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 car - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By david j. catlin - September 20 - 11:40 pm

  This car is a pleasure to drive, comfortable, quiet ride, build quality, color exterior and interior. The economy is very good. The transmission should have a lockout for the overdrove. Trunk space is another plus.

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  2001 explorer sport Z2 - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By Frisco - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle for a teenager. Not a great vehicle for a young couple.

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  Harley -F156 - 2002 Ford F-150
  By Thrill a Second - September 20 - 2:00 am

  This isnt my fathers Ford. All the Creature comforts plus the benefit of a Trucks versatility.

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  Taurus model Ho Hum - 2001 Ford Taurus
  By JR Cook - September 20 - 2:00 am

  This is a good looking body style, the interior is basic at best, very hard seats and a rough ride. We just got rid of a 92 Taurus with 153000 miles and runs great. The 92 is also snappier then my 2001. The 2001 has a strange feeling when shifting from 1st to 2nd. It also ate the first cd I put in it, and the replacement radio is on back order. How great. In closing I wish we would of got a Regal or Intrigue.

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  Be careful! - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Ellie - September 20 - 2:00 am

  We purchased our SUV to have a reliable new family vehicle. We have since had this SUV in the shop for 8 different problems. (new engine, wiring fire..it goes on and on) We have been left on the side of the road many times due to major problems. The size is nice and roomy for our family, and when it is running, we receive a nice ride. We have done routine maintenance and have taken good care of our Expedition. We had planned on this vehicle lasting for many years...however, we are ready to trade!

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  The Best Small SUV - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Rich - September 19 - 7:46 pm

  I have been a die hard Japanese buyer since 1979. When the American car makers, especially Ford, design an SUV that not only looks as nice as the Japanese models, but also performs as well and has the fit and finish to match, you owe it to reward them for their effort and purchase this only Hybrid SUV at the moment.

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  Buyer Beware Not Ready Yet! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By ROC - September 19 - 4:10 pm

  I bought this car because of all the hype concerning its release and because Ive been a loyal Ford Customer for 12 years and 4 cars later. I spent $30,000.00 for this new car and the transmission blew up at the 1,300 mile mark. They replaced the transmission but the car still has no power and never did. It hesitates when you step on the gas. Ford say thats normal with their new six speed transmission. I feel so taken in by Ford. They underpowered this car in an effort to keep the price tag down and Im sorry I ever purchased their lemon car.

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  The Ultimate Affordable Sedan - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By 500FX - September 19 - 3:30 pm

  I ordered this car as a company vehicle, and my first test drive was on the way home from the dealership. I am very impressed with this vehicle. It is well designed, and the fit and finish are excellent. The base SE model is very nicely equipped, and at a very affordable $22K price. I do appreciate the ride height and the ease of entry and exit. The car is very responsive, and the 6 speed transmission provides excellent gearing, combined with more than adequate power. Styling is similar to a $60K sedan, at less than half the price. I believe a Five Hundred belongs in every American driveway. This car has very nice styling and ergonomics. The SE performance with 6 speed is "adequately brisk".

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  Nice Ride - 2016 Ford Edge
  By Philip - September 19 - 8:58 am

  I have had my 2016 Edge SEL 2.0 for a few weeks so I dont have a full review yet. I had test drove the V6 but bought it with the 2.0 4cyl. I was concerned about engine vibration on a 4 cylinder but its not a problem and the car rides quietly and shifts smoothly. For normal driving the 2.0 is more than adequate and I came out of a V6 Murano. I want to correct Edmunds stats. The fuel recommendations for the 2.0 is regular fuel not below 87 octane as per the users manual, premium is not needed.

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  First Time Buyer - 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Mark - September 19 - 2:00 am

  My first opportunity to by a HY car and my first ever Ford. So far after 3 months both have been great. The buying experience was painless and the car is wonderful to drive. My kids even think itÂ’s cool to see the trees grow! Smart buy for the cost and the cost savings on gas.