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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  A Kick - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By knutwicksell - May 18 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Mustang and I love it - fun to drive and comfortable. Peppy and Reliable. The last one had more than 140,000 miles with only one clutch and one set of brakes.

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  Well worth the money - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By EHF - May 17 - 4:26 pm

  I now have over 8500 miles on this car since June 07, including several 400+ mile trips. Gas mileage has been better than advertised, averaging over 34 miles per gallon composite city and highway driving (I do drive with economy in mind and have filled my tires with dry nitrogen which also helps economy). The ride remains very smooth, comfortable, and tight. Acceleration when required is good. Handling is quick and nimble (that doesnt make it a sports car though) and there is still no sign of tip-up while cornering. This vehicle continues to be everything I had hoped for and more, thank you Ford for making it available and please build more hybrids for us (e.g., a Ford Fusion Hybrid).

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  2014 Ford Fusion Hybred - 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By xboeing1 - May 17 - 1:34 am

  I love this car. I have to admit something though. The styling is directly out of a James Bond movie. The front design, which looked exactly like the Astin - Martin sports car. How is this possible for Ford to do this? Easy one, they own part of the company so no lawsuits. As a 70 year old man who still has a serious love affair with the James Bond myth what could I do but buy one. Now I have to say its doubtful that ever Bond were real he probably wouldnt have been driving a 4 door sedan but I can deal with that:o). As every adult knows when you fall in love with something you lose all negotiating ability. I dont think I got a great deal but I love the car.

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  The Beast - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Bravosfan - May 16 - 10:15 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. Great highway ride with ample room, tows a mountain, and can go off road with the best of them. This beast is big, comfortable, and safe. I can put a hybrid in the rear cargo area!

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  great new f150 - 2009 Ford F-150
  By rjh - May 16 - 9:11 pm

  recently traded my 2oo5 f150 king ranch in for 2009 same version , the 2005 had no problems but the gas mileage was only 13.5 to 14.5 non towing and 7 or 8 towing two horse trailer .the new truck is averaging 17.3 to 18.5 not towing and 11 to 12 towing.the interior is much more refined with darker red/brown leather that will show less wear and staining then older version.the hood design has been changed so one can see more hood in front which is now sculpted and more enjoyable to look out over.the interior is much more refined with a much nicer dash and center console and the rear seat area is cavernous.Love this truck.

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  Love my New Focus SE - 2009 Ford Focus
  By AmberGoldInIowa - May 16 - 5:31 pm

  I have had this car 6 weeks now. Love how it drives, great gas mileage, 30.2 city and got 38.7 on a recent trip to Indiana. It gets around and handles well. The only thing I noticed was the cross winds out on the highway messes with the handling a bit so you have to pay close attention. As for the interior, I got the cloth type seats, and it is all that hard plastic. The plus about it is easy to clean but it does collect lint really easy so I have to keep wiping it down. My dealer talked me out of the SYNC unfortunately and I wish I had it but the Sirius is wonderful but needs better audio system. Great car for the price,,would buy it again.

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  GREAT Family SUT - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Dave HArmon - May 16 - 4:26 pm

  I bought this truck used with about 30k. It now has over 50K and the only problem was left rear turn signal would not work sometimes. I tracked the problem to the switch in the column. The wire for that bulb was too short, factory defect, and would get pulled enough to stop the electrical feed. Other than that it has been a great little truck.

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  2004 Ford Explorer Orig. Sticker Price? - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Yankeeboy1 - May 16 - 3:18 pm

  I just purchased a pre-owned 2004 Ford Explorer XLT, 4x4, sunroof, V-8, 3rd seat, DVD, CD, running boards, keyless entry, all options, last owner had memo title in glove box stating purchase price of $46,029.17? Could this be correct? This no where near came up to this on any sites I looked at? Anybody validate this original price for me on an 2004 Explorer?

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  The Flex Demonstrates Whats Possible - 2009 Ford Flex
  By Madlock - May 16 - 1:45 pm

  Even if the Flexs "love it or hate it" looks dont appeal, its superior fit and finish, material quality, and carefully thoughtful design certainly should. And if its tremendous utility doesnt make a compelling-enough case, its comfort certainly will. Ford took a chance with the Flex, making tremendous investments in quality throughout, and it shows. Its styling may not suit everyones taste, but everything else about it should. Ford has engineered the kind of "German" solidity rarely found in American vehicles, and doors close with a rassuring "Shunk!" The Flex simply feels both solid and refined, and the Limited trim meets any reasonable standards for luxury that exist. Kudos to Ford.

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  I couldnt be happier! - 2009 Ford Mustang
  By SFCJRice - May 16 - 6:21 am

  Overall a great car for the price! The styling is great and I get tons of compliments. I bought the V6 model for gas and insurance reasons and am happily surprised by the power. I have the manual transmission so I get more power and it is more fun to drive. The premium edition is a must have option. I plan on giving this to my son in two years and then I will be buying the GT version.