2009 Ford Taurus X: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Ford Taurus X receives only minor changes. Taurus X is essentially a wagon version of the Ford Taurus sedan. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models are available in SEL, Eddie Bauer, and Limited trims. The sole powertrain teams a 263-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 2000 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A navigation system and DVD entertainment are optional. Also available is Ford's Sync, a voice-activated interface for cell phones and digital music players. Eddie Bauer editions have standard 18-inch wheels. Seating for six is standard with 2nd-row buckets. A 2nd-row bench seat is a no-cost option and brings total passenger capacity to seven. The 2nd-row bucket seats can flip and fold with one touch. Newly available is Ford's SOS Post-Crash Alert system, which flashes the turn signal lamps and honks the horn to alert first responders to the vehicle's location.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.