After a brief stint as the Ford Five Hundred, the Taurus name re-emerges on a reworked version of the same sedan. Although somewhat conservatively styled, the Taurus is a more competitive vehicle than any vehicle to wear the Taurus name for some time. The Taurus rides on a modern platform that features a fully independent suspension and optional all-wheel-drive. A new 3.5L V6 provides significantly more power than the 3.0L V6 that launched with the Five Hundred and the CVT transmission dropped in favor of a standard six-speed automatic. What hasn't changed is the large interior with above-average rear seat legroom and a generous trunk. The Taurus is a good buy with prices starting at $24,000 for a FWD model. The Taurus offers a compelling alternative to the successful Chevrolet Impala.

The Ford Five Hundred receives a minor styling refresh and a new name. Aside from wearing the Taurus name, the biggest visible change is a new front end featuring the Ford three-bar grille. Horsepower is boosted to 260hp with the inclusion of a 3.5L V6. The CVT transmission options have been dropped leaving a six-speed automatic as the sole transmission.