Blog

Living in Central Oregon, we’re spoiled by towering ponderosa pines, jagged volcanic peaks, and endless bluebird skies. But every so often, the open road calls for something different: the crisp bite of salt spray, rolling Pacific fog, and the rhythmic thunder of surf breaking against rugged sea stacks. Few rides in North America rival the journey from the high desert over the Cascade Range and down to iconic U.S. Highway 101. We recently loaded up a vivid black 2014 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited and pointed the front wheel west, tracking the Pacific coastline all the way to the windswept heights of Cape Perpetua. If you’ve ever wondered why grand American touring bikes exist, this ride answers the question within the first five miles. The Machine: 2014 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited (Project RUSHMORE) Tackling a multi-hundred-mile cross-state haul through steep mountain passes, coastal dampness, and winding coastal two-lanes requires a motorcycle engineered for serious endurance. The 2014 model year marked the launch of Harley’s Project RUSHMORE —a major overhaul that refined grand touring comfort and road manners. Twin-Cooled High Output Twin Cam 103: Powering this 2014 Ultra Limited is the Twin-Cooled Twin Cam 103 V-Twin. With liquid-cooled cylinder heads tucked discreetly inside the lower fairings, it maintains peak power and rider comfort even in slow coastal traffic and climbing summer grades. Pumping out over 105 lb-ft of low-end torque, you can roll on the throttle in sixth gear and let that signature American rumble pull you up coastal headlands without endless downshifting. Splitstream Fairing Aerodynamics: The wind-tunnel-designed Batwing fairing features the center Splitstream vent, equalizing air pressure to virtually eliminate helmet buffeting across windy coastal headlands. Touring Comfort & Hidden Brembo Hardware: Between the plush seating, one-touch saddlebag latches, and spacious Tour-Pak trunk, long days in the saddle are effortless. When damp ocean pavement demands sudden stopping power, the factory Reflex Linked Brembo ABS brakes (stamped with the Bar & Shield script on the outside, but engineered by Brembo) distribute braking force evenly between wheels for rock-solid stability. Cape Perpetua: Centuries of Maritime and Coastal History Rising steep above the churning Pacific south of Yachats, the massive headland of Cape Perpetua carries deep layers of Pacific Northwest history dating back thousands of years. Ancient Indigenous Lands: For over 6,000 years before European arrival, the area was home to the Alsea people. Shell middens along the surrounding coves still tell the story of generations harvesting mussels, clams, and marine life along these rocky shelves. Named by Captain Cook (1778): On March 7, 1778, British explorer Captain James Cook sighted this prominent headland during his third voyage across the globe aboard the HMS Resolution. Because he spotted the bluff on St. Perpetua’s Day, he named it Cape Perpetua —one of the earliest documented English geographic place names in the entire state of Oregon. Great Depression Stonework (1930s): During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) established Camp Perpetua at the base of the mountain. CCC crews hand-built the winding trails, access roads, and the stone lookout shelter perched near the crest—constructed with the same rugged rustic masonry style seen at Central Oregon's own Dee Wright Observatory. World War II Coastal Radar Post: Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. military recognized the strategic elevation of Cape Perpetua. Soldiers transformed the stone CCC shelter into a coastal aircraft-warning station and temporary radar installation, watching the horizon day and night to guard the Pacific coastline from enemy submarines and naval vessels. Geological Spectacles Below: Looking straight down from the heights, Highway 101 hugs the edge of the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve, home to violent geological features forged by volcanic basalt—including Thor’s Well, Devil’s Churn, and the Spouting Horn, where high-tide ocean swells shoot spray into the air like natural geysers. The Transition: High Desert Heat to Marine Layer One of the greatest joys of riding or driving out of Bend and Redmond is experiencing Oregon's diverse biomes in a single day. You can start your morning under dry high-desert sunshine, carve through the cedar-scented switchbacks of the Cascade passes, roll across the lush Willamette Valley, and finish your day listening to the surf crash as the Pacific marine layer cools your engine. It’s the kind of route that resets your perspective and reminds you why we live in this corner of the country. Your Adventure Starts at Auto Kings Whether your idea of the ultimate road trip involves the open-air pulse of a heavyweight touring motorcycle, the precision handling of a supercharged sports coupe, or the go-anywhere confidence of a family-hauling 4x4, the Pacific Northwest was built to be explored. At Auto Kings, we don't just sell vehicles—we live for the drives they make possible. Stop by our Bend or Redmond locations today to check out our hand-picked inventory, swap road-trip stories, and find the machine ready for your next Pacific Northwest journey.

