. Regular car washes are just as important during the winter months as they are in the summer. When ice from the road's sticks to your car's paint, it can eventually lead to rust. Inspect Your Battery Without a battery, your car will not work. Avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery by checking your battery's charge often. There are tools that you can use at home to test the charge of your battery. Some car inspections also check the battery during the multi-point inspection. The technician can usually identify when a battery's charge is low and notify you when it's time to replace the battery. Choosing a Ford Dealer Many Ford owners consider the differences between maintenance tasks at a local mechanic or with a Ford dealer. Ford mechanics are the most knowledgeable technicians when it comes to the maintenance of your Ford. Choosing a Ford dealership for these services can ensure that your car maintains its value, maximizes its fuel efficiency, and ensures that it is reliable and safe. In fact, most Ford warranties will require that you receive services through an approved Ford dealer. Ford dealers offer the most important services including oil and filter changes, wheel alignment, and a full multi-point inspection. Come by the Ford Store Morgan Hill today to schedule your Ford inspection. You can easily schedule an appointment online. Photo by Robert Couse-Baker | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Santa Clara County may be known for its high-tech Silicon Valley, but this California county also offers 28 pristine regional parks and recreation areas. If you are into bird-watching, these parks and preserves represent a veritable birder's paradise, as they host not only huge residential populations but also migratory birds. Here are some places where you can go birding to your heart's content. Baylands Nature Preserve This 1,940-acre preserve is one of the largest tracks of undisturbed marshland in the San Francisco Bay area. Over 15 miles of trails give you access to a large variety of wildlife and a unique mixture of tidal and freshwater habitats. Baylands is regarded as one of the best bird-watching areas on the West Coast and is not only home to a substantial residential population, but also an important stopover during the Pacific Flyway migration. more Birds that you can view here include the endangered California clapper rail, wintering ducks such as mallards and pintails, migratory shorebird species, cliff and barn swallows, nesting black-necked stilts, American avocets, black-crowned night herons, and snowy egrets. Baylands Nature Reserve is located at 2500 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto, and is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park This park, nestled in the hills east of Gilroy, is a 6,695-acre recreation area, offering 33 miles of trails that wind along breezy mountain ridges, clear streams, and through oak forests. This park is home to all kinds of species, such as reptiles, amphibians, insects, and mammals. If you are lucky, you can spot the rare western pond turtle or the California tiger salamander. It is also a great place for birding. Over 219 bird species have been noticed in this area, including the national bird, the bald eagle. Common species that you might spot are the American wigeon, mallard, bufflehead, ruddy duck, California quail, wild turkey, acorn woodpecker, and the California scrub-jay. Notable species that have been seen include the bald eagle, golden eagle, cackling goose, Clark's grebe, American pipit, Rufous-crowned sparrow, and the rock wren. This park is located at 10840 Coyote Reservoir Road, Gilroy, and is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Ed R. Levin County Park This 1,500-acre park is one of Santa Clara County's most unique regional parks and recreations areas, as it offers a combination of constructed parklands, natural bush, and hillsides. Expansive lawn areas are ideal picnic spots for the family, whereas the rolling grasslands and oak woodlands offer lovely trails that are great for bird-watching. Over 64 bird species have been spotted here, including migratory birds, shorebirds, raptors, flycatchers, and corvids. Common species that you can see here are the great blue heron, acorn woodpecker, mallard, turkey vulture, red-tailed hawk, and the white-tailed kite. If you are lucky, though, you might also spot a ring-necked duck, American wigeon, bald eagle, golden eagle, yellow-billed magpie, belted kingfisher, or a rufous-crowned sparrow. Ed R. Levin County Park is located at 3100 Calaveras Road, Milpitas, and they are open from 8 a.m. until sunset. If you love bird-watching, then you will be spoiled for places to go to in Santa Clara County. So, grab your binoculars and head out to the beautiful parks and preserves of this county. Photo by roseannadana cc BY-ND 2.0 | Licensed under

So you have decided to buy a new car, and have done your research on the internet, and found a few models that tick all the boxes. Before you make your final decision, be sure to take each car you're considering for a test drive. Remember that there are certain things that you will only find out once you drive the car. In order to save time, make an appointment for a test drive ahead of time. Car dealers have limited space available, and the specific model you are looking for might not be on the premises or might be parked in the showroom. Also, in order to prevent you from making rash decisions or being cornered by a persistent salesman, line up test drives one after another. This will also make comparisons between the different models easier, as everything will still be fresh in your mind. more Here are a few other things to remember when taking a car for a test drive. The Parked-Car Tests Here are a few things to check before you start the car: Is the front