Ford's Sync allows for Bluetooth-enabled cell phones to be paired with the system for hands-free calling. In fact, up to 12 different phones can be paired, however, only one can be used at a time. While this is similar to other manufacturers' offerings, the Sync allows for more user-friendly features. For starters, if you are mid conversation while you are entering or leaving your vehicle, phone calls are transferred from your phone to Sync or vice versa, without ever dropping the call. The system also allows users to access a cell phone's contact list without having to pick up the phone, and Sync can be set up to receive and reply to text messages. Lastly, phones capable of playing audio can stream music via Bluetooth to the vehicle's audio system.
Sync is very versatile beyond plug-in or Bluetooth-enabled devices. Users can fully operate the receiver, choose between audio sources and input navigation instructions by voice commands. Users with an accent or speech impediment can place Sync in learn mode which enables the system to better pick up on a particular speech pattern.
Impressions
From the outside, the '08 Taurus X looks more Country Squire wagon than SUV. Climb inside, however, and it felt quite the opposite. The interior is quite cavernous-comparable in size to a first-generation Suburban, although seating is much more accommodating. As a people mover, the Taurus X easily moves six in comfort, with plenty of head and legroom for 6' adults in any one of its three rows of seats. What's more, with all the seats occupied, there is still a generous amount of cargo room behind the third row thanks to a sunk-in floor. I'm thinking it's a perfect place for a rack of amps and pair of subs!
The Taurus X drives light on its feet. It's actually very comfortable-borderline luxurious-and a great around town or highway cruiser. I was highly impressed with the low NVH levels over most every surface. In fact, it was nearly as quiet inside as the new Cadillac CTS I demo'd the week prior-superb for any wagon-bodied vehicle.
At $36K, our leather-lined Taurus X Limited was host to several electronic goodies that vary from a reverse sensing system, power liftgate, heated exterior mirrors, security approach lamps and tri-zone climate control. It also came equipped with Sync, which was our primary focus, so let's get to it.
Using SYNC
To connect your mobile phone to the Sync system wirelessly, the phone and Sync must go through the pairing process. The process creates a link key, or PIN, used for authentication while establishing Bluetooth connections between the two devices. Pairing my LG VX8700 was easy, taking 2 to 3 minutes using the five basic steps listed in the Quick Start Pocket Guide. While pairing, users are also given the option to allow Sync to access your phone's contact list.