First introduced in 1986, it quickly gained popularity for its forward-thinking design and practical features, helping Ford reclaim a strong position in the passenger car market. Consumer preferences had moved heavily toward crossovers and SUVs, pushing traditional sedans like the Taurus out of the spotlight. Despite this trend, the 2019 model served as a final testament to everything the Taurus stood for: a spacious cabin, strong performance options, and a dependable driving experience.
Exterior and Design
The 2019 Ford Taurus carried forward a bold and confident exterior design that appealed to drivers seeking a traditional full-size sedan with presence. Its large proportions, wide stance, and sweeping lines gave it a commanding look on the road — something that helped distinguish it in a shrinking segment.
At the front, the Taurus featured a broad, hexagonal grille flanked by sharp, angular headlights, creating a strong first impression. From the side, the Taurus showcased a long, sweeping roofline that gently sloped into the trunk, giving the car a more aerodynamic and slightly sporty profile. The tall beltline and narrow windows gave it a solid, safe feel — a design choice that emphasized its full-size identity, even if it came at the expense of some outward visibility.
At the rear, the Taurus kept things clean and understated. While the overall styling hadn’t seen a major overhaul since its last refresh in 2013, the 2019 Taurus still held its own as a respectable, well-built sedan with a timeless appeal.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the 2019 Ford Taurus, and you’re immediately met with a cabin that prioritizes space, comfort, and traditional design over flashy modern trends. The front seats were large, well-padded, and supportive—ideal for long-distance driving. Power-adjustable seating was standard, with available heating and ventilation in higher trims like the Limited and SHO.
However, the quiet cabin and plush ride helped make longer journeys more pleasant for everyone onboard. The flat floor and wide opening made it easy to load luggage, groceries, or golf bags, making the Taurus a practical choice for families or frequent travelers.
The dashboard layout was clean and user-friendly, though it leaned on a more traditional design compared to newer competitors with minimalist, modern interiors. Optional features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium Sony audio system, and a heated steering wheel further elevated the in-cabin experience.
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Performance and Engine Options
The 2019 Ford Taurus offered a driving experience tailored to a wide range of preferences, from everyday commuting to spirited performance.
Base Engine: 3.5L V6
Most trims — including the SE, SEL, and Limited — came equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. While not a performance powerhouse, the base V6 engine delivered reliable performance with enough muscle to keep the Taurus competitive in its class.
Performance Option: SHO and the EcoBoost V6
It featured a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that churned out 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine transformed the Taurus from a comfortable cruiser into a sportier, high-speed highway machine.
All-wheel drive came standard on the SHO, enhancing traction and handling. The suspension was also sport-tuned, delivering sharper responses and better cornering than the more comfort-focused trims. Despite its size, the SHO felt composed during spirited driving and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds — impressive for a full-size sedan of its class.
Ride Quality and Driving Dynamics
Across all models, the 2019 Taurus prioritized ride comfort over agility. The suspension soaked up road imperfections effectively, and the cabin remained impressively quiet even at highway speeds. Steering was light and predictable, making it easy to maneuver in town, though enthusiasts might find it lacking in road feedback.
While it wasn’t as nimble or fuel-efficient as newer midsize rivals, the Taurus excelled in delivering a relaxed, composed drive — especially ideal for long commutes or road trips.
Technology and Safety
From infotainment to driver assistance, the Taurus delivered a well-rounded package that made daily driving more convenient and secure.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Starting with the infotainment system, most Taurus trims (SEL and above) were equipped with Ford’s SYNC 3 interface, a major improvement over the earlier SYNC systems. Audiophiles could opt for a 12-speaker Sony premium audio system, available on the Limited and SHO trims, which delivered clear and rich sound quality.
Additional available tech features included:
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Remote start system (great for cold climates)
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-adjustable pedals and memory settings on higher trims for personalized comfort
Driver Assistance and Safety Features
The 2019 Taurus also offered a respectable range of driver assistance technologies, though many were optional or limited to the upper trims. These included:
- Forward Collision Warning with Brake Support
- Lane-Keeping System: Alerts and helps guide the driver back into their lane
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
While the Taurus wasn’t as tech-forward as newer sedans that offer standard driver-assist features across all trims, it still provided a solid set of safety tools for cautious drivers and families.
Market Position and Competitors
However, the competition was fierce, and many rivals offered more modern designs and advanced features.
Market Position
The Taurus occupied a niche position as a value-oriented full-size sedan. Its strong points included a smooth V6 engine, all-wheel drive availability, and a large trunk—qualities that appealed to fleet buyers, law enforcement agencies, and older consumers looking for comfort and familiarity over flash.
Main Competitors
Chevrolet Impala
One of the Taurus’s closest rivals, the Impala offered a more contemporary design, roomier rear-seat space, and a smoother, more refined driving experience. It also boasted a more modern interior layout and slightly better fuel economy. Like the Taurus, the Impala was also discontinued after the 2020 model year.
Toyota Avalon
It also offered a hybrid variant for fuel-conscious buyers—something the Taurus never had.
Nissan Maxima
While technically a large sedan, the Maxima marketed itself as a "four-door sports car." It featured a sportier design, a more engaging driving experience, and a more upscale interior, though it lacked the spaciousness of the Taurus and had a smaller trunk.
Fleet and Law Enforcement Sales
The Taurus also carved out a significant presence in the fleet and law enforcement market, particularly in its Police Interceptor variant. This helped extend the car’s relevance even as retail interest declined.
The End of the Line
The 2019 Ford Taurus wasn’t just another model year—it was the final chapter for one of Ford’s most influential and iconic nameplates. After more than three decades in production, Ford officially ended North American sales of the Taurus in March 2019, closing the doors on its Chicago Assembly Plant, where the sedan had been built for many years.
Why Ford Discontinued the Taurus
The decision to discontinue the Taurus was part of a broader strategy by Ford to shift away from traditional passenger cars and focus on higher-margin vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and crossovers. By 2019, the Taurus was already showing its age. Rather than invest in a complete redesign, Ford opted to retire the Taurus along with several other sedans.
Global Markets and Continued Production
Interestingly, while the Taurus nameplate disappeared from the U.S. and Canadian markets, it continued to live on in select overseas markets, particularly in China and the Middle East, where a different, more modern version of the Taurus was built and sold through joint ventures.
A Legacy That Spanned Generations
Despite its quiet exit, the Taurus left behind a substantial legacy. The high-performance SHO variants, meanwhile, introduced a more exciting, enthusiast-friendly side of the model.
The Taurus also earned a solid reputation among law enforcement and fleet buyers, thanks to its durability, spacious interior, and all-weather capabilities—particularly in AWD-equipped models.
