Steet Ponte Auto Group is “Driving into the Holidays” at the Shriners Annual FEZtival of Trees!
The holiday season has officially arrived, and the Steet Ponte Auto Group is excited to once again take part in the Shriners Annual FEZtival of Trees — held at the Masonic Home Auditorium from November 22nd through November 28th!
This year, our theme is “Driving into the Holidays,” and we had such a fun time setting up our festive display with some of our team before the event kicked off. Our tree is decorated with a cheerful automotive twist — and it’s surrounded by some incredible gifts, including TWO battery-powered ride-on vehicles: a Chevy Colorado and a Ford Bronco!

🎄 Here’s how it works:
The event is FREE to attend, and raffle tickets are just $5 each. You can use your tickets to enter to win any of the themed Christmas trees on display — including ours! Each winner gets to take home the entire decorated tree and all of the gifts underneath it, plus there are plenty of additional raffle baskets to win throughout the event.
We’re so proud to support this wonderful community tradition that helps raise funds for the Shriners and all the good they do locally. It’s always a joy to see the creativity that goes into every tree and to be a part of such a fun, family-friendly celebration.
Be sure to stop by, check out all the trees, and don’t miss our “Driving into the Holidays” display for your chance to win!
🚗✨ Shriners Annual FEZtival of Trees
📍 Masonic Home Auditorium, Utica
📅 November 22nd–28th
🎟️ Free admission | Raffle tickets $5
From all of us at the Steet Ponte Auto Group, we wish you a joyful start to the holiday season — and happy tree viewing!
Steet Ponte Ford’s 13th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive: Supporting Feed Our Vets of Central New York
The Steet Ponte Auto Group is proud to announce our 13th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, happening now across all of our dealership locations — Steet Ponte Chevy in Herkimer, United Auto Sales of Utica, Steet Ponte Volkswagen, Steet Ponte Ford Lincoln, Steet Ponte Mazda, Steet Toyota of Yorkville, and Steet Ponte Nissan!
This year, we’re honored to partner with Feed Our Vets of Central New York, a wonderful nonprofit food pantry dedicated to providing food assistance to Veterans and their families in need. Their mission to support those who have served our country is one that deeply resonates with our entire team, and we’re excited to help make a difference this holiday season and beyond.

Each of our showrooms has a vehicle set up and ready to be filled with nonperishable food donations! The organization has shared a few of their most needed items, including:
- Hearty soups
- Canned meats
- Pasta and sauce
- Bisquick and syrup
- Nonperishable fruits and vegetables
Your donations will go directly to helping local Veterans and their families — not only during the Thanksgiving season, but well after the holidays end.
🦃 Our Food Drive is happening NOW through Monday, November 24th at 10AM!
And as a special thank-you, if you bring in 3 or more nonperishable items to our Service Department, you’ll receive $10 off your service visit! Just show your donation to our Service Department team to redeem your discount. (Offer valid through 11/24.)
Join us in giving back to those who’ve given so much. Every can, box, or bag of food helps us get one step closer to filling our vehicles — and filling the shelves at Feed Our Vets of Central New York.
From all of us at the Steet Ponte Auto Group family, thank you for helping make this season brighter for our local Veterans and their families.
The Steet Ponte Auto Group is thrilled to share the incredible success of our 8th Annual Coats for Kids Coat Drive — and this year was truly one for the record books!
Thanks to the amazing generosity of our customers, employees, and community members, we collected an astounding 1,425 items of winter outerwear! That includes:
- 🧥 444 winter coats
- 🧤 819 hats and gloves
- 🧣 12 scarves
- ❄️ 7 snow suits
- 👢 2 pairs of boots
When we first started this initiative eight years ago, our entire group collected around 250 total items between all eight stores. To see that number multiply by seven is nothing short of incredible!

This year, we donated to Utica, Rome, Herkimer, CVA, Frankfort, Mayfield and Gloversville Elementary Schools!
From Steet Ponte Chevy in Herkimer, Steet Ponte Ford Lincoln, Steet Ponte Mazda, Steet Ponte VW, Steet Toyota of Yorkville, Steet Ponte Nissan, Steet Toyota of Johnstown, and United Auto Sales of Utica, our entire dealership family is so proud and grateful for everyone who donated or helped us spread the word.
