Ford on June 5 said it was extending its U.S. consumer incentives program, which includes cash rebates and interest-free loans, to July 9, Reuters reported.

The program includes rebates of up to $3,000 on many vehicles and zero percent finance for up to five years on a select number of new cars and trucks, a Ford spokesman told Reuters.

The spokesman added that, as part of an enhanced bid to lure shoppers into showrooms -- introduced as part of the car maker's extended discount program –- Ford would now offer to match customer down payments up to $1,000 toward the purchase of new Ford Taurus mid-size cars, Reuters said.

Reuters noted that General Motors and Chrysler earlier this week announced broader incentives programs that include interest-free loans for most vehicles in their ranges or up to $4,000 in cash rebates.