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 - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Craig - September 25 - 9:58 pm

  Only have 2500 miles so far, but coming from a 2000 Super Duty, which was a great truck, I was skeptical. I am very pleased with this truck 14mpg city 17mpg hwy, less road noise and wind noise than my wifes Grand Caravan. I very much enjoy driving my new truck. Comfortable seats and nice layout of controls.

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  Wonderful, Wonderful - 2000 Ford Focus
  By gsdallen - September 25 - 9:01 pm

  When looking for a small wagon I had certain criteria. I needed something that would fit my family of people and pets. The Focus is economical, stylish, and fun to drive. It truly is the vehicle for me and others who are looking for a small wagon...whose numbers are dwindling.

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  So far I love it - 2006 Ford F-150
  By LEFHNDR - September 25 - 7:40 am

  I just leased the 06 FX4 SuperCrew after driving a BMW, Volvo and Benz in that order. I had an F-150 about 9 years ago. My how things have changed. I researched a lot of trucks, especially the new Ram since we get family pricing, but it could not match the quality that I found with the Ford. The interior is what ultimately did it for me. I still feel like I am in my C230 Kompressor. The ride will take some getting used to, but I love being able to see the road. My kids and wife love it. Theres a lot of room in the back and my wife says she is more comfortable in the truck than any of my previous cars. The engine is a little sluggish for such a big V8, but it handles well for such a big vehicle.

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  Great SUV - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Chevy Guy - September 25 - 2:00 am

  Drove Chevys entire life and was sold on this Ford. Great SUV. The independent rear suspension is worth every peneny! V6 is adequate for day to day driving and has plenty of acceleration. Would recommend the V8 if you plan on a lot of hauling. Couldnt be happier. Great value for what you get. Only problem after 6,000 miles is an occasional start up problem. Sometimes it doesnt fire up properly when the engine is still warm. Sounds like this could be a common problem. Hopefully Ford is working on a fix. Great car. Extremely pleased!

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  Great little SUV!! - 2002 Ford Escape
  By TJ#1 - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I have just under 10,000 miles on the 02 XLT Choice Escape and just love this little thing. It tows better than expected and gets amazing gas mileage. It has almost as much cargo space as an explorer, but has a much smoother ride and much better mileage. My ONLY complaint is the 4 wheel drive is a joke when you are realy stuck. Whatever tire is free will be the only one spinning.....

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  Windstar SEL - 1999 Ford Windstar
  By mpastick - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I wouldnt trade this van for the world. The price was pricier but the SEL is a luxory van more than a mini van. Everyone compliments on the van. Ive had no problems to date. I love it.

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  Great Truck - 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By Jason - September 24 - 5:13 pm

  The first time I saw this truck I wanted one. I bought this truck and it is the best vehicle I ever owned. We went camping and the truck box was great for hauling all of the gear. I cant wait until the 2007 Sport Trac and will buy one unless my wife buys one first.

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  grestest car i bought so far - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By forestr888 - September 24 - 4:30 pm

  I had a 2008 Ford fusion and love it but decided to upgrade and have not regretted yet dealer gave me a great deal and I have been loving my new car ever since and the SYNC system is one of the sickest system I seen so far.

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  Duz it all.... - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By Hutch7 - September 24 - 3:48 pm

  Picked this wagon up cheaply with low miles. So far so good comfortable, handles well and with the 24V Duratec, is really pretty quick for a mid-size wagon.

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  Our Ford Escape Hybrid - 2005 Ford Escape
  By McCollums - September 23 - 9:16 pm

  It is just fun to ride in, drive... we like knowing it is helping the environment... and our wallets. Please keep making them Ford! We also got a Kermit sticker for it, and people love them and remember the commercials.