Introduction
Welcome to our in-depth review of the 2012 Ford Taurus SE. If you’re on the hunt for a solid sedan that offers space, comfort, and decent performance, then the Taurus could be worth your consideration. With a starting price around $26,350, this full-size car commands attention in its class. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty— from its specifications to what it’s like behind the wheel.
Performance and Engine Specs
The engine under the hood of the Ford Taurus SE is a robust 3.5L V6, pushing out an impressive 263 horsepower. Wow! It delivers a smooth ride, thanks to its 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities. Drivers can easily take control with a flick of the gear stick, making for a dynamic driving experience. The acceleration remains solid even at highway speeds, offering a peppy yet composed ride.
Fuel economy? It’s not the best in the market but it’s decent for a car of this size. Expect around 22 MPG combined, with 18 in the city and 28 on the highway. With a fuel tank capacity of 19 gallons, you can travel substantial distances before needing to pit stop. Just bear in mind, the Taurus isn’t exactly a fuel sipper, so don’t expect sporty-car efficiency.
Interior Comfort and Features
Now, let’s talk about comfort and interior space, which are often crucial for any full-size sedan. The 2012 Ford Taurus SE comfortably seats five passengers. It offers roomy dimensions like 39 inches of headroom in the front and 38.1 inches in the back, which is great for taller folks! The legroom isn’t shabby either, providing ample space for long drives without cramping up.
The design is straightforward yet elegant, with cloth bucket seats that connect to the feel-good vibe of the Taurus. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable, ensuring that everyone can find their sweet spot behind the wheel. And that rear seat? It folds flat, granting access to a generous 20.1 cubic feet of trunk space. Whether you’re hauling groceries or luggage for a weekend getaway, it handles it all with ease.
Technology and Entertainment
In terms of entertainment, the Taurus SE doesn’t skimp. It comes equipped with an AM/FM stereo that features a CD/MP3 player, and six speakers fill the cabin with quality sound. Plus, there’s an audio input jack for your gadgets, adding versatility to your listening options. With all that said, it may not be crammed with the absolute latest tech, but it covers the basics and keeps you entertained on those long road trips.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety is also a big win for the Ford Taurus. The car scores a commendable 4 out of 5 overall in crash tests, showcasing its robust design. Equipped with a multitude of safety features, the Taurus includes dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and the Safety Canopy system— all designed to keep you and your family safe in case of an accident.
Have a lead foot? No worries! The MyKey system allows you to set speed limits and audio volume restrictions, which is particularly handy if you’ve got teen drivers. So, safety is one area where the Taurus truly shines.
Driving Dynamics
When it comes to handling, the Taurus thrills with its stability, courtesy of its MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. What does that mean for you? Steering feels responsive and direct. The turning diameter is a respectable 41 feet, which means you won’t have to worry about tight corners.
Plus, the front-wheel drive system gives it a nice balance— perfect for diverse driving conditions. While it might not be the most thrilling driving experience compared to performance-oriented vehicles, it still scores high on comfort for daily commutes.
Pros and Cons of the 2012 Ford Taurus SE
Pros:
- Spacious interior and trunk space
- Comfortable seats
- Great safety ratings
- Strong V6 engine performance
- Reliable for everyday driving
Cons:
- Fuel economy could be better
- Older tech and entertainment features
- Handling might disappoint sport-oriented drivers
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! The 2012 Ford Taurus SE strikes a great balance between comfort, space, and performance. Families looking for a reliable sedan that will fit everyone and their cargo will likely be thrilled with this choice. While it may not have cutting-edge technology or outstanding fuel economy, its strong safety ratings and solid build make up for those shortcomings.
If you’re searching for an everyday vehicle that can handle your busy lifestyle, you can’t go wrong giving the Taurus a look. It’s practical, it gets the job done, and it’s got that classic Ford reliability. Happy driving!
