The 2008 Ford Taurus X replaces the Ford Freestyle, if in name only. Look for increased horsepower with a new 363 V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission that squeezes out 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Navigation to your getaway is a cinch with the new 6.5 inch LCD screen DVD mapping GPS system

The Taurus X also has safety features employed through the Restraints Control Module that allow it to surpass other cars in its class. The Safety Canopy System provides airbag protection for all passengers. The body style of the Taurus X employs an innovative technology called SPACE architecture which diverts crash forces away from the passenger compartment.

Inside, the Taurus X has a massive 7-passenger seating capacity in three rows. While the X certainly appears larger than an average sedan, including three-row seating, it handles with the agility of a far smaller vehicle. And though third-row seating is usually cramped and awkward, Ford's third row comfortably seats passengers up to 6'2". Now basically standard on all CUVs, a power-lift gate provides hands free access to cargo space.

The 2008 Ford Taurus X offers family entertainment with twin wireless headphones, remotely controlled and an 8 inch LCD screen for its DVD player. The Taurus X starts out at around $27,030 which compares with other CUVs on the market in 2008. The Taurus X, while simply a revision of the Freestyle, is a great mid-size crossover for those who cannot afford the Volvo XC90 or other higher-end luxury crossover models.