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Which is better, Ford Taurus or Chevy Impala?

Neither model is produced new in the United States today, so there isn’t a clear new-car winner. In the used-car market, the Chevrolet Impala generally offers more interior space and a smoother highway ride, while the Ford Taurus can deliver strong feature content and, in its SHO variant, sportier performance. Your best pick will depend on the specific used example, its condition, mileage, and price, as well as what you value most in a sedan.

Market status and what that means for buyers

Both the Taurus and the Impala were phased out of the U.S. new-car lineup in recent years—Ford ended Taurus production in 2019, and Chevrolet ended Impala production after the 2020 model year. Today, any Taurus or Impala you find will be a used vehicle, with prices and condition varying widely by year, trim, and maintenance history. This reality makes thorough pre-purchase inspections and careful budgeting essential.

Overview: taillights on a long-running rivalry

Ford Taurus: a history of comfort and family-oriented tech

The Taurus was a staple of Ford’s sedan lineup for decades, evolving from a traditional family sedan into a feature-forward model in its later generations. The late-era Taurus offered a comfortable ride, roomy second-row seating, and a range of tech features in higher trims, with the sportier SHO version delivering a more performance-focused experience. In used-car shopping, the Taurus often appeals to buyers seeking a roomy interior and a modern feel at a potentially lower price point than some competitors.

Before listing strengths and caveats, here is a quick look at what to expect from the Taurus in the used market:

Strengths often cited include a spacious interior, comfortable ride quality, and a reasonable array of in-cabin tech in higher trims.

Trade-offs can include older infotainment systems and, on earlier models, reliability concerns tied to complex electronic features.

Maintenance costs for a higher-mileage Taurus can be reasonable, but parts availability depends on the model year and region.

In summary, the Taurus delivers on space and comfort, with value tied to the specific year and trim you choose.

Chevy Impala: interior space, highway comfort, and a refined ride

The Impala has long been known for its generous interior and trunk space, smooth highway manners, and a range of V6 and advanced engine options in later years. The sixth-generation Impala (introduced mid-2010s) emphasized a quiet cabin and a refined ride, making it a strong pick for long-distance cruising and family use in the used market. Buyers often find Impalas to be spacious, accommodating, and comfortable, with strong value in well-preserved examples.

Key takeaways when evaluating Impalas in used-car listings include:

Strengths often highlighted include generous rear-seat space, a roomy trunk, and a quiet, comfortable ride on the highway.

Trade-offs can involve older interior materials in lower trims and potential transmission/electrical wear on higher-mileage examples.

Engine choices in later years offered a balance between performance and efficiency, with the V6 variants delivering solid acceleration for a full-size sedan.

Overall, the Impala tends to win on interior space and a calm highway experience, especially in newer used examples, but price and condition will drive the decision on a case-by-case basis.

Practical considerations for used-car shoppers

When choosing between a used Taurus and a used Impala, focus on years, maintenance history, and overall wear. The following list frames practical buying considerations you should weigh before buying any used full-size sedan:

Inspect maintenance records for routine service, timing components, and any major repairs.

Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission, suspension, steering, and electrical systems.

Check the condition of the tires, brakes, and exhaust, as replacement parts can impact ownership costs.

Test-drive to assess ride quality, noise levels, and steering responsiveness in both city and highway conditions.

Compare total ownership costs (insurance, fuel economy, maintenance) for the specific year and trim you’re considering.

In summary, a careful used-car evaluation will tell you which model and which year best fit your budget and needs.

Alternatives to consider for modern needs

Because both the Taurus and Impala are no longer produced, buyers who want a new-car experience or up-to-date safety technology might look at current full-size sedans, family-oriented mid-size sedans, or even crossovers/SUVs for similar interior space and comfort. Popular contemporary options include newer mainstream sedans with modern safety tech, quieter cabins, and better fuel efficiency, along with a growing segment of SUVs that offer similar or greater interior space with improved versatility.

