VIDEO from Medialink and Ford: Ford Taurus, Taurus X and Mercury Sable Return as Upgraded 2008 Models

NEW YORK, Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Ford Motor Company announced it's bringing back the well-known Ford Taurus name. The vehicle that redefined affordable family transportation is back with the new face of Ford -- a bold new exterior design, more power and more standard safety features.

The company also introduces a new name -- Taurus X -- for its three-row crossover and returns the Mercury Sable to the lineup as upgraded 2008-model versions. All three vehicles go on sale this summer.

(See video from Ford Motor Company at: http://media.medialink.com/WebNR.aspx?story=33030)

The move links a strong brand name with award-winning vehicles. The 2008- model Taurus sedan and Taurus X replace the Ford Five Hundred and Ford Freestyle. Each feature the signature Ford touch of the horizontal three-bar grille, standard electronic stability control, and other refinements to make it more distinctive, quieter, faster and safer. The 2008-model Mercury Sable replaces the Mercury Montego with extensive design, powertrain, and safety upgrades, as well as unique touches that make it a Mercury. They include Mercury's signature satin aluminum waterfall grille, jeweled projector beam headlamps, and a two-tone interior trim with unique accents.

The vehicles offer available features that deliver style and the technology features customers desire like Ford Sync(TM). Ford Sync(TM), powered by Microsoft Auto software, is Ford's new fully integrated, voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment system for mobile phones and digital music players. The Taurus X offers one touch flip-and-fold second-row seating and an available power rear liftgate.

The Taurus name remains powerful today. It is one of the top three most recognized Ford nameplates, behind only the F-series and Mustang. Customer awareness of the Taurus nameplate remains at an impressive 80 percent.

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