Taming the Lava Fields: Why McKenzie Pass (OR-242) Is Central Oregon’s Ultimate Driver’s Road Living in Central Oregon means some of the most dramatic driving terrain in the country sits right outside our doors. You do not need to cross five state lines to find world-class asphalt; McKenzie Pass Highway (OR-242) is right in our backyard. Beginning just west of Sisters, Highway 242 climbs out of fragrant ponderosa pine stands, snakes through relentless hairpin switchbacks, and breaks above the tree line into a 65-square-mile sea of jagged volcanic basalt. We took our silver 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 up to the summit at dusk to run the pass under the moonlight. The route proved why this stretch of pavement remains an essential bucket-list drive for true driving enthusiasts. The Pedigree of the 2017 Camaro ZL1: A Track Weapon on Mountain Asphalt When Chevrolet introduced the sixth-generation Camaro ZL1 in 2017, the model evolved beyond straight-line muscle into a legitimate world-class sports car. Developed on GM’s lightweight Alpha platform, the sixth-gen ZL1 was engineered specifically to set blistering lap times on the world's most demanding circuits, including a documented 7:16.04 lap at Germany’s notorious Nürburgring Nordschleife. Under the carbon-fiber heat extractor on the hood sits a supercharged 6.2L LT4 small-block V8, factory rated at 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Instant Forced Induction: The 1.7-liter Eaton supercharger delivers immediate low-end torque without turbo lag, pulling hard out of slow second-gear corners and climbing steep alpine grades effortlessly. Magnetic Ride Control: Magnetorheological dampers read the pavement every millisecond, adjusting shock stiffness instantly to keep the tires planted over uneven mountain frost heaves and camber changes. Precision Braking & Aero: Massive 6-piston front Brembo calipers gripping 15.35-inch two-piece rotors provide fade-free deceleration going into tight turns, while functional aero components—including the aggressive front splitter, "flowtie" grille emblem, and rear spoiler—maintain high-speed downforce and powertrain cooling. On a road like OR-242, the ZL1 feels balanced, planted, and precise rather than unwieldy. OR-242: A Short-Lived Season on an Unforgiving Mountain Unlike standard mountain highways, Highway 242 is untouched by modern winter maintenance. The road is unplowed, unsalted, and unpainted for long stretches, preserving its raw character. The Snow Window: Winter snowpacks reaching up to 14 feet shut the highway down behind snow gates from roughly November through late June or early July. This leaves only a narrow late-summer window for automotive enthusiasts to experience the route. Historic Evolution: Long before asphalt was laid, this corridor was an ancient trade route used by Indigenous peoples. In 1862, pioneer Felix Scott Jr. cleared a rough trail across the basalt to move supply wagons and cattle to the Idaho mines. By 1872, the route operated as a privately held wagon toll road before being incorporated into the state highway system in the 1920s. In 1962, when commercial traffic shifted permanently to modern Highway 126, OR-242 was preserved as a dedicated Scenic Byway. The Dee Wright Observatory: An Otherworldly High Desert Stronghold At the 5,325-foot summit sits the Dee Wright Observatory, a striking stone stronghold that looks like an ancient fortress rising from the lava rock. Built by the CCC (1935): Constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps (Company 1927), the structure was built entirely from surrounding native basalt. It was named in honor of Dee Wright, the project’s veteran Forest Service foreman who passed away in 1934 before construction finished. Framed Viewing Portals: Inside the shelter, builders cut precise viewing slits into the stone walls, each angled to frame a specific Cascade peak. The 1937 Bronze Compass: Ascending the exterior stairs leads to an open rooftop observation deck anchored by a bronze azimuth/peakfinder disk. Cast in 1937 by students at Portland’s Benson Polytechnic School, the brass instrument pinpoints the bearings and elevations of the surrounding horizon—including North and Middle Sister, Mount Washington, Belknap Crater, and Mount Jefferson. Moonscape History: The surrounding black volcanic field—formed by basalt flows from Little Belknap Crater and Yapoah Cone thousands of years ago—is so stark and barren that NASA used the site in 1964 to train Apollo astronauts for lunar surface missions. Find the Right Machine for the Open Road Highway 242 reminds drivers that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Central Oregon offers exceptional driving landscapes, but enjoying them to the fullest requires the right machine under your control. Whether you want a supercharged performance coupe to carve mountain apexes, a high-clearance 4x4 to explore remote forest roads, or an efficient daily driver, the Pacific Northwest was built to be explored. Visit Auto Kings in Central Oregon to view our hand-picked inventory and find the platform for your next mountain run.

