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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  Love at first sight? Not really, but... - 2009 Ford Flex
  By GeeMan - August 30 - 3:20 am

  A solid home run from Ford Motor Company. When I first saw pictures of the Flex, I didnt get it. It was polarizing. But that was the genius the designers were going for. You either loved it, or hated it. Initially I was stuck right in the middle i.e. dont love it, but dont hate it either. But the more I saw the vehicle, it started to grow on me. Then I had an opportunity to ride in one, boy did my feelings change immediately! From that point forward it was , I want one. So I bought one. Turns out to be one of the best purchase decision Ive ever made. What a fabulous vehicle. Dont believe me? Drive one.

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  3rd Expedition but my 17 Limited is the BEST- - 2017 Ford Expedition
  By Jeff K - August 30 - 3:15 am

  This is a review of the 2017 Limited Expedition, the spot below only showed 2016 Do your research, the Tahoe is a very good truck but they REDUCED the powertrain warranty to match Fords for 16 or 17. The older ones also didnt fold the 3rd row seats flat & had to be removed to use the space which is a p.i.t.a.! One of the major reasons I bought the Ford was the new engine. After dealing with leaking headgaskets on my 99 and a blown head gasket on my 03EB(pour&go stopped the leak) and also raining inside the truck as much as it rained OUTSIDE & various electrical issues as the result, I was really looking hard at the Tahoe due to its very good reliability record. At the end of the day though, the new Ford with its 365HP/420ftlb (or 375/470ftlb depending where you get your specs) engine & substantially lower cost made the decision for me because I have no latent loyalty to Ford or anyone else. OK, on the the truck. Ive only had this truck for a few days but this truck is nice, VERY nice! It does an excellent job of blocking road & engine noise while have terrific acceleration. You really have to drive it to believe it. I’m used to driving the old 5.4L V8 for the past 15 years and this engine is in a whole different class. The acceleration is truly phenomenal for a V6! Strong and smooth without jerking or feeling like you are straining the engine in the least, it just goes where it’s pointed….in a hurry if you kick it in the ass! The braking is strong and sure for a nearly 3 ton mass of steel. It wallows slightly at higher speeds, maybe a bit more than its competition in the Tahoe. The Limited model does not have the electrically enhanced suspension as stock so maybe that would make it more stable but its not unruly, just treat it like a big truck and youll be fine. The tech features abound with multiple 12 volt power ports (2 in the drivers compartment) and there is even a 120volt outlet in the 2nd row seating area (mounted on the rear of the drivers center console). The sound system is excellent but Ill admit to not being a true aficionado so decent sound sounds great to me. The fit & finish throughout are much better than my 03 Eddie Bauer expedition and the on-board computer allows for easy setup for your personal needs. The steering column comes with motor operated tilt & telescoping steering wheel that work in conjunction with the seat, adjustable foot controls and mirrors with memory for two drivers. The motor operated folding mirrors are a nice feature to avoid damage if driving through a tight space as are the power running boards. You can also have the running boards automatically deploy as you open each door, leave them out all the time or retracted all the time, your choice! The sunroof (moon roof) is tinted which is a nice touch that wasnt on my older model. Two days after I bought it, the morning temperature was 32 degrees and I used the remote start for the first time. It was SO nice to climb into a fully warmed, heated seat truck! Yes, you can even get a heated steering wheel but I do not have it and Im not sure if its available on the Limited as an option or not. Using the computer setup, you can setup the remote start to heat or cool the truck based on the outdoor temps or “last setting” or auto. I have not changed the factory setting for it yet so it was nice and cozy when I got in. I have several options on this truck so I’m not 100% sure what is standard and what was an option but I wanted heated and cooled seats and evidently the controls and the ducts for the air is already in place because at one point during the discussions the dealer was willing to swap out the seats for climate controlled seats (3,200 buck option) so that means the wiring is already in place as are the air ducts! Something to know if you buy a model without them! I also wanted the sunroof and hopefully this one won’t LEAK like my ‘03EB did! The power lift gate means that you can now open or close the big door from the driver’s seat. There are also trailer brake controls mounted on the dash as well as “trailer settings” within the computer setup so if you are towing a trailer, the engine will use different shift points and God knows what else….here’s two quotes from Ford: “Integrated with the anti-lock brakes and trailer sway control, the available Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (TBC)* synchronizes vehicle and trailer brakes for seamless braking, even when towing a large boat or camper-trailer. TBC controls are easy to use and well positioned, just to the right of the steering wheel.” AND “Accessed with controls on the steering wheel, the information is displayed in the gauge cluster. Input, track and save information about specific trailers and manage how you use them. A trailer name, its trailer brake control settings and mileage can all be stored. The off-road tools include displays of lateral, vertical and turning radius information and the 4x4 system and traction control status.” ENJOY!

