Car Review: 2013 Ford Taurus

THE 2013 FORD TAURUS REVIEW

Summary Review by Tess: Made for Family Transportation

The 2013 Ford Taurus sedan has been a fixture in the family transportation scene since its introduction in 1986. This full-size sedan offers a spacious interior, ample cargo space, and a comfortable ride for driver and passengers. However, its relatively stodgy exterior styling, mediocre fuel economy, and unimpressive performance have limited the appeal of the Taurus and relegated it to the status of reliable family car. The SHO trim level offers significantly better performance thanks to its twin-turbocharged V6 engine, but that power comes with a steep increase in price as well.

Under the hood
Buyers can choose among three engines when configuring the 2013 Ford Taurus, although the range-topping twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 is only available on the SHO trim level. The base model engine is a less powerful 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 288 horsepower and a solid 254 lb-ft of torque.

New for 2013, the Ford Taurus is available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that produces 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque and offers exceptional fuel economy at 22 miles to the gallon in the city and 32 on the highway.

Finally, the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 featured on the SHO trim level is capable of producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque and delivers fuel economy of 17 miles to the gallon in the city and 25 in highway driving. Front-wheel drive is standard, but the all-wheel drive is available on all trim levels and is recommended for added traction on slick or uneven roadways.

(See a separate car review for the new 2013 Ford Taurus SHO).

Inside the cabin
The base SE trim level of the 2013 Taurus offers a number of standard features, including cruise control, air conditioning, power-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic headlights, and a basic CD stereo system. Options include leather upholstery, an upgraded stereo, heated mirrors, a navigation system, keyless entry, and a power sunroof.

On the road
The 2013 Ford Taurus sedan provides sedate but reliable family transportation at a relatively affordable price in its bottom two trim levels. The SHO, however, is a different story and offers impressive performance, managing the 0 to 60 run in just 5.8 seconds. However, the SHO weighs in at roughly $10,000 more than the base model Ford Taurus.

Conclusions
The 2013 Ford Taurus continues to deliver solid middle-of-the-road reliability and performance in a full-size sedan. Drivers looking for more excitement behind the wheel, however, will need to shell out significantly more money for the SHO and its improved performance.

Details:
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V6
Horsepower & Torque: 288 hp/254 lb-ft
Transmission: FWD or AWD six-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel Economy: 19/29
Base MSRP: $26,600

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost
Horsepower & Torque: 240 hp/270 lb-ft
Transmission: FWD or AWD six-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel Economy: 22/32

Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged DOHC V6
Horsepower & Torque: 365 hp/350 lb-ft
Transmission: AWD six-speed shiftable automatic
0 to 60: 5.8 seconds
Fuel Economy: 17/25

Need More Information on the 2013 Ford Taurus?
vehicle eBrochure: 2013 Ford Taurus
Find a 2013 Ford Taurus for Sale in Your Area
Dealer Quote for the 2013 Ford Taurus

More>>> Car Reviews