Ford has been a reliable and trusted name in U.S. auto production for over a century, so it’s not surprising that the 2012 Ford Taurus has already become a very popular option for those seeking out a large car that doesn’t break the bank.
The Taurus has been a favorite because of its size and the styling that comes with its performance.
In fact, over a wide range of reviews and test drives the Taurus ranks at the top.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $25,555.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (72 liters) | MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy |
| Length: 202.9 in. (515.3 cm) | Wheel Base: 112.9 in. (286.7 cm) |
| Height: 60.7 in. (154.1 cm) | Width: 76.2 in. (193.5 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 4015 lbs (1821 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 20.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1 |
| Horsepower: 263 HP | Max RPM: 6250 RPM |
| Torque: 249 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic OD |
| Option:Taurus SEL | MSRP: $27,755; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy |
| Option:Taurus Limited | MSRP: $32,155; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy |
| Option:Taurus SHO | MSRP: $38,155; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy |
Engine & Performance
Considering the size of the Taurus, the car displays very pleasing levels of performance. Acceleration is on the brisk side for a large sedan, and the car continues to display the long-standing Ford virtue of responsive and accurate handling, as well. The engine in the base Taurus models is a 3.5-liter unit which pumps out 263 horsepower.
This is good enough to haul the car’s 4,000 lb curb weight along at a pleasing pace without the car feeling strained. For the real speed freak, though, there’s the special SHO edition, which benefits from a tuned 365 horsepower unit.
Exterior
Some large cars can seem rather unexciting when seen from outside, but this Taurus is one of the better looking large sedans on the market. It has a fairly low-slung look that emphasizes the sporting credentials Ford has become known for in recent years; while its stylish creased metal look further shows off the car’s athletic feel.
It’s not absolutely perfect, because the dull side window design. That’s likely to mean that the car will appeal to slightly older buyers, but those who still appreciate a touch of style.
Interior
Once you get into the 2012 Taurus, you will realize one of the reasons that the car has become so popular. It has an impressive interior indeed, and one that rivals other cars of higher classes. There’s a little more plastic than you would expect from a true luxury sedan, but aside from that, this is a very well designed car indeed.
It is stylish, and succeeds in feeling modern without being uncomfortable. The Taurus boasts of a large trunk capacity for this class, which is a welcome for families that need the space.
Safety
The Taurus is a car that has performed well in federal safety testing, obtaining a maximum five-star rating for side impact damage, and creditable four-star scores for both front-impact and rollover events. The roof pillars are perhaps a little thick, so it might be worth considering the optional camera and sensor system for extra peace of mind.
Ford’s unique MyKey system allows parents to let their new-driver children use the car, but limit certain aspects such as maximum speed or how loud they can set the radio volume.
Reliability
Although it is obviously a little early to tell what the long term reliability of a 2012 model car will be, the early signs are good. J. D. Power has awarded this car a Predicted Reliability rating of 4.5 stars, out of a possible maximum of five.
This suggests that the Ford Taurus can be relied on, and that Ford’s recent improvement in its reliability record will likely be maintained with this model.
Competition
The Chevrolet Impala (MSRP $30,300; 18 city / 30 hwy), Toyota Avalon (MSRP $36,435; 19 city / 28 hwy), and the Chrysler 300 (MSRP $38,670; 18 city / 25 hwy) are sedans that can be compared to the Taurus. Each having a distinct quality that allow them to stand out.
Overall Rating
80 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Ford Taurus gets expensive if you add a lot of options, but it could look like quite the deal against luxury-brand models equipped with the same tech features.”Car Connection
“Also pleasant in standard form, 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 and brake control. A small turning radius helps in close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide
“If you like your vehicles on the large side but you’re not into wagon-like CUVs or SUVs, the 2012 Ford Taurus will fit you like a glove. The car’s bold looks, high-tech interior and impressive performance are just icing on the cake.”KBB
“With its comfortable interior and large trunk, the 2012 Ford Taurus is an appealing reinvention of the classic full-size American sedan.”Edmunds
