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2010 Ford Taurus Performance Review

July 24, 2009

PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

the wheeze of this pressurized V-6 holds no candle to the guttural snarl of a hairy V-8
Automobile Magazine

automatic transmission snaps off quick shifts
ConsumerGuide

admirably firm brake pedal action under moderately aggressive street use.
Edmunds

The 2010 Ford Taurus sports a newly revamped 3.5-liter V-6 with 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque.

All three trim levels (SE, SEL, Limited) share the same basic 3.5-liter V-6, six-speed automatic, and front-wheel-drive system, reports Automobile Magazine: “The top two editions have a paddle-shifted automatic capable of holding gears to the 6700-rpm fuel cutoff as standard equipment and on-demand all-wheel drive as an $1850 option.” Edmunds says acceleration of the new Taurus “feels a little weaker than last year, presumably because the 2010 Taurus weighs some 280 pounds more than the 2009 edition. And there's no denying the mass; the front-wheel-drive version weighs 4,015 pounds and the AWD example weighs 4,224 pounds.”

About the SHO, Car and Driver notes, “For the first time, a Yamaha-built engine is not under the hood of a SHO. Not to worry: Ford’s 3.5-liter 'EcoBoost' V-6 makes 365 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 pound-feet of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection, variable intake-valve timing, and two small turbochargers that put out a maximum of 12 psi of boost.” Motor Trend reports that “modern materials allow the turbos to run safely at 1740 degrees, permitting the engine to operate on the ideal air-fuel ratio over much of its operating range instead of dumping extra fuel in to cool the turbos.” Automobile Magazine “clocked the new SHO's run to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and the quarter mile at 14.2 seconds with a trap speed of 101 mph. That said, the wheeze of this pressurized V-6 holds no candle to the guttural snarl of a hairy V-8.”

The six-speed automatic transmission on the 2010 Taurus is a smooth operator, but paddle shifters (on SEL and Limited versions) feel a little gimmicky in a big sedan like this. The USA Today reviewer agrees, saying “the steering-wheel paddles are neither easy nor fun to operate.” Further, they add, “Another unpleasant surprise: torque steer. That's when the front pulls to one side under hard acceleration as the front-drive system copes with more power than it perhaps was built to do gracefully.”

ConsumerGuide says, “The automatic transmission snaps off quick shifts, especially with the SHO's specific gear ratios. Steering-wheel paddles are standard on most Taurus models, and they help prevent the transmission from occasionally hunting for the right gear on hilly roads. While the paddles are nice, we wish Ford would have also included a manual shift gate on the console.”

The SHO also features steering-wheel-mounted paddles, but Automobile Magazine remarks, “Unfortunately, the actual gear changes are far too polite for a sport sedan.”

In terms of steering and braking, Edmunds says, “The front MacPherson strut suspension features a tad more anti-dive geometry, which is good because the brake calipers and rotors have been upsized, so there's more braking power. Our brief drive revealed admirably firm brake pedal action under moderately aggressive street use.” ConsumerGuide contends non-SHO Taurus models handle most curves with confidence that belies their large exterior size: "SHO ratchets the handling up a notch with neutral cornering, better-than-expected grip, and fine steering feel. Braking control is undramatic.”

Car and Driver is less impressed with SHO’s braking performance, describing it this way: “Though the SHO has 102 more horses than the family model, it gets the same brakes (Performance-package models get heavier-duty pads, but they can’t overcome the overtaxed regular-Taurus-size rotors). The 174-foot braking distance from 70 mph is 17 feet shorter than that of the base Taurus, but we credit the improvement to the aggressive summer tires on the Performance-package SHO.”

Edmunds reports, “Despite the mass increase, fuel economy is expected to hold station at 18 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for the front-driver. The AWD version should earn a 1-mpg bump in highway efficiency over last year, posting 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.”

Automobile Magazine says the real proof that Ford is onto something is that the new Taurus drives nothing like a living room on wheels.

Conclusion

The 2010 Ford Taurus performs well overall, and while the SHO benefits from a lot more power, it’s a less of a revelation than SHO models of the past.

PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:the wheeze of this pressurized V-6 holds no candle to the guttural snarl of a hairy V-8Automobile Magazineautomatic transmission snaps off quick shiftsConsumerGuideadmirably firm brake pedal action under moderately aggressive street use.Edmunds The 2010 Ford Taurus sports a newly revamped 3.5-liter V-6 with 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque. All three trim levels (SE, SEL, Limited) share the same basic 3.5-liter V-6, six-speed automatic, and front-wheel-drive system, reports Automobile Magazine: “The top two editions have a paddle-shifted automatic capable of holding gears to the 6700-rpm fuel cutoff as standard equipment and on-demand all-wheel drive as an $1850 option.” Edmunds says acceleration of the new Taurus “feels a little weaker than last year, presumably because the 2010 Taurus weighs some 280 pounds more than the 2009 edition. And there's no denying the mass; the front-wheel-drive version weighs 4,015 pounds and the AWD example weighs 4,224 pounds.” About the SHO, Car and Driver notes, “For the first time, a Yamaha-built engine is not under the hood of a SHO. Not to worry: Ford’s 3.5-liter 'EcoBoost' V-6 makes 365 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 pound-feet of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection, variable intake-valve timing, and two small turbochargers that put out a maximum of 12 psi of boost.” Motor Trend reports that “modern materials allow the turbos to run safely at 1740 degrees, permitting the engine to operate on the ideal air-fuel ratio over much of its operating range instead of dumping extra fuel in to cool the turbos.” Automobile Magazine “clocked the new SHO's run to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and the quarter mile at 14.2 seconds with a trap speed of 101 mph. That said, the wheeze of this pressurized V-6 holds no candle to the guttural snarl of a hairy V-8.” The six-speed automatic transmission on the 2010 Taurus is a smooth operator, but paddle shifters (on SEL and Limited versions) feel a little gimmicky in a big sedan like this. The USA Today reviewer agrees, saying “the steering-wheel paddles are neither easy nor fun to operate.” Further, they add, “Another unpleasant surprise: torque steer. That's when the front pulls to one side under hard acceleration as the front-drive system copes with more power than it perhaps was built to do gracefully.” ConsumerGuide says, “The automatic transmission snaps off quick shifts, especially with the SHO's specific gear ratios. Steering-wheel paddles are standard on most Taurus models, and they help prevent the transmission from occasionally hunting for the right gear on hilly roads. While the paddles are nice, we wish Ford would have also included a manual shift gate on the console.” The SHO also features steering-wheel-mounted paddles, but Automobile Magazine remarks, “Unfortunately, the actual gear changes are far too polite for a sport sedan.” In terms of steering and braking, Edmunds says, “The front MacPherson strut suspension features a tad more anti-dive geometry, which is good because the brake calipers and rotors have been upsized, so there's more braking power. Our brief drive revealed admirably firm brake pedal action under moderately aggressive street use.” ConsumerGuide contends non-SHO Taurus models handle most curves with confidence that belies their large exterior size: "SHO ratchets the handling up a notch with neutral cornering, better-than-expected grip, and fine steering feel. Braking control is undramatic.” Car and Driver is less impressed with SHO’s braking performance, describing it this way: “Though the SHO has 102 more horses than the family model, it gets the same brakes (Performance-package models get heavier-duty pads, but they can’t overcome the overtaxed regular-Taurus-size rotors). The 174-foot braking distance from 70 mph is 17 feet shorter than that of the base Taurus, but we credit the improvement to the aggressive summer tires on the Performance-package SHO.” Edmunds reports, “Despite the mass increase, fuel economy is expected to hold station at 18 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for the front-driver. The AWD version should earn a 1-mpg bump in highway efficiency over last year, posting 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.” Automobile Magazine says the real proof that Ford is onto something is that the new Taurus drives nothing like a living room on wheels. ConclusionThe 2010 Ford Taurus performs well overall, and while the SHO benefits from a lot more power, it’s a less of a revelation than SHO models of the past. 2010 FORD TAURUS STYLING | [7 out of 10] Automobile Magazine:  Ford "has swept most of the fuddy-duddy from the exterior" USA Today: "The thick-looking rear end is not especially pleasing." Edmunds: "This new Taurus is refreshingly unrecognizable from inside." The 2010 Ford Taurus ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The 2010 Ford Taurus is a big sedan with a capable performance edge. The latest Chevrolet Malibu occupies roughly the same size class—bigger than the usual front-driver—but offers a fuel-saving four-cylinder version and a hybrid edition, though no all-wheel drive. The Toyota Camry and Honda Accord also offer four-cylinder options; the Accord’s styling stretches the envelope like the Taurus and its handling is better than most full-size sedans, while the Camry appeals to other buyers who want more traditional styling and a more sedate driving experience.

