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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  Bought it for the Great Gas Mileage - 2016 Ford Focus
  By Paul G. - December 2 - 1:39 pm

  Id previously owned two 2003 Focus hatchbacks with automatic transmissions that my sons drove. Id always been impressed with their quick acceleration and solid handling. After reading reviews on this generation, I purchased a well-equipped model, but with the manual transmission (so as to avoid the issues so many others had complained about with the DCT). It easily delivers 2 out of 3 things I wanted - terrific fuel economy (30 MPG after 1300 miles, though my shorter trips as the weather is becoming cold its getting me around 27 MPG), and very nimble handling. Other bonuses: its fun to drive, the German manual tranny & clutch are the smoothest Ive ever had, its quiet, the interior is nicely appointed. Contrary to what some say, the back seat leg room seems adequate for my 511" teenager. Also, the storage space is fine, especially with the rear seats folded. The third thing? I can get "zippy" (my wifes word) acceleration, but only if I rev high in 1st & 2nd gears. I also drive an 07 Mustang GT, so I think Im just having to deal with the adjustment. The older 2.3L 4-speed AOD models Ive driven seemed to move very quickly, but they probably also lingered in the lower gears. My major complaint: There is NO elbow room. When Im by myself (which is why I bought this - I no longer needed the SUV I was driving before), all is good. When theres a passenger in the car, theres just not enough space. Yes, I have broad shoulders, so this may not be a problem for you. While I shift, it seems Im always jostling the passenger unless theyre planted as far right as possible in their seat. Leather seats are a little sticky. Every day, at first application, the brakes grab hard. Id also have liked an auto-dimming mirror, but on the whole, Im very happy with my new purchase.

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  So Far, So Good - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By bh_okedoke - December 2 - 9:00 am

  Just bought the vehicle on 03/06/02. So far, everything is ok... Runs well, and this unit seemed to be put together pretty tightly (manufactured 01/02). One thing to note if you are concerned about safety. The superior crash test ratings are based on models manufactured after 10/29/01 - read the fine print on the Ford site - I asked the dealer about this, and they confirmed there was a change made to some frame components, whatever that means?

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  Fun Minivan / SUV - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Sparky454 - December 2 - 8:03 am

  We were looking for a SUV that would give us good gas mileage and be high enough that my wife could see the traffic better. My wife is 5 and we were looking for a seat that would adjust high enough for her so that she could see. Plus we needed the lumbar support for both front seats. Ford is the only dealer that had it all. They surprised us also by giving us 0% financing for 5 years plus $1000 cash back. The whole experience was enjoyable, no pressure at all.

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  No complaints after 5,000 miles - 2009 Ford Escape
  By RGD - December 2 - 12:33 am

  While the Escape is a little dated in style, I like the practical, rugged looks. It drives comfortably and I am impressed at the acceleration and overall power of the 4-cyl combined with the 6-speed automatic. The traction control and anti-lock brakes have improved winter handling. Sun and sync package is fun and convenient for handsfree cell calls. Gas mileage has been as high as 30 (a full tank at about 60-65 with no wind) and has never been lower than 21 (all short stop and start in town). Overall average is around 24-25. Comfortable height to get in and out, as most small SUVs. Im happy.

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  Good but could be better - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By Kenneth Edwards - December 1 - 9:56 pm

  Good family SUV but brakes and tires are awful. Expensive upkeep.

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  Diesel MPG - 2002 Ford Excursion
  By Dan - December 1 - 9:38 pm

  This vehicle is too big unless you need to tow something heavy. But the good news is that the diesel gets better gas mileage than any of the V8s in the smaller SUVs. Im getting 17 around town, and 19-20 on the road when I keep the speed down to 60-65. With the price of fuel going ever higher, the fuel savings may someday cancel out the higher acquisition cost of the big engine. Get Michelin tires. They cut the road noise in half.

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  My Excursion - 2000 Ford Excursion
  By Ryan Goodlett - December 1 - 9:23 pm

  One thing is that people forget that the Excursion is built on an F250 chassis, thats why it does not ride like a SUV. Also I have never done anything other than preventive maintenance.

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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By TimB - December 1 - 7:24 pm

  I have about 4,000 miles on it now in 4 months, projecting 10,000. I usually only drive about 8,000 miles a year. But this car makes me want to take the long way home! Its fast, its comfortable, it handles very nicely. The build quality is first rate. Not a single problem or "issue".... thats amazing for a new design itself. Materials (plastic) are par for the price range, but the looks and performance are an absolute bargain. I have the 5 speed automatic GT. Very slick, smooth AND firm shifting. Gas mileage is good on the highway, so-so in town (as expected). Get it, youll love it!

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  Awesome All-around Truck - 2004 Ford Excursion
  By Dave - December 1 - 5:29 pm

  I am very pleased with my second Excursion. I use it for its protected cargo space extensively. Then you can haul 6 or 7 adults very comfortably. I have had absolutely no problems in 60,000 miles. It is not hard to drive like the reviewers say. It rides great on the highway and gets around town just fine! Really wish they wouldnt stop making them.

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  WOW a GREAT Vehicle Transit Connect - 2010 Ford Transit Connect
  By Donna - December 1 - 4:43 pm

  I recently purchased a 2010 Transit Connect XLT and I absolutely Love it. It am using it as a vehicle for my handicapped husband. He enters it easily, because it is low to the ground, then I put the wheelchair in the back and off we go. Tons of head room and tons and tons of space in the back. Having the second row of seats is nice just fold them front and there is more space. It is an attention getter. People love it. The gas mileage is 25 mpg. around town. The head room, the big open windshield, side glass and rear glass in the back doors(which swing out of the way)are excellent features. I hope people realize what a great family vehicle this can be. Love it. Love it. Love it.