A few new exterior color choices are added and there are minor changes to a couple of optional equipment packages. Two flexible fuel packages will appeal to those with a stockpile of Ethanol or Methanol. Outstanding Yamaha-built engine. Good handling characteristics. Lots of usable interior space.
Silly spoiler looks ridiculous on the rear deck.
Performance is down from the previous model. After last year's dramatic redesign of the Taurus, Ford is playing it safe, trying to keep costs down as their top-selling vehicle faces sharp criticism from the press and closed checkbooks of potential buyers who are less than captivated by this vehicle's startling new shape. We have been able to spend some time with the Taurus and its stablemate the Mercury Sable and have found ourselves won over by this odd-looking family sedan and wagon. If you can get past the strange curves and odd snout, the Taurus still offers a lot of car for the money. Upon settling into the Tauruses cockpit, the first thing most drivers notice is the logical placement of the controls and the great outward visibility.