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See the Ford Taurus in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997

Comments (17 total)

  1. By Berk Thornton #1, Posted: 7/26/2009

    Love the car - - but why on earth did Mullaly & Co. build it LONGER THAN THE FORD FLEX ??? Way too big.

  2. By Dan #2, Posted: 7/30/2009

    The malibu???? please.....there is nothing pleasing to the eye with that one...same old GM "stuff"...much improved over the former model, but not even close.... to the new taurus.. sorry.... listen to people who did unsuspecting reviews with the nameplate covered up on the taurus. this is going to be a huge hit for Ford and American cars

  3. By isaiahg #3, Posted: 8/6/2009

    Too bad the Tuarus doesnt compete with the Altima, or Malibu. It competes with the Bland Avalon, and Impala, but it does compete with the Maxima. I also hope it' big because it's a full size car.

  4. By bruno #4, Posted: 8/15/2009

    I have the 2008 Limited Taurus. I am 6 ft. 5 in. and weigh 365 lbs. This car is the most comfortable car I have driven, besides the Chrysler Pacifica. For those folks who do not like a large vehicle, you all have plenty of choices. I am glad to see Ford producing such a comfortable sporty car with relative good mpg. I would also like to see some of the updates on a Town Car and Crown Vic. I think there is still a market for a large affordable highway cruiser. I have owned Nissan, Toyota and GM. My 08 Taurus beats them all for value. Cannot wait to try out the 2010 Taurus. I know it will be a hit. Thanks Ford for producing the cars we want. Oh, the Chrysler Pacifica was comfortable but to expensive to operate.

  5. By Clayton #5, Posted: 9/12/2009

    The 2010 Ford Taurus? No way!! It is way over priced and simply is not what the economic society is looking for. 20 MPG? Please, I'll buy a F-150 then. You have disappointed me for the last time. I'm going Chevy.

  6. By LongTimeTaurusDriver #6, Posted: 9/25/2009

    You folks that do these reviews need to get a new gig because you obviously don't know jack about cars. The '10 Taurus is NOT new! Only the styling and interior are new. Underneath the new sheet metal and better upholstery is the same platform (loosely based on the Volvo S80) as the last several model years, and with the same 6 speed tranny and 3.5L engine it has had since '08. Yes, the 263HP 3.5 arrived in the Taurus in '08, as did the GM/Ford jointly developed 6 speed transmission. I've driven my '08 Taurus a little over 50K miles, and just ordered a '10. Same car, new lipstick. Looks more modern, but unfortunately they took what was one of the most commodious and comfortable back seats, and sacrificed it on the altar of zoom zoom looks. Bad decision. Cars of this exterior dimension should have limo accommodations in the rear passenger area. As mentioned in the review, unless you are a gnome, do NOT order a moonroof. Even in the front if you are anything over six feet tall, you will be uncomfortable. Handling is very similar to the last couple models, which actually is not bad for a big heavy sedan. New car is marginally quieter, and the styling is pleasant, but way too much sacrifice was made in the visibility and interior volume department. In fact, this thing only has one more inch of rear leg room than the Fusion, and the Fusion (Mazda 6 pan) has a very cramped back seat for adults. Not a bad attempt at an update, but geez Ford, after 100 years in the biz you would think you should know that your big car should be big inside too. Start working on the fix for this now so when I order the next one my wife won't be complaining about the back seat, which I have already heard from her about with this one, and I don't even have it yet!

  7. By Gary Folger #7, Posted: 10/7/2009

    Drove one over the weekend and can say I'm overly pleased. I'm going to buy one this weekend if I can find the right color combo. Great car, better handling and pickup than my Accord. Drive one and you'll love it!

  8. By Pam Guidry #8, Posted: 10/13/2009

    We just purchased a 2010 Taurus. I hve driven these cars for years. My question is about the headrests. I didn't test drive this car because my husband bought it, But am I the only one that thinks these headrests are extremely uncomfortable? I can't configure the seats in any way that will position my head so that it is not protruding too far forward. It is giving me back and neck strain.

  9. By Paul L #9, Posted: 10/21/2009

    Rented one for a week. Adequate road manners and power, but visibility was so poor to the rear and also to the sides that backing up or changing lanes on the interstate was a very stressful process.
    For my money?
    Keep shopping.

  10. By Leslie Ajayi #10, Posted: 10/26/2009

    I traded in my 2008 Ford Taurus for the 2010 Taurus. I thought the 2008 was a great act, but Taurus 2010 is the Taurus ever built and one of the best car i have ever driven. This car glides, is very responsive and obedient, like reading your thoughts !. The exterior is aerodymamic and the drivers seat feels like a cradle ! THe dashboard is logically arranged, and like a cockpit. The climate control, the Sirius radio, the heated side mirrors, and the rear doppler enhances the safety and confidence of this car, in addition to a supoerior and noiseless acceleration.
    Kudos to Ford automobile Engineering !

  11. By mynewtaurus #11, Posted: 10/26/2009

    I got a new SEL AWD with full options. Much better car, may be better than most of the premium sedans of its class for the value. My only concern is the rear visibility.

  12. By  AutoCritical #12, Posted: 11/1/2009

    This is another example of Ford really stepping up on their car designs. There are a few hints of the Mondeo and Interceptor flavor that make it fit nicely into the line up of new Fords. I personally don't like the parallel-ness of the body side as it makes the car seem a bit static. I wrote more about the design and about some improvements that could have been done at http://bit.ly/1ab1vE

  13. By Gerald #13, Posted: 11/16/2009

    at first glance a brilliant move by Ford, but into my second month with my 2010 Taurus Limited there are many flaws: too long, worst headlights I've ever experienced on a vehichle. Very hard to see driving at night. Poor visibility, front, sides and rear. Front seats get hard and uncomfortable on long trips. On the plus side, 27+ avg. mpg, solid, quiet. Overall maybe a C+.

  14. By Larry Frazier #14, Posted: 11/18/2009

    The 2010 Ford Taurus I going to be a giant for Ford and their the only car Maker in the US with their feet on the ground and have came up with a jewell and Im with some else if I can find one equipted the way I want and color I will buy one this weekend

  15. By Mike #15, Posted: 11/20/2009

    I have had my 2010 SHO model for a week and I can tell you that it is a great car. It is obvious to me that many of the above folks have not driven the SHO. It is very comfortable, has plenty of headroom/legroom, and has power to spare! A pleasure to own and drive!

  16. By Alicia #16, Posted: 11/22/2009

    I purchased my 2010 limited edition Taurus about 2 weeks ago. I have owned many, many cars. Hummers, Mercedes, Cadillac, just to name a few. Seriously..this car is crack-a-lackin!! It is sooo nice, and is just everything i could have ever wanted. Way to go Ford!

  17. By Jim Thurman #17, Posted: 11/23/2009

    Went in to test drive a new 2010 Taurus Limited and bought it! This car is a dream. Had Marquis' for years, then Montego, then Sable.. this beats them all. Was looking at a new LaCross but decided to go with the Taurus. This car rivals a Lexus and is 20K less! Keep up the great work Ford. This is a winner. Love all the new technology too!

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