Driving impressions
The 3.5-liter 263-hp V6 is not as potent as the twin turbo EcoBoost engine in the SHO, but it gets the job done. Those with a lead foot should keep both hands on the wheel because the Taurus we tested exhibited some torque steer. The big bull has plenty of power to get up to speed on the freeway and passing is effortless.
Ford’s SelectShift 6-speed automatic may seem like a gimmick at first, but it actually works quite well for a slush-box. On each side of the steering wheel is a set of paddles. Pressing either switch on the front of the steering wheel with your thumb will downshift the transmission. To up-shift you just flick the paddle on the back side of the steering wheel. This will be awkward to drivers that are accustomed to paddle shifters with one side being up shift and the other downshift, but after a while it becomes natural.
While the SelectShift is no replacement for a true dual-clutch paddle-shifting gearbox, it will on command drop a gear when you ask it to. Unlike some other automatics with manual control, you can continue to accurate until you hit the rev-limiter. The ability to keep the transmission in a single gear made the experience feel far more sporty. Downshifts worked rather fast, but up shifts were rough and sluggish, this is a traditional automatic after all. The transmission is a nice improvement over the 5-speed automatic transmission available in the Honda Accord.
The suspension as expected on a family sedan is plush and comfortable. Potholes are a minor inconvenience and a bumpy freeway will hardly be felt at all. With the soft ride you would expect a tremendous about of body roll in turns, but ford did a great job of minimizing it. For a big car, the Taurus can still be fun to drive.
Those in the market for a full sized sedan should take a long look at the Taurus. The car has technology features like blind-spot warning system and adaptive cruise control are usually found on more up market models. Many luxury cars don’t even have a connectivity system as good as SYNC. If a Camry seems too dull, the Taurus may be just what you are looking for.
| BUILD | INTERIOR | PERFORMANCE | HANDLING | STYLING | VALUE | OVERALL | |
| RATING | 4.5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.25 | 4.0 | 3.75 | 4.25/B+ |
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 Official website for Ford cars, hybrids, trucks, and SUVs – www.fordvehicles.com |
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They have done fantastic things to transform the 2010 Ford Taurus from a no-personality,fleet car to the must-have sedan of choice! The console is reminiscent of a cockpit – everything is within arms reach. The SYNC system brings added value (not to mention safety). Mood lighting makes night driving much more exciting! I was completely surprised and delighted at the massaging seats.
http://www.reviewedfords.com