At Planet Ford in Spring, TX (serving The Woodlands, Conroe, greater Houston) Ford is always our top pick and it is for our clients too, especially our Ford trucks. Now, Consumer Reports’ (CR) latest rankings has it in their 2026 Top 10 Picks and its first-ever Safety Verdict rankings.

Built Ford Tough Performance.  The inclusion of the Ford F-150 marks the first time a full-size truck has made the list since 2019. That is thanks to improvements in predicted reliability, 3.5-liter PowerBoost hybrid performance and available BlueCruise. Plus, it was a stand out for its strong powertrains, roomy cabin, and simple controls.

Leader of the Pack! The Ford Maverick continues to lead the small pickup category. It was noted for its affordability, reliability, smooth ride, and the impressive 37 mpg overall from Maverick hybrid.

These wins solidify Ford’s reputation for trucks that balance utility with efficiency.

Power Up Your Safety. Consumer Reports also shared its new Safety Verdict rankings, which incorporate their evaluations for handling and ease of use, crash test results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and whether proven safety technologies are available as standard equipment. Visit CR to learn more, including how Ford’s sister brand, Lincoln earned their own great rankings!

Our sister store, Planet Lincoln on I-45 in Spring is loving the Consumer Reports rankings as well. The publication identified Lincoln as a top safety leader — ranking 4th overall and beating brands like Toyota, Honda, and Volvo by making advanced safety tech standard.

“It’s encouraging to see F-150 and Maverick earning two spots among Consumer Reports’ Top 10 Picks in New Cars, plus Lincoln ranking fourth in the new Safety Verdict rankings,” saidJosh Haliburton, Ford Executive Director of Quality. “Combined with Ford earning our best reliability finish in 15 years this past fall in Consumer Reports’ Reliability Rankings, these milestones show we are moving in the right direction. However, we aren’t resting on these achievements. We remain laser-focused on improving quality for our customers in every vehicle we assemble.”

Ready for to make Ford your top pick, too? Visit us on 204031 I-45 N. in Spring or PlanetFord45.com.

Source: https://www.fromtheroad.ford.com/us/en/articles/2026/consumer-reports-2026-top-10-picks-ford-lincoln

World Class Automotive Group proudly announces that Shelby Reed, co-owner of Planet Ford Lincoln and President of Reed Family Enterprises, is one of just 16 participants nationwide to graduate from Ford Motor Company’s inaugural Rising Leaders program.

The year-long, competitive program culminated in a recent graduation ceremony at Ford headquarters in Michigan, recognizing the first class of trailblazers poised to shape the future of the automotive industry and the dealership network.

“It’s a privilege to have joined the first class of Ford Rising Leaders,” said Shelby Reed. “I had the opportunity to network with dealer colleagues, interact with key Ford executives, and deepen my understanding of the business. I’m leaving the program more confident in Ford and Lincoln, and its bright future.”

Designed to empower the next generation of dealer leadership, the Rising Leaders program includes a blend of in-person and virtual sessions, dealer forums, executive interactions, and unique insights into Ford and Lincoln’s product innovations and history.

“We created this program to invest in our future leaders and strengthen our dealer network,” said Elena Ford, Chief Dealer Engagement Officer, Ford Motor Company. “The positive feedback and success from this inaugural class will allow us to expand the Rising Leaders program significantly moving forward.”

“This is a very exciting program,” said Randall Reed, CEO of World Class Automotive Group and Reed Family Enterprises. “We are thrilled one of our very own world-class stars was among Ford and Lincoln’s class of rising stars.”

Ford offers a range of immersive, in-person training programs, but Rising Leaders stands out by providing exclusive, small-group access to top-tier leadership development tailored to future dealer principals.

