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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  Fun around town - 2004 Ford Focus
  By T.C. - October 28 - 11:18 pm

  I bought this car cause I couldnt afford another economy car on the lot. I really do like it. I live in the big city and getting through traffic can be fun. The 2.3 is a definite plus. Quick and nice high end performance. Cornering is great also. My main drawback is the stiff suspension. Ive had two back surgeries and the ride is quite bouncy. Ill try new shocks and tires, this car is worth the investment! The interior is very nice for us also. All within easy reach. I will admit though. This car is more fun to drive than comfortable. Would like to have both.

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  WOW! What A Beast I Have. - 2000 Ford Escort
  By J Riles - October 28 - 7:34 pm

  I brought this car basically because I was excited in buying my first car. Anyways since then the car has been like a trusty companion. Every time I think its gonna give out on me it just keeps kicking. Right now Im in the 20s as far as mileage and she runs like when i first brought her. Great A to B car.

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  Fast, Sporty, Fun and Affordable!! - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Ron C - October 28 - 4:30 pm

  What a fantastically enjoyable car. Turns heads, great performance and handling, super gas mileage, and great ergonomic layout and comfortable cabin. Most fun car I have owned in years.. Not the same old, same old uninspiring Hondas or Toyotas that fill the cookie-cutter neighborhoods. Great value for this well laid out, great performing and solid vehicle. Ford has really pulled together the strength of Ford, Mazda and Volvo on this offering. Ive had only for one very exciting month, but really love this car.

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  not for off road - 2005 Ford Escape
  By ZACK - October 28 - 10:56 am

  i took my Escape to the ranch and the road was, as usual, muddy and thick. It performed great, but it seemed to slow down further when I took it out to test it with water... it almost failed me. It slowed down dramatically and it just about let me down. It still works; I rely on it on road with little bit of a puddle ... it still scares me to take against natures worst.

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  EXCELLENT WORKHORSE - 2004 Ford F-150
  By MATT - October 27 - 10:02 pm

  Owning this truck has been very good, Mine is a basic no-frills model but compared to the competition this is an excellent choice, Skip the Hankook tires if you can, poor winter traction. The paint on front of the box behind the doors on the bottom is prone to early chipping. 4.6 engine is sufficient for most uses, 17 mpg avg. If you pull trailer a lot the 5.4L engine is a better choice, even if unloaded mileage is lower, around 15 mpg avg. Floor shift 4wd is simple and easy to use. Auto transmission shifts flawlessly. A/C is good, as is the heater. The 8 foot box is very deep, you can get to your GVWR quickly, with dirt, rock or whatever. At max load there is no sway or unexpected surprises.

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  Worth the wait - 2009 Ford Escape
  By GopherM - October 27 - 7:30 pm

  No hot rod, but plenty of pickup for a 4 cylinder. The ride is slightly firm but very comfortable. Handles much better than the 08 and the interior is very quiet. The 6 speed transmission is very smooth. Getting great mileage already. The Sync and nav system are fun and the stereo is killer. Very roomy. Sits high and has great visibility all the way around. Ive looked over every inch I can think of and the fit and finish seem flawless. I have read some criticism about the front disk, rear drum brakes and you would think it has disks all around with the very effective braking I have experienced. Its not a sports car but it is great for a small SUV.

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  Love the All wheel drive - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By ASA203 - October 27 - 4:00 pm

  I have never owned an all wheel drive vehicle, but this car has shown me how great they handle in poor conditions. Last winter was mild, but it is great to be able to pull out on wet roads without spinning. The ride is wonderful and with plenty of room for 6. I recommend this vehicle for families. It compares to the Volvo XC90 but at a much lower price.

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  Best Yet - 2006 Ford F-150
  By GLB - October 27 - 1:19 pm

  Driving this truck has been a great experience so far. The acceleration of this truck and the handling are beyond the back seat of this truck very compare. The interior has been put together very well. The flow of it keeps the truck from looking like a box. I have 3 children and they fit into comfortably with plenty of arm and leg room. A lot better fuel mileage than my F-350. The layout of the instrumentation is a lot better than in the past. Very easy on the eyes. I truly enjoy driving this truck.

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  Great Family Car! - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Pugliese Family - October 27 - 11:47 am

  We have only owned this car for about a month. We did not see many on the road where we live and were wondering why Ford didnt advertise more about this great vehicle. Thank goodness for customer review sites like this one. We were shopping for a 6-7 passenger vehicle but did not want a big SUV or a van. When we were in Italy this year we rented a 6 passenger wagon and we were hooked. As soon as we got back to the USA we started shopping for a 6-7 passenger wagon. Ford Freestyle offered a spectacular car. It is easy to park and drive and seats 7 very nicely. The gas mileage is much better than my Explorer.

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  Problematic Transmission - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By mejia329 - October 27 - 11:21 am

  This is my latest and probably last Ford purchase ever. Ive serviced my 03 Explorer 4WD XLT at recommended intervals only with my dealer over the last 4 years. Ive had major engine work done once and the transmission rebuilt three times. There was a wheel bearing problem at around 20k and the rear heating unit quit working around 60k. The latest transmission issue (torque converter) is setting me back $1,200.00. Overall this is a very disappointing purchase.