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:

• 

  06 Fusion Built For The Road Ahead - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Cindy - July 3 - 7:00 am

  Since I purchased my Fusion, all other midsize cars pale in comparison. The ease of handling and the get up and go are to say the least, amazing!

• 

  Best small truck on the road - 2008 Ford Ranger
  By srhudgens - July 2 - 3:16 pm

  I bought a new Ranger this year, spurred on by the crazy rebates Ford offered on this truck earlier in the year. Replaced a 1995 Ranger XLT with over 220,000 trouble-free miles. These are the best small trucks on the road. Funny thing, I drove off the lot paying just $9,800 for a loaded 2008 Ranger XLT. The dealership gave me $2,000 for my 1995 Ranger. What wonderful trucks these are. Ford is making a huge mistake discontinuing the line. Leave it to an American auto company to discontinue the most fuel-efficient line of trucks in production just as gas prices set new records...

• 

  Fantastic Value - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By TheGraduate - July 2 - 11:03 am

  More than enough power. Shifts are incredibly smooth smoother than the 2008 LE-V6 Camry I drove recently probably the smoothest transmission Ive ever experienced, actually. Engine noise is very muted most of what you do hear is the exhaust note, which is quiet, but has a nice sound to it, very smooth yet husky. Handling is secure, and the ride is very smooth without being floaty. Brakes respond nicely, without much extra pedal travel. Sync is a pleasure. Seats are broad and supportive, but lack much side bolstering. Makes for easy entry/exit but doesnt hold you tight in corners. The leather is soft and perforated. Stereo sound quality from the more basic 6CD system is great.

• 

  My Ford Fun-fusion - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Sharon Curcerello - July 2 - 9:07 am

  This is the first new car I ever had. Always used. When I get behind the wheel of my Tungston grey Fusion I feel as if I am a queen. The style turns heads and many folk have asked me about this car since I purchased it. If fact, I have converted a few who were loyal to another make, to buy a Fusion. I just took a trip to Conneticut and arrived feeling like I drove 2 miles to the grocery store. Needless to say I just love my Fusion and really do have fun driving it.

• 

  This is a hauler, not a race car - 2005 Ford F-150
  By Zoomie - July 2 - 12:33 am

  This is a good truck. Ive had it six months and only one issue with a shock leaking when I first bought it. Dealer fixed promptly. Tows 8700 lbs! This is a bear in parking lots, a big, burly, beast. Comfortable cruiser that will take you anywhere, but not 0-60 in 3 secs. 4WD worked well in the snow, but I do wish Ford would invest in some additions like DRLs, auto 4WD, side airbags, satellite radio. Dont get me wrong, I love this truck, but I have to acknowledge its shortcomings. I LOVE the motor, I can go anywhere and really appreciate the 4WD and I can hook up the trailer (~7k lbs) and it will accelerate uphill! But I think the shorter wheelbase contributes to a slight rocking.

• 

  The best SUV in America - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By bobby smith - July 1 - 9:12 pm

  I purchased this vehicle with 182,000 miles on it and it has run real good for me. It still doesnt use any oil, and all the power features work 100%. It also does real good on fuel 16-19 city, 21-24+ highway with the sohc v6 engine. The Eddie Bauer leather seats are real comfortable. It has a sharp turning radius, and the 4x4 auto gets great traction.

• 

  A wonderful car. Thanks Ford. - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Mr. Engineer 74 - July 1 - 6:31 pm

  I bought this car new and it now has 30,000 miles. It has been 100% trouble free and everything works like new. Other than oil changes and tire rotations, the car has not needed any repairs of adjustments. It gets great mileage, even better than on the EPA sticker. I get 21 to 22 MPG in town and 28 to 29 on trips. The car is extremely plesant to drive and is very comfortable, even for tall drivers. The fit and finish are superb, rivaling the Mercedes and Infinity cars I have owned before. The leather seats have very good lumbar support and adjust to very comfortable positions. It will haul large loads with the seats folded down and will pull my 16 boat with ease at 75 mph. A great car

• 

  Nice - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By gnuoym - July 1 - 2:09 pm

  I had been shopping for cars about two months and was looking at everything but Ford. I couldnt find anything that fit my budget and my family. I realize now I waisted my time and should of gone to Ford first. This car is a great driving great handling car. A lot of fun to drive. If you are looking for a great car at an affordable price do check this car out. I went for the sports appearance package.

• 

  Excellent Car at almost 50K! - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Iceman - July 1 - 12:29 pm

  I have owned my car now for 16 months. I have 49K miles and have had my first "issue". I have to have a tailight bulb replaced today! This is a fantastic car. When I drive conservatively I can get 30mpg on the expressway. My combined mileage with the V6 is 23mpg with a 50/50 mix of driving. No squeaks and rattles. No expensive dealer service. Oil changes every 6k miles with Mobile 1 and K&N oil filter. This is a great car. Sirius is great! Only nit to pick is that the AC/heat blower could be a little quieter. Seats are also very comfortable for long trips! Go drive a Ford! Oh and this is from a former Honda owner!

• 

  Very Good Explorer - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Ben - July 1 - 8:57 am

  Purchased from a dealership last year, and so far no problems, other than a tire sensor indication. This SUV drives like a dream. No sudden jerking as far as acceleration very smooth ride. I like the fact that its equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission, and a middle console transmission gear shift, a very first for the explorer family. Gas mileage is really good for a normal SUVs I drove up to 25 mpg with a 65- 70 mph speed. Very nice interior! A/C system is really good front and back. Has great exterior lighting, especially the front headlights and fog lights. Definintely recommend the explorer to anyone who desires a SUV. As long as you treat it well, itll drive well.