Overview & Reviews

For more than 100 years now, Ford Motor Company has been selling mass-produced automobiles in the United States and around the globe. Known as one of the Big Three American manufacturers, Ford has attracted millions of loyal customers with a wide range of vehicles that offer considerable value. The automaker's trucks and SUVs have been especially popular. For decades, Ford's F-Series truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America.

The company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Ford dreamed of building a car for the masses, and that's precisely what he did, most notably with the immortal Model T of 1908-'27. The latter was bought by 16.5 million Americans during its 20-year lifespan and was affordable enough for Ford's own factory workers to purchase. Ford's early years were also distinguished by its introduction of the moving assembly line. It was the first to utilize this more cost-effective method of production, and its innovation became a mainstay of the manufacturing process.

Ford expanded into the luxury-car market with its purchase of Lincoln Motor Company in 1925. Over the next few years, the company broadened its focus even further by creating the Mercury division to produce mid-priced cars. By the late '30s, Ford had unveiled the stylish Lincoln Zephyr, introduced a low-priced V8 engine and built more than 25 million vehicles.

The 1950s saw the introduction of the legendary Thunderbird. Offering sleek styling and spirited performance wedded to available luxury features like power windows and a signal-seeking radio, the car was a huge hit. Another model of that decade, the Edsel, met with a somewhat less enthusiastic reception. In the wake of abysmal sales, the Edsel was discontinued just a few months into its third model year.

Ford regained its footing in the early 1960s with the introduction of the compact Falcon, a model that was warmly received by the public. By the middle of the decade the automaker had given enthusiasts something to cheer about with the launch of the sporty Mustang, a car that went on to become one of the biggest sellers of its day. Buyers adored the Mustang's low price, available powerful V8 engines and sporty styling. The Mustang even created a brand-new vehicle category: the pony car.

By the 1970s, Ford, like other domestic automakers, was starting to suffer the effects of changing consumer tastes and new government regulations. Many of its cars became shadows of their former selves. But the seeds of rebirth were planted in this decade. In 1979, the company acquired a stake in Mazda; this move would later aid Ford significantly in co-development projects. The company also emerged with a new mindset of global competitiveness.

By the mid-to-late '80s, Ford was showing new strength with its popular Escort and Taurus models while further expanding its empire with the purchase of the Aston Martin and Jaguar brands. Meanwhile, its full-size LTD sedan (later renamed the Crown Victoria) remained a staple of taxi companies and police forces throughout America.

Ford rode a wave of popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to the huge success of its Explorer midsize SUV. The truck played a huge role in ushering in the era of the SUV. In 1999, Ford expanded its family yet again with the purchase of Volvo's car division, and, in 2000, it acquired Land Rover. For awhile, there was talk of Ford even taking General Motors' spot as the No. 1 automaker in the world.

But the new millennium initially saw a downturn for Ford. Increased competition, a continuing operating loss for Jaguar, legacy costs and a reliance on SUVs for profit took their toll. To compensate, the company sold Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo and introduced a wave of successful new products. Models like the F-150, Fusion, Fiesta, Focus, Flex and Mustang have allowed Ford to regain its health and standing as a very competitive manufacturer.

User Reviews:

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  Less good after 3 months - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By rollin59 - February 3 - 4:06 am

  Ive had my Explorer Eddie Bauer for 4 months. Great driving and great looking SUV but now I know why some call it the "Exploder". Lot of problems, taken care of at no cost to me under warranty (thank heavens for the extended warranty), but it doesnt give me a good impression of long term durability: Power seat track repair, cruise control switch, rear axle clutch pack replaced, complete rear differential and ring/pinion gear replaced (twice), leaking taillight (Ford refused to fix but dealer handled it.)

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  Not a soccer mom - 2004 Ford Freestar
  By Ontoni - February 3 - 1:20 am

  Im not a soccer mom but i have two teens and a big dog. this vehicle fits the bill. comfort, smooth ride and space. It may not be the fastest thing on the road but it will cruise up to 70 and youll not even know how you got there.