We know how cold Central New York winters can be, and these coats, hats, and gloves will make such a difference for local kids — helping them start their school day warm and comfortable, and giving them the chance to play outside at recess or after school with smiles on their faces.

To everyone who contributed, thank you for your kindness and community spirit. Your support continues to make this annual effort bigger and more impactful every year, and we can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together next time!
❤️ From all of us at the Steet Ponte Auto Group — thank you for helping keep local kids warm this winter!
The Importance of Ford Wheel Alignment
Driving safely and efficiently is a top priority for every vehicle owner in Yorkville, NY. One critical but often overlooked aspect of vehicle maintenance is Ford wheel alignment. Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned can make a significant difference in handling, tire longevity, and overall driving performance. But why is this service so crucial for your Ford? Let’s dive in.
Wheel alignment refers to the process of adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so they meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Whether you drive an F-150®, Mustang®, or Escape®, maintaining proper alignment ensures that all four wheels are parallel to one another and perpendicular to the road.
Misaligned wheels can occur due to everyday driving hazards like potholes, curb impacts, or even normal wear and tear on suspension components. When left unaddressed, these minor issues can evolve into bigger problems, negatively affecting why it’s essential for your vehicle’s performance.
Proper wheel alignment is about more than just keeping your tires in line—it significantly impacts your vehicle’s performance and safety. Here’s how:
1. Enhanced Handling and Control
Misaligned wheels can pull your car to one side, making steering unpredictable. A Ford wheel alignment restores balance, allowing your vehicle to respond accurately to driver inputs. This is particularly important when navigating the busy streets or highways around Yorkville, NY.
2. Improved Fuel Efficiency
When wheels are misaligned, your tires work harder to move the vehicle forward. This additional strain increases rolling resistance and, consequently, fuel consumption. Proper alignment reduces this inefficiency, helping you save money at the pump.
3. Maximized Tire Lifespan
Uneven tire wear is one of the most visible symptoms of poor alignment. Over time, this can lead to premature tire replacement—a costly expense for drivers. Routine wheel alignment ensures even tire wear, extending their lifespan and keeping your ride smooth.
4. Safety First
Poor alignment can compromise your ability to stop quickly or avoid obstacles. Properly aligned wheels enhance braking performance and stability, especially in emergency situations.
How do you know it’s time to schedule a wheel alignment? Watch out for these common warning signs:
– Your vehicle pulls to one side while driving.
– The steering wheel is off-center when driving straight.
– Tires show uneven or rapid wear.
– You notice vibrations in the steering wheel.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, scheduling a professional Ford wheel alignment service in Yorkville, NY, is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle operates at its best.
At Steet Ponte Ford, we understand **why it’s essential for your vehicle’s performance** to maintain proper wheel alignment. Our certified technicians use advanced equipment to provide precise alignments tailored to Ford’s exacting standards. Whether you’re driving a rugged Bronco® or an innovative Mustang Mach-E®, we’ll ensure your wheels are perfectly aligned for optimal performance.
Routine wheel alignment checks can also coincide with other maintenance services like tire rotations, brake inspections, and oil changes. This comprehensive approach ensures your Ford operates at peak efficiency, no matter where the road takes you.
In Yorkville, NY, proper **Ford wheel alignment** is key to ensuring your vehicle’s safety, performance, and durability. Misaligned wheels can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling—issues that no driver wants to face.
By trusting the experts at Steet Ponte Ford, you can keep your vehicle in top condition and enjoy the confidence that comes with precision alignment. Don’t wait until minor issues escalate into major repairs—schedule your Ford wheel alignment today and experience the difference it makes for your vehicle.
Visit Steet Ponte Ford to book your service appointment now!
Steet Ponte Auto Group’s 12th Annual Halloween Costume Contest Was a Spooktacular Success!
We’re 12 years strong with our Annual Halloween Costume Contest, and this year was another blast! Every year, we love seeing how creative, funny, and inventive our employees can be with their costumes — and 2025 did not disappoint. From solo outfits to entire store groups getting into the spirit, the competition was fierce and the results were amazing.

