Ford is set to launch a new version of the Taurus SHO. The 2017 Ford Taurus SHO is specifically targeted to buyers in China and North America. In general, the Taurus lineup of sedans is one of the top-selling brands in the full-size sedan segment. The SHO is one model that helps the lineup achieve this fete. This model is particularly a darling of entrepreneurs and business people. For the 2017 model year, Ford has enhanced the model to offer better driving experience and a more comfortable ride. Read along to find out more:
2017 Ford Taurus SHO Exterior
The Taurus is one big sedan, as big as some SUVs in terms of its length. However, Ford has used some taut body lines that make it look smaller than it is actually. Like the regular Taurus, the SHO is underpinned by the CD4 platform. The model’s structure and body parts are made of lightweight materials aimed at reducing its weight. Compared to the outgoing models, the SHO has only received minor upgrades.
The SHO features a new shield-looking grille with chrome inserts. Narrower headlights flank it. The front bumper looks more muscular. In addition, the SHO features a scooped hood as well as unique body lines that make it stand apart from the regular Taurus.
At the rear, the model feature narrower taillights that complement the headlights. In addition, the model features a rear spoiler that highlights its sporting nature.
Unlike the regular Taurus that rides on 18-inch wheels, the SHO rides on 20-inch wheels.
2017 Ford Taurus SHO Interior
Considering its competitors, I have to confess that I consider the SHO’s cabin a bit bland. It is not even as roomy as I believe it should be. The model accommodates five passengers. The new model’s seatbelts have been upgraded for enhanced safety. All seats of the model are heated but the front seats are also cooled and power adjustable and also offers a massage function. The seats, dashboard, door panels and the steering wheel are upholstered in a quality material on lower trims with an option for leather upholstery on higher trims. The cabin also comes with the latest version of the automaker’s Sync infotainment system.
The instrument panel has been revised to offer more functionality. The model also comes with a multifunctional steering wheel with an option for a heated unit in higher trims. It also features an 8.0-inch screen as well as a 12-speaker premium Sony sound system. For safety, the sedan will feature an array of autonomous features such as front collision warning, parallel parking assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring among others.
Engine specs and performance
Under the hood of the 2017 Ford Taurus SHO is a 3.5 L, V-6 that is good for 288 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque, which means although the model is big and heavy, it is not slow. The mill is offered in either forward-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It returns 18 mpg and 27 mpg on city and highway drives respectively for FWD models while AWD models are rated at 17 mpg, city and 27 mpg, highway.
However, if you still want more power for your SHO, you can opt for the tweaked version of the V-6 that features twin turbochargers. The mill bumps up output to a whopping 365 horses and 355 lb-ft of torque. It is EPA rated at 16 mpg on city and 24 mpg on highway drives. The engine is only offered in AWD.
On the other hand, if you are an enthusiast of the SHO but a bit economical when it comes to spending on gas, you can opt for the optional 2.0 L, 4-cylinder mill which produces 240 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. The mill is only offered with FWD. This engine is EPA rated at 20 mpg on city and 29 mpg on highway drives.
Price and release date
The base 2017 Ford Taurus SE trim models with the standard V-6 mill have an MSRP of around $28,000; the SEL will attract around $30,500 while the Limited trim will fetch around $37,000. To get models with the 2.4 L mill, you have to add an extra $1,000 while on the SEL and Limited trims; you have to spend $1,900 more to get AWD. The performance-oriented SHO attracts a whole $42,520.
Competition
Top rivals of the 2017 Ford Taurus SHO are the likes of Hyundai Azera, Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger, Toyota Avalon and Kia Cadenza.
