2012 Ford Taurus SHO Total Car Score Analysis

With a Total Car Score at the top of the High Performance vehicle segment, the 2012 Ford Taurus SHO isn't exactly your typical family car.  
 
While this performance-oriented version of the more pedestrian Taurus sedan has a number of good qualities, what really sets it apart is the gutsy 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine underneath the hood and the firmer suspension tuning that delivers confident handling on a curvy stretch of road. The attractive, comfortable interior, long list of standard features and options, humongous trunk, solid crash test scores and respectable fuel economy are also noteworthy positives. 
 
The Taurus SHO's weaknesses start with a steep price tag. Its substantial size and weight also limit its sporting capabilities and make braking distances unimpressive. 
 
With the introduction of a substantially revised model right around the corner, the 2012 Ford Taurus SHO gets just a few minor styling tweaks. 

2012 Ford Taurus SHO Model Line-Up

The 2012 Ford Taurus SHO is a fullsize sedan that seats five and is offered in a single trim level. 
 
Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles and all-wheel drive are standard.  
 
Other standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, heated outside mirrors with driver's side auto-dimming, ultrasonic rear parking assist, a rear spoiler, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery with suede-like inserts, power front seats, a 60/40-split rear seat, universal garage door opener, rearview camera, Ford's voice-controlled Sync system, and a six-speaker audio system with a six-disc CD changer and satellite radio.  
 
Major options include an SHO Performance package that bundles 20-inch alloy wheels and summer tires, upgraded brakes, recalibrated steering, a different final-drive ratio and a stability control defeat feature. Other optional extras include a sunroof, heated/cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, power-adjustable pedals, a blind spot/cross traffic warning system, adaptive cruise control, a navigation system and a premium 390-watt Sony audio system with 12 speakers. 
 
EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2012 Ford Taurus SHO are 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined, numbers that are no worse than those of all-wheel drive Taurus models equipped with the less powerful base V6 engine. 

Total Car Score is not affiliated with, associated, authorized, or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected to any of the Expert Resources, nor does Total Car Score endorse any of the Expert Resources, or its affiliates.
Click here to see more.