Overview & Reviews

After it hit the market for the 1986 model year, the Ford Taurus quickly became a sensation in America. This front-wheel-drive midsize family sedan looked like no other Ford before it and won over car shoppers with its comfortable and roomy cabin and affordable price.

Throughout its first decade of production, the Ford Taurus was consistently one of the best-selling cars in America. As the years wore on, however, the Taurus' popularity declined considerably due to stagnating design and more desirable competitors. As a used car purchase, we'd probably consider something else. Although Ford briefly killed the Taurus in the mid 2000s, it was soon resurrected as a  revamp of the Five Hundred full-size sedan.

The current-generation Taurus is still mechanically based on that car, but looks entirely different and offers notable improvements in powertrains, interior quality and features. Although this Taurus is certainly a competitive car, other, more recently redesigned full-size sedans are generally more appealing.

Current Ford Taurus
The Taurus is a large sedan cast in the traditional American mold. In other words, it's unabashedly large, sports more than a few chrome accents and provides a plush, quiet ride. The Taurus is offered in base SE, midlevel SEL, plush Limited and sporty SHO trims.

The typical Taurus will be front-wheel drive with the base 3.5-liter V6, a solid engine that cranks out 288 horsepower. All-wheel drive is optional. Also optional is a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that generates 240 hp and gets among the best mpg in the large sedan segment. If performance is on your mind, Ford offers the Taurus SHO and its twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 good for a healthy 365 hp and a sub-6-second 0-60 time. A six-speed automatic with manual shift control is the only available transmission for any Taurus.

Standard equipment highlights include alloy wheels, full power accessories, a power driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trim levels add niceties like bigger wheels, the Sync and MyFord Touch electronics interfaces, a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, a power passenger seat and leather upholstery. Taurus options, depending on trim level, include a sunroof, adaptive cruise control, massaging front seats, a navigation system (with HD radio) and a 12-speaker Sony-branded premium audio system.

In reviews, we've been mostly impressed by the current Taurus. The styling is distinctive, as is the cabin with its twin-cowl dashboard layout and ample feature content. Rear passenger space is a bit tighter than we expect from a large car and its rising beltline, thick roof pillars and tall center console can make the interior feel confining. On the other hand, the trunk is massive.

On the road, the Taurus provides a comfortable, quiet ride. Handling of non-SHO versions, however, isn't as impressive. Whereas other large sedans drive like smaller cars, the Taurus feels every bit its substantial size as it has a lumbering feel around turns.  The sport-tuned suspension on SHO models, especially those with the optional Performance package, noticeably sharpens up the handling while still providing a good ride. Performance ranges from ample with the turbocharged four and base V6 engines to thrilling with the SHO's twin-turbo V6.

Used Ford Taurus Models
The current Taurus is representative of the sixth-generation Taurus that debuted for 2010. Although it shared its powertrain and accommodating cabin with the previous version, most agreed that the sixth generation was a big improvement in terms of design, inside and out. This generation also signaled the return of the potent SHO model, which sported the most powerful engine ever seen in a Taurus.

From 2010-'12, the Taurus' base V6 engine made 263 hp. For 2013, that engine's output was increased to 288 hp, the car's styling was refreshed, the turbocharged four-cylinder debuted and the SHO could be had with a Performance package that included a firmer suspension, upgraded brakes and stickier tires. That year also saw the MyFord Touch electronics interface make its way to the Taurus.

The previous fifth-generation Taurus was technically produced only from 2008-'09, although prior to that, this particular car was known as the Five Hundred. Those interested in a used Taurus should keep this in mind, since despite its flaws, the Five Hundred was indeed a better car than the Taurus that was sold alongside it.

The 2008-'09 Taurus was a full-size sedan available with one engine: a 3.5-liter 263-hp V6 mated to a six-speed automatic. All-wheel drive was available as an option. Trim levels included the base SE, the midgrade SEL and the loaded-up Limited. Even base models came nicely equipped with power front seats, a leather-wrapped wheel, an auxiliary audio jack, stability control and a full complement of airbags. The Limited came with items such as leather upholstery, driver-seat memory settings and the Sync system.

The interior hardly won design awards for its visual flair, but the controls were logically arrayed and there were plenty of storage areas. Legroom was plentiful front and back, and the distinctive driving position was SUV-like in elevation -- a boon for shorter drivers, but potentially a headroom-robbing annoyance for taller ones. This Taurus' trunk was nothing short of gargantuan.

These are all core attributes shared with the Five Hundred it replaced, along with outstanding crash test scores, good outward visibility and competent handling that didn't detract from ride comfort. But the Taurus' meatier power, quieter cabin, comfier ride and higher level of feature content (including the excellent Sync electronics interface) make it a more attractive choice than the Five Hundred.

The previous (fourth) Taurus generation ran from 2000-'06. Although the basic body shell was identical to the third-generation Taurus, this version dispensed with many of the oval-themed components used before and the result was a more attractive car.

