Preview: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
Green
Trucks
Luxury
Family
Brand
Muscle
See more sites from  HighGear  M E D I A  >>
Compare this car to others like it Try our car compare tool now

2010 Ford Taurus Quality Review

July 24, 2009

COMFORT AND QUALITY | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

You could adjust the seat every way from Sunday and not find that just-so position.
USA Today

subtle luxury, offering Great Recession consumers a lot of elegant kit for the money
Motor Trend

rolls down the road with a serenity we've not experienced previously in a big Ford sedan
Edmunds

The 2010 Ford Taurus is a full-size car with copious passenger room, while SHO versions get tighter-fitting, suede-trimmed versions. Based on reviewer comments, it's a great car for tall drivers and wide enough to seat three across in the rear.

Edmunds says, “Inside the cabin, the front seats sit 1.6 inches lower, retaining a healthy 39 inches of headroom. The backseat couldn't be dropped so much, so there's a 1-inch loss of rear headroom. The remaining 37.8 inches is still enough for our 6-foot-2 tester, but the exaggerated stadium-style seating (raised significantly above the level of the front seats) leaves you looking right at the windshield header.”

Front seat comfort draws mixed reviews. ConsumerGuide favorably comments, “The front bucket seats are all-day comfortable. The available multi-contour seats feature power lumbar and air bladders that automatically inflate and deflate to provide something of a massage function. A wide up and down and front and back range of travel ensures most will find an accommodating driving position.” The USA Today reviewer, however, isn’t nearly as impressed: “Partway home, the seat cushion began to feel rump-wrecking stiff. The optional massaging-seat feature didn't help, and neither did the array of inflatable support bladders. It's crazy. You could adjust the seat every way from Sunday and not find that just-so position.”

The ConsumerGuide reviewer is less complimentary about the back seating of the Taurus, asserting, “Neither headroom nor legroom is as expansive as in the previous-generation Taurus. Depending on where the front seat is positioned, legroom is either adequate or ample. The slope of Taurus' roofline cuts into headroom more than it should.”

In terms of functionality, Car and Driver says, “The SHO has easy-to-use controls, Ford’s voice-command Sync system, and an excellent navigation system (a $1995 option).” Automobile Magazine considers the Taurus “a thoroughly modern sedan with a broad range of capabilities. There's ample elbowroom for four, plus a fifth in a pinch, and more than enough cupholders to go around. The cabin is nicely appointed with leather, suede, and deco-metal trim.”

USA Today says “interiors are classy” in the 2010 Taurus. “Truly the premium ambience Ford wants as it repositions Taurus upscale,” they add. ConsumerGuide asserts that the “Taurus' cabin doesn't quite match the ambiance of most luxury nameplates, but it holds its own. Non-SHO models have some uninspiring plastic trim, especially in the center console area. To Ford's credit, most of the rest of the interior has pleasing textured and padded soft-touch surfaces.” Motor Trend remarks that the new Taurus has “subtle luxury, offering Great Recession consumers a lot of elegant kit for the money.”

Edmunds mentions that part of the weight gain of the 2010 Taurus comes from additional equipment, “but Ford engineers also added more acoustic insulation to reduce noise and vibration. Indeed the 2010 Ford Taurus rolls down the road with a serenity we've not experienced previously in a big Ford sedan.” Car and Driver offers comparable praise regarding noise levels of the SHO: “Few noises of any kind permeate the SHO’s double-pane front glass and acoustically treated windshield glass. If it weren’t for the constantly changing scenery, you’d almost never know the SHO was in motion. Trust us, there isn’t enough ambient noise to hide even the daintiest flatulence.”

The Taurus’ trunk is enormous, thanks to the high profile of the rear fenders and the tall decklid. At more than 20 cubic feet, it’s almost twice the size of the Acura RL trunk. ConsumerGuide says, “The trunk is wide and deep, with an opening large enough to accommodate fairly substantial cargo," and interior storage is “adequate” with “decently sized door pockets, center console, and glovebox.”

Conclusion

Comfort and interior space are more abundant in the 2010 Ford Taurus than in most other large sedans, while the SHO doesn't sacrifice any refinement for its performance.

