Big is good in the 2013 Ford Taurus (pictures)

Ford revived the Taurus model in 2008 based on the sedan's earlier success. This most recent model sits on a completely different platform than the original, although it retains the front-wheel-drive configuration.

For 2013, Ford restyled the Taurus, applying its signature hexagonal grille.

The base engine for the Taurus is this naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6, which uses variable timing for the intake and exhaust valves as an efficiency technology. A turbocharged direct-injection 2-liter in-line four, part of Ford's EcoBoost line, is also available.

At about 17 feet long, the Taurus fits into the large-sedan segment. Headroom is excellent from front to back.

Although this model uses front-wheel drive, the Taurus can also be had with all-wheel drive. The fixed suspension is well-tuned for handling and comfort.

Befitting its large sedan status, the trunk volume, measuring 20.1 cubic feet, is huge.

New for the Taurus is the MyFord Touch cabin tech suite. While feature-rich, the system suffers from sluggish behavior.

Like many automakers, Ford adopted electric power steering for the Taurus. Ford engineers did an excellent job tuning it, keeping a good amount of heft.

The instrument cluster, part of the MyFord Touch system, includes LCDs on either side of the speedometer.

The right-side display shows cabin tech features, such as phone, navigation, and stereo.

These steering-wheel controls make it easy to select different screens from the instrument cluster display.

This six-speed automatic is the only type of transmission available in the Taurus. It offers Sport and manual shift modes.

The home screen for MyFord Touch shows the four main areas: navigation, phone, stereo, and climate control.

Navigation is an additional option, and runs off an SD card. The system can be a little slow, and the GPS locator has a difficult time recovering from interference.

The touch screen can be tedious when entering destinations. Voice command works more easily, especially when the car is under way.

The cabin tech suite includes gas prices, traffic, weather, and other information brought in through Sirius Satellite Radio.

HD Radio comes standard with this system.

The car includes two USB ports, and does an excellent job indexing music from digital sources.

The car shows full track information, plus album art, for music, courtesy of an onboard Gracenote database.

With the optional Sony audio system, 12 speakers create a very flexible soundscape in the cabin, able to handle everything from light acoustic to heavy bass.