 The 2008 Ford Taurus X was in Consumer Guide's test-car fleet for two weeks. |
Model: 2008 Ford Taurus X; 265-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission
Base Price: $28,465
Options: Silver Eclipse accent, premium sound system, SEL interior convenience package (auto headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, door trim appliqué), navigation system, SEL interior power package (power driver seat recliner, non-memory adjustable pedals, passenger power seat recliner, passenger power seat), power moonroof, 50/50 third-row split seat, power liftgate, Sirius satellite radio with six months service, heated front seats, reverse sensing system, leather seating, DVD family entertainment center.
Price as Tested: $36,170
Total Miles Tested: 565 miles
Miles Per Gallon: 16.5 miles per gallon
Editor's Notes
Chuck Giametta: How Ford can muck up such an appealing concept is a distressing mystery. It's roomy inside without being bloated outside, handsome in an understated way, available with all-wheel drive, and controlled from a nicely elevated driving position. The Taurus X should be the thinking family's wagon of choice. Sadly, a crude-feeling powertrain, arthritic ride and handling, inferior build quality, and a cynical indifference to seating comfort render the Taurus X an unsound automotive investment, even at thousands off the sticker price. Jennifer
Geiger: Taurus X is a fine, if somewhat boxy and awkward-looking vehicle, but not for the $36,000+ our tester listed at. I don't really see anything that sets it above the competition in this crowded class. Tom Appel: Special note to Ford: Chrome vent bezels do not entirely convert a $25,000 interior into a near $40,000 interior. I like Taurus X a lot, but this interior seems a wee discount given the mighty large sticker on our test car. The good news is that Taurus X is a better car than the Freestyle it replaces. The new powertrain fixes 80 percent of what was wrong with the old car. Carryover complaints include engine noise and the aforementioned interior decor. Ride, handling, and passenger accommodations are top notch however--making this forgotten crossover a should-see for family conveyance shoppers. This options list is your worst enemy here, as our bloated test car shows. Keep your purchase in the $30,000 range and you've got a great vacation truckster on your hands.