seat easy to access and does it give you adequate support? This might not be so important for short commutes, but during long trips, this could make all the difference. Are the back seats easily accessible, and do they provide ample leg and headroom? If it's a requirement, will you be able to easily fit in a baby seat? Does the cargo area provide the space you need? Do seats fold or move easily? Can you comfortably reach all the controls? How Does the Car Drive? Here are a few things to focus on once you are on the road: How is the visibility? Can you see easily over the steering wheel, and how are those blind spots? How is the suspension? Do you feel the bumps and rough patches on the road, or is it a smooth ride? Does the car lock up or skid when you brake and is the steering responsive? Is the car powerful enough to suit your needs, and how is the acceleration? Test the safety features available in the car, such as hill start assist, or lane-keep assist. Decide on Your Own Route The salesperson might have a normal, easy route that he uses for test drives. Do not agree to this. Ensure that you do the test drive on the terrain and roads that you normally drive to see whether the car is suitable. Do you regularly drive long distances on the highway or often drive on dusty roads or rough terrain? Do you need to park your car in tight spaces, or do you regularly have to start it on an incline? Choose a route that will give you the info you need. After you have taken the car for a test drive, refrain from buying on impulse. Sleep on it. The car will still be available tomorrow! If you are thinking of taking a Ford for a test drive, drop by The Ford Store Morgan Hill. They might just have the car that is perfect for you. Photo by DigitalRalph | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Silicon Valley is home to technology giants such as Facebook, Google, and Apple. The humble garage from which William Hewlett and David Packard started developing the famous HP computer brand, is regarded by many as the "birthplace" of Silicon Valley. If you are interested in seeing such a site, as well as many other places of interest in the world of technology, head to Silicon Valley. Here are some interesting places to see. Googleplex A popular sightseeing destination in Silicon Valley is the Googleplex headquarters and campus of this search engine and information giant. Unfortunately, there are no Googleplex or Google campus tours available, and you can only gain access to campus buildings if you are escorted by an employee. more If you should have a friend who works there and you can gain entry, check out the multicolored bicycles that "Googlers" use to get between campus buildings, as well as strange works of art, such as a life-size Tyrannosaurs Rex skeleton, sometimes adorned with pink, plastic flamingos, and a collection of stone busts depicting celebrities and scientists. There is also an on-campus Google merchandise store, jumbo cartoon figures representing each version of the Android operating system, and a sand volleyball court. Googleplex is located at 1600 Amphitheater Parkway, Mountain View. Computer History Museum Find out about the history of computers at this museum, and the surprising similarities between innovations in our distant history and the technology of today. The museum showcases many different and exciting exhibitions, such as "Revolution: The First 2,000 Years of Computing," which features 19 galleries, 1,100 objects, and multimedia experiences that chronicle the history of computing from the abacus to the smartphone. "Where to? A History of Autonomous Vehicles" is an exhibition about the decades-long challenge of bringing self-driving cars to the public. The museum also exhibits the world's largest collection of artifacts relating to the history of computing, including hardware, software, documents, photos, and moving images. Interesting talks are regularly presented at the museum, as well as educational programs. Computer History Museum is located at 1401 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View. Intel Museum This museum provides interactive exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on classes in the Learning Labs, in order to connect people with the technologies that shape their modern world. Free field trips are available for students, during which they are taught the history of the Intel microprocessor, silicon chip design, and chip fabrication. The Intel Museum is located at 2200 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara. NASA's Ames Research Center This center has played an important part in NASA's research into space technology and is a key facility for many of its missions and projects. The public is allowed into the Ames Visitor Center, where they can learn more about the work that is done here. Current exhibitions include "Science on Sphere," which offers visitors a new look at the planets of the universe, and "Kepler," which gives visitors the chance to learn about the Kepler mission that is designed to survey our region of the Milky Way. The Ames Research Center is located at Moffett Field, Mountain View. If you are a computer geek, or just interested in technological innovations or history, Silicon Valley is just the place for you. Photo by rjshade | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Here's a scene many of us know all too well: you're on vacation driving on uncharted roads when the engine makes a worrisome clunking sound. Before you know it, you're turning on the hazard lights and praying for a strong cell phone signal. Believe it or not, if you're prepared, have the right supplies with you, and know when to call for help, what may seem to put an end to your traveling fun can be just a small bump along the way. Consider some simple ways to ensure that your road trip is fun and