2002 Ford Taurus Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

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.

2002 Ford Taurus Road Test

Pros	Cons

Handling/roadholding	Midrange acceleration

Rear-seat comfort

Cargo room

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

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