When first introduced as a 1986 model, the midsize Ford Taurus quickly established itself as a best selling car, widely acclaimed by critics and consumers for its then leading edge design, roominess, excellent fuel economy and value.

For many years the four door, five passenger Taurus reigned supreme as the best selling passenger car in America, but its appeal waned over time. By the mid 1990s, Ford went with a new design direction, rendering a homely, bulbous model that detracted from Taurus' image. High fleet sales also cheapened the car, making it the 'rental car of choice' for drivers who by then weren't impressed by either its looks or functionality.

Soon, both the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord surpassed the Taurus in sales, as Ford neglected its car lines in favor of more profitable trucks and sport/utility vehicles.

By 2007, the writing was on the wall for Taurus, with Ford finally deciding to pull the plug on the model. In many ways the Taurus line (and its Mercury sibling, the Sable) were redundant as slightly smaller, but much more attractive sedans such as the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan were now part of the Ford fold. In addition, the automaker began to sell a larger Ford, dubbed the Five Hundred effectively rendering the Taurus obsolete.

At the eleventh hour, Ford was granted a stay of execution thanks to the company's new leader, Alan Mullaly, who recognized the value of the Taurus franchise. True, the name Taurus had lost much of its appeal, but then again the name 'Five Hundred' was in worse shape, thus Ford's largest sedan was renamed the Taurus in time for the 2008 model year.

Though the renaming convention has taken place, sales for the 2008 and 2009 models have been dismal thus far. Much of that can be attributed to a tough year for all car companies, but it isn't quite the direction Ford wants to go with its Taurus franchise. So, for the 2010 model year an all new Taurus will be rolled out, one that promises to increase appeal for the venerable sedan.

About the all new Taurus, Ford had this to say: 'This new sedan completely redefines expectations of what Taurus stands for -- and what Ford is capable of delivering -- quality, fuel-efficient vehicles featuring the latest technologies and head-turning design,' said Mark Fields, president The Americas.

Indeed, a long list of safety, luxury and convenience features will be included with the new model which is priced at $25,995 and will go on sale later this summer:

-- Adaptive Cruise Control

-- Collision Warning with Brake Support

-- Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start

-- SecuriCode(TM) Keyless Entry

-- MyKey(TM)

-- Auto High Beams/ Rain-Sensing Wipers

-- Easy Fuel(TM) Capless Fuel Filler

-- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS(TM))

-- Cross Traffic Alert

-- Ford SYNC(R)

-- Multi-Contour Seats

The standard powerplant for the Taurus is Ford's proven Duratec 3.5-liter V-6, which when paired with a six speed automatic transmission help the Taurus achieve industry leading highway fuel economy.

Certainly, the new Taurus won't see sales numbers as high as it did when the car was first introduced given that it is a full sized model, but it is just the right car for Ford at a time when drivers want class leading fuel economy, luxury and roominess in their large sedans.

Author: Matthew C. Keegan

About the author:
Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in North Carolina. Matt is a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport an aftermarket supplier of quality parts including Ford Taurus clutch kits and Ford Taurus brake pads.

Article source: Free Cars Articles.