The seasonal sales calendar always features a highly anticipated mid-year milestone designed to help buyers secure current pricing on durable American-made vehicles. This promotion is a coordinated effort between the manufacturer and our team at Bison Ford to make room for incoming shipments. Running through the warmest months of the year, customers can contact us for current manufacturer offers and available programs.
For those navigating daily commutes or heavy-duty work demands around Great Falls, this event provides an good time to upgrade. The program generally includes:
- Low APR financing rates on highly capable trucks and SUVs.
- Direct customer cash back rebates that immediately reduce the transaction price.
- Stacked regional bonuses, including dedicated military appreciation cash and first-responder incentives.
- Special vehicle-specific perks, such as a complimentary 2-year Premium Maintenance Plan on select models.
These promotions are structured to offer flexible paths to ownership, whether you are looking for a rugged workhorse or a spacious family cruiser. If you are ready to explore the lot, you can get directions to our showroom on 10th Avenue South or give our sales team a quick call at (406) 727-2552 to verify current daily incentives. Our lineup is built to handle the varying terrain of central Montana, from the pavement to the gravel back roads.
Our current summer inventory features a diverse selection of tough Ford models built for work and recreation. Depending on your specific capability needs, you can search our digital showroom to find the perfect match. Browse our online inventory to:
- Shop New Ford F-150 models for class-leading utility.
- Shop new Ford Bronco 4x4s for weekend trail riding.
- Shop New Ford Ranger midsize trucks for balanced agility.
- Shop new Ford F-150 Lightning all-electric pickups.
- Shop New Ford Maverick compact trucks for daily efficiency.
- Shop New Ford Expedition full-size SUVs for maximum passenger space.
- Shop New Ford Bronco Sport crossovers for all-weather confidence.
- Shop New Ford Explorer three-row SUVs for active family life.
- Shop New Ford Super Duty heavy-duty pickups for commercial-grade towing.
- Shop New Ford Transit commercial cargo vans.
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Table of Contents
- Which Models Are Typically Featured in These Seasonal Promotions
- How the Large Dealer Discounts on a New Ford F-150 Are Calculated
- How Low APR Financing and Employee Pricing Deals Work in Summer Promotions
- How a Summer Purchase Affects Long-Term Ownership and Vehicle Costs
- The Best Way to Compare Summer Promotional Offers Across Dealerships
- What to Do If You Prefer a Next-Generation Model Not Included in Current Deals
- Quick Answers Before You Visit
- Find Your Next Ride During the Summer Event at Bison Ford
Which Models Are Typically Featured in These Seasonal Promotions
High-demand nameplates form the core of our seasonal promotions because they align with what local drivers actually need for changing seasons and outdoor recreation. Buyers looking for dependable performance will find that our summer event highlights a balanced mix of light-duty pickups, fuel-efficient crossovers, and versatile family haulers. Rather than limiting promotions to niche trims, the manufacturer focuses on high-volume configurations that deliver immediate utility.
The compact and highly efficient 2026 Ford Escape ST-Line is a frequent standout in summer incentive bulletins. Starting at an MSRP of $30,350, this front-wheel-drive crossover features a 1.5L engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, returning an impressive 27 city / 34 hwy MPG. With a seating capacity of 5 and up to about 37.5 cubic feet of rear cargo space, it is an exceptionally practical option for daily errands and weekend fishing trips alike. For larger households requiring extra seating and towing power, the 2026 Ford Explorer XLT is also heavily featured. Starting at $40,585, this rear-wheel-drive SUV utilizes a robust 2.3L engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission to deliver 300 hp and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, while accommodating up to 7 passengers across three comfortable rows.
To view the full range of available vehicles, you can explore our current new-vehicle inventory to see which promotional models are parked on our lot today. If you are looking for excellent value outside of the brand-new model year, you can also browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory to find late-model-year trucks and SUVs that qualify for our competitive in-house pricing specials.
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How the Large Dealer Discounts on a New Ford F-150 Are Calculated
When you see a substantial discount advertised on a legendary light-duty pickup like the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT, the final price reduction is actually the result of stacking two distinct financial components. Understanding how these numbers are calculated helps you see the real value behind the offer. The total discount is comprised of a direct factory rebate combined with a dealer-specific contribution.
The math behind these current pricing breaks down as follows:
- The Dealer Discount: This is a direct reduction from the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) offered by our dealership. For example, on a high-trim truck, we might subtract a significant amount directly from our invoice cost to help move inventory.
- The Factory Rebate: Also known as customer cash or retail bonus cash, this is an incentive provided directly by the manufacturer. During major summer events, these national factory rebates can range from several thousand dollars to help lower your initial acquisition cost.
- Special Program Cash: Additional rebates, such as first responder or military appreciation bonuses, can often be stacked on top of the dealer discount and standard factory cash.
For example, a 2026 Ford F-150 XLT with a starting MSRP of $65,825 features a highly capable 3.5L engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a massive towing capacity of 12,800 lbs. During our summer promotions, a buyer might see a total price reduction of several thousand dollars. This is achieved by taking our dealer discount and adding a factory-backed retail cash bonus, resulting in a significantly lower bottom-line price before local taxes and registration fees are applied.
If you are trading in a vehicle to transition into a new truck, or perhaps wanting to shop a legendary new Mustang during the warm summer driving season, you can easily value your trade-in online. Knowing your current vehicle's trade equity gives you a clear starting point for calculating your exact F-150 discount.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Feature | King Ranch | Lariat | Platinum | Police Responder | Raptor | STX | Tremor | XL | XLT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $65,825 | $59,560 | $68,800 | $52,350 | $79,005 | $41,855 | $64,915 | $37,290 | $44,695 |
| Destination charge | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 |
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How Low APR Financing and Employee Pricing Deals Work in Summer Promotions
Low APR financing and employee pricing are two of the most powerful tools used during seasonal promotions to make rugged, dependable vehicles highly affordable. When the manufacturer announces a promotional financing rate, and other current financing options, they are essentially buying down the interest rate through their captive lending arm, Ford Credit. This means every dollar of your monthly payment goes directly toward the principal balance of your loan, saving you hundreds or thousands of dollars in finance charges over the life of the contract.
During peak summer sales, these low APR financing offers are frequently paired with "employee pricing" structures, which are advertised as paying what the dealership's employees pay. This pricing model represents a transparent, non-negotiable transaction price set at the manufacturer's actual employee purchase plan rate (often referred to as A-Plan or Z-Plan pricing). This rate is typically lower than the standard dealer invoice price, giving you a straightforward buying experience without the need for back-and-forth negotiations.
To help plan your purchase, consider the standard pricing structure for the popular 2026 Ford F-150 lineup. The table below outlines the base MSRP and destination charges across the primary trims:
| Trim Level | Base MSRP | Destination Charge |
|---|---|---|
| XL | $37,290 | $2,795 |
| STX | $41,855 | $2,795 |
| XLT | $44,695 | $2,795 |
| Lariat | $59,560 | $2,795 |
| Tremor | $64,915 | $2,795 |
| King Ranch | $65,825 | $2,795 |
| Platinum | $68,800 | $2,795 |
| Raptor | $79,005 | $2,795 |
Securing these promotional rates and employee pricing structures requires meeting specific credit tiers established by the underwriting department. The most efficient way to prepare is to submit your information ahead of time. You can apply for credit online through our secure connection to receive a prompt pre-approval, allowing you to shop our summer inventory with confidence.
How a Summer Purchase Affects Long-Term Ownership and Vehicle Costs
Buying a new truck or SUV during a major seasonal promotion has a positive compounding effect on your long-term cost of ownership. The primary benefit of current pricing is that it can affect the amount you finance. Contact us for today’s pricing and financing details.
Furthermore, selecting a highly efficient model during a summer promotion helps control your ongoing operating costs. For instance, the 2026 Ford F-150 offers highly competitive fuel economy ratings that help keep your fuel budget predictable. The table below details the official EPA-estimated fuel economy across the F-150 trim lineup:
| Trim Level | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| XL | 19 | 25 | 21 |
| STX | 19 | 25 | 21 |
| XLT | 19 | 25 | 21 |
| Lariat | 17 | 25 | 20 |
| Tremor | 16 | 21 | 18 |
| King Ranch | 17 | 25 | 20 |
| Platinum | 17 | 25 | 20 |
| Raptor | 14 | 18 | 16 |
Because these summer promotions often include manufacturer backed warranty packages and complimentary maintenance plans, your first few years of ownership are highly insulated from unexpected costs. This allows you to drive with complete peace of mind, knowing that your investment is fully protected by the brand's legendary reputation for durability.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy and range by trim
| Feature | King Ranch | Lariat | Platinum | Police Responder | Raptor | STX | Tremor | XL | XLT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPG | 17 city / 25 hwy / 20 combined | 17 city / 25 hwy / 20 combined | 17 city / 25 hwy / 20 combined | — | 14 city / 18 hwy / 16 combined | 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined | 16 city / 21 hwy / 18 combined | 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined | 19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined |
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The Best Way to Compare Summer Promotional Offers Across Dealerships
When shopping for a new vehicle during a major national sales event, you will find that different dealerships present their offers in various formats. To ensure you are getting the absolute best value, it is essential to look past the large headline numbers and compare the actual bottom-line costs. Because every dealership manages its own inventory, dealer discounts, and administrative fees, a systematic comparison is the smartest approach.
