Even though Ford has launched its new Five Hundred sedan for 2005, Ford’s midsize Taurus continues into the 2005 model year with a simplified lineup. Sedans and wagons are offered in SE and SEL trim levels. Two new body colors are available. The SEL models gain woodgrain trim on the console, doors and instrument panel. When properly equipped, sedans seat up to six occupants and wagons seat up to eight. Mercury offers a related Sable sedan.
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It was formerly known as the Freestyle, but now Ford has renamed its redesigned large crossover the Taurus X. We think the name could use some work, but the Freestyle has been due for a redesign since almost the day it first debuted.
When the Taurus X arrives at dealerships in late summer, it will feature Ford’s new 3.5-liter V-6 engine rated at 260 hp and matched to a six-speed automatic. This is a considerable upgrade from the previous Freestyle’s anemic 203-hp V-6, which was mated to a frustrating CVT automatic transmission.
Mark Fields, president of the Americas for Ford Motor Co., told audiences at the Chicago Auto Show that the Ford Five Hundred sedan, Ford Freestyle crossover and Mercury Montego would be renamed the Taurus, Taurus X and Sable when the 2008 upgraded models are launched this summer. Mr. Fields cited the low awareness of all three models. “Only one in four people are aware that there’s a car called the Ford Five Hundred,” he said. “And the numbers are even lower for the Ford Freestyle and Mercury Montego.”