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2002
Ford Taurus

Starts at:
$19,035
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sdn LX Standard
    Starts at
    $19,035
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn SE Standard
    Starts at
    $19,845
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn SES Standard
    Starts at
    $20,860
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn SE Standard FFV
    Starts at
    $21,190
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn SE Standard
    Starts at
    $21,190
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn SE Deluxe
    Starts at
    $21,810
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn SES Deluxe
    Starts at
    $21,960
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn SE Premium
    Starts at
    $22,500
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn SEL Deluxe
    Starts at
    $22,730
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn SEL Deluxe
    Starts at
    $22,980
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn SEL Premium
    Starts at
    $23,300
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus 2002 Ford Taurus

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Expert 2002 Ford Taurus review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Ford’s midsize sedan and wagon earned major styling changes for 2000, with a more conservative look than the 1996 – 1999 generation. In recent years, it has invariably been one of the top three passenger cars in the annual sales race. Sales rose by nearly 4 percent in 2000 to an impressive 382,035 units. The Mercury Sable is built from the same design, also as a sedan and wagon, but it has more standard equipment and a higher sticker price.

Apart from new body colors, little has changed for 2002. New approach lamps let people know at night that a door is open. Ford has had a Taurus in its lineup since 1986. Available in LX, SE, SES and SEL trim levels, Taurus sedans can seat either five or six occupants, depending on the model.

Exterior
Aerodynamic teardrop-shaped headlights and large taillights are the major styling cues on the four-door Taurus sedan, which rides a 108.5-inch wheelbase. At 197.6 inches long overall, the Taurus is about 7 inches longer than the Chevrolet Malibu and 8 inches longer than the redesigned Toyota Camry. The Taurus sedan is 73 inches wide and 56.1 inches tall, and it comes with 16-inch tires.

Interior
Depending on the model, buyers can seat either six people, with a folding center storage console in front, or five passengers with front buckets. Six-passenger seating is standard on the LX, SE and SES sedans, while the top-of-the-line SEL has space for five. All four doors contain map pockets, and the trunk holds 17 cubic feet of cargo.

Standard LX equipment includes air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, and power windows, locks and mirrors. Remote keyless entry, cruise control and a cassette stereo go into the SE sedan. Moving up to an SES brings antilock brakes, a six-way power driver’s seat, a CD player and a split, folding rear seat. Heading the lineup, the SEL gets automatic climate control, an in-dash CD changer and cassette player, automatic headlights and power-adjustable pedals. Also optional on other models, the power-adjustable accelerator and brake pedals have a 3-inch range.

Under the Hood
Two 3.0-liter V-6 engines are available. The base engine has overhead valves and produces 155 horsepower, and the SEL sedan comes with a dual-overhead-camshaft V-6 that makes 200 hp. Both engines mate with a four-speed-automatic transmission.

Safety
Front airbags deploy at one of two inflation levels based on crash severity, whether the seat belts are buckled and the position of the driver’s seat. Optional side-impact airbags protect the heads and chests of front occupants. Antilock brakes are optional, combined with an all-speed traction control system.

Driving Impressions
Though the Taurus sedan is satisfying in most respects, it doesn’t stand strongly above the midsize pack, including the league-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Ride and handling are acceptable, but the Taurus can feel a little ponderous at times and its suspension doesn’t produce a truly gentle experience. The Mercury Sable tends to come across as more appealing, whether it’s for highway or urban driving.

Performance with the dual-cam V-6 is vigorous and responsive. The automatic transmission functions in an easygoing manner, with just a bit of hesitation when downshifting. Interior space is ample, but large roof pillars have a negative effect on visibility. Seats are comfortable and supportive. Ford’s abundant safety features and attractive prices help make the Taurus a good buy against much of the competition, despite a few drawbacks.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2002 Buying Guide

2002 Ford Taurus review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Ford’s midsize sedan and wagon earned major styling changes for 2000, with a more conservative look than the 1996 – 1999 generation. In recent years, it has invariably been one of the top three passenger cars in the annual sales race. Sales rose by nearly 4 percent in 2000 to an impressive 382,035 units. The Mercury Sable is built from the same design, also as a sedan and wagon, but it has more standard equipment and a higher sticker price.

Apart from new body colors, little has changed for 2002. New approach lamps let people know at night that a door is open. Ford has had a Taurus in its lineup since 1986. Available in LX, SE, SES and SEL trim levels, Taurus sedans can seat either five or six occupants, depending on the model.

Exterior
Aerodynamic teardrop-shaped headlights and large taillights are the major styling cues on the four-door Taurus sedan, which rides a 108.5-inch wheelbase. At 197.6 inches long overall, the Taurus is about 7 inches longer than the Chevrolet Malibu and 8 inches longer than the redesigned Toyota Camry. The Taurus sedan is 73 inches wide and 56.1 inches tall, and it comes with 16-inch tires.

Interior
Depending on the model, buyers can seat either six people, with a folding center storage console in front, or five passengers with front buckets. Six-passenger seating is standard on the LX, SE and SES sedans, while the top-of-the-line SEL has space for five. All four doors contain map pockets, and the trunk holds 17 cubic feet of cargo.

