What is it? The Windy City sees Ford blow in updates and name changes for its core people movers. With a new engine and transmission, along with the new Ford trademark three-bar grille and new rear fascia, the Ford Freestyle becomes the Taurus X. Powered by the same 260-hp, 3.5 liter V6 used in the new Taurus, the Taurus X also shares the sedan’s six-speed automatic gearbox, replacing the Freestyle’s continuously-variable transmission. Like the Taurus, the Taurus X gets new standard electronic stability control. Two new convenience features are a one-touch flip-and-fold second seat for easier access to the third row and an available power lift gate.
What is new or notable: With some seven million Taurus sedans
sold during its 21-year run, Ford is counting on name recognition and an improved powertrain to boost slow sales for this CR-Recommended model.