worry-free! Preventatively Assess Your Vehicle Before Your Trip Add to your vacation to-do list a quick trip to the service station to have your car looked over before you set out. There is no better way to avoid a mishap than making sure that all repairs have been taken care of before you head out. Something as simple as an oil change and quick vehicle check can identify any possible roadblocks and put your mind at ease. more You may want to also consider a roadside assistance program that can provide on-site assistance for everything from keys locked in the car to a dead battery and more. Safely Pull Over to the Side of the Road If your vehicle is in distress, it is important to pull out of traffic for your safety, as well as that of other drivers. If you are unable to pull the car off of the road, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are encountering issues. Take a note of your car's location and any nearby landmarks so that you can communicate your coordinates to roadside assistance or a towing company if necessary. Create an Emergency Roadside Kit As Benjamin Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." Head off a roadside catastrophe by preparing an emergency roadside kit. In many cases, just a few simple items can get you up and running again quickly, such as: Basic tools including a screwdriver, duct tape, pliers, and wrenches. Jumper cables in the event of a dead battery. Flares or triangle reflectors to warn approaching cars that you are stopped. A first aid kit in case of a minor cut or scrape (leave more serious injuries for professionals). Flashlight with extra batteries for more visibility during a nighttime incident. Tire pressure gauge and a tire puncture repair kit. Water and nonperishable snacks in the event of a long wait for assistance. Before heading out on a vacation road trip, double-check your kit to make sure that it is complete and up to date — we've all reached in for an "emergency" granola bar on a busy day. Taking your car on a vacation can be a wonderful way to explore important landscapes and landmarks while spending quality family time together. Make the most of these special times together with a few easy preparations that can keep you comfortable and safe in the event of an unforeseen emergency. Photo by Robert Couse-Baker | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The Escape and the Edge are two of the smaller SUVs Ford has to offer, with the Edge being the larger of the two. Both vehicles have plenty in common, including smart Ford engineering and reliability. However, they also have a lot of differences. If you're not sure which one to pick, read on and find out what makes each one unique. Size The first difference you'll notice between the Escape and the Edge is the size difference. The Escape is a compact crossover, and the Edge is the next class up. Both vehicles have plenty of space for two rows of adults, but the Edge has 40.6 inches of rear legroom while the Escape offers 37.3 inches. For cargo, the Escape has 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 68 cubic feet behind the front, and the Edge gives you 39.2 and 73.4 cubic feet. It's not a big difference, but most Edge trims also have a rear seat quick-release button. more Power Another difference between the two SUVs is the list of engines they come with and the power they offer. The smaller Escape comes with one of three engines depending on your trim choices: a 2.5 liter I-4 with normal aspiration and 165 horsepower, a turbocharged 1.5 liter EcoBoost with 179 horsepower, and a 2.0 liter EcoBoost that offers 245 horsepower. On top of the extra power, the EcoBoost engines are also more efficient than the big starting engine. The Edge also has three engines, but it starts out with the 245-horsepower 2.0 liter engine. The two middle trims replace this with a 3.5 liter V-6 engine that generates 280 horsepower, but you could also get the top Sport trim with its twin-turbo 2.7 liter V-6 that delivers 315 horsepower. Interior Features Both the 2018 Escape and the 2018 Edge come with great feature lists, but the larger Edge comes with a higher MSRP and more features for each trim level. Both trims have the SE, SEL, and Titanium trims in common, but the Escape starts with the lower S trim and the Edge ends with the higher Sport trim. On the plus side, an SUV buyer who cares more about their budget than features can get an Escape SE for around $5,000 less than an Edge SE. Safety The two 2018 SUVs have similar scores in the safety department. Both have a 5-star rating from the NHTSA, both come with seven airbags, and both have rearview cameras standard. Each crossover can have driver assistance features on higher trim levels, but while the Escape can have a driver drowsiness monitor, the Edge can have a 180-degree camera, rain-sensing wipers, and inflatable seat belts. A Ford SUV of any size is a good companion for long road trips and moving days, but it's good to have one with the right size, features, and price. So take a good look at their features and specs, and don't forget to test drive both at your local Ford dealership before you make your final decision. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

