08 Ford Taurus -- Terrific value, roomy, and powerful By ALAN GELL www.CarColumns.Net The Taurus name is familiar to everyone and Ford had announced they were going to discontinue making the Taurus.  Well, they are -- AND, they aren't.  Ford did stop making the Taurus as the public knows about it.  About 7 million of these cars were built over a 20 year period.  It is definitely a name that most consumers recognized.

A preview and test drive was offered to automotive journalists recently.  The new Ford Taurus really does have a lot to offer.  The front seats have a lot of room for the driver and passenger and it is much more upscale than the previous models.

In their reorganization, Ford recognized the value of the Taurus name, so they are bringing it back with an all-new product.  It is a more powerful car, a lot more room, and slightly more refined.  It is designed to compete with the Chrysler 300 and the Toyota Avalon.    At a price of about $24,000, if offers a lot more value for much less cost than their competition.

The new 2008 Ford Taurus is more upscale, both inside and outside.  It has a distinctive look.  It has Ford's new 3.5 liter V6 engine under the hood and a six speed automatic transmission.  It is a front wheel drive vehicle.  All wheel drive is available.  There are more than 500 improvements that the Ford people say make it quieter, safer, faster, and more distinctive.

Two trim levels are available -- an SEL trim and a Limited trim.  The SEL has an MSRP of $23,995, but an optional Interior Convenience Package bumps it up to almost $25,000.  That includes a dual zone temperature control, wiper activated headlamps, 8 way powered drivers seat, and a 6 disc CD changer.   Tire pressure monitoring is standard, as is fog lamps and traction control.  The standard wheels are 8 spoke aluminum, 17 inch.  Other options include SIRIUS satellite radio, a power moonroof, power adjustable pedals, reverse sensing system, front heated seats, and 18 inch wheels.