2010 Ford Taurus: First Drive
The car of rental agencies and undercover cops is back in 2010 with a new look and attitude.
The 2010 Ford Taurus, sporting European styling and a go-fast attitude is set to take over as Ford’s flagship vehicle, just a few years after the brand disappeared. Supposedly at the request of CEO Alan Mulally, the Taurus was scheduled for a massive overhaul and reintroduction for the 2010 model year.
The result is a base 3.5L V6 Duratec engine putting out 263 hp, a jet-fighter “cockpit” interior, a smooth ride and a host of technological gizmo’s and gadgets that would make even James Bond proud.
For those with a lust for beating Audi V8s off the line, Ford has also revived the Taurus SHO (Super High Output). This top-dog Taurus has the same 3.5L as it’s brothers, but was up fitted with Ford’s new Ecoboost system, a twin-turbo direct-injected setup pumping out a whopping 365 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque . That’s more than an Audi A6, with two less cylinders. Ford says the twin turbo system was designed as a gas saver… right. That’s our kind of gas-saving mindset.
But the real question is whether or not the Taurus can compete with Lexus, BMW and Audi on more than just power. I mean, it is a Ford right? After a quick spin in a mid-level SEL we think it has a shot. Don’t call us crazy just yet, here’s why:
First, the penny-pinching accountant’s Taurus starts at $25,170. The CEO’s Limited model is a bargain $31,170. That’s about five to ten thousand less than its target competitors; a lot of extra dough to spend on palm pilots and fake ficus trees.
Second, it’s got unique technology. Cool unique technology. Like MyKey, a system that lets the owner program the key to restrict certain features on the car before he lets someone else drive it. Say Johnny-16-year-old wants to take it around the block. Boom! The owner can limit the speed of the car, the stereo volume, and even make the annoying seat belt bing until the teen straps in. Throw in a Sony sound system, adaptive cruise control and Microsoft Sync and you’ll feel like the IT guy in no time.
Third, the doors close well. They don’t sound tinny or cheap, they sound solid. For anyone who’s bought an American car in the last 20 years, that’s a big deal. Ford says they benchmarked Lexus and Audi for build quality, matching and exceeding seam lines, paint quality and quietness. We believe them.
On our brief drive around the block the ride felt smooth and controlled. Even in the SEL, plenty of power was on tap, albeit with some hesitation. We would’ve liked a highway opportunity to see how it really performed. Inside the interior was comfortable, yet despite the large size of the car, felt closed in. This is due in large part to the wrapped dash and center console, giving the driver a “cockpit” feel.
So can the Taurus compete with the luxury megabrands? We think so, but we need more time with it to see if it’s up to the challenge. Keep your eyes open for a full review sometime in the near future.
For more information, check out Ford’s Web site
In the interest of fairness, the writer of this story worked at Ford Motor Company summer of 2009.
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Great story! I haven’t decided if I like the car or not, though. It’s definitely a step in the right direction, at least!