To compare summer offers effectively, focus on the following steps:
- Request the Out-the-Door Price: Always ask for a written quote that includes the vehicle's selling price, all applicable dealer documentation fees, local taxes, and registration costs. This is the only number that truly matters for your budget.
- Isolate the Dealer Discount from Factory Rebates: Ensure the dealer is not taking credit for national factory incentives that you would receive at any store. Compare the dealer-specific price reduction to see who is giving you the most complete pricing information.
- Verify Fee Structures: Some dealerships may advertise an exceptionally low vehicle price but compensate for it with high dealer processing fees or mandatory add-on packages.
- Compare Financing Terms: Confirm whether a low APR offer requires you to forfeit a cash rebate, and calculate which option saves you more money over the term of your loan.
A family shopping for a new vehicle in Helena will find that taking the time to compare these details ensures they do not face unexpected surprises on delivery day. At our dealership, we pride ourselves on straightforward, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, ensuring your buying experience is completely stress-free.
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What to Do If You Prefer a Next-Generation Model Not Included in Current Deals
While summer sales events are highly effective at clearing out current-model-year inventory, some buyers visit our showroom with their sights set on an upcoming, next-generation model. If you prefer a vehicle that is not yet part of active seasonal promotions, you still have several excellent options to secure a great deal. The manufacturer frequently introduces early-order incentives for buyers willing to plan ahead.
If you find yourself in this scenario, consider the following path:
- Place a Custom Factory Order: By working with our sales team to custom-build your vehicle, you can select the exact trim, engine, and option packages you want. The manufacturer often allows you to lock in current promotional rates or apply future incentives available at the time of delivery.
- Monitor Transition Incentives: As the model year transitions, the manufacturer often introduces introductory financing rates on newly released vehicles to build market momentum.
- Evaluate the Value Proposition: Compare the newly introduced features of the upcoming model year against the deep discounts available on the current model year. In many cases, the substantial savings of a summer promotion outweigh minor incremental updates.
For drivers navigating the unique terrain around Black Eagle, having the exact capability package required for winter driving is often more important than waiting for next year's styling changes. Our sales team is always happy to sit down, compare the spec sheets of current and upcoming models, and help you make a highly practical decision.
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Quick Answers Before You Visit
Q: What is the official phone number for Ford Roadside Assistance?
A: If you experience an emergency on the road, you can contact the manufacturer's dedicated support line directly by calling Ford Roadside Assistance: 1-800-241-3673 for immediate, manufacturer backed help.
Q: Are there mileage limits associated with promotional summer leases?
A: Yes, standard promotional leases may include mileage limits and excess mileage charges. Contact us for current lease details.
Q: Can I combine the military appreciation discount with low APR financing?
A: In most cases, military appreciation cash reward is a stackable incentive that can be combined with promotional APR financing rates, though certain high-performance models are excluded.
Q: How long does the online credit pre-approval process typically take?
A: Completing our secure online credit application takes only a few minutes, and most buyers receive a clear pre-approval response within an hour during normal business hours.
Q: Do summer promotions apply to custom-ordered vehicles?
A: While promotions are primarily designed for on-lot inventory, the manufacturer frequently allows custom-order buyers to lock in active incentives or choose the promotions available at the time of delivery.
Find Your Next Ride During the Summer Event at Bison Ford
Now is a good time to secure a rugged, dependable vehicle built to handle Montana's challenging winter weather and active outdoor lifestyles. Our team at Bison Ford is proud to serve our community with honest, straightforward pricing and a complete commitment to finding the right vehicle for your specific needs. Whether you are hauling heavy loads or heading out on a family road trip, our summer sales lineup has the capability you can count on.
We invite you to visit our showroom to experience our vehicles firsthand and take a test drive. You can easily get directions to our dealership located at 500 10th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405, or call our dedicated sales professionals at (406) 727-2552 to discuss our current promotional inventory. Let us help you drive home in a tough, American-made vehicle today.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Feature | King Ranch | Lariat | Platinum | Police Responder | Raptor | STX | Tremor | XL | XLT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L | 5.0L | 3.5L | 3.5L | 3.5L | 2.7L | 3.5L | 2.7L | 2.7L |
| Horsepower | 382 hp | 400 hp | 382 hp | 400 hp | 450 hp | 325 hp | 382 hp | 325 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 410 lb-ft | 500 lb-ft | 500 lb-ft | 510 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft | 500 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Four-wheel Drive | Four-wheel Drive | Rear-wheel drive | Four-wheel Drive | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
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