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:

• 

  Awesome pickup - 2006 Ford F-150
  By pipelineguy - January 13 - 8:04 am

  My F-150 King Ranch is the most comfortable and easy to drive pickup I have ever owned. It is an excellent tow vehicle. We pull a 25 travel trailer and the towing stability and tracking is great. The only negative comment I have concerns fuel economy - however, I purchased this model for the comfort, features and Ford reliability. Hopefully, Ford will offer a diesel at some point in time. The bottom line is that this is an fantastic vehicle!

• 

  2016 Ford Escape SE AWD is Awesome - 2016 Ford Escape
  By Ardell Holmquist - January 13 - 8:00 am

  I purchased a 2016 Ford Escape SE AWD. I love the color the way it drives, interior is so nice. The overall Vehicle is AWESOME. I cannot say enough about how wonderful it is. Love the style and feel of this beauty. I would suggest anyone to own one.

• 

  Great car - 2008 Ford Fusion
  By Brian Jarvis - January 12 - 9:03 pm

  I enjoy driving this car. It has adequate power, exceptionally good handling, lots of room, a good sized trunk, an easily accessible information system including a compass and outside temperature, I like the moon roof but do not like the way that it intrudes into my head space. I have to adjust the seat more than I would like to avoid having my head make contact with the roof. I get around 8 litres/100k on the highway. Most of my city driving has taken place in a Canadian winter and has averaged 11.5 litres/100k, less than the computer showed. Four adults traveled from Canada to Myrtle Beach in comfort. We all packed light for the trip. The car was useless in snow until I bought snow tires.

• 

  Better than I expected! - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Roy - January 12 - 2:50 pm

  Once I started driving my Escape I realized how easily it really handles. It can turn on a dime and it steers very easily. The navigation system is superb! The ride is comfortable and the gas mileage improves as you put on more miles. I have obtained an "In Town" mileage of 34 mpg. On long trips I average close to 32 mpg.

• 

  This is the best car ever!!! - 2002 Ford Mustang
  By SpydermanV - January 12 - 10:00 am

  This car is one of the best cars i have ever had the pleasure to drive. It handles like a dream and is on of the most comfortable cars i have driven. When i drive it i feel like i am in total control at all times even when i test the handling of the car to its limits and almost feel the wheels slip out from under me while i take the turn at 100mph. The torque is great, it gives the car a classic muscle car feel and the suspension gives the feel of a high performance sports car. It has years of heritage behind it and this stang doesnt disappoint.

• 

  suprised - 2002 Ford Focus
  By scrunden - January 12 - 10:00 am

  I was impressed with the room the car had, the way it handles and rides. I thought id never own a small car again. I bought it on the advice of my brother who owns 3 for his business they all have at least 60,000 miles on them and are only 2 years old but he has had no problems with any of them. The only thing I wish for ishat the 130 hp engine was standard on all models.

• 

  Very Happy So Far - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Huskybass - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Im nearing 2000 miles and have no real complaints. The vehicle has met my expectations in all major areas.

• 

  Super Performance and Comfort! - 2002 Ford F-150
  By John Campbell - January 12 - 2:00 am

  I have been investigating these trucks for over 3 years and the people that Ive talked with agree these super trucks are unique and not for the average person. Average as in someone looking for a everyday driver/commuter type vehicle. These trucks dont get great gas milage, but thats the only negative thing about this truck. If youre looking for unreal performance, power, and stylish comfort and dont care about gas milage, do it!

• 

  Happy - 2001 Ford Explorer Sport
  By Marc Arch - January 12 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving the Explorer Sport. To me the Explorer Sport is a comfortable, quick, and agile truck. After 10 years of driving various trucks, and after renting numerous mini-utes, I purchased the right vehicle. Trucklike yes, but solid feeling with a quick smooth engine/tranny combo. Yes, maybe a little harsh through the front end on bumps, and gas mileage could be better. I find the steering accurate, body lean is far less than most other trucks and utes. (Less jiggly than the V6 Escape I had for 5 Days)

• 

  2001 Ford Mustang Cobra - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By ron08 - January 12 - 2:00 am

  The car runs great. The power and pickup are good. I get about 312 miles to the tank, which is not bad for a cobra. The only thing I have noticed is a lag in the drivetrain. It is only noticeable when accelerating slowly. The gears sound as if they are loose. It could be the IRS. I am getting the Kenny-brown suspension for it, so if that doesnt work it is gear or tranny related.