What replaced the Ford Taurus wagon?
The direct replacement for the Ford Taurus wagon was the Ford Taurus X, a renamed version of Ford's Freestyle crossover that was sold for the 2008–2009 model years.
Context and the replacement path
The Taurus wagon was the practical, family-focused station wagon variant of Ford’s mid-size Taurus lineup. As consumer tastes shifted away from traditional wagons toward higher-riding crossovers, Ford transitioned the Taurus wagon’s role to crossover models and ultimately beyond the Taurus name in wagon form.
Key steps in the replacement sequence
Below is the concise timeline of the vehicles that served as the direct successors to the Taurus wagon within Ford’s lineup.
- Ford Freestyle (2005–2007): Ford’s first dedicated crossover wagon, offering three-row seating on a unibody platform to replace traditional wagons.
- Ford Taurus X (2008–2009): The Freestyle was renamed Taurus X for these model years, keeping wagon-like practicality while tying the model to the Taurus family.
- Shift to crossovers/SUVs (late 2000s onward): After Taurus X, Ford emphasized crossovers like the Ford Flex, with the Taurus name continuing in sedan form rather than as a wagon.
In summary, the direct replacement for the Taurus wagon was the Taurus X, followed by a broader transition toward crossovers in Ford’s lineup.
Broader market context
Across the auto industry, traditional wagons declined in popularity as consumers preferred the higher ride height, versatility, and space of crossovers and SUVs. Ford’s response mirrored this trend, moving away from wagon variants and toward crossovers and SUVs while maintaining some Taurus sedan continuity.
Summary
The Ford Taurus wagon’s closest successor was the Ford Taurus X (the Freestyle renamed for 2008–2009). After that brief period, Ford continued to shift toward crossovers and SUVs, with the Taurus name living on primarily through sedan models rather than wagon variants.
What model replaced the Ford Taurus?
The Ford Taurus was replaced by the Ford Five Hundred in 2005, but was then revived in 2008 when the Five Hundred was renamed the Taurus. The Taurus was ultimately discontinued in North America after the 2019 model year, as Ford shifted its focus to SUVs and trucks.
- Initial replacement (2005–2007): The full-size Taurus was first replaced by the full-size Ford Five Hundred, while the Taurus wagon was replaced by the Ford Freestyle crossover.
- Taurus revival (2008): Then-CEO Alan Mulally deemed the discontinuation of the Taurus nameplate a mistake. The Five Hundred was renamed the Taurus, and the Freestyle crossover was rebranded as the Taurus X.
- Final discontinuation (2019): Production of the Taurus ended in North America for the 2019 model year as Ford phased out its sedans in favor of trucks and SUVs.
- Current use: The Taurus nameplate continues to be used in some international markets, such as the Middle East, where a rebadged Ford Mondeo is sold as the Taurus.
When did Ford stop making the Taurus station wagon?
December 8, 2004
Production of the Taurus wagon was discontinued on December 8, 2004; sedan retail sales halted after a short 2006 model year, and the Taurus became sold exclusively to fleets in the United States, while still being sold to retail customers in Canada.
Did Ford make a Taurus SHO wagon?
By request of Car and Driver magazine, a SHO station wagon was created by the Car and Driver staff with the help of Ford engineers. They started with a production Taurus wagon, and from there installed SHO bodywork, including its unique front end. They then replaced the stock engine and drivetrain with SHO drivetrain.
Is Ford making a 2026 Taurus?
The new 2026 Ford Taurus is available with the following engines: 2.0L turbocharged EcoBoost® engine with 239 hp – delivers strong performance and instant response with smooth driving suitable for daily use and demanding tasks.
