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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  Great Truck! - 2001 Ford F-150
  By ford lover - September 28 - 8:36 am

  This has been the best truck that we have owned. With three kids it really makes it nice for them and they have plenty of leg room.

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  Great Car - 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By Chad - September 27 - 11:16 pm

  I read every review of this car before I purchased. This car feels like a luxury car with the NAV system, leather seats, etc. It is fun to drive and I get a lot of rave reviews from passengers. I am in the real estate business so the NAV system is a great benefit to me. I like the voice activation feature as well.

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  Hybrid fwd - 2009 Ford Escape
  By Stock - September 26 - 8:33 pm

  Our 2nd Hybrid; 1st was an 05 right out of the box (sr # 123) ; it was faultless. Our 09 is even better - worth the wait. More power in both engines w/no reduction in gas mileage.Transmission greatly improved over 05 cvt. Firmer footprint on road, best looking interior of any compact suv in the world. Steering much improved & less pitch over bumps. We had tire tread remaining after 66k on the 05 but the 09 tires are even better. Compare Mariner w/ livery package to Limited.

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  I LOVE this Freestyle - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Mardi - September 26 - 6:31 pm

  I never dreamed I could actually enjoy a "non-performance" car so much. I bought this vehicle strictly for practical purposes and expected to find it to be ho-hum. It is so comfortable, responsive, and agile that I find myself thinking of it as a fun vehicle after all. My criteria when I bought was that it hold six passengers with some degree of comfort. With high gas prices we wanted a family vehicle that would carry our extended family without having to take two cars. We all, from my 86 year old mother-in-law to my two-year-old grandson, choose the Freestyle even when we dont need the extra room. On top of that, it converts for cargo so easily, I often use it instead of the truck.

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  I love My New Escape - 2007 Ford Escape
  By Anglea - September 26 - 6:08 pm

  I had a 2005 Escape 4 cylinder and wasnt as satisfied. The 2007 6 cylinder is a much smoother ride and quieter engine. I also like the darker tint on the windows and the 6 CD sound system. So far, I am very happy with my vehicle and I am still excited about the service that I received at my dealership. There doesnt seem to be as much brake dust build up.

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  used car = wow - 2003 Ford Focus
  By century33 - September 26 - 5:20 pm

  We have owned our Focus ZTW wagon for almost 2 years. Purchased used with 13,644 miles on it, we got this fully loaded car for a great price and couldnt be happier with it. In this time we have driven 42,356 miles and the only repairs were new brakes and tires just within the past few weeks. This wagon is truly fun to drive on long trips. 795 miles = about $70.00 gas when gas was almost $3 per gallon, and the cargo room is great. This car replaced a 1994 Escort wagon LX that is STILL running. We loved that car as well, but needed something newer. In a nutshell... if you are in the market for a new small wagon, consider looking at a used Focus, its a great value.

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  Love the room and ride - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By steve - September 26 - 3:53 pm

  Replaced a Dodge intrepid 94 with the new 500. Many new features and love the large seating and trunk. Picked the AWD, due to high speed stability. 2WD was twitchy on back roads. First tank of gas was 27.5 mpg. The body is tight and very good craftsmanship. The trunk can be rented out for an apartment.

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  Kudos for Ford - 2006 Ford Focus
  By Nookarr Beier - September 26 - 2:38 pm

  Being thrifty and practical, I researched extensively before buying. The Focus wagon is what I was looking for, and I have been greatly pleased. Averaging 34 mpg (should be 40 in my opinion), lots of cargo space, good comfort features, more power doodads than I care for, comfy seat. I replaced a Corolla wagon with it. While not a Corolla, its a very good car. I like the ride - suspension carries me across unpaved roads, construction sites, etc. without jarring. Ive done high-speed highway driving with passengers as well. No real complaints, but good praise.

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  Great little hybrid - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By suegross - September 26 - 1:00 pm

  $3.00 gas got my attention and had me to look at hybrids. Am not a tree hugger-retired & trying to save some green! I drove many hybrid vehicles and all were impressive. The Escape looked and felt more like a typical car. Replaced 2002 Explorer V8 (15/19 MPG). Escape is averaging between 39 and 42 city & 33 miles highway driving from Destin to Cincinnati at 70+ mph. Ride is very comfortable and sufficient head room (62"). Acceleration is more than adequate. AC works very well in the normal mode. When waiting at a long light, the ac does not stay cold. Navigation system works well and is not distracting like the Prius. Sound system very good. Great visibility and easy to get in/out.

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  Good 97 F250 - 1997 Ford F-250
  By Happy - September 26 - 1:22 am

  Bought at 62k, now at 97k. Strongest pickup I have ever owned. Trailer pulling dream. Only has the 4.6 and still pulls like a mule. 100% dependable. Moving into a Super Duty, but sure going to miss this truck.