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:

• 

  Booboohips finally comfortable - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Booboohips - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I loved my 97 Crown Vic but my long legs and rebuilt hips were never comfortable. Sawgrass Ford gave me free loaners, usually Windstars, when I left the Vic for service. I noticed that my legs were in a much better position, my legs didnt cramp up from being stretched on low, and the van drove like a charm. Ive never been as happy and comfortable with any of the scores of cars Ive owned as I am with my Windstar

• 

  Great SUV, poor fuel economy - 2003 Ford Escape
  By dlfpsu69 - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I love everything about it except for the poor gas mileage -- I get about 15 in highway driving. I got better mileage in my Explorer which I traded on this.

• 

  Escape won me over - 2003 Ford Escape
  By "JR" - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Never owned a Ford.... never cared to. But then came the Ford Escape! Lots of BANG for the $$ and lots of room. Only Ford Id recommend!!!!! Thanks FORD!!

• 

  Daves Escape - 2003 Ford Escape
  By s9817 - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive always owned sports cars until the Escape. Its the most fun Ive had with a car.

• 

  great car - 2003 Ford Escape
  By DAVID MACKAY - September 6 - 2:00 am

  had for 2 yrs love it will get another

• 

  my escape review - 2003 Ford Escape
  By jim hennessy - September 6 - 2:00 am

  i have always owned a car up intil my wife and I decided that we need a vehicle for the future family we were planning. I was looking at other vehicles but she choose the escape. She went and test drove it and then she talked to some sales people.She took me to the dealership and I drove it I loved it and now I am the proud owner of an escape. I was not much of a ford man but owning this has changed my opion of fords.

• 

  Great Car - 2003 Ford Escape
  By tral2dax - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I love my Escape. Its the first car Ive ever gotten, and I have been pleasantly suprised by its performance. It drives much like a car, and I always feel safe inside my Escape. I highly reccomend it to anyone looking for a sporty, small SUV.

• 

  My 1st SUV!!! - 2003 Ford Escape
  By SUV for me - September 6 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV, so I cant compare with others. But so far, I have no complaints. The car chassis feature is why I chose it. I have been a Ford leaser for many years and did not necessarily wish to stay with Ford, but after checking other makes and models it was this vehicle that overwhelmingly won me over. I am happy I did the research and have been enjoying the easy ride, the ample space and the absolute comfort of my SUV!!!

• 

  My Company Vehicle - 2003 Ford Escape
  By repcritter - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I recieved this vehicle as a company lease and I LOVE It. As a pharmaceutical rep and travel a lot and need plenty of space for samples and promos. My vehicle has to be comfortable and spacious. While my Escape is not huge, it is sufficient for my needs and the drivers seat fits me well. My Escape has leather interior and 6 CD stereo and power seat. The visibilty is great due to the elevated chasis and well located windows. All controls are well within reach and the ride is not at all like a truck. My kids think it is SPORTY! and love to ride in it. Overall, the quality of my Escape is superior to all of my previous company vehicles.

• 

  big guy car - 2003 Ford Excursion
  By kakis10 - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Got diesel fuel economy 17 mpg. at present only complaint vehicle had no rear sway bar. I added one from hellwig big diffence. ford warranty needs to be addressed 3yr/360000 bumper to bumper. 5yr/100000 on drive train which means diesel motor only.