A pair of 3.0-liter V6 engines (155 hp and 200 hp) were the engine choices and a four-speed automatic remained the lone transmission. Four trim levels were offered: base LX, midlevel SE models and luxury-themed SES and SEL. Even the LX provided air-conditioning and power windows, while springing for the SEL meant you got the 200-horse V6, an in-dash six-CD player and automatic climate control. By the end of this generation, just two trims remained (SE and SEL) and the wagon was dropped. Also, in a fit of American carmaker rationale, the better of the two engines (the 200-hp V6) was discontinued as well.

In an Edmunds.com 2000 family sedan comparison test, the Ford Taurus finished a respectable third out of nine cars, thanks to strong performance (it had the 200-hp V6), solid handling and ride dynamics, and a user-friendly cabin. Six years down the road, however, it was easily eclipsed by more competent rivals from Japan and Korea.

The 1996-'99 third-generation Taurus was an odd duck that considerably softened the formerly best-selling car's appeal. Evidently using Ford's oval symbol for inspiration, the Taurus designers went overboard on ovals, with the car's grille, rear window and dashboard's center stack having the ellipsoid form. Trim levels were comprised of base G, midlevel GL, luxury LX and high-performance SHO.

The high point of this third generation was the debut of the Duratec V6 that made 200 hp. It was offered alongside the dated, 145-hp Vulcan V6. The high-performance Taurus SHO was fitted with a 3.4-liter V8 that made 235 hp. No manual gearbox was available, however, so like every other Taurus, the SHO had a four-speed automatic. In our road test of a 1999 Taurus (with the base V6) we found performance acceptable but unrefined, the transmission sometimes slow to downshift and the ergonomics confusing. On the upside, the seats were comfortable, handling was composed and the brakes (with optional ABS) were strong and progressive.

The second-generation Ford Taurus ran from 1992-'95. An evolution of the original, its lower-profile nose and slightly crisper lines tastefully updated the car, while hardware improvements included new safety features such as antilock brakes and a passenger side airbag. Trim levels initially stood pat at L, GL, LX and SHO, though a sporty SE debuted in the last year (1995) of this generation.

Most Taurus sedans and wagons came with either a 3.0-liter V6 or 3.8-liter V6. Horsepower was the same at 140, but the larger engine provided more torque. This generation's SHO was available for the first time with an automatic transmission. (It was manual-only before.) Auto-equipped SHOs had a larger version of the muscular V6 (3.2 liters versus 3.0), though engine output (220 hp) was the same for both SHO engines.

The first-generation Ford Taurus ran from 1986-'91. Compared to the boxy architecture of its competition, the jelly bean (and aerodynamically efficient) look of the Taurus was a breath of fresh air. A 90-hp inline-4 (with either a manual or automatic transmission) and a 140-hp V6 (automatic only) were offered. The former engine was a joke in a midsize family sedan, so it was eventually cancelled. On the other end of the spectrum was the hot-rod SHO, which featured a ripping 3.0-liter V6 designed by Yamaha that made 220 hp and sent this family sedan to 60 mph in around 7 seconds. Thanks to its handsome looks, solid overall performance and accommodating cabin, the first Taurus was a home run for Ford that rode the top of the sales charts for much of its early life.

User Reviews:

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  Getting rid of it after 2.5 years - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By Joshua - December 8 - 10:00 am

  We bought this vehicle brand new. It treated us well for about a year and a half. Then we noticed that it was surging at idle. We took it to the Ford dealer 3 times to get it fixed. The first two times they could not fix it. They even hooked it up to the Ford International computer. Mysteriously when they did the 24000 mile checkup, they fixed it. Now there is an oil leak. They changed some gaskets, but it still smells like burning oil periodically. We are going to dump this car before it reaches the end of the 36000 mile warranty. We are holding our breath that it holds together unil we do dump it.

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  Ford keeps improving - 2009 Ford Taurus
  By DocJim - December 7 - 9:22 am

  Only one week with this, but we have driven a Ford Freestyle 2005 for 3 1/2 years. The 1993 Explorer needed to be replaced and the prices were getting really good in late Nov 2008. My wife and I have been thrilled with the AWD Freestyle (restyled the Ford Taurus X now) and expected this Taurus sedan to do well. It has exceeded in comfort, maneuverability and radio the excellent older Freestyle. My wife now feels "disloyal" to her Freestyle by liking this new sedan even more. Unable to comment on mileage yet or reliability. Ford got it right with the 500/Freestyle and they keep on improving the design. We can see well and we are supremely comfortable.

