Before naming it as Taurus X, Ford rejected five hundred names. The 2008 Ford Taurus X has undergone several changes. However, the general body shape of the new Taurus X is the same as that of the previous Ford Five Hundred, a large, front-wheel-drive family sedan. This family sedan is, in some aspects, based on the same design and architecture as the Volvo S80 luxury sedan with some thorough changes to the suspension system. It also uses the same Swedish Haldex all-wheel-drive system that is on offer with the Volvo as an option. The previous 3.0-liter V-6 engine is replaced with a new 3.5-liter, 24-valve V-6 engine that makes 30 percent more power. It is the same engine that powers the larger and heavier Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers and MKZ luxury cars. The CVT transmission has been replaced by a new 6F six-speed automatic transmission. The newly designed powertrain energizes the Taurus X and makes it a favorite car for many. Its 0-60 mph acceleration performance has been reduced by more than a second and a half, from 9.2 seconds down to 7.6 seconds, which is a huge chunk of performance. The new engine not only generates more power, but it also offers better fuel economy, even after adjusting for the new, stricter testing procedures EPA has mandated for 2008 models. With a powerful engine, a new design, and fine amenities, Taurus X takes on other larger sedans in the market and its main competitors are Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala, and Chrysler 300. Changes for the new Taurus X include a larger and more powerful V-6 engine, new front and rear styling and new suspension tuning. The Taurus X is available in SEL and Limited trims with a lot of amenities and a host of safety features.