When car enthusiasts envision the ultimate cross-country road trip machine, minds usually drift toward sleek convertibles, thunderous V8 grand tourers, or lifted overland rigs. But when you’re loading up the entire family to cross multiple state lines, tackle thousands of highway miles, and drive until the pavement literally runs out in the ocean, one vehicle class quietly takes the crown: the minivan. We were recently blessed to take on an iconic American pilgrimage—driving all the way down through the Florida Keys to stand beneath the legendary Mile Marker 0 sign in Key West. Our chariot for the long-haul journey? A Chrysler Pacifica. Standing at the official southern terminus of U.S. Route 1 after crossing dozens of bridges suspended over turquoise water, one thing became crystal clear: when it comes to keeping a family comfortable, organized, and sane across thousands of miles, nothing beats a purpose-built family hauler. Here is why the humble minivan remains the ultimate long-distance road-trip platform. 1. Dual Power Sliding Doors: A Road-Trip Superpower Ask any parent who has navigated a packed interstate rest stop or a tight parking stall in historic downtown Key West—traditional swinging doors simply cannot compete. Zero Parking Lot Stress: Power sliding doors eliminate door-ding anxiety completely. Your kids can hop in and out freely without clipping adjacent vehicles, no matter how tight the space. One-Touch Loading: When your hands are full of luggage, beach towels, and road trip snacks, a tap of the key fob or a wave of your foot opens wide entryways without wrestling handles. 2. Genuine Three-Row Comfort & Unmatched Cargo Packaging While large SUVs look rugged on the outside, their interior packaging often forces compromises. Minivans, on the other hand, are engineered around maximum interior volume and ease of use. Real Legroom in Every Row: Unlike the cramped third rows found in many midsize crossovers, minivans provide full-size seating where adults and teenagers can actually stretch out for hours. Deep Cargo Wells & Hidden Storage: Deep rear trunk wells and fold-flat floor systems (like Chrysler’s Stow 'n Go) mean coolers, suitcases, strollers, and souvenirs can be stowed low and out of sight, keeping your rear view clear and cabin uncluttered. 3. Effortless Highway Cruising & Fuel Efficiency Covering thousands of miles across state lines means highway efficiency directly impacts both your travel time and your fuel budget. Sleek Aerodynamics: Sitting lower to the ground than heavy body-on-frame SUVs, minivans glide through the air far more efficiently, returning impressive highway MPG. Fewer Fuel Interruptions: Efficient cruising translates to extended highway range, allowing you to bypass congested exits and keep momentum on open interstate stretches. 4. Built-in Road Trip Tech & Practical Comforts Keeping everyone calm, entertained, and recharged across thousands of miles is essential for a peaceful journey. Abundant Power & Connectivity: Dedicated USB and power ports in every row keep tablets, phones, and gaming devices charged around the clock. Thoughtful Cabin Design: From integrated sunshades to endless cupholders and smart storage cubbies, everything has a designated home—preventing the inevitable "road-trip chaos" from taking over your driving environment. The Destination Is Great, but the Journey Matters Most Standing beside the Mile Marker 0 sign in Key West—the start of a highway that runs 2,369 miles all the way to Fort Kent, Maine—serves as a great reminder of why we drive. A successful family road trip isn't about bragging rights or horsepower; it’s about the memories made looking out the windows, the easy laughter across the rows, and arriving safely with smiles on everyone’s faces. Whether you're gearing up for a cross-country family expedition, looking for a dependable daily commuter, or hunting for a weekend adventure rig, visit us at Auto Kings in Central Oregon. We’re here to help you find the right vehicle to get your family out making memories on the open road.