About World Class Automotive Group

World Class Automotive is owned by Randall, Sherry, and Shelby Reed. The family-owned business is comprised of several award-winning dealerships throughout Texas, including: The #1 Ford dealership* in Texas, Planet Ford in Spring, Planet Lincoln in Spring, Planet Ford in Humble, Planet Ford 635 (formerly Prestige Ford) in Garland, Planet Ford Dallas Love Field (formerly Park Cities Ford), and Planet Lincoln Dallas Love Field. Since 1996, the automotive group has earned well over 350 awards and achievements. Learn more at ReedHasIt.com. 

*Based on retail Ford sales reported by Ford annually since 1998

Planet Ford in Spring, TX, along with Planet Lincoln in Spring in support of Ford and Lincoln believe it is key to give back to our communities, especially our youth and educational institutions. It was our honor to present a 2024 Lincoln Aviator to Spring ISD’s Dekaney High School’s automotive program.

Delaney students, staff, district leaders, community members and team members from Planet Ford and Planet Lincoln gathered at Spring ISD’s Dekaney High School this week to present the new vehicle and celebrate a special donation.

Planet Ford and Lincoln donated this high-tech vehicle to help accelerate learning and allow scholars the hands-on access needed to understand modern automotive technology.

According to Spring ISD, the donation is especially meaningful for students who have previously trained on aging vehicles with limited technology. The 2024 Lincoln Aviator allows them, for the first time, access to a nearly new model equipped with more than 10 onboard computers. With its advanced systems and modern features, the vehicle opens the door to hands-on training in diagnostics, electrical components, and technology students will encounter in today’s automotive industry.

Spring ISD Interim Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar praised the moment, calling it a point of pride for the district. “My heart is so full right now for the students to get this opportunity,” Cuellar said. “With the partnership of Planet Ford, I have immense gratitude. They have been a critical partner for Spring ISD. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that means the world to this fantastic program, our students, and our district.”

Brad Stapp, Planet Ford and Planet Lincoln Operations Director said, “Planet Ford and Planet Lincoln are committed to helping students prepare for real-world careers. Giving them the ability to work on vehicles of today, will make for better automotive professionals down the road.”

“This is such a special chance for the kids because this car is equipped with all of the modern technology,” Mr. Stapp added. “We have a longtime relationship with Spring ISD and want to continue to grow it. These students are the future of the industry, and we want to do what we can to help develop them.”

At Dekaney, the donation drew students in. P-TECH scholar Alicia Toussaint stepped forward for a closer look, honking the horn and grinning as classmates clustered around the Aviator. “When I found out, I was so excited. Not a lot of students get a chance to work on something like this, so I can’t stop smiling,” she said.

“You don’t see a lot of girls in automotive, but being able to work on cars like this could help build interest,” Toussaint added. “It’s important for girls to know they can work on cars too.”

With the Lincoln Aviator now in the shop, Dekaney’s P-TECH students will get firsthand experience with modern systems while strengthening the district’s connection to Planet Ford, a partner invested in students’ futures.

To learn more about Planet Ford or Planet Lincoln, visit the dealerships on I-45 in Spring (serving The Woodlands, Conroe, Cypress, Aldine and greater Houston) or PlanetFord.com

It comes as no surprise to our team at Planet Ford, that Ford vehicles have earned more accolades. Recently, Ford earned the most segment awards in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study and now in J.D. Power 2025 U.S. APEAL (Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout) Study. It measures customer satisfaction with new vehicles after 90 days of ownership. APEAL considers design, performance, safety, usability, comfort, perceived quality and more.

The 2025 Ford F-Series Super Duty, 2025 Ford Mustang and 2025 Lincoln Nautilus each were named the most appealing vehicle in their respective segments: large heavy-duty pickups, sporty car and midsize premium SUV.

Super Duty continues its top APEAL ranking for the second consecutive year, with Mustang and Nautilus also topping their segments. Together, these wins give Ford Motor Company its best overall APEAL showing since 2019.

Super Duty and Mustang APEAL results also follow their segment-topping performances in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study, delivering both the highest initial quality and the highest satisfaction among owners, according to J.D. Power.

