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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  What a gem! - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By bigbearvo - August 5 - 12:20 am

  I cannot believe I have the good fortune to own this beauty. I waited over 3 months, but it was way worth it. This may be the best vehicle Ford has ever designed and built. Its comfortable, controls are intuitive and well laid out, documentation is excellent, and that sweet silence when you come to a stop is sublime. Most impressive is how much roominess is built into the interior for a small suv. I couldnt be happier or more impressed.

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  Love my Esacpe - 2002 Ford Escape
  By Gary Strickland - August 4 - 10:40 pm

  We have 7000 miles on our 2002 Escape, and have enjoyed putting every mile on it. Love the height of the seats, and the firmness.

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  It will Surprise You - 2016 Ford Focus
  By David Holmes - August 4 - 1:13 pm

  It makes you feel great to be the owner. Others are impressed with the quality as well.

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  Best Car - 2016 Ford Fusion
  By Tyler - August 4 - 9:13 am

  This car is by far one of my favorite cars. We currently have a 2014 Cadillac CTS, 2014 GMC 1500 SLT, 2011 Subaru Outback and a 2011 Subaru Impreza Outback. Let me tell you this car drives better than all of them. The car is just as quiet as the Cadillac and has a lot of pep on the go. Forget about those ugly Chevys, too me they didnt even come close. This car is really only used to go to Allentown and back and it has a better fuel economy than my 2013 Ford Focus hatchback (which I traded in for this one). Every one comments on it and loves it. I have customers coming in my business every day and ask about it all the time and how great it looks. Great car, if you are even consider looking at one make it one of your top choices, you wont regret it!

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  van for life! - 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon
  By keyfri - August 4 - 2:00 am

  This van wants tobe filled and driven accross the country nd be a part of your family. It will gaim a personality. It will last forever because oof the 4r100 tranny that i actually did try to shoot a bullet through!Dont let it fool you it liokes to huil everything and more!

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  my thoughts - 2004 Ford Escape
  By tmmone - August 4 - 2:00 am

  second escape and loving it

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  Great SUV with easy modifications - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By mustang133 - August 4 - 2:00 am

  My 3rd Explorer Sport. Lowered by 1.5" - front adjustable, rear blocks, Bilstein shocks and 275/60-17 tires improve handling 100%. 2.5" Flowmaster exhaust, K&N air filter and cool air intake and performance chip (ECU) increases HP to 250+ with 21-22 miles per gallon highway. These changes made the Explorer Sport an exceptional truck in handling and driveability, ride comfort and performance (faster than the V-8 Explorer). Ive driven it to Florida and back to New York with 3 passengers and loaded, including a roof carrier. Id much rather drive the Sport than my V-8 Crown Victoria on long trips now. Too bad, they stopped making it. Great truck.

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  No trust in this one - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Going Titan - August 4 - 2:00 am

  Love the design, but wish Ford would have put more thought into the vehicle. Replaced three thermostats, two waterpumps, sensors, breaks and rotars all under 45000 miles. No faith in this vehicle any longer when traveling long distances. New breaks, but it squeals like crazy when attempting to stop.

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  Red_Bird - 2003 Ford Focus
  By scjenk - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I have put 6100 miles on it in 3 months and have no problems to report. The car is very quiet comparded to its competition, and rides good for a small car. This is the best handling car I have ever driven, handles like an expensive sports car. Needs more power, especially when coupled to the automatic. Gas milage is a little disappointing, averaging 26 MPG for mostly highway driving.

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  quality truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By rhetor - August 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought this truck in 2002 and driven it for about two years now. No problems at all. Good, solid build. Functional, realiable with large cargo space long enough to hold a whole twin bed.