Segment:
Full-size Sedan, Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, families requiring space and comfort
Key Competitors:
Dodge Charger R/T, Chrysler 300 SRT (discontinued but relevant to performance segment), Chevrolet SS (discontinued)
Performance Focus:
SHO trim signifies performance enhancements over standard Taurus
Powertrain Availability:
Exclusive use of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and AWD in the SHO trim
Technology Integration:
Features like SYNC 3, available driver-assistance systems
Powertrain:
Engine (3.5L EcoBoost V6), Transmission (6-speed SelectShift Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Adaptive Dampers), Steering (Electric Power-Assisted), Brakes (ABS, EBD, Traction Control)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment System, ADAS Modules
Body:
Exterior panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Interior trim, HVAC, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Symptom-based troubleshooting, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring diagrams, Connector pinouts
Repair:
Component removal and installation, Engine rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper replacement, Electrical component testing and replacement
Calibration:
Sensor calibration (e.g., steering angle sensor), Adaptive cruise control calibration, Powertrain control module (PCM) re-flashing
Depth Level:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic procedures
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using Ford's diagnostic tools (e.g., IDS/VCM) and generic OBD-II scanners
Engine Type:
3.5L Twin-Turbocharged V6 (EcoBoost)
Bore X Stroke:
92.5 mm x 91.1 mm (3.64 in x 3.59 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing)
Horsepower:
365 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque:
350 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (DI) with Port Fuel Injection (PFI) secondary system
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18.5 US gallons (70 L)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic with SelectShift®
Drivetrain:
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS)
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios for each gear and final drive
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon LV (Refer to manual for exact Ford part number)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (when equipped with optional features as per NHTSA)
IIHS Rating:
Good (for most categories as per IIHS tests for 2013-2019 Taurus models)
Traction Control:
Yes (AdvanceTrac®)
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes (AdvanceTrac®)
Brake Assist:
Yes (EPB - Electric Parking Brake)
Driver Assistance Available:
Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane Keeping System, Forward Collision Warning
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Impact, Curtain Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seat belts, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
Infotainment System:
SYNC 3 with 8-inch touchscreen
Audio System:
Standard 12-speaker Sony® Audio System with HD Radio
Driver Assistance Suite:
Optional package including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane Keeping System, Forward Collision Warning.
Parking Assist:
Available Active Park Assist
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth®, USB ports, SD card reader, Voice recognition
Navigation:
Available Navigation System
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or based on oil life monitoring system
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles or based on severe driving conditions
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Meets Ford WSS-M2C946-A/B or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.9 US quarts (6.5 L) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ford Gold Coolant (or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B51-A1)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 US quarts (10.9 L)
Powertrain Control Module:
Potential for software glitches or failure requiring re-flashing or replacement.
Turbocharger:
While generally robust, turbocharger issues can arise due to maintenance neglect or extreme usage. Leaks in charge pipes can impact performance.
Adaptive Suspension:
Rare instances of strut or damper failures, often accompanied by suspension warning lights.
Water Pump:
Early models could experience water pump leaks, typically addressed under warranty or recalls.
Ford Heritage:
Ford Motor Company, established 1903, renowned for mass production and automotive innovation.
Taurus Introduction:
First generation Taurus launched in 1986, revolutionizing American automotive design.
Sho Introduction:
SHO (Super High Output) variant first appeared in 1989 with a Yamaha-developed V6 engine.
Fifth Generation Taurus:
The 2010 model year marked the return of the Taurus nameplate and the introduction of the SHO variant on the D4 platform, featuring the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.
2013 Refresh:
The 2013 model year saw a significant refresh for the Taurus, including exterior styling updates, interior improvements, and technology enhancements, which carried over to the 2016 model.
Manufacturing Location:
Chicago Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years Sho Current Gen:
2010-2019
Performance Awards:
While specific awards for the 2016 SHO are not widely publicized, the Taurus platform has received numerous accolades for safety and overall design over its generations.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Ratings vary, but generally acknowledge the performance capabilities of the SHO trim. Consult specific year reviews.
Safety Certifications:
Meets or exceeds all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).