The Ford brand improved one spot to No. 12 among mass market brands, and the Lincoln brand climbed one spot to No. 5 overall in the premium segment.

All of this demonstrates Ford continues are on the right track in delivering an exceptional experience for customers. Ford continually incorporate customer feedback from sources like J.D. Power and internal measures to ensure our vehicles consistently exceed expectations.

Ready for your own new Ford? Our award-winning team at Planet Ford on I-45 in Spring (serving greater Houston, The Woodlands, Conroe, Cypress, Aldine) can help. From Ford F-150 and Super Duty to Bronco, Exporer, EVs and more, we are your #1 Houston-area Ford store. PlanetFord45.com

Source: Media.Ford.com

Two Spring ISD teachers received the surprise of a lifetime at the Spring ISD Employee Recognition Banquet.  Planet Ford in Spring proud to help celebrate the top two educators in Spring ISD, awarding one a brand new Ford vehicle and the other a cash appreciation gift.

Shawn Burns, General Manager and Operating Partner of Planet Ford in Spring, TX was honored to announce the district’s Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year.  Casey Archield, a math and science teacher at Reynolds elementary school was handed the keys to a new Ford Escape donated by Planet Ford on I-45 and Randall, Sherry and Shelby Reed.  

Navid Hayeri, a math teacher at Spring High School was awarded $2,500 from the Planet Ford dealership and Reed family in recognition for being named Spring ISD’s Secondary Teachers of the Year.    

Spring ISD’s Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding educators for their passion and commitment to excellence in education.  Each Spring ISD school selects their campus Teacher of the Year, who are invited to submit written materials to be considered as a finalist for the district’s Teacher of the Year.  A selection committee chooses an Elementary and a Secondary Teacher of the Year to represent the district. 

“Our educators are true heroes in our communities,” said Shelby Reed, President of World Class Automotive Group. “They are not just teaching, they are helping mold today’s youth, and they are paving the path for our entire community’s future.” Randall Reed, CEO, agreed. “Teachers bear so much responsibility and have to go above and beyond for our youth day after day. We are thankful to have th opportunity to show our gratitude.”

Mr. Burns, who has had the honor of awarding many Planet Ford vehicles, trips, and cash prizes of the years said, “Our dealship family take great joy in being able to share our emmense appreciation with a cash gift and a new Ford. We look forward to seeing all the places they will go.”

To learn more about Planet Ford, located at 20403 I-45 in Spring (serving The Woodlands, Conroe, Cypress, Aldine, greater Houston), visit us at PlanetFord45.com.

Planet Ford and Planet Lincoln in Spring, Texas are proud to join forces with Ford Motor Company and Lincoln to provide custom wrapped Lincoln SUVs to two Klein Independent School District’s High School’s Automotive Programs.

Andres Zorilla from Ford Motor Company along with Brad Stapp, Director of Operations for Planet Ford and Planet Lincoln presented both Klein Cain High School and Klein Oak High School with new vehicle. Jenny McGown, Klein ISD Superintendent; Deborah Bronner-Westerduin, Klein ISD Career & Technical Education Director; along with school’s educators, automotive students and Planet team members were on hand for the presentation.

“We’re proud to be able to work with Ford, Lincoln, and our schools to help these programs get the vehicles and tools students need to learn and grow their automotive knowledge and join the industry. There is a real need for the talent that is growing right here in our community,” said Mr. Stapp.

Shawn Burns, General Manager of Planet Ford and Operating Partner for Planet Ford and Planet Lincoln, agrees. “There is a lot of opportunity in the automotive field. It’s crucial to help our youth learn about the options and be fueled with the real-world knowledge that comes with the gift of working with the latest and greatest tech found in these donated Lincoln vehicles.”

Students from both schools now have the opportunity to work with and learn on new model Lincoln vehicles that offer current technology allowing them the ability to truly understand what automotive technicians today need to know in order to thrive in this field.