The West Coast of America has plenty of forests, deserts, mountains, valleys, and other natural beauty, which is why there are plenty of state and national parks from one end of California to the other. For those starting out in San Jose and the local area, you can enjoy several state parks just a short drive away in a Ford vehicle. Henry Coe State Park The Henry W. Coe State Park is a short drive east from Morgan Hill and other towns along US-101. Coe Park covers 87,000 acres of California wilderness, and it's open year-round to hikers, campers, and mountain bikers. You won't have any trouble finding places to hike, either, because the park contains 250 miles of hiking trails and ranch roads. The park even has an old hot springs resort on the southwestern edge, but unfortunately the Gilroy Yamato Hot Springs Resort is still in the middle of a big restoration project. more The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park Head straight south to Santa Cruz, go east to Aptos and go north to make your way to the Forest of Nisene Marks. The forest doesn't see too many visitors each year since most people in the area want to enjoy the beaches, but that's perfect if you want to see some great spots without worrying about sharing the moment with a big crowd. You can only take bikes or horses on certain tracks, but you can hike through most of the forest and admire the young and old redwoods that fill it. Big Basin Redwoods State Park The Big Basin Redwoods State Park is straight southwest of San Jose, and it's easy enough to find by following Big Basin Way (CA-9) out from the city limits. The park has its own highway because it's the oldest in the state, established in 1902, and the reason it's the oldest state park is because that big basin contains the largest group of old-growth coast redwoods south of San Francisco. Bay Area residents have been visiting this park for over 100 years, and the park allows biking on all fire roads and hiking throughout the park. Castle Rock State Park Castle Rock State Park is so close to San Jose that you have to pass it on your way to the Big Basin Redwoods. The park covers much of southwest of San Jose, including Castle Rock itself. The peak gets its name from the great view you can get of all your surroundings, and you can get to the peak on a day trip thanks to a one-mile trail loop you can take from the main parking lot. Plenty of Ford vehicles can be your ticket to seeing the best side of nature, especially when you live near so many great state parks and forests. The southern Bay Area offers mountains, valleys, and forests full of ancient and new redwoods, and the only question is which state park you should visit first when you decide to take a day trip. Photo by MiguelVieira | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

2019 will be an exciting year for Ford aficionados. With the return of the Ranger and the releases of the updated Edge and Focus, there is a lot to look forward to. Here's what we know so far about these four 2019 Ford models. 2019 Ford Ranger Drivers have waited seven long years for the return of Ford's midsize pickup truck. Now fully retooled and reimagined, the Ranger will hit the North American market sometime in early 2019. It will feature a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four engine and Ford's new 10-speed automatic transmission. It will be available as a super cab or super crew, each with four full-size doors. Inside, the vehicle seats five passengers and has waterproof storage underneath the back seats. Driver-assistive technology features include pre-collision assistance, blind-spot detection with trailer coverage, and lane-keep warning and assist. There are also plenty of options available for off-roading. more 2019 Ford Focus The 2019 Ford Focus has been redesigned with more comfort, connectivity, and driver-assistance technology. It's available as a five-door hatchback, five-door wagon, or four-door sedan. Available trims are the ST, RS, and Titanium trims, each of which offer various levels of options and upgrades. The Focus will come standard with a 1.0-liter EcoBoost I3 gasoline engine with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. A longer wheelbase is said to give the car more interior space, making it more roomy and comfortable for drivers and passengers alike. The Focus will arrive in the U.S. sometime in 2019. 2019 Ford Edge Ford will debut its new CoPilot 360 driver-assistive technology suite in its midsize SUV, the 2019 Ford Edge. The package includes the blind-spot information system (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert, emergency braking with pedestrian detection, automatic high-beam headlights, a rearview camera, and a lane-keeping system. Available upgrades include adaptive cruise control with lane centering or stop-and-go, evasive steering assist, and enhanced active park assist. The Edge will feature a 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine delivering 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. It will come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and sport-tuned suspension for an amazing ride. 2019 Ford Transit Connect The 2019 Transit Connect will be available for either commercial or personal use. With seating for up to five passengers in the short-wheelbase model or up to seven in the long-wheelbase model, there's plenty of room for the whole family. Seating can be configured to accommodate a mix of passengers and cargo as well. Driver-assistive technology on the Transit Connect includes pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection and side-wind stabilization, which helps to keep the vehicle from veering too far over in a sudden gust of wind. Available options include lane-keeping assist and enhanced active park assist. Whether you're in the market for a car, truck, SUV, or van, Ford has some exciting models debuting in 2019. With all-new driver-assistive technologies and fuel-efficient engines, there's plenty to look forward to in the new model year. Be sure to ask your dealer when these vehicles will be available near you. Photo by F. D. Richards | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Not sure if the 2018 Ford EcoSport is your kind of car? We break down each of the features of this crossover SUV to show you there's one perfect model for each type of driver. Find out why Ford calls it a big upgrade in a small package. Safety- and Budget-Conscious If you have small kids, your top