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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  Best choice for mid-size SUV AWD - 2009 Ford Escape
  By Carole - November 21 - 8:48 am

  I read reviews, test drove 15 different, checked out 10 dealers. Hands down the Ford Escape was the best deal for us. The RAV 4 is way overpriced, seats very uncomfortable. We couldnt imagine what agony a long trip would be. Same with everything else we drove. Weve logged 5900 miles in 3.5 months. Theres not much we dont like other than the gas mileage & the paint surface is already scratched. Lowering the back seats does require getting used to & the position of the arm rest/console could be moved forward for easier access. Glove box useless. Winter weather will determine if the love affair continues.

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  Terrific car - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Paul - November 21 - 8:06 am

  My wife and I are extremely pleased with our Fusion SE. Whatever shortcomings the previous model had Ford has addressed them. Compared to a couple other competing sedans we were immediately impressed by the style of the interior, the tastefulness of design and quality of materials. The exterior is sporty and the honeycomb taillights are neatly shaped. The adjustable lumbar support is really nice and the six-speed automatic is very smooth. The ride is quiet and the suspension has just the right amount of compliance. This is a quality car-do check it out.

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  Best purchase Ive ever made - 2009 Ford Edge
  By Andrew - November 20 - 2:50 pm

  This Edge is a great vehicle. The SYNC system is a great safety feature. I was involved in an accident when a person turned left right in front of me and I was on the phone with 911 in less than 5 seconds. Highway MPG has been excellent for a vehicle of its size at 24-25 mpg at 70-75 mph. In town I average 18-19 mpg. The quality of the interior is outstanding. The leather is plush, the heated seats excellent, and the air conditioning is strong. Plenty of power, smooth shifting, comfortable seating and great view. Only negative is its hard to judge how wide it is when entering our garage, Ive had a few near misses with the mirrors.

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  Great alternative to a minivan - 2010 Ford Flex
  By Husband with kids - November 20 - 10:52 am

  We had to replace our Quest minivan due to a nice lady plowing into the back of it and were set to get another van when we noticed the Flex on-line. After driving a limited, I was impressed at all the features but not the price or the ride (those 20 inch hoops look great but you feel every bump in the road). We priced out an SEL with the 207 option package that gives you leather, power lift gate, Snyc, power memory seats and pedals, and a bunch of other goodies. We also got the tow package and power fold seats which are great but when you have a child seat strapped in, that feature is pretty useless. $200 over invoice before rebates. A great vehicle overall.

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  A treat to drive - 2002 Ford Focus
  By focussed - November 20 - 10:00 am

  I havent had a single problem with my focus. So far, I love everything about it. It has plenty of power, thoughtful extras, and TONS of space!

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  Incrediable - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Rex Stefanhauser - November 20 - 10:00 am

  I simply think Mustang are the best cars on the panet!

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  katie - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By moondust - November 20 - 10:00 am

  this is the best car i have ever owned

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  Outstanding - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Motcee - November 20 - 10:00 am

  Its a great looking truck both inside and out. It is as comfortable as a car, handles like one and boy does it have some get up and go. This is my third suv. The other two were broncos. They handled like trucks but being an suv person, I liked them anyway. I thought I would miss the room in the broncos but the escape is perfect. I find myself thinking up errands to run just to drive it. I am more than satisfied with it.

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  LOVE IT - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By PFN - November 20 - 10:00 am

  We love the vehicle far more than we thought we would. It is a joy to drive.

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  No Buyers Remorse - 2001 Ford F-150
  By shovel77 - November 20 - 10:00 am

  I have owned over 50 cars and trucks in my life and this is the only purchase with NO buyers remorse. I like everything about this pickup. And I especially love the real saddle leather seats. With 20,000 trouble free miles under my belt, this is by far the most pleasurable car/truck that I have ever owned. Just a bit diappointed with the limited color choices though. Would prefer a lighter color (mine is dark blue).