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  My Style - Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By tgardn - February 3 - 12:23 am

  This is a great all around multi-purpose vehicle. It gives me the versatility of an SUV with the driving manners and afFORDability of a sedan. I have been averaging about 27 mpg city/highway combined with most driving in the city. She rides higher than a car for better visibility. Everything to date (nearly 6,000 miles) has been flawless with no defects or poor workmanship noted. Shes built solidly and with purpose in mind. The ride is very smooth with little if any exterior road noise seeping into the cabin. Handling is great, especially compared to SUVs that like to tip and lean over on corners like my previous Highlander. Best SUV wagon under $50,000. No regrets whatsoever!

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  Great Truck - 1995 Ford Ranger
  By Paul - February 2 - 10:50 pm

  I bought this truck right when I got my learners permit. I bought it for $2000 with 130000 and now it has nearly 145000. I have not had a single problem with this truck. It runs like a champ with great gas milage. It has the 2.3 with a 5 speed. I love this Ranger. It does great in the mountains and on the high way. For a 4 banger it accelerates great. If you hit the gas hard it will kick up some sand. It has a little bit of trouble going up steep hills. Ive had to replace a brake caliper bolt and I need new shocks in the near future. For the price it is a great running, sharp truck. I wish I would of got the extended cab as it is a little cramped.

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  Great Escape - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Brian - February 2 - 9:52 pm

  I bought mine used with 71,000 miles on it. It being a small SUV I didnt really think it would do very well off road even though it had the 4wd. I was extremely suprised on just how well this thing can off-road! I have put it in some pretty hairy places and it just pulled on through without even second guessing it. It handles quite well on the road. I drive 75 miles a day for work in this thing, and I love every minute of it.

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  Love it! - 2008 Ford Edge
  By suemom - February 2 - 9:15 pm

  Bought this car after looking at Honda CRV and Jeep Compass. Too many CRVs on the road! I love this car! I get compliments all the time. Its fun to drive. Mileage could be better but most of mine is city driving. My only complaint would be with getting in the car.I am of short stature- 52 and getting in would be easier if there were a handle to grab on the top.

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  Awesome Car - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Duane Rosenberry - February 2 - 7:00 pm

  My Taurus is an awsome car. Love the looks. Gas mileage and performance. I was in an auto accident yesteray and this car is safe. They guy that hit me was in an Honda suv. He hit me hard. The only damage to my car was a quarter size hole in the bumper. They had to bring the hook to take his car away. This Taurus has only 70,000 on it now and the only problem Ive had with this car was the cam shaft synchronizer. Excellent car.

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  Step up from minvans and SUVS - 2006 Ford Econoline Wagon
  By Vanman - February 2 - 3:13 pm

  This is our all-purpose family vehicle. It is used to haul kids, grandparents, get groceries, and long distance trips. The Chateu is loaded with all the amenities. It fill the same size parking space as a SUV, but has much more room inside. You are actually able to get out of the drivers seat, and unbuckle and put coats on the kids, grab a stroller from the back all without getting outside in the rain. If you ever buy a piece of furniture or an appliance, you can put it inside without any crazy rentals or tiedowns. The seats have real armrests, and the visibility is better than any SUV. We will NEVER downsize to a minivan after this. Everyone says its to big, then asks to borrow it later!

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  Flex is great - 2009 Ford Flex
  By Joe - February 2 - 2:23 pm

  Traded in 05 Navigator and now save $225/month in gas. While we will miss the Nav this car is pure fun. Weve had it for a few weeks now and no less than 20 people have asked us about. Too cool!

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  Perferct car - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By SOHCv6 - February 2 - 2:18 pm

  Very reliable, 5 speed automatic and low gears just perfect. Good gas mileage for the powerful truck. It does 16.5 in the city