The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 also uses twin turbochargers, as opposed to a single unit. The reduced size of each turbocharger results in reduced internal inertia, allowing this advanced engine to avoid the “turbo lag” often prevalent in earlier-generation turbocharged vehicles. Meanwhile, direct injection promises improved fuel economy and a smoother response from the engine.
The new Taurus SHO driveline combines a six-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission with standard torque-sensing all-wheel-drive. The six-speed transmission offers a wide array of gears to enable quick acceleration, yet comfortable high-speed cruising, through a 2.77 to 1 final drive ratio. SelectShift provides conventional automatic operation or a manual shift mode that gives the driver complete control via paddle shifters. For performance-minded drivers, paddle controls allow “match-rev” downshifts and will hold manually selected gears for precise control.
For the discriminating automotive enthusiast, Taurus SHO offers an available SHO Performance Package consisting of upgraded brake pads, recalibrated power-assisted steering for even more responsiveness, a “Sport Mode” setting for the standard AdvanceTrac Electronic Stability Control and a shorter 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio for faster acceleration. Summer-compound 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 performance tires on premium painted wheels also are included.
Standard features include: push-button start, the Easy Fuel capless fuel filler, Ford SYNC with voice activation, and ambient lighting. Also standard is MyKey, which enables the owner to set specific limits for certain operators, such as new drivers. These ‘parental controls’ include the ability to set an 80 mph speed limiter, stereo volume limiter, consistently-engaged stability control, speed chimes, a persistent safety belt reminder, and earlier low-fuel warning.
Options include a reverse camera, radar-based adaptive cruise control, blind spot alert, Cross Traffic Alert (for reversing into traffic), massaging seats, voice-activated navigation, and a 12 speaker 390-watt Sony sound system.