Summary

In the used-car arena, the Chevrolet Impala tends to offer more interior space and a smoother highway ride, while the Ford Taurus provides a comfortable, feature-rich experience in its later trims and, in the SHO, a sportier vibe. Neither model is sold new today, so the decision comes down to the condition, mileage, and price of the specific used example you’re considering. For shoppers, a thorough inspection and an honest appraisal of total ownership costs are the best guides to which car is the better value in your situation.

Is the Ford Taurus a good reliable car?

Ford Taurus reliability is mixed, with older models having notable issues like transmission failures and gasket leaks, while some newer models are praised for reliability with diligent maintenance. Common problems across various model years include water pump failures, which can be costly to repair and may require frequent coolant checks to prevent engine damage.
Common issues and potential problems

Water pump failures: This is a very common and expensive issue, especially in models with the 3.5L/3.7L V6 engines.
- Symptom: Coolant leaks, which may not be obvious until the engine is damaged.
- Prevention: Regular coolant changes can extend the life of the water pump.
Transmission problems: These can be a significant and costly issue, particularly in models from 2003–2005.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) issues: Specific to SHO models, the PTU can fail due to leaks or excessive heat, requiring regular fluid changes and maintenance.
Gasket and oil leaks: Oil pan gasket leaks were common in certain model years (1990–2007, 2012, 2014), potentially causing burning smells, rough idling, or stalling.
White smoke emissions: Reported in some models (1990–1994, 1997–1998, 2000, 2005, 2011, 2013), this can indicate blown head gaskets or cracked cylinder heads.
Throttle body replacement: A common fix for issues related to throttle body failure.

Factors that influence reliability

Maintenance: Like most cars, the Taurus's lifespan is significantly impacted by maintenance. Diligent owners report long-term reliability.
Model year: Reliability varies significantly by model year. Newer models have a better reputation, especially with proper care.
Engine: Some engine families, like the 3.5L/3.7L V6, are known for specific issues like water pump failures.

Tips for potential buyers

Check service records: Look for evidence of regular maintenance, especially regarding the water pump and its coolant, and the PTU (for SHO models).
Be prepared for potential repairs: Given the common issues, especially with the water pump, budget for potentially expensive repairs.
Inspect for leaks: Look for any signs of leaks under the car, particularly around the oil pan and water pump.

What year to stay away from Chevy Impala?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Impala include 2000–2008, especially the early 2000s, due to widespread transmission and engine issues, such as oil leaks and faulty head gaskets. Other problematic years are 2014–2015, which had multiple recalls for faulty brakes, airbags, and power steering. Additionally, the 2001 model year was particularly bad due to significant transmission and intake manifold problems.
Problematic model years

2000–2008: This period is widely considered to have the most significant issues, especially with the 3.4L V6 engine and automatic transmissions.
- 2001: Had over 1,000 complaints and 10 recalls, with major problems in the transmission and intake manifold gasket.
- 2004–2008: Known for mechanical issues and transmission problems like stuttering and jerking.
2014–2015: These years were marked by numerous recalls, including issues with parking brakes, airbags, and the power steering control module.

Common problems by year

Model Year	Common Problems
2000–2005	Excessive oil consumption, faulty head gaskets, transmission issues (e.g., faulty solenoids), and intake manifold leaks.
2006–2013	Excessive oil consumption and engine problems are common. Some models experience issues with power steering control modules, and others suffer from a crumbling wiring loom.
2014–2015	Parking brake failures, malfunctioning airbags, and problems with the power steering control module.
2018–2019	Single recall for poor rear brake performance.

2009–2020: These are generally good model years, with some owners reporting good reliability and low ownership costs, especially for the 2015 model.
2006–2011: Some models from these years may have issues with door locks, blend door actuators, and oil leaks.

What is the Chevy equivalent to the Ford Taurus?

There's no greater rivalry between sedans than the Chevrolet Impala vs. the Ford Taurus.

What year of Ford Taurus is most reliable?

In reliability terms, Taurus models with the least complaints recorded by CarComplaints.com cover the final five model years from 2014 through 2019.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.