2000 Ford Taurus: Road Test
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2000 Ford Taurus ▼
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- MSRP: $17,885 -$21,085
- Invoice: $16,477 -$19,146
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Our road test for the 2000 Ford Taurus includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Ford Taurus from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Ford Taurus, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Ford Taurus help you decide if a 2000 Ford Taurus is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
Both engines are smooth runners, and though full-throttle standing-start acceleration is good, neither furnishes strong midrange pulling power or matches the overall responsiveness of the larger V6s in General Motors' rivals.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
The 200-hp engine averaged 18.4 mpg in our test, about par for the midsize class. Don't expect significantly better fuel economy with the 155-hp version.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Resistance to wallow and float is impressive, but the price for these good manners is a loss of ride comfort on rough roads. Potholes, expansion joints, and pavement patches register sharply.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
All models feel balanced, secure, and predictable, even in rapid changes of direction. The steering has fine on-center sense, but its turning effort is less linear than some drivers may like.
QUIETNESS
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Engine and road noise are low enough that wind rush is the most prominent sound at highway speeds, but it doesn't require a raised voice to overcome.
CONTROLS
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Gauges are unobstructed, but their analog markings may be too small for all drivers to easily read at a glance. Audio and climate controls are easy to see and use, though there are no selectable air conditioning or recirculation modes.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
The bench's center position suits only toddlers--who should ride in back anyway--but it flip-folds into a handy console/armrest that doesn't block the lower instrument panel, as did the previous design.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
A high point, with generous head, leg, and foot room, and a well-bolstered and comfortable seat. Only leather-trimmed models get a center armrest. The wagon's optional third seat is designed for children under 80 pounds.
CARGO ROOM
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6 | 4.5 |
The sedan's trunk is among the largest in class and includes useful grocery-bag hooks, though the trunklid's hinges dip into the cargo area. A split/folding rear seatback is available. Only Saturn offers a similarly priced midsize rival to the Taurus and Sable wagons.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 5.3 |
Taurus and Sable deliver good road manners, terrific utility, and an array of safety features at competitive prices. Acceleration and ride comfort aren't tops, but these sedans and wagons merit a place on any midsize-car shopping list.
Total Score
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE wgn, dohc V6 | SEl sdn | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | 59 | 56 | 50.2 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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