Fire season in Central Oregon carries a distinct weight. Out on the open plateau of the Warm Springs Reservation, as the smoke from the Bench Fire billowed across the horizon toward Mount Jefferson, the sky shifted into a heavy, amber haze. Seeing a herd of wild horses grazing calmly in the dry grass against that towering plume was a stark, humbling sight—a vivid reminder of the raw power of nature and the quiet resilience of our local Tribal communities and firefighters on the front lines. It’s a landscape that doesn't care about trends, algorithms, or digital clutter. It is raw, unforgiving, and deeply authentic. And out here, riding a motorcycle isn't about chasing lap times or staring at complex TFT screens. It’s about balance, awareness, and connection. It’s an analog machine built for an analog landscape. Pure Mechanical Connection: The GT 650 "Mr. Clean" That raw connection is exactly what makes the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 in the hand-polished "Mr. Clean" chrome spec feel so uniquely suited to Central Oregon’s backroads. While modern superbikes become increasingly digitized with traction control modes, electronic ride-by-wire throttles, and computer assistance, the GT 650 strips the experience back to the absolute essence of motorcycling: The Tactile Engine: The 648cc air-and-oil-cooled parallel twin doesn't rely on screaming redlines to impress you. It delivers honest, linear low-end torque with a deep, rhythmic twin-cylinder pulse that you feel directly through the pegs and clip-on handlebars. The Mirror-Finish Chrome Tank: The "Mr. Clean" edition features a hand-polished chrome tank with classic pin-striping that reflects the high-desert elements around it—from the golden sagebrush to the amber hues of a smoke-filled sunset. Pure Analog Gauges: Twin needle-and-dial gauges keep your eyes on the road and the scenery ahead, feeding you only the information that matters without screen glare or distractions. A Precision Harris Performance Frame: Built around a double-cradle chassis designed by legendary frame builders Harris Performance, the bike tracks with grounded, predictable stability whether you're rolling over washboard dirt backroads or sweeping through asphalt curves. Respecting the Land and the Journey Riding through areas like Warm Springs during an active wildfire teaches you to pay attention. You feel the sudden drops in air temperature near the rivers, smell the dry pine needles, and watch the wind shifts carry smoke across the ridge lines. At Auto Kings, whether we’re showcasing mountain-ready 4x4s at our Bend lot or classic two-wheeled machines out in Redmond, our goal is to honor the region we live in. We choose inventory that encourages people to get out, respect the terrain, and truly experience the Pacific Northwest in its purest form. Our thoughts remain with the residents, landowners, and emergency personnel navigating the Bench Fire. Stay safe, respect local land restrictions and emergency notices, and take time to appreciate the wild beauty of the high desert.

There is a distinct moment on a long-distance drive where the landscape completely shifts, and you realize you’ve just experienced one of the greatest automotive routes the country has to offer. That is exactly the feeling of pulling up to a coastal sunset after a cross-state run—watching the fading sun hit the immaculate lines of a Porsche 911 GT3 with the salt air rolling off the ocean. While the backdrop of the sea feels miles away from our high desert home, there is no better way to test the mettle of a pure, track-bred machine than by mapping out a journey from the pavement of Bend straight to the rugged Oregon Coast. The Route: High Desert to Pacific Surf A true driver’s road trip across Oregon is a masterclass in geographic diversity, and the 911 GT3 is the ultimate instrument to carve it up. Imagine firing up that legendary powerplant at our Bend lot, pointing the nose west, and watching the sagebrush give way to the towering pine forests of the Cascade foothills. As you climb out of Central Oregon over the high-altitude sweepers of the mountain passes, the GT3 is entirely in its element. Dropping down the western slopes, the road transitions into the lush, canopy-covered curves of Highway 126, tracing the river valleys through the heart of the Pacific Northwest. By the time you cut through the valley floor and hit the coastal asphalt of Highway 101 near Florence or Newport, you’ve experienced every type of tarmac imaginable. The final reward? Hugging the dramatic ocean cliffs, hearing the engine note echo off the rock faces, and pulling over just as the sun touches the horizon to take in a view like the one captured here. Why this Generation is a "Blue Chip" Asset In the automotive world, the phrase "blue chip" isn't thrown around lightly. It’s reserved for special vehicles that stand the test of time—machines that represent a pinnacle of engineering, command historical respect, and hold an iron-clad position as highly coveted collector pieces. This