2009 Ford Taurus X

Rating applies to 2008-09 models

Tested vehicle: 2008 Ford Taurus X SEL 4-door 4wd

The Ford Taurus X was re-engineered with a new engine for the 2008 model year. In addition, electronic stability control was added as a standard feature beginning with the 2008 models. Frontal ratings are assigned by the Institute based on a test conducted by Ford. This vehicle was known as the Ford Freestyle in the 2005-07 model years.

Rating applies to 2008-09 models

Tested vehicle: 2007 Ford Freestyle SEL 4-door 4wd with optional head curtain airbags for all three rows of seats and optional front seat-mounted torso airbags

The Ford Freestyle was introduced in the 2005 model year. The vehicle was re-engineered with a new engine for the 2008 model year and renamed the Ford Taurus X. In addition, electronic stability control was added as a standard feature beginning with the 2008 models. The engineering changes do not affect side impact performance.

Side airbags were made standard in all 2007 Freestyle models manufactured after September 2006 (side airbags were optional in 2005-07 models built in September 2006 or earlier). Note: information about when a specific vehicle was manufactured is on the certification label typically affixed to the car on or near the driver door. Beginning with 2008 models, all Taurus X models also have standard side airbags.

View of the vehicle and barrier just after the crash test.

View of the vehicle after the crash with doors removed, showing the side airbags and damage to the occupant compartment.

Smeared greasepaint shows where the driver dummy's head was protected from being hit by hard structures by the side airbags.

Smeared greasepaint shows where the rear passenger dummy’s head was protected by the side airbag.

Seat type: All seats