priority is to get the safest and most comfortable family car you can afford. Besides, why invest more in a car now when you know you'll probably be worried about getting ink stains on leather seats every other day? more The 2018 Ford EcoSport S model is ideal for you. Standard features include, among others, a rearview camera (it's great to know you don't have to pay extra for such a useful tool), side airbags on front and back rows, and a LATCH system to ensure the little ones are secured. Comfort-Loving Commuters The SE model is built for the driver who doesn't mind paying a little extra money for comfort. This is even more important for people who spend a lot of time on the road. If to you your car is practically your second home, then you'd love these standard features in this model. The list includes electric automatic temperature control, two smart-charging USB ports, a power moonroof, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system. Active and Outdoorsy You often decide weekend road trips on the spur of the moment, and they tend to include hiking for hours or kayaking in a peaceful lake. Does this sound like you? Then the SES model is right up your alley. Reliable and sturdy, the SES performs well, even when you change your mind about what road to take, thanks to the standard Intelligent 4WD System and traction control. Other standard features that come in handy include fog lights, roof rack crossbars, and hill stop assist. Carpool Karaoke Aficionados James Corden fan or not, you're that driver who uses every minute of their commute to sing your favorite songs. Extra bonus points if there's a traffic jam. For you, a car has little to do with the driving experience. You don't care about engine horsepower, but you need the perfect sound system to reach those high notes. The entertainment system that comes standard on the Platinum model is out of this world. We could list all the features, but all it takes is saying it includes the B&O PLAY Premium Audio System, nine speakers, and a subwoofer. Unique and Customized If you prefer a unique car that reflects your personality, you can always build your own model. Browse the 2018 Ford EcoSport page where you can see all the standard features that come with each model and the available upgrade packages. And if you're indecisive between two models, click the comparison tool and select the option only to show you the differences. You can compare up to three models at the same time, or you can count on our experienced staff to show you the different specs in person. Photo by techAUcomau | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Ella Fitzgerald sang, "Summertime, and the livin' is easy," and there isn't a better time in the year to wind down and enjoy some cool events in the city. Whether you're on vacation or are getting ready for the weekend, here are five summer events where you can soak in the sun and relax. Music in the Park No matter how big or small the bands are on stage, the Music in the Park summer festival is all about good music and good fun. There are plenty of food and drink options available at the venue, so all you need to bring along is your good mood. For extra comfort, blankets and low-back chairs are allowed in the area. more The event happens every year from June to August at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15. San Jose Jazz Summer Fest Jazz takes over the city for three days in August with famous and up-and-coming artists performing on 12 different stages. Plaza de Cesar Chavez has been the festival's central venue since its inception in 1990. Despite its growth, the atmosphere is still very much like those early days in San Jose, where you can listen to live performances of jazz, fusion, and funk. Tickets are available as single entries, starting at $15, or as 3-Day Passes, starting at $50. The event kicks off on Friday, Aug. 10, at 5:30 p.m. and continues through the weekend, with stages opening at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Sunset Thursdays Who says summer fun only happens on weekends or on vacation? Every Thursday evening, from June to August, San Jose locals gather at Plaza de Cesar Chavez from 5 to 9 p.m. to enjoy live music, play lawn games, and taste the best dishes of the food trucks available that day. This event is open to the public and free to enter. Follow the organizer's Facebook page for up-to-date information on live acts, food trucks, and upcoming events. July Passport Celebration Day For wine enthusiasts, Passport Celebration Day is the one event in the year they most look forward to. These special Passport holders can visit over 50 participating wineries throughout the year, during opening hours. But, on specific dates, four times a year, wineries are open for tastings and other experiences all day long. The passport costs $65, and the July event falls on the 21st, beginning at noon. It takes place at participating Santa Cruz Mountain Wineries. Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic Tennis fans flock to attend this week-long women's professional tournament, the first sports event of the U.S. Open Series. Martina Navratilova, Monica Seles, and Williams sisters Venus and Serena are some of the names on the list of former champions of this nearly-50-year-old tournament. From July 30 to Aug. 5, all tennis roads lead to San Jose State University. Ticket prices vary according to location. Finals Weekend ticket packages start at $300. Weeklong Championship Series ticket packages start at $850. Individual tickets start at $31. Each day begins at a different time, so be sure to check the schedule to arrive on time. Throughout the summer, there are all kinds of events for all tastes and budgets. The one thing they all have in common? They are all meant for you to have fun. Photo by Toolstotal | Licensed under cc BY 2.0