For the past several years, our contest categories have been judged by none other than Joe Steet Sr. and Steve Ponte Sr., and this year, our winners are:
🎨 Best DIY: Rain Storm — Suzi Smith, Steet Ponte VW
😂 Funniest: Technician Bananas — Steet Toyota Yorkville
📺 Best Pop Culture: Pirates of the Caribbean — Liz Uebelhoer & Will Marriott, Steet Ponte Ford Lincoln
✨ Most Creative: Moana Family — Josh Perez, Steet Ponte Chevy
👥 Best Group: Crayon Box — Steet Ponte Nissan (entire store dressed up!)
🏆 Joe’s Favorite: 50’s Sock Hop — Cyndi Wilson, United Auto Sales
🌸 Steve’s Favorite: 70’s Hippie — Amy Biggie, Steet Toyota Johnstown
From clever DIY costumes to full-group efforts, our employees never fail to impress. The creativity, humor, and teamwork shown in this year’s contest reflect the fun-loving spirit that makes our Steet Ponte Auto Group family so special.

A huge congratulations to all of our winners and participants — your efforts helped make this another memorable and festive Halloween across all of our stores. We can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with for next year’s 13th Annual Costume Contest!
3 Innovative Features of the 2025 Ford Mustang GTD
The Mustang name is synonymous with heavy-hitting, American-made muscle. The 2025 Ford Mustang GTD pushes the limits of this icon’s legendary performance, delivering a thrilling, barely road-legal driving experience that elevates the already iconic Mustang lineage to a different stratosphere.
1. Performance Built for the Racetrack
The Mustang GTD is a true supercar for the streets, but the track may be where it feels most at home. Put this beast through its paces and you can hit a remarkable top speed of 202 mph. The 2025 GTD has shown the world that it is an automotive force to be reckoned with by clocking an official Nurburgring time of under 6 minutes 53 seconds.
Ford has achieved this remarkable racing performance by taking inspiration from the track-exclusive Mustang GT3 when building the GTD. The GT3 is essentially the blueprint. A Ford Performance-engineered Predator-based 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine pairs with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission to deliver a monumental 815 maximum horsepower.
2. Engineered for Exhilaration
The track-inspired design doesn’t end with the powertrain. The power from the formidable 5.2-liter V8 engine is transmitted through a lightweight carbon fiber driveshaft that connects to the 8-speed rear transaxle. Not only does this help keep the overall weight down and the overall speed up, but it also helps contribute to the GTD’s near 50/50 weight distribution. This perfect balance provides incredibly responsive handling and exceptional performance.
Standard carbon-fiber body panels also help to keep the GTD lightweight and nimble, while a featherlight titanium exhaust adds a touch of style alongside an aggressive engine growl. A state-of-the-art suspension system provides a pavement-grabbing ride and precise handling. Activate Track Mode, and the ride height lowers by 40mm to boost the vehicle’s handling aerodynamics and let you see what the GTD is really capable of.
3. Modern Digital Cockpit
The GTD incorporates the same modern electrical architecture as the rest of the Mustang lineup, putting you in command of a fully connected infotainment system and cutting-edge driving technology. A 13.2-inch touchscreen offers access to a SYNC 4 system that supports seamless smartphone connectivity, allowing you to access your favorite apps and stay connected, while natural voice recognition puts you in total control while you drive.
The 13.2-inch touchscreen is one half of an immersive dual display that dominates the dashboard. A stunning 12.4-inch digital cluster completes the setup. This interface and information readout system uses the Unreal gaming engine to provide videogame-inspired graphics, meaning your personalized cockpit command center is dynamic, engaging, and attention-grabbing.
Experience the one-of-a-kind thrill ride that is the Ford Mustang GTD for yourself. Contact Street Ponte Ford in Yorkville, NY today and arrange a test drive. Our trusted, family-owned dealerships have been providing exceptional service to the motorists of the Central New York area for over 65 years.
Reasons Drivers Love the 2025 Ford F-150
The powerful 2025 Ford F-150 has been generating a buzz among drivers by offering more horsepower and payload capacity than all others in its class, as well as cutting-edge technology.
1. Six Stunning Engines
One obvious highlight of this pickup that caters to different drivers’ needs is its six different engine offerings, which start with a 2.7-liter V6 with 325 horsepower in the base XL trim.