generation of the 911 GT3 is exactly that. As the automotive landscape rapidly shifts toward turbocharging, hybridization, and heavy digital driver aids, this GT3 remains a glorious holdout of pure, analog motorsport heritage. The Crown Jewel Engine: At its core is a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine that screams all the way to a staggering 9,000 RPM redline. The power delivery is linear, instant, and accompanied by a raw, mechanical wail that modern turbocharged cars simply cannot replicate. Motorsport DNA: This isn't a standard 911 with a wing bolted to the back. The GT3 is developed directly by Porsche’s motorsport division. Every vent, the massive rear wing, the center-locking wheels, and the enormous brakes are there for functional aerodynamic downforce and track-level endurance. An Investment You Can Drive: What truly makes it a blue-chip vehicle is its dual nature. It is an appreciating asset that demands a premium in the global enthusiast market, yet it is robust enough to be driven hard across the state without missing a beat. It’s a collector car that begs to be utilized, not hidden away in a climate-controlled bubble. Find Your Next Journey at Auto Kings At Auto Kings, we are passionate about sourcing vehicles that don't just get you from point A to point B, but vehicles that turn every single drive into a lifelong memory. Whether your dream road trip involves carving up the mountain switchbacks up toward Mt. Bachelor, exploring the high desert backroads, or embarking on a full-scale cross-state run to the coast, we curate the inventory to make it happen. Next time you’re cruising through town, swing by our Bend location on Highway 20 or explore our active inventory online to see what world-class performance icons have landed on our floor. The road from the desert to the ocean is waiting. What keys are you taking?

There is a specific time of day in Central Oregon, right as the sun begins to dip toward the Cascade range, where the entire high desert softens into shades of gold and pale blue. It’s the exact moment we captured this beautiful white on black soft top Ford Bronco cruising just east of our Bend lot out on the open blacktop, with the windows down, the top dropped back, and nothing but miles of sagebrush and wide-open sky ahead. This isn't just about taking a scenic drive; it’s about experiencing the unique landscape right outside our front door the way it was intended. And when it comes to true open-air exploration, few platforms on earth can match the modern Ford Bronco. Since its historic revival, the Bronco has completely re-established what an adventure vehicle should be. While its retro-inspired silhouette nods directly to the iconic first-generation rigs of the 1960s, everything underneath is pure, modern engineering designed to conquer the rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest. Built for the Backcountry: Key Performance Features What makes this particular platform such a weapon for the high desert comes down to a few brilliant design choices by Ford: The Independent Front Suspension (IFS): Unlike traditional solid-axle off-roaders that can feel harsh and twitchy on the highway, the Bronco utilizes an independent front suspension setup. On the washboard dirt tracks out toward the Oregon Badlands or the pavement of Highway 20, it tracks incredibly straight, soaking up bumps smoothly without sacrificing high-speed stability. EcoBoost Power & HOSS System: Packed with turbocharged EcoBoost torque and paired with Ford's High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system, the Bronco keeps its tires firmly planted. Whether you’re climbing over loose volcanic rock or airing down for deep sand, the power delivery is instantaneous and highly predictable. True Modular Freedom: Ford engineered the Bronco with utility in mind. The doors can be removed in mere minutes, and because the side mirrors are mounted directly to the cowl of the body rather than the doors themselves, you never lose your rear visibility when running completely open-air. The Ultimate Central Oregon Companion Having a rig built to this spec completely changes your relationship with the local geography. It’s a vehicle that turns a simple weekend into an expedition. You can spend the morning loading up paddleboards for the Cascade Lakes Highway, drop the top for a dusty afternoon run through the trail networks near Cline Falls, and wrap up the evening watching the sunset over the Eastside of Bend without ever needing to change gears. At Auto Kings, our goal is to curate inventory that perfectly matches the lifestyle of the people who live here. We don't just look for clean vehicles; we look for platforms that inspire you to get out, turn off the screens, and explore the incredible wilderness in our backyard. Next time you’re heading out toward the high desert or cruising along the South Hwy 97 corridor, swing by our Bend location to see our latest off-road and premium SUV arrivals. The high desert is calling—is your rig ready for the trail?

