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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  Happy with the car, but with exceptions - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By Sweetwaterguy - January 18 - 10:37 pm

  I replaced my 98 Avalon with the 08 Taurus. It is as quiet as the Avalon, has more interior room, and comfortable- -even for a 65" guy. Fuel economy is very important to me, and I am very disappointed. A recent drive, Wyoming to Iowa and back netted only 25.5 mpg hand calculated. I would consistently get 30 on the old Avalon doing the same route. It missed the EPA estimate by 2.5 mpg, and I drove conservatively as I typically do. Also, I find the heater, a/c, and fan controls on the lower dashboard are small and difficult to locate and adjust when driving. I would give a strong recommendation for the Taurus, but my disappointing gas mileage might make it a deal killer.

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  Not So Good - 1992 Ford Taurus
  By karmcden - January 16 - 6:12 pm

  I have a lot of miles on this thing and it is not holding up well. I have put more money into it in repairs than what I bought it for. Would have trashed it if I didnt need a car.

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  Solid Value - 2007 Ford Taurus
  By Taurus SEL - January 11 - 11:28 pm

  I bought my Taurus as a family car. I have 4 kids and want a safe, dependable car. For the price there is no better value. If you are looking for a sports car with great handleing on the autovon look elesewhere. I wanted a solid, safe car at a value price and I have all that and more. My 07 Taurus has leather, sunroof etc. and 23K miles for about 12k. No complaints here.

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  Value Value! - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By brucelinc - January 4 - 2:36 pm

  The Taurus is a screaming value. It simply rides and drives more "expensive" than it is. In addition, the level of standard equipment is impressive, considering the price. The 3.5 and 6 speed automatic work beautifully together. It is much smoother, more refined, quieter, and more powerful than the old Ford Five hundred.

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  bought cheap - 1998 Ford Taurus
  By mark - December 30 - 2:14 am

  Have owned a 1991 Taurus wagon before and a 1989 SHO before. Both got better gas milage. This has the standard 12 valve pushrod engine. In town average 16 mpg and on the highway 23. I have fixed 4 problems that came with the car. 1) Power Antenna-cable broke inside drum motor. $18.50 part-my labor 2-1/2 hours 2) Cruise control-Broken plastic ball that holds cable to speed control. 20 cents(4 zip ties) 5 minutes 3) Door ajar light staying & on power door locks poping back up- WD 40, 20 cents worth- 5 minutes. Spray in the door switch plates located in the end of each door. 4)Hood latch sticks-hood wont open lubricate and reattach cable. Bought cheap

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  Perfect car for Anybody II - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By Jcd II - December 29 - 8:19 pm

  I posted a review 8/29/2006 on this car when I was 16. I am now 18 and have recently wrecked my precious Taurus. I was turning down my street comming home from school and spilled my soda, I over compensated and hit a brick culvert in a diitch, at a pretty good speed. I was shocked when I wedged the door open. I couldnt believe I came out without a scratch. The car is so safe. My grandfather came to me with a tractor and rope, we didnt need it. I turned the key and it started like a new one, I drove it home, still drove straight and true. I fixed it myself. You cant even tell. This car is so safe. When its washed, its the best lookin car on the block!

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  great car - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By chuck1 - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Have had no problems. Its really smooth on the highway and cruises well. The ride is nice, and the engine is probably the best feature. Gets about 24 mpg on the highway, which is not as good as its supposed to be, but its plenty powerful. The seats could be better.

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  my Taurus wagon - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By Weshoe - December 26 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Taurus Wagon 1 year old with 39000 miles on it. It has performed flawlessly for my family with little exception. The only repair it has needed was to cut the front brake rotors in the 20000 miles driven since I bought it.

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  Yellow Glove Treatment - 2003 Ford Taurus
  By JIM MADDEN - December 21 - 4:40 am

  I like my Taurus with the DOHC engine and leather interior. I thought that there was a design problem with the fuel pump as I personally changed 3 in three years of ownership. On installation of the 2nd pump I bent the float arm so my gauge has been incorrect for almost a year. So this time I completely removed the tank from under the vehicle, carried it to the garage bench and low and behold I found a yellow workglove floating inside the gas tank. This car must have been built on a Monday with a disgruntled worker assembling the gas tank.It should run a little better without the restriction on the suction side of the fuel pump? Note: the interior dimensions are kind of small for a carsobig

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  Great Car. - 2008 Ford Taurus
  By Midwest Dude - December 18 - 10:19 pm

  Ive put about 4,000 miles on since October. My first Ford and very impressed with the combination of space and mileage. Very quiet car on the road. Were able to stick 3 car seats in back which is very important for this young family. Ive been driving on snow and ice recently and it feels very secure in those conditions. The ergonomics of the car are quite nice. My only complaint is I wish it had a telescoping steering wheel. Lots of soft surfaces inside. The auto climate control has been the surprise feature for me. It works great and the fans are really pretty quiet. You set it to a temperature you like and never have to worry about messing with controls again. Good Job Ford!