The most output is provided by a 720-horsepower 5.2-liter V8, while a 3.5-liter V6 with 400 horses tows up to 13,500 pounds, the truck’s maximum capacity. There’s even a 3.5-liter full hybrid V6 that gets up to 26 MPG while generating an impressive 430 horses.
2. Pro Power Onboard
Many impressive tech features are offered for this edition, including 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability, the SYNC 4 infotainment system, and an optional head-up display for the windshield, but the Pro Power Onboard electrical generator is a clear standout.
This feature, which is available for select upper trims, lets you use power tools, appliances, and other electrical devices with its multiple outlets, and 2.0 kW, 2.4 kW, and 7.2 kW output options are all available.
3. Comfortable Seating
This edition also has many plush and convenient seating options, including heated rear seats in select trims with two rows and heated and ventilated front seats with power-adjustability, power lumbar support, and a multi-level massage function.
ActiveX, cloth, quilted leather, and plenty of other seating fabrics are available among the vehicle’s multiple trim levels, though all two-row models come with a split-folding rear seat. Many trims also have a convenient under-seat storage compartment beneath the front seats.
4. Automated Driving
Many driver-assist features come standard with this pickup, with even the base model coming with highlights like Pre-Collision Assist, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS). Adaptive Cruise Control and BlueCruise can complement each other. While Adaptive Cruise Control comes with Stop-and-Go technology to control acceleration and braking, BlueCruise can take over steering on designated highways.
5. The Pro Access Tailgate
Multiple tailgate options are available for this pickup as well, but none are quite as impressive as the multi-function Pro Access Tailgate, which allows you to drop the tailgate like a conventional one if needed or swing out one of its doors. The swing-away function provides closer bed access and allows you to open it while a trailer is connected, and if you require a sturdy work surface, the tailgate can be used for this as well.
Come test-drive this class-leading pickup while it’s still available by contacting us today at Steet Ponte Ford in Yorkville, NY.
The Steet Ponte Auto Group is proud to announce the return of our 8th Annual Coats for Kids Coat Drive! As the colder months approach, we are once again collecting NEW winter outerwear in any children’s size to help keep local kids warm this winter.
We invite our community to join us in this mission by donating coats, snow pants, boots, hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves. Donations can be dropped off at Steet Ponte Ford located at 5074 Commercial Drive in Yorkville—just look for the specially designated vehicle or drop-off area in our showrooms.

How We’re Giving Back
This year, each of our stores is partnering with schools in their community to directly support local families in need:
- Steet Toyota of Johnstown – donating to Mayfield and Gloversville Elementary Schools
- Steet Ponte Chevy (Herkimer) – donating to Herkimer, CVA, and Frankfort Elementary Schools
- Yorkville stores (United Auto Sales of Utica, Steet Ponte VW, Steet Ponte Ford Lincoln, Steet Ponte Mazda, Steet Toyota of Yorkville, and Steet Ponte Nissan) – donating to Utica and Rome City Schools
How You Can Help
If you’d like to participate, simply bring a donation of new children’s winter outerwear to any of our dealerships. Whether it’s a warm coat, sturdy boots, or cozy mittens, every item will help make a difference for a child in our community.
Together, with your help, we can ensure that kids across the Mohawk Valley and Fulton County stay warm, safe, and ready to learn this winter.
Since its introduction a little over a year ago, the Ford Maverick has built a dedicated following of small-truck enthusiasts who love its efficiency, utility, and lineup of helpful features. The 2025 Ford Maverick offers everything drivers seek in a compact truck, with great versatility across its five trim levels.
XL
The base trim in the Maverick line is the XL, but it is anything but basic, with an extra-large lineup of elite features. The base engine is a 2.5-liter hybrid engine matched with an automatic continuously variable transmission and FWD drivetrain that generates 195 horsepower. It also includes exciting standard features like electronic variable-assist power steering, electric brake boost, a rotary gear shift dial, the FordPass Connect system, and power door locks.
XLT
The next step up in trim levels is the XLT, which builds upon the robust lineup of features found in the XL. It shares the XL’s hybrid powertrain and FWD drivetrain but adds features such as 17-inch carbonized gray painted aluminum wheels, intelligent access with push-button start, cloth seat upholstery, a rear armrest with integrated cupholders, wiper-activated LED headlamps, 10 cargo bed tie-downs, cubby storage in the bed, and a power tailgate lock.
