The 2001 Ford Taurus represented the second year of the model's redesign. As such, few changes were introduced. Antilock brakes were offered as an option for the LX and SE trims and came standard on the SEL and SES. Also available on the higher-end trims were a few luxury touches, like leather bucket seats and power-adjustable pedals.

As the newest incarnation of Ford's long-time bestselling car, the '01 Taurus had some history to live up to. Fortunately, drivers and reviewers alike responded well to the redesign. A more angular, broader-shouldered exterior provided more room in the cabin and more cargo space in the trunk; this was a key advantage the 2001 Taurus enjoyed over other midsize cars, even the more-expensive Volkswagen Passat.

On the other hand, the '01 Ford Taurus wasn't a muscle car, a sports car, a luxury car, or anything else particularly fun. What it did offer, though, was reliable, solid family transportation at an affordable price.

Not too long on power, the Taurus's base engine was a 155-horsepower V6. The higher-end trims, though, offered a 200-horsepower DOHC V6. Fuel efficiency was a middle-of-the-road 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway.