Ford's Latest Taurus Takes Inspiration from Mustang Styling, Yet It's Still Not Available for Purchase Here | Carscoops

      The Ford Taurus and Mondeo sedans, constructed in China, have received enhanced styling and updated technology, yet they remain unavailable for purchase by American consumers.

      Ford introduced the redesigned Mondeo at the Guangzhou Auto Show, featuring updates in styling, technology, and powertrains for 2026. The Mondeo, built in China, is also marketed as the Taurus in the Middle East.

      Update: Following a series of teasers earlier this year, Ford has officially launched the refreshed Taurus for the Middle East and a few other markets. While the exterior modifications closely resemble those of the Chinese-market 2026 Mondeo introduced last November, Ford has decided not to include the larger dashboard screen found in that variant.

      Additionally, although the Ford Mondeo for the Chinese market experienced a small power boost with its update, the Taurus retains its current powertrain configuration.

      In the Middle East, the sedan is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 239 horsepower (178 kW) and 282 lb-ft (382 Nm), mated to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid option is also available, combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 185 hp with a 64-horsepower electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive comes standard for all variants.

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      Ford's North American lineup has not featured a traditional four-door sedan since the last Taurus was manufactured in Chicago in 2019, but the name still exists. While the brand has phased out sedans in its home market, China and a few other selected regions worldwide seem to have overlooked this decision.

      More: Ford Evos Crossover Rebranded as the Mondeo Sport in China and Exclusively Hybrid

      Introduced in China in 2022, the Mondeo is now receiving a mid-cycle refresh that introduces sharper styling, new software, and slightly enhanced engines. These updates will soon be reflected in the Taurus available in the Middle East.

      What’s New?

      The most significant visual enhancements focus on the front and rear. The new headlights have a more streamlined shape and are framed by modern LED graphics, giving it a more pronounced resemblance to a four-door Mustang.

      The revised lighting units are accompanied by a wider grille linked to a sportier lower bumper intake. The overall sculpted profile remains largely intact, although customers can choose from updated wheel designs and additional color options.

      More: The Electrified Bronco Makes Its Debut in China Featuring a Pop-Up Roof Surprise

      At the rear, the redesigned tail section features more contemporary taillight graphics and an updated bumper with black trim and a body-colored diffuser. The vehicle dimensions remain unchanged, measuring 4,935 mm (194.2 inches) in length and a wheelbase of 2,945 mm (115.9 inches).

      What’s New Inside?

      At first glance, the interior appears to be unchanged, featuring the same 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 27-inch infotainment screen prominently on the dashboard.

      However, the cockpit is now powered by the next generation of SYNC+ software, utilizing the latest Snapdragon 8155 chip. Ford promises an upgraded interface, smoother functionality, and an enhanced voice assistant.

      The floating center console has been redesigned, now including dual wireless charging pads and new cupholders. Moreover, physical buttons have been repositioned beneath the climate vents.

      Slightly More Powerful

      The updated Mondeo is available in both gasoline and hybrid versions. However, engine outputs have slightly increased. The base turbo 1.5-liter engine produces 193 hp (144 kW / 196 PS), the turbo 2.0-liter EcoBoost generates 257 hp (192 kW / 261 PS), while the hybrid model offers a combined output of 284 hp (212 kW / 288 PS). All Mondeo variants are front-wheel drive, with gasoline models utilizing an eight-speed automatic transmission and hybrid models featuring a CVT.

      The refreshed Mondeo is manufactured in China through the Changan Ford joint venture. Pricing details will be forthcoming. It is currently uncertain if Ford will extend the same updates to the Mondeo Sport, the mechanically linked five-door crossover previously known as the Evos.

      Earlier teasers have also revealed the updated Taurus for the Middle East, mainly distinguished by distinct badging at the rear and smaller interior screens.