2019 Ford Taurus Review

The Taurus is one of the better-known nameplates in the car business. Alas, much of that renown comes from past deeds instead of present success. This generation Ford Taurus, which the 2019 model represents, dates back a decade. It hasn't received many updates either, other than a face-lift in 2013 and the adoption of the Sync 3 infotainment interface in 2016.

To its credit, the Taurus remains compelling for a few reasons. The ride is very comfortable, even in the high-octane SHO version, which features larger wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. We also like certain aspects of the interior, with high-quality materials, a quiet ride, and easy entry and exit. The Sync 3 system is another highlight. We think it's one of the most intuitive user interfaces on the market.

However, the Taurus has numerous drawbacks, adding up to a car that is not suited for everyone. The cabin feels unusually tight for such a large vehicle, especially in the back seat. The tall rear bench and short roof reduce headroom, and there's not much legroom either. Even in its lowest position, the driver sits unusually high and looks down at the dashboard or out the window. Ford's decision to remove features — the power-adjustable steering wheel and power rear sunshade have been nixed for 2019 — is perplexing as the car ages and naturally loses ground to newer large sedan competitors.

The 2019 Ford Taurus isn't a bad car, but nearly every one of its rivals is newer and more competent. The redesigned Toyota Avalon and recently refreshed Kia Cadenza are comfortable cruisers that offer more room, while the Dodge Charger remains a good choice if you want some muscle-car flair.

The 2019 Ford Taurus is a five-passenger large sedan sold in four trim levels. The base SE is modestly equipped, which is why buyers looking for 21st-century tech should strongly consider the next-level SEL. It counts rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control and puddle lamps among its upgrades. The Limited is significantly more expensive since it comes with items that are optional for the SEL, plus additional luxury features. The SHO is a different beast entirely, marrying most of the Limited's features with a high-performance V6 and a sport suspension.

For power, the SE relies on a 3.5-liter V6 engine (288 horsepower, 254 pound-feet of torque) paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, an exterior keyless-access keypad, six-way power-adjustable front seats (with manual recline and lumbar adjustment), 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, a driver information display, a rearview camera, Sync voice controls, Bluetooth, a 4.2-inch central display, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and two USB ports.

Stepping up to the SEL adds LED daytime running lights, body-colored heated mirrors with puddle lamps, rear parking sensors, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, upgraded cloth upholstery and interior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and satellite radio. Leather upholstery paired with heated front seats is available as a stand-alone option.

The SEL can also be had with the Equipment Group 201A option package, which adds keyless entry and ignition, an additional center speaker for the audio system and the Sync 3 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The more luxurious Taurus Limited gets you all the Equipment Group 201A items, plus 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic high-beam control, automatic wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and driver-side mirror, power-adjustable pedals, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated 10-way power front seats, driver-seat memory settings, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a premium Sony audio system with HD radio.

Limited models can also be had with the Driver Assist option package, which includes adaptive cruise control, an automated parallel parking system, a forward collision warning system, and lane departure warning and intervention. Stand-alone options for both the SEL and the Limited include 20-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, a rear spoiler and a navigation system.

The sporty SHO starts with most of the Limited's standard equipment and adds all-wheel drive, a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine (365 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque), a sport-tuned suspension, exclusive 20-inch wheels, xenon headlights, black exterior trim, a rear spoiler, dual exhaust tips, unique leather upholstery and interior trim, and steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.

Most Limited options are also available for the SHO, along with a SHO Performance package that adds a revised final-drive ratio for quicker acceleration, summer performance tires, stiffer suspension tuning, upgraded brake pads, special steering tuning, an enhanced stability control system with a Track mode, and simulated-suede trim on the steering wheel.