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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  Ford Taurus X review - 2009 Ford Taurus X
  By ahoelk - January 27 - 2:06 pm

  This is a good vehicle with great functionality, we had 6 adults in it for a weekend trip, plus luggage. The third row folds flat if needed. Ford had packaged this vehicle well with most toys in the limited. I have all features including nav, sync, rear heated heats. My only complaint would be that "softer" materials should have been used - overall the fit and finish is much improved over previous Ford vehicles (this is my fourth). It is sad to hear that Ford has discontinued the production - wagons are just not popular in this market place - in Europe most cars are wagons. The engine/transmission performs well, but a manual shift mode would have been great.

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  Not when its broken - 2002 Ford Escape
  By hanges - January 27 - 6:35 am

  This was the best performing vehicle that I have EVER owned too bad it had to go into the shop for work over 12 times in one year (20,000 miles). Rotors, fuel lines, EGR valve, fuel tank gaskets, etc. I did get 30 mpg with it and with it fully loaded (floor to ceiling with slip 40/60 seats) set the cruise at 72 and never have it drop below 70, even then going through the Rocky Mountains.

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  good bye old pard - 2002 Ford Focus
  By DICKSTER - January 26 - 8:19 pm

  I bought this car on impulse. Basically it had a practical style because of the functional hatchback design covering a tiger. I love to drive this car. It handles better than anything Ive owned or driven in the past although a turbocharger would have been better. The creature comforts are just right for this type of car. Its not a plush ride nor should it be. Too bad Ford hasnt figured out how to make a car reliable. Ive had all sorts of problems from bent axles to a failed oil pump causing me to replace the engine. Just replaced the dual mass clutch that literally exploded and not under stress. I dont enjoy waiting for tow trucks so its going to a new owner who will love the handling.

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  Cant stop a Ford - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By Ford Tough - January 26 - 12:11 pm

  I was given my 91 Explorer from a friend. The car had been sitting for 2 years without the doors even being opened, much less started. I opened the door cleaned the battery terminals and cranked the car, it started right up and has ever since. Its amazing after sitting neglected that long it started right up and I detailed it and it came clean and the paint even shines as does the leather. Its an amazing car I got mine for free but Id recommend anyone buy an Explorer!

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  06 Escape XLT keeps it real..... - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Michael - January 25 - 10:07 pm

  Redesigned in 2005, I love my new Escape. Really like the shifter on the floor. Very quick little truck. Build quality has stepped up. Test drove vs. CR-V. Honda will do very little with trimming price because list is not much above invoice. Ford is better at trucks, SUVs, and Japan is FAR better at cars. Get the moonroof and upgraded sound package (Sun and Sound). Black exterior w/ tan leather! Beautiful. Solid vehicle. Smooth ride and no float. Very pleased thus far. What are you waiting for?

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  Great truck, great value. - 2005 Ford Ranger
  By Grimtrek - January 25 - 9:08 pm

  If you need a full-size pick-up to haul big loads, then the Ford Ranger isnt for you. But if you want a fun, fuel efficient little pickup with moderate hauling ability then look no further. My Ranger gets about 24-26 mpg, in mixed highway/city driving. Being in a warm climate, I run the AC quite a bit and of course that reduces mpg. I have automatic transmission on mine and I enjoy driving this truck a lot. I would recommend this truck to a friend if they were looking for a truck thats inexpensive, looks good and is fuel efficient. This is my first Ford vehicle, but I suspect its not going to be my last, or my last Ranger either.

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  Ford - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Texas True - January 25 - 7:19 pm

  Reliable car designed for comfort. It is a great way to have a luxury car and durable truck all in one. Great amount of room for large families.

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  Best SUV Ive ever owned - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By CodyG - January 25 - 10:16 am

  Ive been driving SUVs since 1973. My first was a GMC Jimmy. All have been 4x4 since then and Ive had seven in all since 73, mostly GM products. This Ford Expedition has absolutely topped em all. It is very comfortable, handles great and turns much better than my last SUV Tahoe. Third third row seat ROCKS. The independent suspension is da bomb shizzle! I now have 110,000 miles with only one minor problem ... the rear AC went out. Other than that this SUV has given NO problems.

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  Keepin it until it dies. - 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Excellent Truck - January 25 - 9:13 am

  I love driving this truck, however because of poor fuel economy (17 mpg) cant use for commute. Handles great, only two repairs in 5 years. Traded a Toyota Tacoma when I bought Ford new and this truck is hands down better. It is perfect for our needs.

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  04 XLT 4X4 - 2005 Ford Escape
  By denman - January 25 - 2:00 am

  Nice vehicle for the size. Not too big or too small.