Overview & Reviews

The Ford Taurus X was a crossover wagon SUV that was produced for just two years. Technically, it first arrived in 2005 as the Freestyle, changing monikers a few years later when Ford revived the Taurus nameplate. The "X" differentiated this large wagon from the Taurus sedan, and Ford probably also meant it to signify an active outdoorsy lifestyle.

Whatever the case, the Taurus X flew under the radar while its flashy Flex platform-mate got all the press. It was actually a wholly competent crossover with three rows of seating, good cargo capacity, plenty of options, excellent safety ratings and a zesty if slightly raucous power plant. If your family doesn't need a hulking SUV with boat-towing V8 capabilities, and you can't imagine driving a minivan, then the Ford Taurus X is an excellent, though little-known, candidate.

Past Taurus X Models
The Ford Taurus X crossover SUV was produced for just the 2008 and '09 model years. It seated six by default, but adding an optional second-row split increased that to seven. The standard (and only) engine was a 3.5-liter V6 that produced 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission directed power to either a front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configuration.

The well-equipped base model came with alloy wheels, a power driver seat, an in-dash CD changer, cruise control and a trip computer. Higher trim levels offered accoutrements like two-tone leather upholstery, Ford's Sync entertainment and communications system, dual-zone automatic climate control, premium sound and reverse park assist. Options, depending on trim, included larger wheels, a moonroof, adjustable pedals, Sync, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a power liftgate and a navigation system.

In reviews, we've found that the Ford Taurus X accelerated briskly, but the V6 made unrefined noises at higher rpm, and the transmission was reluctant to downshift when extra power was needed. On the bright side, the Taurus X's ride quality was smooth and more carlike than traditional SUVs. In terms of functionality, the Taurus X managed to accommodate all seven of its potential passengers in relative comfort. Adults in the third row had adequate head- and legroom, a rarity in non-minivans. Furthermore, the Taurus X's low step-in height and optional button-activated flip-and-fold second-row seats made getting in and out of the third row easy. Interior materials overall were unimpressive, although storage space was abundant and there were cupholders galore. Even with all the seats up, the cargo area still provided a generous 16 cubic feet of space. With the second- and third-row seats folded, there were 85 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity.

For the 2008 model year, Ford replaced this vehicle's "Freestyle" name with Taurus X, even though the vehicles remain functionally similar. More information about the Taurus X's earlier years can be found in our review of the Freestyle.

User Reviews:

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  1st 25K - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By shelbysaab - December 17 - 12:16 am

  Overall we are VERY please with this Ford. We believe we got alot for our money. It drives as nice as many luxury cars and can haul more than most pick up trucks. Luv Mult-sync, works very well. Ford should promote this vehicle more!

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  From Cobra to X - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By crafty - December 7 - 10:16 pm

  We have 2500 miles on the X and it is so much fun to drive. We are Grandparents, My wife thinks I disguised the 2003 Cobra we traded in on the X as it is Very Quick! Mileage is 24 now but will get better as 30,000 miles roles up. Road holding ability is super and no effort needed to drive. We use the rear part for hauling and it has more room than you think. All in all we think we are going to be very happy with our "X"

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  No longer buying Ford - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By no longer buyin Ford - October 18 - 4:00 am

  Traded in the 2007 Expedition for the Taurus X. Felt like we needed better gas mileage. We did experience paying less at the pump for obvious reasons. With only 5900 miles on the car, however, the engine has now been torn apart twice with 9 parts being replaced, including the gaskets, valves, and the housing. Initial indications were a timing issue around a phaser. Seven and a half weeks later and two car payments for air, the car is finally fixed. We will see what the future brings...probably a Toyota!

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  Great car?? - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By Eric E - September 6 - 5:40 am

  I have had people ask about the car. What is it? Who makes it? Ford!? Is it a wagon? is it a suv? is it a crossover? I say yes!! This has the best of all three. Space for 6, good styling, strong V6. Rides really good. not spongy like a minivan and not rough like a full size suv. Its small enough to be a grocery getter yet big enough to fit a new dishwasher with out needing to remove the car seats. This wagon/crossover/suv has a lot to offer. You must check this one out. It has fit all my needs/wants.

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  Bad brakes -available kits dont have all the parts - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By annabanana1140 - May 15 - 3:14 pm

  My Taurus X has only 17000 miles and needs new brakes. This is poor design or workmanship as far as I am concerned! We are searching for a manual but theyre telling me it takes a week to get it so I am without a car for a week while I search for an manual that will tell us what the missing pieces are and how to get it apart & back together again. New brakes was supposed to be a surprise when I got back from a holiday trip for Thanksgiving. Im not happy that they make a functionary part like the brakes so hard or obscure to do a regular maintenance job on- though it seems like very poor mileage for a set of front brakes for a front wheel drive vehicle! Other than that Ive enjoyed it.

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  Excellent Family Car - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By G. Ralph Moseley - May 1 - 6:03 pm

  We chose this car because it has an easily accessible third row of seats. Even my mom could operate them. Plus, the seats in the third row fold down easily and give a lot of cargo room. An aside, we purchased the WeatherTech mats and a cargo area mat and have been very pleased with them-- its very muddy where we live. As for build quality, its decent. The doors always look open. The ride is smooth and merging onto busy/fast roads is no big deal. Handling is proficient. Other makes might have a better finish, but I wasnt willing to spend another $10-15K to get the same car with a flashier hood ornament. In all, I would highly recommend this car.

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  Poor Gas mileage - 2009 Ford Taurus X
  By Derek - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Overall the car rides nice, but the seats are very uncomfortable. Leather is not real leather, some type of bonded leather or whatever it is. Lots of issues with the window on drivers side not working. Been in the garage 6 times in 7 months for repairs. Center console very outdated.

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  Excellent Family Vehicle - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By Aharv - February 14 - 10:53 pm

  Having always driven small cars, I wanted to step up to something larger, but didnt want a mammoth SUV. I bought my limited in May of 2009 and am still in love with it. The Sync is awesome. Interior is roomy and comfortable and everyone raves over it. My 8 year old step daughter loves her DVD player and we love the wireless headphones. Cargo area is great and completely flexible. Very comfortable on road trips. Fuel economy averages around 25-26 on interstate and about 22-23 in town.

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  Love this vehicle - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By kimstigers - January 22 - 11:43 am

  We are still new to this car, but so far loving it. We are impressed with the versality as well as the comfort of the ride. Accelerates very quickly and you dont feel how fast you are going.

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  176000 and climbing - 2009 Ford Taurus X
  By Ed - September 18 - 11:55 am

  Other than new tires, tailgate wont stay up and driver heated seat doesnt work anymore. Still a joy to drive, especially with kids and for long distances.