[10][12] Tyler Winegarner of GameSpot reviewed the Xbox version and wrote that aside from graphical issues, "the biggest problem that prevents Ford Racing 2 from being totally recommendable involves the amount of time you're able to spend with it.
"[7] Gord Goble of GameSpot reviewed the PC version and wrote that while it had a large number of challenges and vehicles, "the game is plagued by dated physics and a sense that you've already seen the same thing--only better.
If it were released a few years prior, just as Electronic Arts' Need for Speed was finding its footing, Ford Racing 2 would have fared a lot better.
Lewis criticised the music and sound effects, and wrote that when the game "finally does get its groove on, it has a few moments of some mildly exciting racing, but these were far and few between.
"[17][11] X-Play praised the sound effects and car designs of the Xbox version, and stated that it "doesn't have nearly the depth or visual prowess of the bigger name racing titles, but it succeeds by offering a variety of car types and combining true racing physics with a pick-up-and-play accessibility for the casual fan.
[3] Australia's Official Xbox Magazine wrote about the game: "Aimed at casual gamers after cheap racing fun, but it's very predictable.
Miller praised the faithful vehicle recreations and variety of racing modes, but he criticised the controls and found the interface to be confusing.