The 2010 Ford Taurus gained some and lost some in its extensive freshening this year. The car gained a much more dynamically styled interior and exterior as well as improvements in handling. However, some ground has been lost to the previous model, mostly due to the aforementioned styling changes that compromised accommodations and visibility.
 
The Taurus’ strengths include a ride that provides good isolation from road bumps despite its 19-inch wheels and low-profile tires. The pleasant ride is enhanced by a cabin that remains quiet except for an occasional coarse engine note while accelerating. Plus, the trunk is commodious and can be further expanded by folding the 60/40-split rear seatbacks.
 
The 263-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine provides smooth and responsive performance and delivers 19 mpg overall on regular fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly.
 
While our $34,980 Taurus Limited’s interior is plush, the massive center console dramatically divides the interior. It imposes on knee room from the right and there’s too little foot room available on the left due to rocker panel intrusion. The high belt line and dashboard also combine to make a driver feel confined and limit rear visibility. (The previous Taurus had greenhouse-like visibility.) And while the rear seat remains roomy enough for adults, the previous Taurus’ abundance of leg room disappeared this time around.
 
Watch the embedded video for more insights. Online subscribers can see our full Ford Taurus road test and ratings.