Used 2009 Ford Taurus X

When it comes to the Ford Taurus X, the name is familiar and so is the vehicle, but for different reasons. That name belonged to a car that radicalized the world of mid-size sedans and wagons when it first appeared as a 1986 model, but then declined over the years to rental fleet anonymity. The vehicle itself, meanwhile, made an all but invisible debut as the Ford Freestyle, its solid foundations clad in forgettable sheetmetal and propelled by an engine unequal to the task. In 2008, Ford returned the Taurus nameplate to their big wagon and along the way added a substantial list of significant upgrades, as well as earning a spot in Kelley Blue Book’s list of Best New Family Vehicles. Offered in front- and all-wheel drive editions, the Taurus X stacks up as crossover worthy of attention.

Thanks to its rigid unit body, the 2009 Ford Taurus X delivers responses that are gratifyingly eager for a tall vehicle weighing over two tons. Tactile information from the steering is vague with the wheel on or near center, and the addition of a telescoping function to the column would make it easier to achieve an optimal driving position. But in general the X’s road manners are devoid of nasty surprises, ride quality has a hint of Euro firmness without being excessively stiff, and the 3.5-liter V6 engine takes the excess drama out of passing on two-lane highways. The driver sightlines are better than average for a vehicle of this type, particularly looking forward. Only the braking performance leaves something to be desired, with long braking distances chief amongst our grievances.

With the exception of a somewhat cramped front passenger side foot well the Taurus X’s strong suit continues to be its exceptional roominess. A one-touch flip-and-fold feature for the second row seats enhances third-row access, and numerous sound deadening measures make the interior near luxury-car quiet. The X seats six or seven, and six-passenger versions provide an access alley to the third row. That third-row, by the way, can comfortably fit two adults and still leave a useable measure of cargo space intact. A long list of optional features, including rear seat DVD entertainment, should keep the kids occupied for hours on end.

Last year’s Taurus X update included fresh sheetmetal from the windshield pillar forward, set off by an adaptation of the bright three-bar grille that’s become Ford’s new design signature. The Taurus X’s tall roof may be difficult to access for some, but the low step-in height makes entry and egress much easier than with a tall SUV. Returning for 2009, the Eddie Bauer trim adds two-tone paint, 18-inch wheels and wiper activated headlamps.

Ford SYNC
Developed in partnership with Microsoft, Ford’s voice-activated communications system makes it easier to use cell phones and iPods, for instance, while also providing access to more of those devices’ functionality.

Power Liftgate
Powered rear liftgates may seem hedonistic to those who have never lived with one, but once you do, you’ll understand why they’re becoming increasingly popular. A must-have for anyone who’s ever juggled arm loads of groceries or kids or both, particularly on a cold winter’s night.

A keyless entry keypad is unique to Ford products. Other standard features that aren’t universally standard include a six-way power driver’s seat, heated power side mirrors, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls, 12 cup holders, and four 12-volt power points. Stability control, an option on the sedan, is standard on the X.

Notable options on the 2009 Ford Taurus X include navigation, DVD rear seat entertainment with two wireless headphones, power moonroof, perforated leather seat trim, AM/FM audio with six-disc CD changer, dual zone climate control, power rear liftgate, Ford SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system, remote starting and Reverse Sensing System to aid in parking and backing up in tight spaces.

Like its sedan counterpart, the 2009 Ford Taurus X has a single engine and transmission combination: a 3.5-liter V6 with a smooth six-speed automatic. This same V6 powers the Ford Edge, and with 263 horsepower, it gives the Taurus X respectable acceleration – zero to 60 mph in less than eight seconds. Federal fuel economy projections under the new and more stringent rating system are 16 mpg city/24 highway for front-drive models, 15/22 for those with all-wheel drive.

3.5-Liter V6
263 horsepower @ 6250 rpm
249 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/24 (FWD), 15/22 (AWD)