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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  family hauler - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By garryone - May 15 - 7:49 pm

  no problems in 18,000 miles smooth dependable power,this is not a race wagon but will get you up to highway speeds once you learn how the cvt trans works. City fuel milage at 24.4 summer 22 in winter and highway 27.5-33 mpg.

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  fromflextocmax - 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  By charliedee - May 15 - 3:50 pm

  Took our Flex to our local dealer for service. Decided to look new Fusion while waiting. Only Fusion available was a hybrid. Drove it, parked it beside C-Max when we returned. Didnt know what it was, drove it, purchased it. The car available was loaded, really didnt think that automatic parallel was necessary. Dealer made us what we considered a great deal, so we took it. Have yet to try the automatic park. Have had the car a little over a week, no highway driving as of yet. Currently averaging 39-41 mpg town driving. Very impressive car,all my friends who have driven it were surprised with the take off power. Wish a power seat was offered for the front passenger, but no big deal.

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  Just test drove and had to buy it - 2010 Ford Mustang
  By TR - May 15 - 12:05 pm

  Cant say much about reliability but after a test drive, I didnt want to get out of it. Quiet! Quiet like a Camry but so much cooler. Interior looks like a premium Infiniti or Lexus. Drives beautifully. Very different from the 2009 -2008 model. Much more refined and the style cannot be beat.

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  I like it! - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By rlgay1000 - May 15 - 2:00 am

  Have had a new thermostat put in. Have also had to have air/fuel valve replaced. Buts its a fund truck to drive and very versatile with pickup bed and room for 5 adults!

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  No dissapointment here - 2008 Ford Escape
  By tulsagirl - May 14 - 6:34 pm

  Ive had my Escape for two years and am suprised at the negative reviews. I havent had one problem with mine. I was actually involved in a serious accident last year and the Escape protected me. I was not injured. I do agree that they should not have put in a 4 speed tranny or used drum brakes but other than that I still love my Escape. Ive had Fords all my life and only regret that I cant buy a new one every year.

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  Good Things from Ford - 2009 Ford Flex
  By Reid Umphrey - May 14 - 1:05 pm

  It looks like all the focus from Ford on Quality has really paid off for them. I am degreed Aersospace Engineer as well as a Certificated Aircraft Mech and ASE Mech. I was a GM guy through the first 25 years of my driving life and had an very bad lemon experience with a GM Truck. The GM service manager actually told me that if I wanted a real truck I needed to go to the "Blue Oval". Went to Ford in 2000 and never looked back. We were looking for a replacment for my wifes 92 Astro Van. I stopped by the Dealership and though the Flex was just awesome. I really though she would think I had lost my mind to think she would drive it. The rest is history. Bought one and really like it!!!

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  2008 Ford Edge SEL - 2009 Ford Edge
  By Fernando - May 14 - 12:34 pm

  I purchased a brand new 2008 Ford Edge back in March 2009 and I love the car. It feels like a real car. Its performace is awesome and not to mention its outside and inside design. Even my wife wants to drive my car more often than her Honda Pilot. The Sync system is great and if you are into technology, you will enjoy it even more. I must say that Ford really scored a 10+ on this one.

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  Love my car - 2007 Ford Taurus
  By H. Current - May 13 - 11:25 pm

  I dont know why edmunds complain. I love my ford taurus. I had a 1998 ford taurus and got almost 200,000 miles on it before I bought my 07 ford taurus. My son now drives my old one. No problems. The ride is smooth,it responds quickly, and the style inside and out are as up to date as any 07 models.

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  I love my Taurus - 2009 Ford Taurus
  By karenmelissa98 - May 13 - 6:22 pm

  I needed a good dependable car, Im a Hospice nurse. I drive in all kinds of weather and needed lots of room for all of my nursing supplies. I absolutely love this car and have no complaints about it.

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  BEST SUV FOR THE MONEY - 2007 Ford Edge
  By Jason - May 13 - 4:34 pm

  This vehicle shows the direction Ford is going. Better interiors, high quality and still amazing performance. This makes it a winner. I think any Dad would love this as a very safe, fun and versicle package. This car received the highest score for safety. Believe me once someone hits you and you are in a car accident you will check this every time before making a decision on a car for you and you family. Safest CUV available. I think any young or fun couple with love to have this in their garage.