Standard LX equipment includes air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, and power windows, locks and mirrors. Remote keyless entry, cruise control and a cassette stereo go into the SE sedan. Moving up to an SES brings antilock brakes, a six-way power driver’s seat, a CD player and a split, folding rear seat. Heading the lineup, the SEL gets automatic climate control, an in-dash CD changer and cassette player, automatic headlights and power-adjustable pedals. Also optional on other models, the power-adjustable accelerator and brake pedals have a 3-inch range.

Under the Hood
Two 3.0-liter V-6 engines are available. The base engine has overhead valves and produces 155 horsepower, and the SEL sedan comes with a dual-overhead-camshaft V-6 that makes 200 hp. Both engines mate with a four-speed-automatic transmission.

Safety
Front airbags deploy at one of two inflation levels based on crash severity, whether the seat belts are buckled and the position of the driver’s seat. Optional side-impact airbags protect the heads and chests of front occupants. Antilock brakes are optional, combined with an all-speed traction control system.

Driving Impressions
Though the Taurus sedan is satisfying in most respects, it doesn’t stand strongly above the midsize pack, including the league-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Ride and handling are acceptable, but the Taurus can feel a little ponderous at times and its suspension doesn’t produce a truly gentle experience. The Mercury Sable tends to come across as more appealing, whether it’s for highway or urban driving.

Performance with the dual-cam V-6 is vigorous and responsive. The automatic transmission functions in an easygoing manner, with just a bit of hesitation when downshifting. Interior space is ample, but large roof pillars have a negative effect on visibility. Seats are comfortable and supportive. Ford’s abundant safety features and attractive prices help make the Taurus a good buy against much of the competition, despite a few drawbacks.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2002 Buying Guide

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2002 Ford Taurus base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5
Side driver
3/5
Side rear passenger
3/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Fords and many non-Ford vehicles up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles
Basic
90-Day / 4,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty
Dealer certification
139-point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

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    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
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    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
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  • 2000
    3.9
    Ford Taurus
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    MPG
    6
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Consumer reviews

4.5 / 5
Based on 49 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.1
Performance 4.4
Value 4.6
Exterior 4.1
Reliability 4.5

Most recent

  • I had a Taurus back in 2003, and I was the most powerful

    I had a Taurus back in 2003, and I was the most powerful car I ever drove! Red toreador in color, powerful engine and nice interior!!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most reliable car I’ve owned

    This car met all of my needs and was pretty reliable I used it for work and going to school and I never had problems with it
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    21 people out of 24 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Like it.

    This car is perfect for my needs. I needed something reliable for medical care and this fits the bill. Just what the doctor ordered. Comfortable and quiet with only 110,000 miles.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    11 people out of 11 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love This Car

    For a basic car, there is SO MUCH ROOM in this thing. Literally for the whole family , plus the dog. Plus a huge trunk. Thank heavens for adjustable pedals and full adjustable seats (meaning, perfect for all ages and heights), the radio is surprisingly good, and so much more. No complaints. Every issue I've ever had has been standard for a car of its age and mileage. Just a good, solid vehicle for around town and basic commutes/trips (under 3 hours).
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    16 people out of 16 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Low mileage and great condition

    This car is very reliable and still has many more years ahead. Everything works at its best; heat , windows, radio, etc. Perfect if you’re looking for something reliable and in a good condition.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Reliable, safe and comfortable transportation

    Roomy, comfy and safe transportation. Also pretty fun to drive, although definitely not a sports car. Acceptable fuel economy, and quite well maintained. Clean in and out.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great used - first car

    Runs great and handles well. We feel safe with this car being our daughters first vehicle in a big city. The interior had held up fantastically.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • The car is good runs good good on gas

    I drive my car every day it's good on gas it even drives good it have a sunroof a 6 dic CD player in it and it will run fast 24v and I'm not a Ford man but I love this car its black it's real clean I've had it for about 6 years
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I have owned 2 of these cars. Very reliable

    Car had some body damage. Light rust on exterior, started and drove nicely. Priced well for mileage and damage. Automatic transmission shifted smoothly and had no issues.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 2002 Taurus with 273,111 miles original engine.

    Could not have asked for a better car. Was my dad?s took over the payments after he got cancer, had 36000 miles when Dad died.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most Reliable Car I've Owned

    I had this car since I purchased it new in 2002. I enjoyed the ride, the feel and the look as well as how nicely it handled. It was simply time to move on to a newer car.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Awesome car for a awesome price!

    It has alot of space and it drives smoothly. You can also take it on long distance drives and it comfortably fits 6 passengers. Sun roof is the icing on the cake when don't want to use the ac
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Ford dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2002 Ford Taurus?

The 2002 Ford Taurus is available in 8 trim levels:

  • LX Standard (1 style)
  • SE Deluxe (1 style)
  • SE Premium (1 style)
  • SE Standard (3 styles)
  • SEL Deluxe (2 styles)
  • SEL Premium (1 style)
  • SES Deluxe (1 style)
  • SES Standard (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2002 Ford Taurus?

The 2002 Ford Taurus offers up to 20 MPG in city driving and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2002 Ford Taurus?

The 2002 Ford Taurus compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2002 Ford Taurus reliable?

The 2002 Ford Taurus has an average reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2002 Ford Taurus owners.

Is the 2002 Ford Taurus a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2002 Ford Taurus. 95.9% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.5 / 5
Based on 49 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.1
  • Performance: 4.4
  • Value: 4.6
  • Exterior: 4.1
  • Reliability: 4.5

Ford Taurus history

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