COMFORT AND QUALITY | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:You could adjust the seat every way from Sunday and not find that just-so position.USA Todaysubtle luxury, offering Great Recession consumers a lot of elegant kit for the moneyMotor Trendrolls down the road with a serenity we've not experienced previously in a big Ford sedanEdmunds The 2010 Ford Taurus is a full-size car with copious passenger room, while SHO versions get tighter-fitting, suede-trimmed versions. Based on reviewer comments, it's a great car for tall drivers and wide enough to seat three across in the rear. Edmunds says, “Inside the cabin, the front seats sit 1.6 inches lower, retaining a healthy 39 inches of headroom. The backseat couldn't be dropped so much, so there's a 1-inch loss of rear headroom. The remaining 37.8 inches is still enough for our 6-foot-2 tester, but the exaggerated stadium-style seating (raised significantly above the level of the front seats) leaves you looking right at the windshield header.” Front seat comfort draws mixed reviews. ConsumerGuide favorably comments, “The front bucket seats are all-day comfortable. The available multi-contour seats feature power lumbar and air bladders that automatically inflate and deflate to provide something of a massage function. A wide up and down and front and back range of travel ensures most will find an accommodating driving position.” The USA Today reviewer, however, isn’t nearly as impressed: “Partway home, the seat cushion began to feel rump-wrecking stiff. The optional massaging-seat feature didn't help, and neither did the array of inflatable support bladders. It's crazy. You could adjust the seat every way from Sunday and not find that just-so position.” The ConsumerGuide reviewer is less complimentary about the back seating of the Taurus, asserting, “Neither headroom nor legroom is as expansive as in the previous-generation Taurus. Depending on where the front seat is positioned, legroom is either adequate or ample. The slope of Taurus' roofline cuts into headroom more than it should.” In terms of functionality, Car and Driver says, “The SHO has easy-to-use controls, Ford’s voice-command Sync system, and an excellent navigation system (a $1995 option).” Automobile Magazine considers the Taurus “a thoroughly modern sedan with a broad range of capabilities. There's ample elbowroom for four, plus a fifth in a pinch, and more than enough cupholders to go around. The cabin is nicely appointed with leather, suede, and deco-metal trim.” USA Today says “interiors are classy” in the 2010 Taurus. “Truly the premium ambience Ford wants as it repositions Taurus upscale,” they add. ConsumerGuide asserts that the “Taurus' cabin doesn't quite match the ambiance of most luxury nameplates, but it holds its own. Non-SHO models have some uninspiring plastic trim, especially in the center console area. To Ford's credit, most of the rest of the interior has pleasing textured and padded soft-touch surfaces.” Motor Trend remarks that the new Taurus has “subtle luxury, offering Great Recession consumers a lot of elegant kit for the money.” Edmunds mentions that part of the weight gain of the 2010 Taurus comes from additional equipment, “but Ford engineers also added more acoustic insulation to reduce noise and vibration. Indeed the 2010 Ford Taurus rolls down the road with a serenity we've not experienced previously in a big Ford sedan.” Car and Driver offers comparable praise regarding noise levels of the SHO: “Few noises of any kind permeate the SHO’s double-pane front glass and acoustically treated windshield glass. If it weren’t for the constantly changing scenery, you’d almost never know the SHO was in motion. Trust us, there isn’t enough ambient noise to hide even the daintiest flatulence.” The Taurus’ trunk is enormous, thanks to the high profile of the rear fenders and the tall decklid. At more than 20 cubic feet, it’s almost twice the size of the Acura RL trunk. ConsumerGuide says, “The trunk is wide and deep, with an opening large enough to accommodate fairly substantial cargo," and interior storage is “adequate” with “decently sized door pockets, center console, and glovebox.” ConclusionComfort and interior space are more abundant in the 2010 Ford Taurus than in most other large sedans, while the SHO doesn't sacrifice any refinement for its performance. 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.

Next Steps:

Get a free price quote

for the 2010 Ford Taurus from a dealer near you

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2010 Ford Taurus

Check Financing Rates

for the 2010 Ford Taurus

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2010 Ford Taurus near you

See the Ford Taurus in Other Years:

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

Comments (19 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!

  18. By JJP #18, Posted: 11/28/2009

    This is in response to all those who complain about the price the of 2010 Taurus,especially the SHO model.For many years the auto enthuiasts publications have been complaining about how the domestic automakers build cars with cheap plastics and subpar fit and finish. The complaints have also been made about cutting corners in design and enginering and umimpressive performance. Ford has made the effort to be more impressive and competive like most of the import automakers. It seems that all that Ford is getting for its efforts are complaints about price regarding the Taurus and the Flex. When the high end import brands are priced higher for impecable quality materials and engineering they are lauded for it. When Ford makes the attempt and the result is a higher cost,all I hear and read are compliants. Just one example of the bias against the domestic automakers.
    Toyota and Honda can do no wrong, Ford and GM can do no right.

  19. By JJH #19, Posted: 11/29/2009

    I test drove a limite edition Taurus yesterday and overall found it to be a very nice car. Seating comfort is excellent in both the front and rear. The 3.5L standard engine won't snap your head back, but offers plenty of power for the average driver. Where I think the car really shines is in its handling and ride. It's surprisingly quiet and comfortable, and if you plan to take a lot of long trips, you'll love the trunk space. I didn't care for the paddle shifters, which are positioned right where I normally rest my hands when driving. I also found the rear visibility to be a problem in tight spaces, so rear sensors would be a must.

Post a comment

Post anonymously, or
(Required)
(Required - will not be published, sold or shared)
(Optional - your 'posted by' name will link to the URL)

Remember Me?

I have read TheCarConnection.com's privacy policy