There is a unique magic to the landscape just east of Bend out on Highway 20. As you approach the gateway to the Oregon Badlands Wilderness, the pine trees give way to ancient twisted junipers, volcanic vistas, and wide-open high desert skies. It’s a road built for driving, which made it the absolute perfect backdrop to experience a true masterpiece of British engineering. Parking this exotic machine right beneath the historic BLM sign in The Oregon Badlands provided an incredible visual contrast: pure, cutting-edge performance design framed by the raw, timeless textures of the desert. Aside from its jaw-dropping lines, what makes this specific Emira so special is its finish— Seneca Blue. Under the intense, clear Central Oregon sun, the metallic paint completely comes alive. It shifts from a bright, electric cerulean in direct light to a deep, moody sapphire in the shadows, perfectly tracing the aggressive aerodynamic channels and functional air intakes carved into the car's bodywork. But the real magic of the Emira lies beneath that brilliant paintwork. As the final internal-combustion hurrah from Lotus, the Emira is built on a specialized bonded aluminum chassis. By placing the engine directly behind the driver’s cockpit rather than under a long front hood, Lotus achieved the holy grail of sports car design: a true mid-engine performance platform. From a physics standpoint, this layout completely transforms how a car behaves on a winding road. Shifting the heavy mechanical mass to the center of the vehicle drastically lowers the polar moment of inertia. In plain English? The car rotates effortlessly. When you point the nose into a sharp, sweeping bend—like the curves stretching out toward Millican or the winding pavement through the Crooked River Gorge—the Emira doesn’t fight the physics of the turn. It pivots with laser-like precision, keeping the weight perfectly balanced across all four wheels. Furthermore, placing that engine weight directly over the rear axle acts like a natural launch pad. When you lean into the throttle coming out of a corner, the rear tires are pressed firmly into the asphalt, delivering immediate traction and explosive corner-exit speed without any front-end float. Paired with a traditional hydraulic steering rack that feeds every single ripple of the asphalt directly back to your fingertips, it offers an analog, connected driving experience that modern digital supercars simply can’t replicate. At Auto Kings, we are incredibly proud to bring these kinds of rare, high-performance icons to the local car community. From precision track toys to rugged, mountain-ready trucks built for the Cascades, our inventory is curated for drivers who appreciate the journey as much as the destination. Next time you’re cruising through Redmond on the South Hwy 97 corridor or heading through the Eastside of Bend, keep your eyes peeled—and be sure to check our active inventory page to see what unique arrivals are landing on our lots next. Central Oregon has some of the best driving roads in the Pacific Northwest. What's your ultimate machine for carving up the high desert backroads?

There is a unique kind of beauty that only exists in the high desert of Central Oregon. It’s found in the wide-open skies, the rolling sagebrush hills, and the weathered wood of places that have stood the test of time. On our latest drive north of the lot, we decided to skip the usual highway routes and head out toward Simnasho on the Warm Springs Reservation. Standing tall against the elements out there is the historic Presbyterian Mission church, a beautiful landmark built in the late 1800s. Seeing that century-old bare wood silhouetted against the bright blue sky is a stark reminder of the deep history rooted right here in our region. We brought the Cadillac Escalade along for the journey, and the visual contrast was incredible. Parking a modern, sharp white luxury icon right next to a piece of beautifully aged history felt like bridging two entirely different eras of travel. While the pioneers who settled this area faced rugged, unyielding trails, the Escalade handles the high-desert backroads like a rolling palace. With its whisper-quiet cabin, premium suspension, and panoramic views of the landscape, it’s the ultimate road trip rig for exploring the hidden corners of Central Oregon in total comfort. At Auto Kings, our favorite part of the job isn't just watching these premium vehicles roll off the lot—it's imagining the local adventures they're going to take you on. Whether you’re heading up toward Mt. Hood, exploring the history of Wasco County, or just cruising down the highway, the right vehicle turns a simple drive into an unforgettable story. Next time you're heading through town, swing by our Redmond lot right on South Hwy 97 to check out our newest premium SUV arrivals. Central Oregon has so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered—where is your favorite historic spot to drive to?

