Is the Ford Taurus good on gas?
In short, the Ford Taurus is not a standout for fuel economy among modern sedans, though the EcoBoost four-cylinder variants offer the best mileage in the lineup. Because the model was discontinued after 2019, fuel efficiency depends heavily on the specific year, engine, and drivetrain.
Context: The Taurus in Ford’s lineup
The Taurus was Ford’s full-size sedan aimed at comfort and space rather than class-leading efficiency. With several generations and engine options, its MPG varied widely. The vehicle has been out of production in most markets since 2019, so most buyers today are looking at used examples with a wide range of EPA estimates and real-world results. There is no factory hybrid Taurus, so fuel economy improvements rely on turbocharged gasoline engines rather than electric propulsion.
Fuel economy by engine and drivetrain
The following sections summarize typical fuel-efficiency characteristics by the main engine options that appeared in the Taurus over its production years. Actual EPA ratings will vary by model year, trim, drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD), and equipment, so check the specific label for the exact car you’re considering.
2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder
- Typically the most efficient Taurus powertrain, especially in later 2010s models.
- Estimated ranges commonly fall around the low 20s mpg in city driving and upper 20s to low 30s mpg on the highway (variations exist by year and drivetrain).
- AWD versions usually see a small drop in highway efficiency compared with FWD.
Overall, the 2.0L EcoBoost offers the strongest balance of power and fuel economy for a full-size sedan in the Taurus family, but it still trails modern midsize sedans and hybrids in efficiency.
3.5-liter V6 (non‑EcoBoost)
- Older, naturally aspirated V6 options generally deliver lower fuel economy than EcoBoost variants.
- EPA-style estimates for these engines typically sit in the high teens to around 20 mpg in city driving and mid- to upper-20s on the highway.
- Performance and smoothness are strong, but fuel-use can be higher due to the larger displacement.
In practical terms, the 3.5L V6 is comfortable and capable, but if you’re prioritizing fuel economy, it won’t match the EcoBoost four-cylinder’s efficiency.
3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (SHO)
- High-performance variant known as the Taurus SHO, with more power but typically lower efficiency than non‑ SHO V6 or EcoBoost engines.
- Estimated city mpg often in the high teens, with highway mpg commonly in the mid- to upper-20s, depending on year and drivetrain.
- Performance-tuned suspension and more power-focused tuning can further reduce real-world mileage.
For buyers focused on fuel economy, the SHO’s trade-off is clear: more power usually comes with lower mpg than the non‑ SHO setups.
Real-world factors and how to optimize fuel economy
Beyond engine choice, several everyday factors influence real-world gas mileage in the Taurus. These considerations can make a noticeable difference in miles per gallon and overall running costs.
- Maintenance and email-timed tune-ups: Regular oil changes, air-filter replacement, and spark-plug service help keep engines efficient.
- Weight and aerodynamics: Carrying cargo with roof racks increases drag; removing unnecessary weight improves efficiency.
- Driving style: Gentle acceleration, steady speeds, and using cruise control on highways can boost mpg.
- Tire maintenance: Proper inflation and matching tire sizes support better fuel economy.
- Fuel quality and octane requirements: Use recommended fuels to avoid knock and efficiency loss.
Note that these factors apply across most gasoline-powered sedans, but the Taurus’ weight and design mean the impact is often more noticeable than in smaller, newer vehicles.
How the Taurus compares to alternatives
Compared with modern midsize sedans, hybrids, and newer turbocharged four-cylinders, the Taurus generally sits in the mid-to-lower end of fuel economy among contemporary options. If your top priority is max MPG, consider more recent compact or midsize sedans with hybrid systems, or non-hybrid vehicles with advanced turbocharged engines and lightweight construction. For those who value space, comfort, and a spacious interior, the Taurus remains a reasonable choice, but expect average fuel efficiency relative to current market leaders.
Summary
The Ford Taurus offers respectable comfort and space, but it is not a standout for gas mileage in today’s market. The best-efficiency variant is the 2.0-liter EcoBoost, yet even that falls short of modern hybrids and efficient four-cylinders. The Taurus was discontinued after 2019, so fuel economy numbers vary by year and trim, and prospective buyers should consult the exact EPA ratings for the specific vehicle. If fuel economy is the primary criterion, explore newer, more efficient sedans or hybrid options; if you need room and a comfortable ride, the Taurus can still be a reasonable used pick with careful engine choice and attentive maintenance.
