The Taurus was one of the first "common-man" vehicles to incorporate airbags as standard equipment and offer optional 4-wheel disc brakes. Ford recognized the emphasis that family purchasers were placing on safety and ensured its Taurus met the mark. The brand also resisted the temptation to go "upscale" and price the Taurus out of the family market. It has always offered a lot of value for the almighty buck, and for 2004 the value envelope is pushed just a little further.
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| The exterior changes for the 2004 Taurus are subtle, but give the car a sportier, more attractive appearance. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
The exterior of the current Taurus has matured quite nicely. Gone are the curvy outside and elliptical interior design cues of the 1996-1999 generation. For 2004 the Taurus has undergone several minor exterior styling revisions affecting the front grille and fascia plus the tail lamps. Two new colors, Merlot and True Blue will be introduced for 2004 as well. While the modifications will be hard to notice even for Taurus owners, the updated car is now sportier, and overall slightly more attractive in both the sedan and wagon formats than the 2003 model.
Inside it features a new instrument cluster, steering wheel, two line message center and an updated multi-function switch for wipers, turn signals and flash-to-pass. In keeping with the exterior maturation, the cabin of the 2004 Taurus is an attractive, well thought-out and well-appointed environment. Even in basic LX trim, the Taurus receives a complete set of standard goodies that includes, air conditioning with particulate filtration, plus power locks, windows and mirrors. Also standard is tilt steering, a tachometer, rear-seat heating ducts and convenience light group.