Ford has totally redesigned its Taurus sedan for 2010 and there are many reasons to be excited about this Chicago-built offering.
The first characteristic that draws you in is Taurus' more upscale and athletic physique.
The sheet metal is more sculpted, the roofline is lower, the hood is subtly pronounced and the front end is sleeker, which helps Taurus carry off a pleasing powerful stance.
Taurus' sleek new look prompted fellow motorists to stop and talk to me when refueling and when I stopped for groceries on a Saturday morning. Everyone I chatted with liked what they saw and they wanted to know more.
Some even knew about a few of the available technologies featured in the new Taurus. That list is quite long and impressive.
I truly enjoy using Ford's exclusive SYNC system. For those unfamiliar, it's a voice-activated communications and entertainment system. For 2010 Taurus debuts the newest version of SYNC. It adds a GPS receiver. You can now get traffic, directions and information services that offer turn-byturn route guidance and access to personalized content such as sports scores, news and gas prices.
The available Sony audio system is nice, too. Refueling is more pleasant thanks to Taurus' capless fuelfiller neck. Other welcome add-ons featured on the new Taurus include a rear-view camera and a blind-spot warning system.
The blind-spot sensors also allow for Taurus' new cross traffic alert system.
This system senses oncoming traffic when slowly backing out of a parking spot. That should prevent a few fender benders.
You can get rain-sensing wipers, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control and push-button start. But one of the more interesting new technologies offered in the new Taurus is MyKey.
MyKey allows parents or fleet administrators to activate a restricted driving mode.
When enabled, MyKey mutes the audio and there are continuous chimes until the safety belts are buckled. MyKey also features an earlier low-fuel warning and you can program restrictions on audio volume, limit the top speed to 80 mph and use chime warnings at 45, 55 or 65 mph.
Taurus has evolved immensely since it first debuted for the 1986 model year. At that time, Taurus was a front-wheel drive midsize sedan offered with either a fourcylinder or V-6 engine.
Today's Taurus features a strong V-6 and front- or all-wheel drive. All Taurus models, save for the new SHO model, feature a 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing starts at about $25,000 for the base SE model. Those wanting a few more goodies can step up to the SEL or Limited trim. Those wanting all-out performance will want the new SHO.
Inside, the Taurus is spacious and comfortable. The cabin nicely accommodates a family of five with plenty of head and legroom.
Taurus provides a pleasing ride, too.
Even though the Taurus is a large sedan, its driving dynamics are quite likable.
There's plenty of power for takeoff and passing. Steering feel and braking power are good, too.
If you're planning a road trip, Taurus's 20.1-cubic-foot trunk is cavernous. I really do like the new Taurus: You get a lot of car for the money.
2010 FORD TAURUS LIMITEDENGINE: 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6
TRANSMISSION: six-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: all-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 17 city/25 highway
BASE PRICE: $33,020
AS TESTED: Not available
WEB SITE: www.FordVehicles.com