Ford Taurus

Overview: Is the Ford Taurus a Good Car?

The Ford Taurus, a full-size sedan with a rich history dating back to 1986, has been a staple in the American automotive landscape for decades. While the Taurus has a long legacy, this overview focuses on the more recent generations:

• Ford Taurus fifth generation: 2008-2009
• Ford Taurus sixth generation: 2010-2019

For the 2005 to 2007 model years, the company continued to produce the fourth-generation Taurus alongside the new Ford Five Hundred sedan. Starting with the 2008 model year, the Five Hundred was rebadged as the Taurus. The larger Ford Crown Victoria (successor to the Ford LTD) was discontinued after 2011. 2019 marked the final year of the Ford Taurus in the U.S. However, the car remains popular in the used car market and is still produced in China.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Ford Taurus cars for sale.

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Related: Here Are The Ford Taurus Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Ford Taurus offers:

• Full-size sedan body style (the Ford Taurus wagon was dropped after 2004)
• Front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Powerful engine options, including the EcoBoost V6 in the Ford Taurus SHO
• Advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies (varying by year)

Trims

Ford Taurus trims varied across generations but typically included the SE, SEL, Limited, and the performance-oriented SHO (Super High Output). Higher trims offered more luxury features, technology packages, and powerful engine options (including the Ford Taurus SHO).

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Ford Taurus' interior is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The expansive cabin offers generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The driver's seat provides excellent visibility and a commanding view of the road. However, the thick C pillars on the sixth generation create some blind spots. The Taurus' infotainment system evolved over the years, with later models featuring the SYNC 3 interface, offering a user-friendly touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available navigation. The Taurus excels in cargo capacity, boasting a cavernous trunk with up to 20.1 cubic feet of space, making it ideal for long trips or hauling large items.

Review: How Long Do Ford Tauruses Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

How It Drives

The Ford Taurus delivers a smooth and composed ride, a typical experience from a full-size sedan. The base V6 engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, while the twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 in the Ford Taurus SHO offers exhilarating performance. The Taurus' handling is confident and predictable, with precise steering and minimal body roll for a vehicle of its size. The available AWD system enhances traction and stability, making the Taurus a capable performer in various weather conditions.

Safety

The Ford Taurus has consistently performed well in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, earning top five-star overall safety ratings for most model years.

Reviews

Ford Taurus reviews on Kelley Blue Book average 4.6 out of 5 between the two generations. The car consistently received top grades for comfort, quality, and reliability.

Learn More: Are Fords Reliable?

Ford Taurus FAQs

Why was the Ford Taurus discontinued?

The Taurus Ford was discontinued in the United States after the 2019 model year due to declining sales in the full-size sedan segment and a shift in consumer preferences towards SUVs and crossovers. Ford decided to focus its resources on more popular and profitable vehicle types as part of a broader restructuring of its product lineup.

Does Ford still make the Ford Taurus?

While Ford no longer produces the Taurus for the U.S. market, the nameplate continues to be used in some international markets, such as China. In the U.S., Ford has shifted its focus to SUVs, crossovers, and trucks, discontinuing most of its passenger cars.

Is the Ford Taurus expensive to fix?

Generally, the Ford Taurus is not considered expensive to fix compared to other vehicles in its class. As a popular model with a long production history, parts are readily available, and many mechanics are familiar with working on Taurus models. However, as with any vehicle, maintenance and repair costs can vary depending on the specific issue, the car's age, and mileage. Regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly can keep long-term costs down.

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