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  Way Better than Toyota Camary - 2007 Ford Fusion
  By jones86 - August 29 - 12:50 pm

  After searching for months, I came back to the Fusion. This car is a winner! The styling is unique. The V-6 is worth a little less MPG than the 4 cyl. - as it shifts flaulessly, is very quiet and has plenty of power when needed. By far the handling is the best. After learning the underpinnings are from Volvo, "no wonder!" I thought - as my last 2 cars were Volvo and this car handles like no other import car. The interior is fresh and simple - not gaudy like Camrys fake beach glass glowing controls and old folks boring "bisque" color scheme. Get all the options even if you think you dont need them - I did and Im glad - very good value.

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  Fantastic SUV - 2004 Ford Escape
  By MrTaz49 - August 29 - 2:00 am

  This is a great SUV. Had rented one last year in 2003 for vacation. It really was comfortable to ride in, drive and all around vehicle. Found the one we bought at Enterprise Car Sales just had to buy it. Not too good on gas mileage but that is the only disappointment I have. Would buy another one if needed too.

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  Best Truck ever - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By ken black - August 29 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 1986 Ranger and drove it for over 14 years. The 04 Ranger is much better and more fun to drive. Ford has done it right. The high back seats are very comfortable, visability is great, the sound system is excelent, the ease of access to the cab is effortless with the 4 doors, and the ride is much imporved over prior Rangers. I especially like the redesigned looks of the truck.

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  What a Vehicle - 2010 Ford Escape
  By Griff - August 28 - 10:56 pm

  I compared all of the like vehicles and the bang for the buck goes to the Escape. The Escape is getting 24.5 mpg in mostly city driving, it tows my 2500 lb trailer without a problem and this is the 4 cyc. The 6 speed auto is smooth and responsive. Plenty of interior room, seats are really comfortable, the vehicle sits at a nice height and I can get all of my suff in the back cargo area leaving the back seats uncluttered. Anyone looking for a vehicle this size would be remiss in purchasing this Escape. (24,300 msrp with a cash prince of 19,440) how can one go wrong. Unless you are still one of the die hards who thing Asian vehicles are better. This Escape proves my point.

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  It just doesnt break - 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage
  By mooseberry - August 28 - 1:29 pm

  new late in 04. Inspection revealed one screw in rt frt fender cross threaded. No other defects. Towed Coleman trailer several summers all over Montana, no problems. It simply has never failed its mission. Has been through some very harsh winters up here. Had one problem with corroded emergency brake parts. Fixed by dealer. Caused by goo state sprays on roads. (eats metals). Best truck, best vehicle Ive owned in 60 years.

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  Better than my 96 Camry, even after 1 year - 2006 Ford Fusion
  By Stephanie - August 28 - 12:00 pm

  What a great ride. Drove from No. California to Vegas and it was awesome to get out on the open road. Tight handling is so much better than the looseness of the Camry I drove previous to purchasing my Fusion. I have owned a Honda, a Nissan, and another Ford model in the past 20 years and aside from my very first "new car" which was a Nissan, this is the best. I would definitely purchase this car again. Price tag is unbeatable. Only thing is I cant quite figure out what is up with the high beams. Not sure if I am operating the device correctly or if they just dont work. Need to consult manual or ask the next time I am in for routine service.

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  operational functioning of 2004 F-150 - 2005 Ford F-150
  By twohollands - August 28 - 4:00 am

  I think the fit and finish is much better than my Chevy. The only quality issue was a defective leather seat bottom, which the dealer replaced somewhat reluctantly (cost to them).

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  I Love My Ranger! - 2004 Ford Ranger
  By KayK - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I own a Ford Ranger and I am very pleased with it. It is a little rough riding at times if the road is rough. I have no other complaints. It has been very reliable and fun to drive.