Lobo
The Lobo trim level is built for performance, with sport truck power and features that differentiate it from other Mavericks. It features a 2.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline-powered engine that delivers 250 horsepower to a 7-speed,quick-shift automatic transmission with unique paddle shifters and an advanced 4WD drivetrain. It also has performance-driven features like 19-inch turbofan-style wheels, intelligent adaptive cruise control, and ActiveX-trimmed seating.
Lariat
For drivers seeking upscale features alongside the Maverick’s efficiency and capabilities, the Lariat is the perfect trim level. With the efficient 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain and AWD drivetrain, the Maverick is up for almost any task. It also includes elevated amenities like 19-inch bright aluminum wheels, dual-zone automatic electronic climate control, a wireless charging pad, two 400-watt 110-volt outlets, remote start, an acoustic windshield, and ambient lighting.
Tremor
For off-road enthusiasts, the Tremor trim level offers enhanced all-terrain capabilities with the same rugged performance and efficiency found in all Maverick trim levels. It features the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and an advanced 4WD drivetrain. Other off-road-friendly features include 17-inch aluminum wheels and all-terrain tires, all-weather floor mats, exposed front tow hooks, LED box lighting, and a spray-in bedliner.
The Ford Maverick offers drivers extreme efficiency, reliable performance, and incredible utility all in a compact, truck-sized package. The best way to experience the Maverick is to test drive one. Contact Steet-Ponte Ford in Yokville, NY, to see the line of Mavericks and schedule a test drive today.
The versatile 2025 Ford Bronco Sport powers through your daily commute just as well as it conquers the trail during your weekend adventures. Read our guide below to learn more about its four adventurous trims.
Big Bend
The Big Bend trim starts Ford’s lineup off strong. It comes with all-wheel drive, a peppy 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a five-mode terrain management system for optimized performance. Eco, normal, slippery, sport, and off-road modes adjust handling for an ideal experience in a wide variety of driving conditions. Exterior highlights include a carbonized gray grille with white Bronco lettering that matches the 17-inch carbonized gray painted aluminum wheels, signature LED round headlights, and sideview mirrors with heated glass.
The Bronco Sport’s compact frame measures 70.4 inches high, 82.2 inches wide, and 173.1 inches long. The safari-style roof opens up the rear of the cabin, providing you with additional headroom for taller passengers or space for cargo. Details like the bottle opener in the hatch make this space ideal for your weekend adventures.
Heritage
Ford changed up the compact SUV’s styling with the classy Heritage trim. An Oxford white painted roof and grille with bright red Bronco lettering help the Heritage really stand out from the crowd. Inside, you’ll find robin’s egg blue stitching on the heathered navy pier cloth seating with plaid inserts. The center console’s race red stitching contrasts beautifully with the refined navy pier micro suede material.
Outer Banks
If you’re looking to bring more modern conveniences along on your off-roading adventures, you’ll want to check out the Outer Banks trim. Heated front bucket seats and a heated steering wheel provide comfort against the New York winters. You’ll also enjoy an eight-way power-operated seat adjuster with memory settings. This variant comes with premium-trimmed seating in either a mix of ebony and roast or platinum blue.
Badlands
The top-tier Badlands trim toughens up with steel bash plates under the engine, two front D-ring recovery hooks, and all-terrain tires. The class-exclusive Bilstein shocks smooth out the ride over rugged terrain. You’ll have no trouble plowing ahead with the upgraded 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and advanced all-wheel drive. The terrain management system adds rock crawl and rally modes for even more off-roading capability.
You’ll have a 360-degree camera with split-view and trail views for enhanced visibility on the road. Ford Trail Control is another piece of trail-focused tech that adds to your adventures in the Badlands. You can think of this feature as a cruise control that works at low speeds when you’re driving on trails. The feature gives you more opportunity to focus on steering while maneuvering through tight trail conditions.
With modern conveniences and rugged capabilities, the Bronco Sport is a compact SUV designed to impress. Get in touch with Steet Ponte Ford in Yorkville, NY to test drive your ideal trim.


