Topic: CD Article: 2008 Ford Taurus X Limited AWD

[Autos_Editor]

Today's Test Drive:

Limited AWD: With more power, a more responsive transmission, and clever seating arrangements, the new Taurus X is a definite improvement over the Freestyle, says Editor-in-chief, Greg Wilson.  But interior quality and ergonomics could be better, he says.
   
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Read the article | View the photos | All The Test Drives

[unctuous]

Looks pretty good to me.  I just wish there was a Mercury version available in Canada.

[sirAQUAMAN64]

The photos make the interior look much roomier and better packaged than I thought it would be. That, plus based on other poster's comments, means I will have to take a close look at one and do a back seat test 

[quadzilla]

The SEL AWD model adds a full-time four-wheel drive system similar to the one on the Ford Edge crossover. It uses an electro-mechanical centre coupler to vary torque front to rear by up to 100 percent to either axle. The system is fully automatic and there is no low range gear.

Is that correct?  Up to 100%.

Otherwise, looks like a great alternative to a mini-van. 

[The Fuzz]

I really like this thing. The looks aren't stellar but in terms of practicality it is fantastic. Lots of room. AWD availability. Comfortable. And now with more power and the CVT getting turfed it's even more of a winner...

[mmret]

I really like this thing. The looks aren't stellar but in terms of practicality it is fantastic. Lots of room. AWD availability. Comfortable. And now with more power and the CVT getting turfed it's even more of a winner...

I never understood why CVTs and SUVs made that much sense. Those things need to Get Moving Now Dammit, and a sluggish CVT really brings the full boat effect.

Why don't they just develop a 7 speed transmission with a really tall top gear or something if they want fuel economy numbers instead of this CVT business.

[Wolverine]

I'm kinda suspect to talk about a car this big 'cause I'm a "big car boy". But I have to say that I really love this car, isn't huge as a minivan but offers a lot of room. Would be my perfect ride.

[Benhaze]

I also think the Taurus X has been much improved over the Freestyle.  Gee, it's the first time I find the chromed grille actually looks good on a Ford vehicle.

But $48K for it? Ouch. It may appears to be competitive but you would have to dismiss the poor resale value. Remember the Pacifica?  My personal belief is Ford shouldn't price it so high until reestablishes the reputation and demand on this vehicle (assuming it can be done). But it will be an interesting vehicle one year down the road when a buyer may be able to snatch one at a  ~12K$ lower price.

And 2000 lb trailer tow rating? That is pretty much useless unless you only tow a seadoo or 4-wheeler. The standard for this CUV price/size range is 3500 lb while the new GMs have a 4500 lb rating if I am not mistaken.

[MKII]

Driving my brothers 2006 Freestyle SEL AWD with the CVT, I did not sense this sluggishness many have mentioned. The CVT definitely gives a different sensation  from the traditional autotrannys , but when watching the speedo climb it sure wasn't what I would call sluggish.  IMO it is more of a psycological perception from the different manner the CVT gives then what is really happening with performance.

The cosmetic changes made to the Taurus-X are quite nice and the 3.5 is a much better-refined powerplant. I think it will sell quite well.

[Sir Osis of Liver]

You have to remember the Taurus X starts at ~$32,000 and the absolute top is $48,000. Competitive pricing IMHO. And it really is an impressive car on the road.
The tow rating is odd, as the identical powertrain in the Edge allows it to tow 3500lbs. 

[mmret]

You have to remember the Taurus X starts at ~$32,000 and the absolute top is $48,000. Competitive pricing IMHO. And it really is an impressive car on the road.
The tow rating is odd, as the identical powertrain in the Edge allows it to tow 3500lbs. 

Chassis?

[Sir Osis of Liver]

The S80 can tow 1500kg and the XC90 can tow 2250kg, so I'm at a bit of a loss as to why the same chassis would be rated at 1000kg at Ford. Trying to divert trailer towers to the Explorer?

[mmret]

The S80 can tow 1500kg and the XC90 can tow 2250kg, so I'm at a bit of a loss as to why the same chassis would be rated at 1000kg at Ford. Trying to divert trailer towers to the Explorer?

Haha, 1500kgs towing capacity in a FWD bias sedan. Delicious.

[initial_D]

The CVT might be the weak link in the chain for towing capacity. A regular 4 speed auto transmission can handle more towing capacity.

[Cord]

The CVT might be the weak link in the chain for towing capacity. A regular 4 speed auto transmission can handle more towing capacity.

What CVT? 

[initial_D]

The CVT might be the weak link in the chain for towing capacity. A regular 4 speed auto transmission can handle more towing capacity.

What CVT? 

The one that was in the NOFreestyle and being replaced by a traditional 6-speed in the X?

[Benhaze]

The S80 can tow 1500kg and the XC90 can tow 2250kg, so I'm at a bit of a loss as to why the same chassis would be rated at 1000kg at Ford. Trying to divert trailer towers to the Explorer?

Good point - probably.

Naan. There is a huge step between the Explorer and the Taurus X. The Escape can tow 3500 lbs with the trailer tow option or 2000 lb without...    Guess the Taurus X is really aimed at the car crowd more than the CUV one. It does look a lot like a wagon so it likely won't hurt sales too much.

[sailor723]

I
But $48K for it? Ouch. It may appears to be competitive but you would have to dismiss the poor resale value. Remember the Pacifica?  My personal belief is Ford shouldn't price it so high until reestablishes the reputation and demand on this vehicle (assuming it can be done). But it will be an interesting vehicle one year down the road when a buyer may be able to snatch one at a  ~12K$ lower price.

.

Or head South and buy one new for about 8K$ less without having to wait a year

[Eric Green]

Perhaps Greg Wilson could advise on real-world, tested-for-a-week fuel mileage? Instead of the bogus, uselss Ford/TransCan mileage number?

Thx.

[Cord]

Guess the Taurus X is really aimed at the car crowd more than the CUV one. It does look a lot like a wagon so it likely won't hurt sales too much.

I agree. It is, after all, the wagon version of the Taurus. Nobody really expects high towing capacity from a family sedan.