Ford Taurus SHO
2010-2019
The modern Taurus SHO represents Ford's approach to the performance sedan: massive power, practical packaging, and understated presence. It's a wolf in sheep's clothing that can embarrass sports cars while hauling the family in comfort.
Quick Take
The fourth-generation Taurus SHO revived Ford's iconic Super High Output nameplate with a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and standard all-wheel drive. It offered genuine sports sedan performance wrapped in practical full-size sedan packaging, making it a unique sleeper in the marketplace.
Best For
Key Strength
EcoBoost Powerplant
Watch For
Transmission Programming
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
The SHO nameplate dates back to 1989 when Ford first created a high-performance Taurus with Yamaha's help. After a hiatus, the 2010 revival brought the concept into the modern era with turbocharging and AWD technology.
Design Philosophy
Ford designed the SHO to be an automotive sleeper, with subtle visual cues distinguishing it from regular Taurus models. The focus was on performance substance over flashy style, creating a sophisticated Q-ship for American roads.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 delivers smooth, linear power with minimal lag and a refined character. It provides strong mid-range torque that makes highway passing effortless while maintaining reasonable fuel economy for its performance level.
Chassis Dynamics
Despite its size and weight, the SHO handles with surprising competence thanks to sport-tuned suspension and AWD traction. The steering is precise for a large sedan, and the chassis remains composed under aggressive driving while maintaining ride comfort.
Sound Signature
The EcoBoost V6 produces a subdued but purposeful growl under acceleration, staying true to the SHO's sleeper character.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 3.5L twin-turbo V6 produces 365hp and 350 lb-ft of torque with impressive low-end grunt. This engine delivers smooth power delivery with minimal turbo lag, making it equally suited for highway merging and spirited backroad drives.
The intelligent AWD system automatically distributes torque where needed, providing confident handling in rain and snow. Unlike many performance sedans, the SHO remains usable year-round without sacrificing traction or stability.
Honest Tradeoffs
The 6-speed automatic transmission prioritizes fuel economy over performance, often hunting for gears and lacking the quick shifts expected in a performance sedan. The transmission feels disconnected from the driver's intentions during spirited driving.
Extended high-performance driving reveals cooling system limitations, with intercooler heat soak reducing power output. The brake system also shows fade under repeated hard stops, limiting serious track use without upgrades.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for enthusiasts who need full-size sedan practicality but refuse to compromise on performance. Appeals to those who prefer understated power over flashy sports cars.