Group 1 Automotive Continues Nationwide Brand Alignment with Group 1 Ford of South Austin in South Austin.

Former Maxwell Ford location is among the dealerships now operating under the unified Group 1 brand

AUSTIN, Texas, Jun. 17, 2026, /PRNewswire/ — As part of its ongoing nationwide initiative to unify its extensive network of dealerships, Group 1 Automotive, Inc. ( NYSE: GPI ), a Houston-based automotive retailer with dealerships across the U.S. and U.K., today highlighted Group 1 Ford of South Austin, formerly Maxwell Ford, which has operated under its new name since September 25, 2025.

The South Austin dealership is one of a growing number of U.S. locations aligned under the initiative, giving customers a clearer connection to Group 1’s scale, resources, and operational standards while preserving the local team, Ford expertise, and customer relationships that have served Austin for more than two decades.

Despite its size as an international automotive retailer, Group 1 Automotive continues to operate its dealerships as local businesses and remains committed to supporting customers, employees, and the broader Austin region. For more information about Group 1 Automotive and its commitment to local communities, visit Group1Auto.com.

Better Customer Experience

The transition from Maxwell Ford to Group 1 Ford of South Austin is part of a broader effort to create a more consistent customer experience across Group 1’s U.S. retail network. The rebrand did not represent a change in ownership, staffing, product offerings, or day-to-day operations, and customers have continued to work with the same local professionals under the new name.

Group 1 Automotive has owned and operated the South Austin dealership for more than two decades. The new name formally connects the location to Group 1’s national platform, giving local customers the benefit of a familiar South Austin dealership supported by the resources, technology, and operational discipline of a larger automotive group.

“Since taking our new name, our customers have found the same local team they know and trust, now with a clearer connection to the strength and resources of Group 1,” said Greg Kimball, General Manager of Group 1 Ford of South Austin. “The name on the building changed, but what matters here has not: a consistent, convenient, and transparent experience, whether someone is shopping for a new Ford, servicing their current vehicle, or considering a trade-in.”

Continuity of Service and Local Commitment

Group 1 Ford of South Austin continues to serve customers from its existing location at 5000 South IH-35 Frontage Road in Austin, Texas, supporting drivers throughout Austin, Buda, Kyle, and surrounding Central Texas communities with new Ford vehicles, pre-owned vehicles, Ford service, parts, and maintenance support.

The dealership remains focused on the same local relationships that defined Maxwell Ford, while gaining a clearer connection to Group 1’s broader retail network. Customers can expect continuity in the sales and service experience, along with the added benefit of a unified Group 1 brand that makes locations easier to recognize, find, and trust across markets.

Additional Customer Questions

Why did Maxwell Ford change its name to Group 1 Ford of South Austin?

• Maxwell Ford became Group 1 Ford of South Austin on September 25, 2025 as part of Group 1 Automotive’s effort to create a clearer, more consistent naming structure across its U.S. dealerships. The new name reflects the dealership’s connection to Group 1 while continuing to serve customers in Austin and the surrounding Central Texas communities. As part of the Group 1 network — 250 dealerships offering 37 vehicle brands — the dealership connects customers to new and pre-owned sales, financing, service, parts, and collision support, with a consistent experience from transparent pricing to online scheduling at every Group 1 store.

How does dealership or manufacturer financing compare to a bank loan?

• Manufacturer-affiliated lenders sometimes offer promotional rates or lease programs that banks do not, while banks and credit unions may offer competitive rates for well-qualified borrowers. Dealerships typically work with multiple lenders and can compare offers in one place. Reviewing the annual percentage rate, term, and total cost across options helps identify the best fit.

Should I service my vehicle at the dealership or an independent shop?

• Dealership service departments employ factory-trained technicians, use manufacturer diagnostic equipment, and typically install OEM parts, and they can perform warranty and recall work. Independent shops may offer lower prices on some services. The right choice often depends on the repair type, warranty status, and the owner’s preference.

How can shoppers get an accurate online trade-in valuation?

• Most dealerships and third-party sites offer online trade-in tools that estimate value from year, make, model, mileage, and condition. Estimates are firmed up by an in-person appraisal that accounts for service history, wear, and current market demand. Gathering offers from more than one source helps shoppers gauge a fair range before negotiating.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Group 1 owns and operates 250 automotive dealerships, 310 franchises, and 32 collision centers in the United States and the United Kingdom that offer 37 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships and omni-channel platform, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing; sells service and insurance contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.