The Evolution of Ford Taurus: From the '80s to Today: Covering Ground and History

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The Ford Taurus has been a popular sedan for decades, and it has evolved significantly over the years. From its humble beginnings in the 1980s to its current status as a stylish and well-equipped sedan, the Taurus has always been a reliable and affordable choice for families and commuters alike. If you're looking for a used Taurus, Westernfordhcm has a great selection of models to choose from. We can help you find the perfect Taurus for your needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient daily driver or a powerful performance sedan, we have the Taurus that's right for you. Visit westernfordhcm today to learn more about the Taurus and schedule a test drive.

Year

Model

Key Changes

1986

First generation

  • Introduced as a replacement for the Ford LTD
  • Offered in sedan and wagon body styles
  • Powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine

1992

Second generation

  • Redesigned with a more aerodynamic shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.0-liter V6 and a 3.8-liter V6
  • Available in sedan, wagon, and hatchback body styles

1996

Third generation

  • Redesigned with a more rounded shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.0-liter V6, a 3.8-liter V6, and a 4.6-liter V8
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

2000

Fourth generation

  • Redesigned with a more angular shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.0-liter V6, a 3.8-liter V6, and a 4.6-liter V8
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

2007

Fifth generation

  • Redesigned with a more modern shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6 and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

2010

Sixth generation

  • Redesigned with a more aggressive shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6 and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

2013

Seventh generation

  • Redesigned with a more upscale shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6 and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

2019

Eighth generation

  • Redesigned with a more aerodynamic shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

I. 1980s: The Taurus Debuts and Finds Success

The Taurus Is Born

In 1985, Ford introduced the Taurus, a groundbreaking midsize sedan that quickly became a popular choice for families and commuters alike. The Taurus was praised for its sleek design, roomy interior, and impressive performance. It was also one of the first cars to offer a variety of advanced features, such as anti-lock brakes and airbags.

The Taurus quickly became one of Ford's best-selling cars, and it helped to establish the company as a leader in the midsize sedan market. The Taurus was also a critical success, winning numerous awards from automotive publications.The Ford Taurus

The Taurus Evolves

Over the years, the Taurus has been redesigned and updated several times. However, it has always remained true to its original design ethos. The Taurus is still a stylish, comfortable, and affordable sedan that offers a wide range of features.

The latest generation of the Taurus was introduced in 2010. This generation of the Taurus is more refined than ever before, and it offers a number of cutting-edge features. The Taurus is available with a variety of engine options, including a powerful EcoBoost V6 engine. It also offers a variety of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.Off-Roading Adventures in the Ford Everest

Year

Model

Key Changes

1986

First generation

  • Introduced as a replacement for the Ford LTD
  • Offered in sedan and wagon body styles
  • Powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine

1992

Second generation

  • Redesigned with a more aerodynamic shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.0-liter V6 and a 3.8-liter V6
  • Available in sedan, wagon, and hatchback body styles

1996

Third generation

  • Redesigned with a more rounded shape
  • Offered with a variety of engine options, including a 3.0-liter V6, a 3.8-liter V6, and a 4.6-liter V8
  • Available in sedan and wagon body styles

II. 1990s: Redesign and Continued Popularity

Redesigned with a More Aerodynamic Shape

The 1992 Ford Taurus received a significant redesign, with a more aerodynamic shape that reduced drag and improved fuel economy. The new body style also featured a more rounded profile, with smoother lines and curves. The headlights were redesigned to be more flush with the body, and the grille was enlarged for a more aggressive look.

Year

Engine

Power

1992

3.0L V6

140 hp

1993

3.8L V6

155 hp

1994

3.8L V6

160 hp

Continued Popularity

The redesigned Taurus was a hit with consumers, and sales increased significantly over the previous generation. The car's popularity was due in part to its new aerodynamic design, which improved fuel economy and performance. The Taurus also received high marks for its interior comfort and spaciousness. By the end of the 1990s, the Taurus was one of the best-selling cars in America.

  • Fuel economy improved by up to 10% over the previous generation.
  • The Taurus was named "Car of the Year" by Motor Trend magazine in 1992.
  • The Taurus was the best-selling car in America in 1996 and 1997.

III. 2000s: Ups and Downs and the Taurus' Revival

Taurus Woes and the Focus on Value

The 2000s were a tumultuous decade for the Taurus, with the early years marked by declining sales and criticism over quality issues. However, Ford responded with a major redesign for the 2005 model year, which helped to improve the Taurus' reputation and sales.

The new Taurus was larger and more powerful than its predecessor, and it offered a more comfortable and luxurious interior. It was also more fuel-efficient, thanks to its new Duratec V6 engine. The Taurus was also one of the first Fords to offer the SYNC infotainment system, which allowed drivers to control their music, navigation, and climate settings using voice commands. The Taurus continued to receive updates and improvements throughout the 2000s. For example, the 2008 model year saw the addition of a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, while the 2010 model year brought a refreshed exterior and interior design. Fuel efficiency remained a priority, and the Taurus received several updates to its engines and transmissions to improve its MPG.

The Taurus Returns to Prominence

These updates helped to keep the Taurus competitive in the increasingly crowded full-size sedan market. By the end of the decade, the Taurus had regained its position as one of Ford's best-selling sedans. The Taurus is a testament to the power of a well-executed redesign. After struggling in the early 2000s, Ford was able to revive the Taurus and make it one of its most popular sedans once again. The Taurus has continued to enjoy success in the 2010s and remains a popular choice for families and commuters alike.

IV. Today: Taurus Leaves the Market and Enters the Future

Internal Combustion Engines Exit the Picture

The Ford Taurus has a long and storied history, dating back to the 1980s. But like all good things, the Taurus's time has come to an end. Ford announced in 2019 that the 2020 model year would be the last for the Taurus. This decision was made as part of Ford's plan to shift its focus to more profitable and popular models such as SUVs and trucks. Read more about Ford Taurus

Year

Units Produced

1986

202,810

1987

253,564

1988

290,815

1989

318,458

1990

363,011

While the Taurus will no longer be produced, its legacy will live on. The Taurus was one of the most popular sedans in America for many years, and it helped to define the American sedan market. It will be remembered as a reliable, affordable, and stylish car that served millions of families well. Check out the Ford Flex

V. Conclusion

The Ford Taurus has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 1980s. Over the years, it has evolved from a boxy, utilitarian sedan to a stylish and well-equipped car that can compete with the best sedans on the market. The Taurus has always been a reliable and affordable choice for families and commuters alike, and it continues to be a popular choice today. As the Taurus enters its fifth decade of production, it is clear that it is here to stay. The Taurus is a testament to Ford's commitment to building high-quality, affordable sedans that meet the needs of American drivers.