2008 Ford Taurus X

The 2008 Taurus X might sound like a new vehicle in Ford's lineup, but it's actually a revamped Ford Freestyle, a crossover vehicle introduced in 2005 and based on the Volvo XC90. Ford didn't have much luck with the Freestyle, but the automaker hopes that by rebadging the vehicle as the Taurus X, it can boost sales in what it considers a fast-growing automotive segment.

That strategy just might work, since the Taurus is a familiar name to most drivers. Also likely to help boost sales is the fact that the 2008 Taurus X received the designation of Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. To receive this designation, the Taurus X earned the Institute's highest rating in front, side, and rear impact tests, largely as a result of improvements to the platform made for the 2008 model year.

Many drivers and critics considered the old Freestyle to be underpowered, but that's been remedied in the Taurus X as well, thanks to a new 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower, up 57 horsepower from the previous year's Freestyle. Other features for the new Taurus X include a standard AdvanceTrac traction control system, a Safety Canopy System, and an available Ford SYNC System. The seven-passenger vehicle has three rows of seats and an optional power rear liftgate.

In addition, the Taurus X is available in a wide variety of configurations, including front-wheel-drive models as well as trim packages with a new four-wheel-drive system. A new Eddie Bauer Edition is also available for those who prefer a few more luxury features.