The wait is officially over. Today marks the grand opening of the Deschutes Public Library’s massive new Central Library, and we couldn't wait to be among the first to check it out. Located in the heart of the Stevens Ranch neighborhood on Bend’s Eastside, this 100,000-square-foot masterpiece is a total game-changer for our community. Walking through the doors today, we were blown away by the scale—from the high-tech MakerSpace to the local Thump Coffee cafe right in the lobby. It’s more than just a place for books; it’s a hub for the future of Central Oregon. We brought the Lincoln Navigator along for the trip because, let’s be honest, if you’re planning a major "book haul" at a grand opening, you need the cargo space to match the mission! Plus, the Navigator’s quiet, premium cabin felt like the perfect way to transition from the peaceful energy of the new stacks back to the hustle of the Eastside. At Auto Kings, we’re proud to see our city grow with world-class facilities like this. We believe in the same level of modern convenience and quality—that’s why we’ve introduced our Smart Price at our Bend lot. We make car buying as easy and stress-free as browsing your favorite section of the library. Next time you’re heading to SE Santorini Street to explore the new library, swing by and see us on Savannah Drive. We’d love to hear what you think of the new space!

If you live in Bend, you know that the official start of "Adventure Season" isn't a date on a calendar—it’s the day the gate opens at Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint. We’ve been waiting all winter to get back to that 3,600-foot summit for the best 360-degree views in Central Oregon. To celebrate the 2026 season opening, we took our Custom 6x6 Jeep Gladiator up to the top to see how it handled the climb. (Spoiler alert: It made the Butte look like a speed bump.) What You Need to Know for 2026 After a long winter, the Oregon State Parks department officially opened the summit road on Friday, May 1st. Whether you’re heading up for a sunset photo or just to spot your house from the telescope, here are the current 2026 details: Driving Hours: 10:00 AM to Dusk (daily). The Reward: Crystal clear views of the Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, and Black Butte. The Rules: Remember, the road is shared! Keep it slow for the hikers and cyclists who make the trek up alongside us. Why We Took the 6x6 to the Top At Auto Kings, we believe in "Doing Good Things," and sometimes that means bringing a little extra muscle to the mountain. Our matte-black 6x6 Gladiator is more than just a statement piece; it’s a testament to the custom culture we love here in the High Desert. While most people take the family SUV to the top, we wanted to show what a true custom build looks like against the backdrop of the Cascades. There’s something about six wheels and a custom armor kit that just feels right at the highest point in town. Ready for Your Own High Desert Adventure? You don’t need six wheels to enjoy Bend, but you do need a vehicle you can trust. Whether you're looking for a rugged Jeep to tackle the backroads of Deschutes County or a reliable commuter for the drive between Bend and Redmond, we’ve got you covered. Our No-Haggle pricing means you spend less time in the office and more time at the summit. Plus, with our 3-day exchange policy, you can make sure your new rig fits in your garage and handles the Butte perfectly.

