Ford’s first Five Hundred attempt misjudged the marketplace by assuming that advanced transmissions, unique seating and available all-wheel-drive would trump the desire for raw engine power and sophisticated, cutting-edge styling. Making just 203 horses, the old engine always felt as if it was catching up via the expansive transmission ratios. The addition of 57 horsepower under the hood of the 2008 Ford Taurus will be a welcome improvement, as will the new sheetmetal and styling characteristics along with standard side and curtain rollover airbags. With a 5-star safety Gold Award from IIHS, the Taurus now looks and acts the part as a Ford flagship sedan.

Photos courtesy of Ford Motor Co.