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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  No Fusion Confusion - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Dave - July 12 - 9:19 am

  The car looks sharp, has a smooth ride and has plenty of room in the cabin. Have just driven it back and forth to work and around the area so have not really tested it fully as of yet. I have the SE version but it has a sport appearance package which includes a rear spoiler, moonroof, and sportier design on the seats

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  Like a kid again - 2011 Ford Mustang
  By Young old folks - July 11 - 10:42 pm

  This is not a car for a family man. But for an older guy and lady this is the dream of our youth. It takes us back to 1970 with much more comfort and convenience and way better quality. Not to mention more power than we ever dreamed of in those days. We shopped Camaro and Challenger and for a variety of reasons this was the most bang for the buck. Plus the fact that Ford didnt have to be bailed out by anyone.

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  Refined Workhorse - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By CG - July 11 - 3:30 pm

  We bought our Expedition new in 01 and have been very pleased with the reliability and comfort of this vehicle. It now has 140k and still rides very smooth and feels wonderful. It has been very reliable with regular maintenance performed. My wife has abused this car with three kids and "Eddie" (nickname my kids gave it) has responded with remarkable resiliency. A real feather in fords cap. I will be buying the 01-03 F150 with the same engine (5.4 liter Triton V8) in a few years after I retire. Eddie has been an extremely reliable vehicle who acts like he wants to run another 100k easy. I will be giving him a tune up soon replacing all the plugs and wires. Well deserved!

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  Ford Trucks Not of this "Realm" - 2004 Ford F-150
  By Michael A. Ruiz - July 11 - 11:18 am

  I have had my truck 6 years 150,000 miles not a single problem. have towed and hauled and I will say that you do not feel what you are towing or hauling, like other trucks especially when cornering or coming into and out of curves. Power yes everyone wants more power but when using your truck for recreational or light to medium work you cant beat "Ford" its like this truck was made somewhere else like another realm or world, where quality is all they do :-). if you need to haul heavy work loads then get a F-250 or F-350 which these trucks are hard to beat in the "Big Mans World of heavy haulers". oh!! by the way my 4.6 V-8 gets 24 miles per gal with the K/N air filter as the only add on.

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  Wow! - 2011 Ford Mustang
  By Ken - July 11 - 3:46 am

  Just bought it yesterday, its just fun to strap it on and drive it! who knew someone could put this much fun in a v- 6 and no problem going up the ramp to get on the highway! like a few other reviews, only complaint is no place to put your stuff, like sun glasses, etc, but hey its a sports car!

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  The best in its class - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Wildfire007 - July 10 - 4:46 pm

  We bought our 2006 Fusion used as a 3rd vehicle. It had 18,000 miles on it at the time of purchase. It has proven so flawless and so much fun to drive that we are using it far more than our other vehicles. The fuel mileage is incredible. In driving that is typically 75% highway and 25% city it never gets less than 29 mpg, and on trips at 65mph it averages between 34 and 38 mpg. The interior is roomy and very comfortable, and the ride and handling are excellent. I highly recommend it. Not a single problem at 36,000 miles now. I did replace the drivers side door handle, but this is a $40 part and only takes about 15 minutes to replace with very few tools.

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  Repeat buyer - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By ArkieDave - July 9 - 2:27 pm

  Learned my lesson with my first Ranger and got the super cab and 4L SOHC engine. Bucket seats are a big plus for comfort. This truck is fun to drive, unfaltering reliability, and reasonably economical for a vehicle with over 200 HP.

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  First SUV - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Mikey B - July 8 - 2:16 pm

  Been driving this for 2 weeks now and it has been great! Mine is black with the Sport Appearance Package (black rims, grill, spoiler, handles, headlights) with charcoal interior. Black on Black on Black. SYNC, sunroof, V6, auto starter. The pickup is amazing, style is fun and its just an all around great SUV. The seats are comfortable. The whole thing feels solid. Recently took it on a 4 hour drive up north and it was fantastic! The SYNC got me home with no problems! And I really like how you can send driving directions to your car from google maps!! I love this SUV so far!

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  200,000 and Still going Strong - 1997 Ford Thunderbird
  By Barbara - July 7 - 10:28 am

  I bought this car brand new in 1997 and just passed the 200,000 mile mark. The car starts every time, even if it sits for a month at a time without starting. The engine is fantastic and except for usual maintenance, the engine & transmission are in perfect condition. You cant beat an American made 8 cylinder. I have never owned anything but fords - 4 mustangs, 1 Thunderbird, 1 focus, 1 escape and next on to the fusion. Just wish it was 2 door.

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  Our Third Family Focus - 2010 Ford Focus
  By dlmckm - July 7 - 9:20 am

  This is our third focus, 1st one has 80,000 miles, 2nd one 45,000 miles, and this one 12,000, none have ever been returned for any repairs. forget the 34 mpg on the sticker, Im averaging 39 - 41 and its an automatic. Great cars for the money very reliable.