Choosing a vehicle today often involves considering environmental impact alongside performance and cost. Have you wondered whether electric cars are better for the environment, or if the difference is smaller than it seems? Electric vehicles bring a different approach to how energy is used on the road. Instead of burning fuel, they rely on electricity to power daily driving. This shift changes how emissions, efficiency, and overall impact are measured across the lifespan of a vehicle. Cleaner Air Starts With Zero Tailpipe Emissions Air quality improves when fewer pollutants enter the atmosphere during daily driving. Electric vehicles produce no tailpipe emissions, which means carbon dioxide and harmful gases are not released as you drive. Gas-powered cars send these pollutants directly into the air, especially in busy traffic areas. Removing that source helps reduce smog and supports healthier surroundings. Cities with higher electric-vehicle adoption often see measurable improvements in local air quality over time. Lower Carbon Impact Over the Life of the Vehicle Production methods for electric vehicles can create more emissions at the start, mainly due to battery manufacturing. That early impact changes once the vehicle is on the road. Electric vehicles produce fewer emissions during use, which helps balance and then reduce their total footprint. Over time, this difference becomes more noticeable as miles add up. Drivers who keep their vehicles longer often see a stronger environmental advantage compared to traditional gas-powered models. Energy Efficiency Makes a Noticeable Difference Energy use plays a major role in environmental impact, and electric vehicles use energy more efficiently than gas-powered cars. Traditional engines lose a large portion of fuel energy as heat before it ever reaches the wheels. Electric systems convert a higher percentage of stored energy into motion. This means less wasted energy during everyday driving. Improved efficiency leads to lower overall energy demand, which supports reduced emissions across the broader energy system. Environmental Benefits Continue to Grow Over Time Electric vehicles continue to improve as energy sources change. Power grids are adding more renewable energy, such as solar and wind, which lowers the emissions linked to charging. As that shift continues, electric vehicles become cleaner without needing changes to the car itself. Drivers benefit from this progress simply through regular use. This connection between cleaner energy and vehicle performance helps position electric vehicles as a forward-looking option for reducing environmental impact. Driving Toward a Cleaner Future With the Right Choice Understanding how electric vehicles affect the environment can help you make a more informed decision when choosing your next car. Cleaner air, reduced emissions, and improved efficiency all contribute to a smaller overall impact. These benefits continue to grow as technology and energy sources improve, which makes electric vehicles an appealing option for drivers who want to reduce their footprint. At Auto Kings, we are here to help you explore vehicle options that match your needs and priorities. Whether you are considering an electric model or a fuel-efficient alternative, our team can guide you through the process with clear information and a wide selection. Visit us today and let us help you find the right vehicle for your next drive.

Ford trucks come with several trim names that can feel confusing at first glance. One question drivers often ask is what XLT means on Ford and whether that badge changes the truck in a meaningful way. XLT is more than a label on the exterior. It represents a trim level that adds comfort, style, and convenience over a basic setup. Understanding that difference can help you choose a truck that better fits your routine and budget. Understanding the XLT Trim Level Ford uses XLT to identify a trim that builds on the basics while adding a more refined feel. The name is commonly understood as Extra Luxurious Truck, which reflects its role in the lineup. Compared to entry-level trims, this version introduces more comfort and improved design details. It gives drivers a noticeable step up without moving into premium territory. For most buyers, XLT represents a balanced upgrade that still keeps practicality in focus. Where XLT Fits in the Ford Truck Lineup A clear look at the trim structure helps explain where XLT belongs. Entry-level XL models focus on durability and simplicity, often aimed at work-related use. Above that, XLT adds convenience, upgraded styling, and more modern features. Higher trims, such as Lariat, continue that progression with more advanced materials and technology. This placement makes XLT a strong middle option for drivers who want more than the basics. What Features Do You Usually Get With an XLT Trim? Drivers often notice several upgrades once they step into an XLT truck. Interior materials feel more refined, and technology features like touchscreen systems and smartphone connectivity become available. Power windows, keyless entry, and added driver assistance tools are also common. Exterior updates such as alloy wheels or chrome accents give the truck a more finished look. These additions create a driving experience that feels more complete without pushing into higher trim pricing. Is XLT a Good Choice for Your Needs? The right trim depends on how you plan to use your truck each day. Drivers who split time between work tasks and personal driving often appreciate what XLT offers. It brings comfort and useful features while staying within a reasonable price range. Buyers focused strictly on jobsite needs may prefer a base trim, while others seeking more refinement may look higher. For many drivers, XLT delivers a practical balance that fits everyday use. Ready to Choose the Right Ford Truck With Confidence? Understanding what XLT means gives you a clearer way to compare Ford trucks and decide what fits your daily needs. This trim brings together comfort, convenience, and practical features, which makes it a strong option for drivers who want more than a basic setup without stepping into higher trim pricing. That balance often makes XLT one of the most popular choices across Ford truck lineups. At Auto Kings, we help you explore available XLT models, compare features across trims, and find a used truck that matches your lifestyle and budget. We also offer financing options and trade-in support to make the process easier from start to finish. Take the next step today and explore our inventory or reach out to our team for help finding the right truck for you.