Ford Taurus X

Starting MSRP:$26,615
Vehicle type: SUV
EPA fuel economy: city: 15-16 / hwy: 22-24
Available engines:
263-hp, 3.5-liter V-6
Available transmissions:
six-speed automatic

Ford strengthens its hand in the crossover game
from Ford

The 2008 Ford Taurus X is a full-size crossover that offers three rows of seating, a powerful 3.5-liter V-6 engine with six-speed automatic transmission and a long list of standard safety equipment, including side curtain air bage and electronic stability control.

Formerly called the Freestyle, the Taurus X includes innovative convenience features such as one-touch, flip-and-fold second-row seating and an available power rear liftgate.

"The three-row Taurus X joins our crossover lineup as a great complement to the popular Ford Edge," said Cisco Codina, Ford's group vice president of North America marketing, sales and service. "With Taurus X, customers get a roomy interior that is flexible, functional and comfortable in all three rows."

Taurus X is available in SEL, Eddie Bauer and Limited trims.

It is rated the safest seven-passenger crossover in America after earning five-star ratings in all four categories of government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institiute of Highway Safety.

The exterior design of the Taurus X picks up design cues from the Ford Edge, including set-up handlamps and a distinctive Ford three-bar chrome grille.

Families can equip the second row of seats with captain's chairs and no center console, allowing space to walk through to the third row. An available power rear liftgate features controls on the center console, rear cargo area and key fob.

The Taurus X is available in six-and seven-passenger configurations and offers exceptional visibility and space for all passengers because of the stadium-style seating that places the third row higher than the second row.