To learn more about Ford, visit Ford.com. For more information about Lincoln, visit Lincoln.com. To learn more about new Fords and Ford service in the Spring and the greater Houston, Texas area, log onto PlanetFord45.com. For details about new Lincoln SUVs or Lincoln service, please visit PlanetLincolnSpring.com.

Warmer weather means it’s time to roll out for adventure. For those with a new EV who want to haul along everything from a boat to a trailer, Planet Ford in Spring (serving Houston, The Woodlands, Conroe, Cypress, Aldine) is here to help with what you need to know about your BUILT FORD TOUGH™ truck no matter what you haul. For customers with or considering an electric truck, the Ford F-150 Lightning checks all your adventure boxes – without any tailpipe emissions. 

When it comes to towing, more than half of Ford F-150 Lightning customers have signaled their towing intent by selecting the available Max Trailer Tow Package. The package allows for an available maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds for special configurations to go along with 775 lb.-ft. of nearly instant electric torque.

The experience of towing with gas trucks or F-150 Lightning comes with a few undeniable facts:

• Whether gas or electric, driving distance while towing is similarly impacted by weather, temperature and geography. Speed and trailer aerodynamics also play a role: the faster you drive and the larger the frontal area of the trailer, the greater the impact on range
• A significant difference between gas and electric trucks is that gas trucks can begin with approximately twice the range (or more) compared to the average electric truck, depending on configuration
• Temperature extremes impact electric trucks more than gas, though F-150 Lightning can help mitigate those effects and maximize range by pre-conditioning prior to departure while the vehicle is plugged in. Pre-conditioning uses energy from the vehicle charger or outlet – instead of the battery – to warm or cool the battery and the cabin

So what does this mean for a customer? Well, if you’ve driven gas-powered trucks for years, towing with F-150 Lightning should feel a bit different as power delivered by dual electric motors provides a smooth and consistent experience with maximum torque available off the line.

You’ll also have to recharge more often than you would refuel. The energy density of fuel allows an F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid to achieve up to 704 miles of EPA-estimated range, compared to the top EPA-estimated range of F-150 Lightning, which is 320 miles.

And – at least right now – there are approximately three times as many gas stations as electric vehicle charging stations in the U.S.

For commercial customers, this is an important consideration for job sites in rural areas or for extreme use cases when getting the job done. 

“The F-150 Lightning is an ideal companion for many F-150 customers and businesses who want to tow. For customers towing longer distances with payloads nearing the max, Ford has you covered with models like the F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid,” said Darren Palmer, VP, battery electric vehicle programs, Ford Model e. “Your power. Your choice.”

The F-150 Lightning can tow, even cross country. For customers who choose the benefits of an electric truck over trip speed, like Mark Eakin, an F-150 Lightning owner and retired oceanographer, a towing trip from Maryland to California is achievable. 

“As a scientist, I understand that there will be an effect on range because of various factors and wind was a particularly important one during my journey,” he said. “Planning in advance helps and the Ford technology is a big enabler in the planning.”

The technology Eakin mentions starts with Intelligent Range, which collects vehicle data like speed, ambient temperature, available battery energy, driver habits, climate control use and route topography to determine how much electrical energy drivers use in real time. The system also uses cloud computing to gauge energy use from other similar types of Ford electric vehicles operating in similar situations, resulting in more accurate vehicle range calculations over time.

Helpful Ford technology also works seamlessly with public charging stations. For commercial customers, Ford Pro offers end-to-end charging solutions and experts to help customers understand if F-150 Lightning is right for their needs, including extreme use cases. 

“Customers don’t need to worry about estimating range with all the different factors in play, because our intuitive Ford technologies do that for them, and suggest the best options for charging along their route,” Palmer said. “Once at a charger, available Plug and Charge means a customer can plug in, while the truck manages charger authentication and integrated payment.”

Ready to get your own new Ford EV? Visit Planet Ford in Spring on I-45 (off Loetta) or PlanetFord45.com.