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:

• 

  Great Vehicle, Stellar MPG - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Mikey533 - June 8 - 10:20 pm

  I have been watching the Escape Hybrid since it came out in 2005. I have read a lot of reviews, and knew to wait until after 1000 miles to check MPG. Also, have read enough to know that cold weather drops MPG, but that is the cost of living someplace cold. I set the cruise on my 35 minute highway drive to work at 70 for the first month and averaged 32.5 MPG. Second month I set the cruise at 65 and it jumped to 34.5. Add in the city driving and I get around 35.5. I had to rush home one day, and it really does move like a V-6 when you stomp on it. I rode in a 2006 a few times before, and again after, buying mine, and the 2008 is quiet. Engine rev noise only when it is working real hard

• 

  Convinced, happy owner - 2006 Ford Focus
  By dimes4slim - June 8 - 3:36 pm

  Being that our other cars are luxury or sport vehicles, I wasnt sure how I would adapt to my new commuter car. Two and a half years into my ownership, I have had zero problems. The Focus is reliable, very comfortable, handles well and gets a consistent 28 mpg in normal driving. It may not have been so fashionable when I bought it, but now that gas is $4+ per gallon, it is the envy of all of many SUV owners. The seats are great on long trips, and the 5 speed manual puts a smile on my face. With the rear seats folded down, there is a credible amount of hauling space. Simple, sporty, reliable, and economical, with great handling as a bonus. Im convinced that the Focus was a wise choice.

• 

  Family and Forceful car - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By ABmoc2 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Fords best Taurus. Love the engine sounds.

• 

  way to go Ford - 2012 Ford Focus
  By aenigmatic - June 8 - 6:41 am

  I have recently purchased my first domestic auto (other than my moms buick I had in HS) in this new Focus and I am really impressed. There are so many features it is easier to ask what it doesnt have than what it does have. More importantly, these features work well, all the way down to the rain-sensing wipers (!). The steering is responsive, the engine sounds great, and the fuel efficiency is best of breed. I have owned VW, Honda, Acura, Toyota, Nissan, Saab, BMW and Buick. I can truthfully say that this is the nicest car I have ever had, and no one will ever accuse me of being a snob for driving it.

• 

  A lot of bang for the money - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By Brian - June 8 - 12:11 am

  I purchased my 2002 GT in March of 2007 after waiting many years to be able to afford one. This car is a real head turner in Laser Red with the factory 5 spoke aluminum rims. I have upgraded the exhaust with a set of Flowmaster 40s (mufflers) and the intake with a K&N cold air intake. Both aftermarket options cost about $500 installed and completely changed the car and woke it up. Would recommend these ad-ons to anyone. A real fun dependable fuel efficient car for the money. I bought the car with 49,000 miles on it and now have 57,000 and I have done nothing but change the oil and put rear brake pads on it.

• 

  2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid Hits Another Homerun! - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By revjamesl - June 7 - 6:00 pm

  Can Ford get any better? I had a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid Limited and it was a tremendous car. The 2013 Fusion Hybrid is that much better. Where do I begin? The style of the car is high end, and agree with reviews that it resembles Jaguar and Aston Martin. Very sleek exterior; nice interior. Have always been a fan of the Sync system and its easy-to-use interface. Spacious interior provides plenty of room and is very comfortable. It advertises as getting 47/47 mpg and I have to say I have been getting into the 50s in city driving with ease. Im never been much for red cars but the Ruby Red is beautiful and fits the design of the car very well.

• 

  My first convertible - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By redrock360 - June 7 - 1:32 pm

  Ive always wanted a convertible, now I have one. The car is fun to drive, very comfortable for a sports car, and I am really suprised at how great the ride is. I expected more road noise with the top up, so I am pleasantly surprised at the lack of noise. You can carry on a conversation with a passenger in normal tones with the top down. Same goes for listening to the radio. The V6 has plenty of power for an old guy like me (late 40s) and is pretty quick also.

• 

  Thinks its a Sports car! - 2005 Ford Focus
  By Antarababe - June 7 - 4:30 am

  I downsized from my much-loved 2000 Explorer for the fuel economy. And though it doesnt seem to get the 35mpg as promised - it sure is fun to drive. Not the least bit sluggish for a 4 cylinder. Fast out of a start, feels like rack & pinion steering, doesnt hesitate to go up hills. Holds everything my SUV did and then some. Perfect car for a single, self- employed, travel-loving, antique addict. And itll be light enough to tow when I get that retirement motor home.

• 

  Ford Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Winkler - June 6 - 10:03 pm

  Excellent visibility, handling - braking in poor weather (rain, ice, snow). Dashboard is straight forward; all controls easy to operate without excessive movement. Fold down passenger seat allows carrying items as afforded by full size SUV.

• 

  We Love Our Flex - 2018 Ford Flex
  By BoyMom - June 6 - 1:14 pm

  Honestly we traded in our 2014 Flex for this 2018, while I do believe the dealer screwed us a bit on pricing, I feel that ford stepped up their game, sync is amazing now and the iPhone connection is just a dream. Feels great not as smooth as our old flex, not sure why, and Im not sure why they are stating that there is worse mileage now but controls I would say are great, Ive always loved the turning radius and it still has it, as well as all of the room it has. Im not sure I agree with a lot of the experts review, but it did put a damper to my excitement of getting it, wish I had never looked. And the 12volt really should be standard