Ford
Fusion
Ford
Taurus
Ford Fusion vs Ford Taurus: 2019 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ford Taurus comes out ahead of the Ford Fusion on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Fusion
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific powertrain and generation. The Fusion is widely praised for its value proposition, offering a comfortable, quiet, and refined ride with a well-equipped interior at a price point often significantly lower than Japanese competitors like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. Long-term owner reports frequently highlight satisfaction with the vehicle's driving dynamics, comfort for long commutes, and overall build quality when purchased used at a good price.
Known issues
- ⚠**6F35 automatic transmission problems**: Rough shifting (especially 1-2, 2-3), laggy throttle response, premature failure requiring replacement. Sensitivity to incorrect or degraded fluid. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠**Ecoboost engine reliability concerns**: Higher incidence of issues compared to the 2.5L and hybrid powertrains. Carbon buildup on direct-injection engines (2014+ non-turbo?)*. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**Internal water pump failure (V6 engines)**: The water pump is located inside the engine timing cover. Failure can lead to coolant mixing with oil and catastrophic engine damage. A noted maintenance item around 100,000+ miles.
Taurus
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and model variant, ranging from extreme frustration to high satisfaction. The sixth-generation (2010-2019) models, particularly non-SHO trims, attract significant criticism for major, costly mechanical failures, including internal water pump leaks leading to catastrophic engine damage and persistent transmission shifting problems. These issues are frequently described as rendering the vehicle a financial burden, with repair costs often exceeding the car's value.
Best version to buy
Taurus SHO with Performance Package: Owners of the sixth-generation (2010-2019) SHO specifically recommend models equipped with the Performance Package, citing benefits like stiffer suspension bushings, upgraded brakes, and a 3.73 final drive ratio which improves throttle response over standard gearing. For older generations, the 1994 Taurus SHO with the Yamaha V6 is mentioned as a memorable and engaging model, though noted for its own specific maintenance needs.
Known issues
- ⚠Internal water pump failure (3.5L & 3.7L engines): Coolant leaks into the engine oil, leading to catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. A very expensive repair requiring engine removal.
- ⚠Transmission shifting problems: Includes rough shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear, failure to shift into higher gears (stuck in 3rd), and feeling of being in neutral. Affects 6F50/6F55 transmissions. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Persistent electrical and module failures: Includes audio control module failure (resulting in no sound), malfunctioning wiper switches, interior lights that won't turn off, and failing airbag sensors. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Ford Taurus is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ford Fusion, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ford Fusion is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Fusion or the Ford Taurus?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Fusion and the Ford Taurus. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Fusion or the Ford Taurus?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Fusion or the Ford Taurus?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ford Fusion or the Ford Taurus?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ford Taurus than the Ford Fusion. See the known issues comparison above.