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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  Great Vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mdkobe - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a van since SUVs offered no more additional seating than a car, but once we got in this SUV with the 3rd row seating, I was in love. Roomy and spacious it fits my growing family well.

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  Fantastic - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By wjl - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Has very smooth ride. Has lots of room.

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  Ford Explorer Review - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By LVarv - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I love my Explorer! Since I have started driving, I have always driven one. Ford has made some decent improvements to them over the years that is why I am a returning customer.

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  Ford Adventure. - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Teresa Hall - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Owning an SUV has changed my way of thinking about driving. I truly enjoy driving any where as long as Im in my Ford Explorer. It is roomy, extremely comfortable, stylish design, perfect color, and good on gas mileage. I may never go back to driving a car again. I thank God for my Ford Explorer. I think every one should have the opportunity to drive a Ford Explorer at least once.

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  american trucks - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mondo - April 1 - 10:00 am

  The Ford Explorer has defined what the American SUV consumer wants in a sport truck. The reliability of the Ford trucks,and the charater say "This is me." The NBX allows me the power of a V8 with a rugged yet civilized interior is what most Americans want (especially me). I wonder if the Aussies know about this?

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  can you say transmission - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By lady josephine - April 1 - 10:00 am

  the first transmission went out nov 03 the dealer southbay ford put a rebuilt transmission then less than a week later put a new transmission then again jan 04 other than it drinks alot of gas the car is really nice.

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  Love the Probe - 1996 Ford Probe
  By Chemboy - April 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 96 GT Probe new and have loved most everything. I whine constantly about no lights in the glove box and trunk (and on the GT model--come on Ford!) My only problem has been leaky oil gaskets found when replacing the timing belt and a tune- up at 80,0000 miles...and there was the problem with the power window fixed under warranty. Other than that, it has driven like a dream and looks very sleek especially with the rear spoiler.

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  I love my sho - 1994 Ford Taurus
  By chasebarton - April 1 - 2:00 am

  Best vehicle I have ever owned. Good quality and performance. I love it!

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  A Good Friend - 1997 Ford F-150
  By Rocky Mountain High - April 1 - 2:00 am

  Bought this truck new - it had recalls but nothing major - this truck has done everything asked of it - 4 wheeling it has been through mud, snow, and rivers - over rocks - never got stuck - the ride is smooth and power adequate - the seat comfort is great

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  2016 Needs New Throttle Body @ 8200mi - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Tom Daly - March 31 - 9:00 pm

  I find that the Explorer has too many creature comforts to list and talk about, but like some of the other customers on this site a faulty throttle body causes concern. The Ford has all the appointments that a Euro/Japanese Lux SUV would have at much lower price point. I got stuck with the vehicle in limp mode on a semi-busy road at rush hour with my two boys. Roadside Assistance was very impressive through the whole thing, but by reading blogs and comments on different forms I believe Ford should issue a formal recall for the throttle body. It was a one day fix and I think I am good now. I still would buy the car again based on the value / dollar spent ratio versus high end SUV competition. Love the new LED and LED fog lamps, its almost like never having to drive in the dark. Brakes are a bit soft and feel challenged to come to a stop quickly. Sound is good and I have had many compliments on the vehicle looks. Some have even said, "nice range rover".