Nuts and Bolts

Neither Ford Taurus engine is competitive in the class, though our average fuel economy of 25 mpg is at least one reason to consider the car.

Standard on both models is an ancient 3.0-liter, pushrod, iron-block V6 that makes a paltry 153 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 185 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,250 rpm. The optional engine is an all-aluminum, dual-overhead cam V6 of the same displacement, making 201 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 207 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, for a premium of about $1,000.

Each engine comes connected to a four-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control programming, driving the front wheels. Suspension is independent front and rear, with MacPherson struts holding up the front and a four-link arrangement charged with keeping the rear end planted to the ground. Wagon models have a short- and long-arm rear suspension with gas shocks and progressive rate springs to better handle loads.

Wagons also get four-wheel disc brakes, while sedans make do with a front disc, rear drum setup. Variable-assist, power rack-and-pinion steering guides the Taurus.