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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  2004 Ranger Edge - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By mike - February 16 - 2:03 pm

  Bought it used from original owner with 2700 miles on it. Paid $11,000. He had to pay the bank an additional $1500 to get out from under it. This is an example of letting someone else take the depreciation. Tough market for used trucks as the dealers scoop them up and resell them. Hard to find one owner, low mileage trucks. LOVE THE EDGE! High ride height is what I need more than 4 wheel drive. Very stylish interior, seats are awesome. Rides and handles great. You will get good mileage on highway (and around town IF YOU HAVE A LIGHT FOOT). Would like to have the bigger engine but 3.0 is OK for me. Shifts very smooth. Super sharp looks with alloy wheels. Very happy with my purchase.

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  06 Fusion - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Sadak5357 - February 15 - 11:43 pm

  Ford has done very well with this model. The car has a very aggressive line, and the interior design is the best Ive seen from Ford yet, in the price range. The 4 cylinder engine is plenty, combined with the 5 speed auto transmission. Very classy looking. This is what they needed to help get Ford back near, or on top.

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  Great Value in the Compact Class - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Brad - February 15 - 10:26 pm

  I have had a lot of fun driving this car. The handling and ride of this car rival my wifes Honda Accord (no kidding). I test drove the new Honda Civic, new Toyota Corolla, and a new Suzuki Forenza. The Focus had the most headroom, the most comfortable seats, and the best road manners. The interior is well laid out with all of the controls within easy reach. On the highway the engine noise is quieter than expected. The engine doesnt sound too hurried even at speeds around 70 mph. The car tracks straight and is very responsive to steering input with the short wheelbase. Braking feels solid, even with drum brakes in the rear. I am getting just over 27 mpg with mixed city/highway driving.

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  Escape Hybrid best bet for SUV! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Dave B - February 15 - 8:06 pm

  Have found the switching between gas and electric to be seamless. Real fun to drive and with the fuel economy shown I find I am challenging myself to keep it on electric as long as possible. Got it at an average fuel economy of 33.7 MPG after a month and 2000 miles of use.

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  Good Basic Car - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Joel from IL - February 15 - 7:23 pm

  We owned a 2003 Focus, and we traded for the 2005. We now have 3500 miles on the Focus. The 2005 is fun to drive, but it seems that I have to readjust the wheel for each bump I hit. It may be because of the low-profile tires. Im surprised at only 21-22 mpg city which isnt good for a 4 cylinder. The dealer reflashed the PCM to see if that helps. One downgrade is cheaper quality interior materials. Also, the door and quarter panels arent flush which is a build quality issue. This Focus has been to the dealer for a minor issue of rough morning idle. Despite the negatives, driving a 2004 Cavalier left me wanting my Focus back.

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  quality was not an issue - 1995 Ford Contour
  By grant r - February 15 - 5:10 pm

  Owning a Ford Contour has been perhaps my worst car experience. Every part of the vehicle seems to be made from toy plastic. I can effortlessly BEND the gear shift. A 3 year old child literally ripped out the cupholders. I have replaced front & rear springs, front & rear suspension, front & rear brakes, and timing system. Dont buy this car unless it is for a very short period of time and out of complete desperation. The good things: The transmission is holding up, and the radio still works. Several mechanics have confirmed that the heater will be the next to go. Be careful out there car-buyers.

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  Electrical Problems - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Rob Mathis - February 15 - 12:52 pm

  Intermittently some accessories are staying on after the keys are removed from the vehicle running the battery dead over night. Cant always remember to shut everything off. BIG Problem. We cant rely on it! Very disappointed. Great vehicle other than that. Ford dealership cannot find a problem. So far 4 separate instances with a brand new battery.

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  THIS IS WHAT COOL LOOKS LIKE - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By JOY215 - February 15 - 9:53 am

  This car handles so precisely that its fun to drive. I was ready to trade in my beloved Bonneville (2000) and got a really good deal. The factory incentives sold me, not to mention that my husband sells Fords! I love the style, both inside and out. Interior is very roomy and comfortable.

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  Focus Forever! - 2002 Ford Focus
  By Chelly - February 15 - 2:00 am

  Fell in love with the look...Now the whole experience. Excellent handling & response. Great fuel economy, I have a 2002 ZX3 and Im averaging 28-32mpg. Not bad for a 2.0 that gets a good workout from time to time. Speed, pick-up, 0-60...All FANTASTIC! The most I hear from ppl. is "nice car, how do you like it?" "Roomy inside...you wouldnt know it by the outside." "I want one!" Love this car!

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  focusonfocus - 2002 Ford Focus
  By clintondee - February 15 - 2:00 am

  Sterring is great. fuel economy so-so. get up and go so-so. Rides nicely.