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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  More than you expect - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By reg - October 14 - 6:13 pm

  I am a longtime Ford buyer, but throughly shopped all the available crossovers. Import nation, wake up! I have had 5 Fords now for well over a total of over 300k miles and nary anything ever to fix, including my 06 500. So I knew this vehicle would be top notch in terms of reliability. When I got my 500 I passed on the Freestyle because it lacked power but I loved the package. The new v6 and 6 speed makes up for that sin. Smooth, powerful. This is one of the very few crossovers that drives like a sedan. Steering feel and ride is dead on. All seating is comfortable and firm. Ergonomics are spot on. Controls are easy to use. Vehicle feels like billet on the road. Your search ends here!

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  Freestyle to an X - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By Bama - December 19 - 12:36 am

  I traded a 2005 Freestyle for this program 2008 Taurus X and other than the gas mileage being worse the car is much improved, the ride is so much better and to me that more than offsets the difference in the gas mileage. Have taken one trip in it so far and it was without any flaws, ran very well on the interstate and back roads! Only thing I really dont like about it is the price it will cost me to replace the tires, they are very expensive.

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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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  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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  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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  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.

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  A good vehicle to consider - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By mdc78 - September 18 - 7:20 am

  I purchased the Taurus X a month ago. The mileage is accurate from the EPA sticker. I get a little more than 24mpg straight highway driving. My shorter commute of 19 miles with one stop to drop off the kids gives about 20.5mpg. I cant fault the mpg for a large car. I would recommend this car if you wanted a people mover and wanted to buy American. My Taurus will seat 7 in comfort. While not as roomy as a true minivan, it gets the job done. I find this car to be capable in snow and icy conditions. I love the ESP; this keeps the rear end from sliding out when turning. This car feels very secure and well planted in adverse conditions. Consider this or the similar Flex for your next purchase.

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  Well kept secert - 2008 Ford Taurus X
  By Rick1951 - September 15 - 2:53 am

  I orginally was looking at the Ford Edge. I saw the Taurus X and was very impressed. After a test ride and long hours of research I decided on the Taurus X. Fun to drive, quiet and completely comfortable. Handles fantastic. Performance is amazing. The seating designed really sold me. The 2nd row bucket seats are amazing. Every crossover should have these seats. I was never a Ford person, but I love my new Taurus X. Ford needs to get it to the public, lots more advertising and it will be a great seller. This is a quality American made car.