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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  Enjoy my Edge - 2010 Ford Edge
  By Robert S. - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I traded my Mercedes for the Edge, with no regrets. I considered a Mercedes SUV but that is like a Rolex clock radio, you just dont need it! I had owned several Fords in the past, Explorer, Ranger, Taurus, all were great. The ride on the edge is not as refined as the Mercedes, but it is darn close, $30K less makes it even more comfortable. The sync system is a step above anything else I tested. I recently took the Edge on 3,500 mile trip out west and enjoyed every minute of the drive, fuel economy was better than predicted. The dealership has been on par, or better, than my high end import experiences. Ford has really stepped up and delivered again.

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  Great Truck for the price - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Tonman - October 17 - 2:00 am

  Purchased this truck with only 25,000 miles on it for under 10,000. I love the 5 speed manual and sitting up high. I have owned Ford trucks all my life and will always by fords.

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  T burnin - 1995 Ford Thunderbird
  By tbirdn - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I have a 95 4.6 that i added a cold air intake with the chip, sensors, shift kit, magna flow exhaust, suspension, and i got to say it has never let me down and is a blast to drive. Watch out all you little turbo Hondas, Im coming. lol

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  Bad transmission - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Jefrey Luke - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the van used with 36,840 miles on it. I like the sliding doors on both sides. I have an aftermarket warranty with auto-life. They were terrible. They were looking for ways not to pay for the bad transmission. I do NOT recommend aftermarket warranties. After submitting all my receipts for my oil changes 2 were hand written by a smaller garage and in the "fine print" it says no hand written receipts. A mechanic friend of mine stated transmissions on Windstars were a problem in 03. Ford Motor wouldnt admit to it and said they will not do anything and that I have a isolated problem. Last Ford Ill ever buy and never will I buy a after market warranty especially from Auto-life.

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  Loving my FIESTA SEDAN! - 2011 Ford Fiesta
  By christos - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I recently picked up my new fiesta sedan SE, and very happy, find it to be an excellent choice, because i do a lot of km per year, i will save on fuel. For the money, i got all the options i wanted. I chose the SEDAN, because i travel a lot, and wanted a trunk that locks and fits / protects my belongings, plus i think it looks cute. On the highway, this car actually stays in line and doesnt get affected by crosswinds, which it typical in this size of car, but it drove like a bigger car. i wanted to write this review to share my thoughts and mention that this is a terrific all around vehicle that will suit many people. :) test drive it and you will see what i mean

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  Sweet - 2010 Ford Focus
  By kmshow - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I waited a long time for a new car and had all kinds of input from my husband, kids, siblings etc. When I drove the Focus I was sold, it is smooth, quiet and fun to drive. I wanted a Mini but was drawn to Ford because they did not take a Bail Out and I was so happy with the ride. Drive 25K-30K a year and am getting 33 miles per gallon. Love It!

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  Big Disappointment - 2011 Ford Edge
  By Mike R. - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 2008 Ford Edge Limited AWD for a 2011 with the same trim and options. I was so impressed with the quality, performance and reliability of my 2008 that I was drawn back to the Ford Edge when it was time for a new vehicle. So far it has been nothing but regret! My 2011 has much more road noise, loud clunking in right front suspension, worse gas mileage, less power (despite 20 hp increase over 2008), back-up camera that only works 50% of the time and touch screen that goes blank for no apparent reason. I could go on but limited to only 700 characters here. I only have 1500 miles on this vehicle and already have laundry list for service department when I have time to take in.

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  Wolf in sheeps clothing - 2011 Ford Edge
  By r.r. - October 16 - 2:00 am

  Nice looking good power but in 3 weeks its been in the shop going on 5 times driver door would not shut all the way come to find out the stricker plate for the door was drilled in the wrong place also needs anew door seal build quality seems to be poor all around m. P. G. At 58 mph 24 at 70 mph is 22.

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  Love this SUV - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By veryhappy - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Explorer 2 years used and have had it for 11 years. It has been extremely reliable with only the expected maintenance issues of a vehicle over time. If I had a child of driving age I would definitely consider this vehicle as a great option!

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  42 months and 93,000 km later - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By larry - October 15 - 2:00 am

  ur silver on black Pony was a retirement gift to ourselves. We have owned 3 Vettes and a 65 Impala convert, and the Pony has been the most fun, economical and reliable. We have put 93,000 km (60k mi) across most of Canada and winters in Arizona the past 3 years. Winnipeg winter mileage is awful, otherwise no fuel complaints. Initially we had a couple of minor warranty claims, otherwise wasted $ buying extended service plan as problem free. I follow the service book to the "T", and the car looks after us. Large trunk hauls our water jugs and groceries to our cottage fine. The heated leather seats are comfy and the car gets a lot of compliments.