2009 Ford Taurus Limited AWD

The Taurus Limited AWD pushes power to all four 18-inch chrome alloy wheels via its 3.5-liter Duratec V6, regulated by a six-speed automatic transmission and standard traction control. Leather upholstery is included for the 8-way power driver’s bucket with lumbar adjustment, the fold-flat 4-way power passenger bucket, and the split-folding rear seats. Mirrors and front seats are heated. A memory system controls the driver’s seat, mirrors, and power-adjustable pedals. A leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel has controls for the upgraded AM/FM/6-CD/MP3 changer that comes with satellite radio, an iPod adapter, Bluetooth, and voice recognition. Dual-zone automatic climate controls keep you comfortable, and a rear-obstacle-detection system will prevent you from running over the bike your kid left in the driveway. A universal garage door opener, power mirrors, windows, and door locks are all standard, as well as remote keyless and keypad entry. A center console provides storage, and a trip computer, tachometer, compass, and outside temperature indicator add convenience.  Illuminated visor mirrors mean you can make sure you look as good as your vehicle, and an automatic day/night rearview keeps everything in sight regardless. The intermittent front wipers activate the headlights automatically and are joined by foglights and a rear defogger. Safety features with the Limited AWD trim include four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist and an anti-skid system, a tire pressure monitor, a theft-deterrent system, dual front, front side, and curtain side airbags, the last of which come with rollover deployment.

By Michael Perkins