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  Best car I have owned yet! - 2012 Ford Taurus
  By Alex - December 7 - 2:23 am

  I have owned this car for 3 years now and couldnt be happier! I bought the car with around 40,000 miles on it and currently have 152,000 on it. It has been extremely reliable, probably the most reliable car I have owned yet and I have a Tahoe and a Acura TL. Over the course of the 110,000 miles I have put on it I have only had one repair and that was new control arms in the front at 120,000 miles which I considered routine maintenance. I was able to find a limited that has all the options in it and to my surprise everything still works! Have never had a problem with the auto high beams, blind spot monitor, push start, heated seats, cooled seats, back up camera or the sunshade. The ride is very comfortable and the seats just make you feel like you are floating. Way better than in my Tahoe which is probably one of the most uncomfortable vehicles that I have owned and they are even a little more comfortable than my Acura. I really enjoy the interior and think it is laid out very well, however the rear visibility is a little limited because of the pillars but the BLIS system takes care of your blind spot so I havent had to much of a problem with it. One of the things I wasnt sure about when I test drove this car was the Sony audio system. I really enjoy music and a good audio system is high on my list of options in a vehicle. I have been very pleasantly surprised with it (coming from an owner of a 7.1 Klipsch home theater system). It is miles ahead of the bose system in my tahoe (which doesnt take much) and just a slight step below the ELS in my Acura (which is one of the best systems I have ever heard in a car). I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a full size sedan! Even at 150,000 miles I still wouldnt hesitate to take it on a long road trip! Ford has definitely got it right with this car! I am thinking its time to trade in the Tahoe which has given me more recalls and mechanics shop visits than any of the cars Ive owned and replace it with another Ford product. Definitely a Ford owner for life after this gem!

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  02 Ford Taurus SEL w/sport package.. - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By dmk71 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I like this vehicle very much..i traded a 00 Honda Accord for it.It seems to ride much better than Honda w/more power and good gas mileage.I have loaded-out model & am especially happy w/adj. pedals,safety group,sport pak. Id highly recommend this Ford to any- one..my neighbor is trading his 99 Camry after riding in my Taurus!

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  Excellent Car - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Craig - December 7 - 1:36 am

  I puchased by Taurus new with 14 miles on it and I currently have just shy of 150,000 miles on the odometer. The only thing that has went bad was a door lock actuator that was replaced under warranty at about 60k miles (bought extended warranty). Take care of the filters and change the plugs/wires at 100k and these cars will last you a long time as they are very reliable.

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  Good practical car - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Mike - December 4 - 8:37 am

  The main advantage to this car is the price. I bought this car almost 2 years ago and have had very few problems (knock on wood) and it only cost me $7000 to buy. The comparable Toyota Camry and Honda Accords were going for $14,000 for a 2002 and in my opinion this car looks as nice if not nicer than those two. Also I have leather seats, and a more comfortable ride I believe. Plus it seems more like a luxury car than the two I just mentioned. I think its a status thing that some people feel they have to have a foreign car, but to me it wasnt worth spending an extra $7000 just for I could have a foreign nameplate on the trunk.

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  Transmission questionable. - 2007 Ford Taurus
  By Dave - December 3 - 2:17 am

  In Dec of 07 I purchased a used 2007 Ford Taurus from a Ford dealer. In Dec. of 08 the transmission went and the dealer tells me the warranty has expired. 2 years old & 44,000 mi and I have to pay for a new tranny. My mechanic tells me that the factory tranny in this car is not good. Either way I suggest the extended warranty.

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  My Ford Taurus Ses has been Exellent . - 2004 Ford Taurus
  By kingsol - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I regret very much about Fords decision to discontinue with the Taurus for next year, I think its a big mistake!! The Ford Futura looks very ugly! Doesnt have the classic looks of the Ford Taurus! Also by the way, driving from Colorado to Arizona this past summer, I could not believe my eyes, about the number of Ford Tauruses on the road from here to Arizona.Very popular auto indeed!

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  Realiability at its best - 1999 Ford Taurus
  By derson - November 27 - 3:40 pm

  Purchased car for $1500. Needed car for personal/work. I use car on occasion for mail delivery. Roomy enough for trays in drivers seat, and comfortable enough to right-hand drive without hyper-extending the legs/arms. Gas mileage is excellent - 26mpg personal (I have over 141k), and 15-17mpg for work (I drive 72 miles and have over 300 starts/stops.) I recently replaced rack/tie rods/ball joints, but it was not Fords fault. I curbed the tires when delivering mail. Great in snow. Have never been stuck - even in 10 inches of snow! Use Havoline oil & Seafoam - increased mileage 3-4mpg. My carrier just replaced his Taurus for new one. Wouldnt replace if wasnt reliable!

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  Definitely Drive One - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By RS - November 27 - 12:01 pm

  What a wonderful car! Always liked the look of the 500 (more so the Taurus) and the safety features on this car are second to none. I have the Safety/Security Package, Comfort/Convenience Package, and the Reverse Sensing System. All of which were absolutely worth it. Looking for something to stuff a couple of child seats into and lug around the necessary stuff too. My friends chuckled at me when I got it. That is until I took them for a spin in it and then it was, "Wow!". My wife liked it so much, she went out and got a Taurus X a month later. Fords have come a long, long way and their tag line is spot on. Drive one, indeed.