2003 Ford Taurus SEL Premium

Since its introduction for the 1986 model year, the Taurus has, in its own low-key way, become one of the legendary nameplates in Blue Oval history. In a daring-at-the-time move, Ford used this eminently practical four-door to pioneer the aero look in modern family sedans. Since then, 5.7 million Tauruses have been sold, keeping the vehicle among America's best-selling passenger cars every year. The 2003 version doesn't break mass quantities of new ground, but it continues to deliver an even-more-refined mix of desirable elements at an affordable price.

Ford pioneered the latest look in family sedans with the current-generation Taurus. Gold Metallic Ash (not shown) is a new color for 2003, and a new SES Sport package includes a rear spoiler.

The last major transition for the Taurus came in model year 2000, when a comprehensive restyling and numerous engineering upgrades added more visual and practical appeal. Four trim levels continue in the sedan and station wagon lines: LX, SE, SES and SEL. Even the LX, which opens at $19,685 out the door, includes a host of impressive features including a 3.0-liter/155-horsepower OHV Vulcan V-6, a 4-speed automatic transmission, air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, a tilt steering column, intermittent wipers, an AM/FM radio, and Ford's comprehensive Personal Safety System and floormats. The safety package includes standard dual front airbags, three-point seatbelts, and an array of sensors that can determine the severity of any crash and tailor the deployment levels of these passive-response elements to match. This sophisticated package earns top 5-star marks in government frontal impact tests.


Getting even more specific, the LX and SE come with a standard bench set in both front and rear; the SES and SEL have front buckets that are SE options. For a starting price of $20,495 (including destination), the SE's expanded goodies roster also includes cruise control, keyless remote, alloy wheels and anti-lock on the front disc/rear drum brakes.

Most Taurus models are powered by a 3.0-liter V-6. Lower-levels have the 155-horse Vulcan OHV version, while higher-trimmed cars such as the SEL get the 200-hp Duratec DOHC powerplant.

We sampled the top of the Taurus ladder, an SEL Premium-grade sedan. In addition to power-adjustable pedals (which are now more conveniently activated from instrument panel), the SEL nets supplemental side-impact airbags as well as the hotter 3.0-liter Duratec V-6, a 24V twincammer that cranks out 200 horses and 200 lb.-ft. of torque. Helping make the best use of that motivating force as it passes to the front wheels via the mandatory 4-speed autoshifter is a standard all-speed traction-control system. Optioned up with Imola leather-trimmed upholstery, power moonroof, and the Luxury/Convenience Group (heated mirrors, perimeter lighting, compass), the bottom line on our test car rose from $23,950 to $25,250, including $650 in freight charges.