2013 Ford Taurus at the 2011 New York Auto Show News and view picture
More 2011 New York Auto Show Coverage
While the changes aren�t radical compared with the current Taurus that was launched in 2010, they try to make up for some of the Taurus� low points. The car�s relatively cramped interior dimensions � at least compared with its enormous size � remain the same, however.
The base 3.5-liter V-6 returns, but it gains 27 horsepower, to 290 hp, and is more efficient, Ford says. The current V-6 gets 18/28 mpg city/highway.
An all-new turbocharged four-cylinder joins the lineup. Ford says it will get at least 31 mpg on the highway. It's rated at 237 hp but makes 250 pounds-feet of torque, just a few behind the base V-6�s 255 pounds-feet. Both engines are teamed to six-speed automatic transmissions. The steering is more responsive, and braking gets a boost with better pedal feel, Ford says.The high-powered SHO returns for 2013 with a 365-hp engine making 350 pounds-feet of torque and all-wheel drive, along with upgraded brakes. The SHO gets a black grille and side mirrors to help differentiate it from the regular Taurus, along with standard 19-inch wheels with 20s optional.
Inside, there are a number of small revisions to cabin materials, but the biggest addition is the instrument cluster with digital displays and the optional MyFord Touch multimedia system � it�s standard on the SHO � that we�ve seen in the new Explorer and Edge SUVs.
A new hood, hexagonal grille and a revised rear with LED taillights surprisingly alter the look significantly. The Taurus is now more aggressive in terms of design, especially the SHO model.
There is also a slew of new options, from a heated steering wheel to massaging seats and a powered rear window shade. Optional safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, collision warning system, blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert, will also be available.
The upgrades all seem welcome, especially the new optional turbo engine, but we wonder if they will help large-sedan shoppers overlook the Taurus� tight cockpit.
- Competes with: Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon, Dodge Charger
- Looks like: A meaner, yet not leaner, Taurus
- Drivetrain: 237-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; 290-hp, 3.5-liter V-6; and a 365-hp, turbocharged V-6
- Hits dealerships: Early 2012
More 2011 New York Auto Show Coverage
While the changes aren�t radical compared with the current Taurus that was launched in 2010, they try to make up for some of the Taurus� low points. The car�s relatively cramped interior dimensions � at least compared with its enormous size � remain the same, however.
The base 3.5-liter V-6 returns, but it gains 27 horsepower, to 290 hp, and is more efficient, Ford says. The current V-6 gets 18/28 mpg city/highway.
An all-new turbocharged four-cylinder joins the lineup. Ford says it will get at least 31 mpg on the highway. It's rated at 237 hp but makes 250 pounds-feet of torque, just a few behind the base V-6�s 255 pounds-feet. Both engines are teamed to six-speed automatic transmissions. The steering is more responsive, and braking gets a boost with better pedal feel, Ford says.
Inside, there are a number of small revisions to cabin materials, but the biggest addition is the instrument cluster with digital displays and the optional MyFord Touch multimedia system � it�s standard on the SHO � that we�ve seen in the new Explorer and Edge SUVs.
A new hood, hexagonal grille and a revised rear with LED taillights surprisingly alter the look significantly. The Taurus is now more aggressive in terms of design, especially the SHO model.
There is also a slew of new options, from a heated steering wheel to massaging seats and a powered rear window shade. Optional safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, collision warning system, blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert, will also be available.
The upgrades all seem welcome, especially the new optional turbo engine, but we wonder if they will help large-sedan shoppers overlook the Taurus� tight cockpit.
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