Is a Ford Taurus good on gas?
The Ford Taurus is not a gas‑mileage standout among full‑size sedans, but it can offer reasonable efficiency with the right engine and drivetrain. In general, expect mid-20s mpg combined for typical configurations, with better highway figures on EcoBoost models and lower numbers on older V6 versions.
Ford discontinued the Taurus for the U.S. market after the 2019 model year, so current Taurus examples are used. This article explains how mpg varies by powertrain, what real‑world driving tends to deliver, and how the Taurus stacks up when fuel economy is a priority.
Fuel economy by engine and drivetrain
Fuel economy in the Taurus depends heavily on the chosen powertrain and whether the car is front‑wheel drive or all‑wheel drive. The 2.0‑liter EcoBoost four‑cylinder is the most efficient option, while the larger 3.5‑liter V6 tends to drink more fuel, especially with AWD.
Here are representative EPA ranges for common Taurus configurations from the 2013–2019 era:
- 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 with front‑wheel drive (FWD): about 21–23 mpg city / 30–32 mpg highway; combined roughly 25–27 mpg.
- 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 with all‑wheel drive (AWD): roughly 20–22 mpg city / 28–31 mpg highway; combined around 24–26 mpg.
- 3.5-liter V6 (non‑turbo): typically 18–19 mpg city / 26–28 mpg highway; combined about 21–23 mpg.
- 3.5-liter EcoBoost (high‑performance SHO variant): generally higher fuel use, with EPA estimates in the low‑to‑mid 20s combined depending on configuration.
In practice, these figures are starting points. Real‑world mileage varies with year, trim, how you drive, and how well the vehicle is maintained.
Real‑world driving and ownership considerations
In everyday use, the Taurus’ size and weight mean it won’t rival compact sedans or hybrids for fuel economy. Highway driving with steady speed and gentle acceleration tends to yield the best numbers, while aggressive driving or frequent short trips lowers efficiency. Maintenance and tire condition also play a significant role in observed mpg.
Additionally, note that the U.S. Taurus is no longer in production after 2019; current shopping is limited to used examples or models in other markets. This affects not only fuel economy but long‑term maintenance and parts availability.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and ensure proper wheel alignment to maximize efficiency.
- Follow regular maintenance schedules, especially for the turbocharged EcoBoost engine models (spark plugs, ignition coils, filters, and oil changes matter for efficiency).
- Drive smoothly: avoid rapid acceleration, plan steady highway cruising, and use cruise control where appropriate.
- Minimize unnecessary weight and cargo to improve payload efficiency and mpg.
With mindful driving and maintenance, some Taurus configurations—particularly the 2.0L EcoBoost FWD—can approach the upper end of their stated ranges, but they typically won’t match dedicated hybrids or smaller sedans on fuel economy.
Should you buy a Taurus if fuel economy matters?
If fuel economy is a top criterion, a Taurus won’t be your first pick among modern options. Hybrids and smaller sedans routinely offer lower real‑world consumption. That said, the Taurus can still be practical for buyers who want space, comfort, and a car with a reasonable efficiency footprint for its size, especially in the 2.0L EcoBoost FWD configuration.
When shopping used, consider the trade‑offs: a 2.0L EcoBoost FWD Taurus can be the most economical in the lineup, but you’ll pay in terms of potential maintenance costs and older technology compared with newer hybrid alternatives.
Better fuel‑economy alternatives to consider
- Hybrid midsize sedans such as the Toyota Camry Hybrid or Honda Accord Hybrid.
- Non-hybrid but efficient options like the Toyota Camry (non-hybrid) or Hyundai Sonata with efficient engine choices.
- Smaller, efficient sedans or compact crossovers that balance space and mpg more effectively than a full‑size Taurus.
In short, if mpg is the main goal, there are more fuel‑efficient modern options. If you value space, comfort, and used‑car value, the Taurus can still be a reasonable pick—especially with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine in front‑wheel drive.
Summary
The Ford Taurus delivers acceptable fuel economy for a full‑size sedan, particularly with the 2.0L EcoBoost in FWD form, but it isn’t a standout for efficiency. The large size and older powertrain options mean it trails hybrid and smaller sedans on mpg. If fuel economy is a priority, explore hybrid alternatives or smaller cars; if you need space and comfort in a used car, a Taurus remains a viable option, provided you’re mindful of maintenance and driving style.
