2002 Ford Taurus: Road Test
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2002 Ford Taurus ▼
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- MSRP: $19,035 -$23,300
- Invoice: $17,697 -$21,345
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Our road test for the 2002 Ford Taurus includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Ford Taurus from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Ford Taurus, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Ford Taurus help you decide if a 2002 Ford Taurus is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Full-throttle standing-start acceleration is OK: Test 200-hp Sable LS did 0-60 mph in 8.2 sec. But in the 35-55-mph range, neither V6 furnishes strong power or is as responsive as General Motors' V6s.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Taurus and Sable models with the 200-hp engine averaged 18.4-21.0 mpg in our tests, about par for the midsize class. Don't expect significantly better fuel economy with 155-hp versions. Both V6s use regular gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Resistance to wallow and float is impressive, but rough-road ride is mediocre: Potholes, expansion joints, and pavement patches register sharply.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Balanced, secure, and predictable. Steering has fine on-center feel, but some may wish for more-linear turning effort. Brakes feel strong in everyday use, less-impressive in simulated panic stops.
QUIETNESS
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
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 Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Gauges are unobstructed, but their analog markings are too small. Climate controls have limited air conditioning and recirculation modes.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Front outboard seating positions are uncrowded and comfortable. Bench's center position suits only toddlers--who should be in back. Movable pedals adjust easily, permit shorter drivers to sit further from airbag.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.3 |
A high point, with generous head, leg, and foot room, and a well-bolstered and comfortable seat. Wagon's 3rd seat is suitable only for children.
CARGO ROOM
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6 | 4.6 |
Sedan's trunk is roomy for the class. 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 Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Acceleration and ride comfort are only average, but the competitively priced Taurus merits our Recommended nod for its good road manners, utility, and range of safety features.
Total Score
| LX sdn, ohv V6 | SE Prem. wgn, dohc V6 | SEL Prem. sdn, dohc V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 60 | 58 | 54.6 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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