2018 Ford Taurus

Among Ford’s SUVs and pickups, the smallest options usually earn our highest ratings. Consumer Reports has recommended the Mustang Mach-E EV, the thrilling Mustang coupe and convertible, and the Maverick, a small pickup truck available with a hybrid powertrain. Most other vehicles, however, score low in our road tests and have average to below average reliability. With some exceptions, used Fords can be a risk. The Ford F-150 pickup combines true truck capabilities with quiet, roomy cabins, making it one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. However, our tests found that recent F-150s have a stiff ride, unresponsive handling, and below average reliability. The Lightning, an EV version of the F-150, drives better and is faster than its gasoline equivalent. The Bronco SUVs has exceptional off-road ability and classic boxy styling, but suffers from issues like wind noise and long stopping distances.

The 2013 freshening brought variable cam timing to the 3.5-liter V6 for improved performance and better fuel economy. An optional 240-hp, 2.0-liter, turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine is offered as well. On the safety front, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, Active Park Assist and backup sensors are all available. Still though, while we appreciate the quiet interior and comfortable ride, cramped interior accommodations and poor outward visibility continue to plague Ford's family sedan. The higher-performance SHO model has standard all-wheel drive, and its 365-hp, turbocharged V6 makes it quick, but it isn't an engaging car to drive.