A decent crossover with a bad name

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Under the Hood

At more than 4,000 pounds, the 2008 Taurus X is a heavy vehicle, and to move it Ford has packed this three-row crossover with a 3.5-liter V-6 and a six-speed automatic transmission. Output is rated at 263 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 249 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, which helps the former Freestyle offer a 2,000-pound towing capacity. EPA-rated fuel economy registers 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the standard front-wheel drive version, whereas tacking on optional all-wheel-drive drops the ratings to 15 mpg/22 mpg, respectively. With gas prices as high as they are, buyers of the Taurus X can take comfort in knowing that their family hauler requires regular 87-octane fuel and not the more expensive premium grade.

Also included in the Taurus X’s ranks are a MacPherson strut front suspension, an independent multi-link rear suspension, and a rack-and-pinion steering assembly. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard and backed by traction control and AdvanceTrac stability control. Depending on the trim chosen, buyers will roll off the lot with 17-inch alloy wheels and 215/65 tires or 18s wrapped in 225/60 Pirelli P6 rubber.