There are two different engine configurations offered on the Taurus sedans. The standard engine on is a 288-hp 3.5L V6. The SHO model gets a twin-turbo version that is tuned to 365 horsepower and 350 lb-feet of torque. The fuel economy of the standard V6 makes its lower output worth it, as its estimated at a combined 26 highway/18 city, while the Taurus SHO manages 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
At the base SE level, the Taurus is a relatively well-equipped comfortable sedan, including a rearview camera system, cruise control, Sync Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio connectivity, power front seats and a 6-speaker audio system with CD player and aux-in port. SEL models add dual-zone climate control, upgraded upholstery, LED supplemental lamps, remote start, reverse parking sensors, heated mirrors with puddle lamps, satellite radio compatibility and 18-inch painted aluminum wheels.
Limited models feel like true luxury cars, as they include features like 10-way power front seats with lumbar, power-adjustable pedals, perforated leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, ambient lighting, Intelligent Access with push-button start, a universal garage-door opener and the full MyFord Touch system which includes an 8-inch touch screen with smaller reconfigurable instrument displays; a media hub with USB in ports, an SD card reader and input jacks, as well as a long list of additional Sync-related services.
The Taurus SHO offers a strong, 365-hp, 3.5L EcoBoost turbocharged V6, as well as a sport-tuned suspension, steering-wheel paddle-shifters, aluminum pedals, a dual exhaust, HID headlamps, Piano Black (glossy black) mesh grille and lamp bezel details, a rear spoiler, fender vents, special leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and badging throughout. A popular equipment package adds a rear window sunshade, automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, second-row heated seats, a heated steering wheel and a Sony stereo that includes HD Radio.
An SHO Performance Package adds a stiffer suspension tune, performance brake pads, a sportier steering calibration, stability control with track mode, an Alcantara steering wheel and 20-inch machined-and-painted wheels with summer performance tires.
Other options include multi-contour seats, which gently massage the backs of front-seat passengers, available Lane-Keeping System that helps warn the driver should the vehicle veer from visible lane markings.
Spacious Back Seat And Trunk
Ride Comfort
Fuel-efficiency
Available All-wheel Drive
High-performance SHO Model
The Ford Taurus carries over into 2019 essentially unchanged. A blind spot monitoring system now comes standard on the Taurus limited, while a new color, Agate Black has also been introduced for 2019.
The Taurus is a very spacious 5-passenger sedan, and when compared on the basis of comfort, feature and safety features, keeps up with many luxury brands. Ford placed a priority on rear-seat space, legroom and ease of entry. Trunk space as well is more than 20 cubic feet, which makes it one of the largest in this class.
Within the Taurus lineup, there is also plenty of opportunity for choice. The 3.5 L twin-turbo charged SHO engine which makes 365 horsepower, while a more efficient naturally aspirated V6 rounds out the lineup. Taurus offers a wide range of configurations for those looking at large sedans including all-wheel drive.