Reader Review of the Week: Ford Taurus X

“I had an ’05 Toyota Highlander, and a few years ago I hit a deer and then got sideswiped by a kid who just got his license. While my car was in the shop, I rented a Ford Freestyle and had it for a week. I liked it, especially considering I had never owned or really driven an American-made car. Well, my lease was up on the Highlander and I was about to get the ’08, but my kids reminded me how much we liked the Freestyle, so I showed up at the Ford dealer asking to test one. I was surprised that it’s the Taurus X now, but the name change makes sense. I bought this a month ago (the basic SEL: Two seats in second row and third-row seats) and love it. Reminds me of the Volvo wagon I had in the ‘90s, only with all the up-to-date design tweaks.

“Overall, I am surprised I got this rather than the Highlander. After driving it a month, I am finding I love it. I saved a bundle of dough and my kids and I have lots of room inside.

“If you are in the market for a Honda Pilot or a Toyota Highlander, I would suggest giving this a test drive. You may be pleasantly surprised.

“Oh, I got mine for $24K, and my guess is that if the economy continues to be weak Ford will discount this more.”