2008 Ford Taurus Features Review

From high-tech gadgets to creature comforts, Ford Taurus offers features that impressed TheCarConnection.com and other reviewers.

The 2008 Ford Taurus is available in either front- or all-wheel drive, with two trim levels: base SEL and up-level Limited. Edmunds calls the SEL "well-equipped" with "17-inch wheels, full power accessories (including a power driver seat), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood grain interior trim, air-conditioning, a CD player and MP3 jack, cruise control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror." MyRide concurs, saying, "if you're thinking that like the old Taurus, this one's a stripped fleet leader, think again," pointing out that standard equipment "is extensive, including a full complement of airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system...traction control, and keyless entry." They also mention the fog lamps and anti-lock brakes, concluding that "Rental customers should be so lucky."

For the Limited trim of the 2008 Taurus, Ford has 18-inch wheels as standard (Cars.com notes that these are optional on the SEL). Edmunds lists "leather upholstery, a power passenger seat, front seat heaters, a memory system for the driver seat/mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system with a six-disc CD changer, heated mirrors with puddle lamps, and an analog clock" as standard on the Limited, with "moonroof, a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, satellite radio and the Ford Sync system" optional.

The 2008 Ford Taurus offers a wealth of features, like a standard auxiliary audio input jack, and options such as a voice-activated navigation system, a DVD entertainment system, and Sirius Satellite Radio. Ford’s SYNC in-car entertainment controller is also available.

ZDNet is impressed with the "very advanced navigation system and voice command, a feature we haven't seen on a Ford until now." They weren't as happy with the stereo, which they deem "over-amplified," saying that at "half volume it was almost painful, and above that the speakers started rattling. This isn't a finely balanced system, but it does produce satisfying bass. The overall audio quality is also good, although it lacks crispness in the high range." This criticism of the audio system was virtually the only negative TheCarConnection.com found in reviews of Taurus features.