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 looking, mileage and price. - 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  By David ONeill - March 28 - 11:30 am

  Ordered from Ford with one option, the sports package. (Wheels and spoiler and sport interior) Very satisfied overall. Sticker said 47-47-47. Turns out it averages for me a solid 40.4 MPG. Ford eventually settled with owners and gave us a $750 rebate to cover the misquoted MPG. Out the door for around 29.5K. Over 35K on it and no complaints. A few minor recalls including reprogramming the computer so it can go up to 80 on the electric motor. (It was 62 when I bought it) All around I really like it.

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  Grandma loves this car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Sue D. - March 28 - 9:30 am

  I am an empty nester with grown children, grandchildren, and a dog. This car is perfect for the two car seats and a seat for the dog. I love being able to get in and out without climbing up or stooping down - a big plus for the over-55 group. Last week the seats were down and it was hauling mulch and flowers. I can get my bike in there with no trouble too when I want to go ride with the grandchildren. This car has all the versatility that this barely senior citizen loves.

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  From a Mini Van to a FLEX - 2009 Ford Flex
  By MEM - March 28 - 12:03 am

  This is the first American Car I have ever purchased and I am tickled Flex! I traded a Toyota Sienna Mini Van & have never looked back. The only thing I thought I *might miss are the sliding doors but it turns out the Flex doors are so wide its easy enough for the kiddos to get in and out. People stop and ask me about it wherever I go because there arent many out there. I def think the white roof on colored body makes it! This purchase was supposed to be for my hubby and yet in the end, I won. He loves it so much that we are thinking about buying a second Flex with a few less options. There is not one thing that I dont like about this car.

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  best small pickup Ive ever owned - 2002 Ford Ranger
  By stoshu - March 26 - 7:53 pm

  I bought the truck new. No options except CD player and a/c. I had a few problems with the engine skipping/sputtering a bit, all under warranty, and they fixed everything! The tray under the radio rattles, but thats about my only complaint. Gets great gas mileage , I got the 4 banger, and the radio is great. Handles very well for a small pickup, Ive put 60,000 miles on it and the original tires still look ok. The last new pick up i bought was a 92 Chevy S-10 Tahoe loaded with a 2.8 v-6. I drove the wheels off it for 8 years and the only thing that didnt break or rattle was the engine. I will never buy a GM product again. Ford is the way to go, Ill give this 1/2 ton to my son & buy another.

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  Impressive vehicle - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By Bill D. - March 26 - 11:53 am

  Test drove a SEL Fusion after driving a 2007 Altima. Not only was the Fusion $3,000 less, but it has all wheel drive. The Fusion has a great ride and handles great, probably due in no small part to the premium tires. During a recent snow storm, the car performed great on frozen slush and ice. The audiophile/Sirius sound system is also terrific (much much better than the Bose system in my Murano). The fit and finish of the car are every bit as good as the Altima. The only flaw Ive found is a little flashing on the door panel. Controls are logically placed and the ergonomics were well thought out. The heated leather seats are very supportive and comfortable. Another plus is the large trunk.

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  The Boomer Sports Car - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By pgpar - March 26 - 11:36 am

  Saw the 2005 Mustang and it took me back to my teens. I could not resist the Torch Red. Its fun to drive and gets looks from everyone. Best Christmas present I have ever given myself.

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  Awesome Truck - 2004 Ford F-150
  By BigB - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Made the leap to full-sized. Im not disappointed! Affordable and fun to drive.

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  Best Truck Build - 2004 Ford F-150
  By wcga12 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I had a 1996 F150 reg cab new and wanted the 2004 as soon as I saw it. Great looks turn heads as I go down the road. Its fun to drive and peppy despite what these other reviews have said. Try stepping on the accelerator. I have the 4.6L and it will get me out from behind those slow poke drivers. This truck is wider than its predecessors which you can tell by reaching across the front seat.

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  Great Car - 2003 Ford Focus
  By ranran31 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  A Great car to drive and very well designed

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  Blown Away By New Ford Fusion! - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Kenneth Stango - March 25 - 9:36 pm

  Wife purchased a $62,000 BMW, What a MISTAKE! I kid you not, this Fusion ride and overall comfort are better. I am stunned over the quality of the car, and hooked on the BLIS system.