2005 Ford Taurus | Review | Buying Guide
Ford continues to excel with the Ford Taurus and the 2005 should be no exception. One of America’s favorite midsize family cars, the Taurus continues to be available in sedan and station wagon body styles but Ford has simplified the model line-up, added some new exterior colors and made interior styling refinements. This year the Taurus is offered in SE and SEL models.
Since its introduction, Taurus sales have averaged more than 350,000 units every year. In other words, Taurus continues to be one of the 10 best-selling vehicles in the entire United States. Safety, comfort and affordability are three trademarks that have allowed this to happen. This year, responding to a public desire for safety and security, they have also extended availability of the Safety and Security Package to all models.
Under the Hood
The front-wheel drive Taurus offers a single standard engine choice for both trim levels, the 3.0-liter V6 delivers an even 155 horsepower at 4900 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm. However, optional on SEL models, one can choose a higher-powered V6 with 201 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 207 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm.
Both link to a 4-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control programming. The transmission, introduced last year offers fast-acting hydraulics and an enhanced torque converter. Both engines offer 20/27 mpg (city/hwy).
For each body style there is an individual suspension package. Sedan models use an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and quadralink rear suspension, while wagons have a short- and long-arm rear suspension with nitrogen pressurized shocks and progressive-rate springs.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Whether you choose the Taurus Sedan or Wagon, the trim levels SE and SEL offer about the same, and the standards are about evenly split across these two classes. The Sedan seats six while the wagon can hold up to eight people and provides 81.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
The new exterior colors for 2005 are the Windveil Blue Clearcoat Metallic and Light Tundra Clearcoat Metallic while SEL trims are highlighted by a wood-inlayed steering wheel and shift knob and a woodgrain appliqué trim on the center console, door trim and instrument panel. SEL models have such standards as automatic climate control, power-adjustable pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an AM/FM/cassette player with 6-disc CD changer.
The safety and Security package, now available across all models, includes front seat mounted side impact air bags, anti-lock brakes and traction control.
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