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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  I went American - 2008 Ford Edge
  By Lester - June 30 - 9:21 pm

  I traded a Toyota Forerunner for my new Edge. I thought Id miss the Toyota but after one day the old girl was history. The Edge has a nice firm grip on the road and is quick enough to get you into traffic without any anxiety. The ride is quiet and I have too many choices for music with the Sync system. All in all, I love the car. I love the automatic lift on the rear door and the roominess for all the passengers. So far the gas mileage has been in the 17-23 mpg range. All in all a great car.

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  Love my Escape - 2002 Ford Escape
  By LJ - June 30 - 8:43 pm

  I have had very few problems with my Escape other than the recall issues. Its in the shop now for a new alternator but that after six years and 219,000 miles of driving. Thumbs up!

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  Ford Probe SE/04 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT - 1994 Ford Probe
  By scooby doo - June 30 - 8:42 pm

  Sick car. Bought it 4 months ago with 86k miles. Since then I have put my old 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT engine, and it runs great. When I bought my Probe I couldnt believe it was a 94 it has been garaged for 14 years so it pretty much looks brand new. Paint job looks relatively new and there are no dents, rust, or scratches.

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  I give! - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Daisee86 - June 30 - 8:16 pm

  So sad. I dreamed of this car for 7 years while I drove beat up car waiting to afford this one. Now I have had every trouble listed on all the complaint websites - back driver window wont roll down (fixed 3 times), stick shift stuck (had to be replaced), radiator leaking (has to be replaced), Transmission problem (not yet diagnosed). At least it is all covered under warranty but what a pain to have to keep taking it in. I am so upside down, I cant trade it. I am likley never to buy a Ford again and I have driven them all my life. No more.

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  They hit it out of the park! - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jack M - June 30 - 5:00 pm

  The Platinum trim takes an already outstanding SUV well into the luxury class. I had planned to buy a Limited, but decided to go all in for the Platinum since I wanted most of the advanced features anyway. What a nice upgrade! In addition to all of the features, the interior is replete with stitched leather. My other vehicles are Mercedes and BMWs and I have to say that this vehicle experience is on par with those marques. A friend of mine said he preferred this leather to that of his high-end BMW. Multiple valets have favorably compared the vehicle with Range Rovers. Included with the Platinum is the 3.5L Ecoboost engine from the Sport. That engine is smooth and very powerful, almost telepathic. Acceleration is butterly smooth and you get to your desired speed almost as soon as you think of accelerating. I do not understand the other reviews that complain about the seats. My wife and I feel they are quite comfortable. They can even massage the knots out of your back. However, I do wish there were more room for my left foot. The wheel well intrusion may be uncomfortable for some people. I suggest that you evaluate that yourself. Particular likes: - Performance of the 3.5L Ecoboost engine - Styling - Interior treatment - Auto high beams - Adaptive cruise control - Quite ride Dislike: - Limited left foot space for the driver. I am very happy with this vehicle so far. It has far exceeded my expectations.

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  1997 Aerostar has been good to me - 1997 Ford Aerostar
  By MrT - June 30 - 3:32 pm

  The Aerostar has been a solid performer for me. I bought new and was worried initially about things like the air conditioning and automatic transmission. Thus far after 11 years neither has caused me problems. The worst problems have been sensor-related. Two sensors replaced at fairly high costs. Also the electrics through the steering wheel have been iffy (intermittently working but generally fine). Brake wear has been reasonable and Ive enjoyed owning the vehicle.

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  Great car - 2007 Ford Edge
  By Len - June 30 - 1:40 pm

  My wife and I have had this vehicle for almost a year and a half. Not one problem. Its never been back to the dealership. Handles great rides like a car. One the best new vehicles weve owned.

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  The F is for fearsome - 2004 Ford F-150
  By WIW06 - June 30 - 8:26 am

  The 2004 F-150 is an excellent truck whether for basic needs or for heavy duty work. This is my first truck, was thinking about a Ranger, but believed I wasnt going to get my moneys worth. With the new F-150, I am confident this will last for years to come.

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  My old F150 - 1995 Ford F-150
  By Al - June 30 - 12:05 am

  This truck was either a lemon or a truck that had some really hard miles. I bought it used and it ended up needing a lot including, new starter, new clutch, new steering box, rebuilt rear end, new oil pan, new leaf springs and mounting brackets and it is rusting apart. Has only 98000 on it too.

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  A family friendly vehicle - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By hansonfamily - June 29 - 9:34 pm

  We bought the vehicle for the size and we have a large family. We have been allover the East coast, never have had any problems. At the present time we 185000 miles on the truck, and would not hesitate to drive it anywhere.