Quick Car Finder

Toyota Prius vs. Ford Taurus Review

How the Toyota Prius stacks up against the Ford Taurus - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2010 Toyota Prius
Price Range: $21,000 - $27,670
2010 Ford Taurus
Price Range: $25,170 - $37,770
Toyota Prius vs. Ford Taurus Review

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs approximately the same to get the Toyota Prius to the dealership as the Taurus. The Ford guzzles a lot of gas compared to the Toyota Prius. When it comes to fuel economy, the Toyota Prius beats the Ford Taurus. The Ford Taurus isn't much pricier than the Toyota Prius in terms of MSRP. The Toyota Prius will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the Ford Taurus.

Utility
Neither the Toyota Prius nor the Ford Taurus has a marked advantage when it comes to seating capacity.

Convenience
You'll most certainly have to take the Taurus for a fill-up more often than the Toyota Prius because of its tank size and fuel economy.

Comfort
Taller drivers will significantly enjoy the extra head room in the Taurus's front cabin compared to the Toyota Prius. The ampler interior dimensions of the Ford Taurus make it roomier for your passengers than the Toyota Prius.

Dimensions
Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Ford Taurus than the Toyota Prius because of its larger tank. The Toyota Prius fits in smaller parking spaces than the Ford. The Toyota Prius's shorter wheelbase may produce a less-settled highway ride but a more agile feel in daily traffic than the Ford Taurus.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Ford Taurus packs quite a punch and will knock the Toyota Prius down a few rungs. On the flip side, keep in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Prius is most certainly more maneuverable than the Ford Taurus, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; however, keep in mind that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Ford Taurus has a more sizeable engine than the Toyota Prius. Bear in mind that smaller engines typically get better gas mileage, but a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder. The Toyota Prius could learn a lesson or two from the Ford Taurus as far as pickup. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the Ford Taurus is tremendously more powerful than the Toyota.

Overview
The Taurus and the Toyota Prius have the same basic after-sale protection.

The price a car site displays won't be what you'll pay for an actual car with specific options.

That's why we tell our customers to get an Internet Price Quote. Our price quotes give you:

  • Real Car Pricing
  • Internet-Based Discounts
  • No Hassle Negotiation
Choose your vehicle:
Enter
Your ZIP: