Ford announced a while back that it was going to stop making most of its cars in the States to focus on trucks and SUVs. One of the cars being discontinued is the Taurus. The last of the modern Taurus cars rolled off the assembly line on March 1.
The History of the Ford Taurus
This is the second time that Ford killed off this particular car. The first came in 2006. A few years later, Ford launched the 500, then renamed that car the Taurus in 2010. The Taurus has a storied history, having first been introduced in 1986. It was initially celebrated for its innovative design and was a significant departure from the boxy cars of the early 1980s. The Taurus quickly became one of Ford’s best-selling models and was even named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year in 1986.
The Taurus was a boring car with the sole bright spot being the SHO that was fun to drive. Even that version was porky and not a good handler. The SHO, which stands for Super High Output, was introduced in 1989 and featured a Yamaha-built V6 engine that produced 220 horsepower, a significant amount for the time. Despite its performance credentials, the SHO struggled with weight issues and handling, which prevented it from becoming a true sports sedan.
The Shift to Trucks and SUVs
Ford’s decision to discontinue the Taurus is part of a broader strategy to focus on more profitable trucks and SUVs. This shift is driven by changing consumer preferences, with more buyers opting for larger vehicles that offer more space and versatility. The success of models like the Ford F-150, which has been the best-selling vehicle in the United States for decades, underscores this trend. Additionally, SUVs like the Ford Explorer and the Ford Escape have also been popular choices among consumers.
The move away from sedans like the Taurus is not unique to Ford. Other automakers, including General Motors and Fiat Chrysler, have also scaled back their car lineups in favor of trucks and SUVs. This industry-wide shift reflects the growing demand for vehicles that can handle a variety of driving conditions and offer more cargo space.
Don’t be surprised if the Taurus name comes back as an SUV down the road. Ford has a history of reviving iconic names for new models. For example, the Ford Bronco, a beloved SUV that was discontinued in 1996, made a highly anticipated return in 2020. Given the Taurus’s long history and name recognition, it wouldn’t be surprising to see it reimagined as a modern SUV that appeals to today’s consumers.
The Taurus’s discontinuation marks the end of an era for Ford. The car played a significant role in the company’s history and was a staple of American roads for over three decades. While it may no longer be in production, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who drove and loved it.
via Autoblog
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