What engine is in a 2016 Ford Taurus?
The 2016 Ford Taurus is powered by two gasoline engines depending on the trim: a standard 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6, and the high-performance Taurus SHO with a turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (twin turbo).
In this article, we outline the two engine options, their output, and what they mean for daily driving versus performance-focused driving. We also note which trims received which engine and provide context on performance differences between the regular Taurus and the SHO variant.
Engine options for the 2016 Taurus
Below is a concise rundown of the two engines you could find in the 2016 Taurus lineup, including their main characteristics.
- 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6: 288 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque; standard on most non-SHO Taurus trims, providing smooth, reliable daily driving.
- 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (SHO): twin-turbocharged version delivering about 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque; this is the performance-oriented engine used in the Taurus SHO.
These two engines define the 2016 Taurus range: a conventional V6 for comfort and efficiency, and a high-performance EcoBoost option for spirited driving in the SHO. Transmission and drivetrain configurations are aligned with model year specifications and trims.
Technical specs by engine
3.5L Ti-VCT V6
Engine type: naturally aspirated V6 with Ti-VCT. Output: approximately 288 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque. Transmission: typically a 6-speed automatic. Applications: standard Taurus trims (non-SHO) in 2016.
3.5L EcoBoost V6
Engine type: twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 with direct injection. Output: approximately 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Applications: Taurus SHO in 2016, delivering significantly higher performance.
Note: Availability can vary by market and specific model configuration; always confirm with the dealer or the vehicle’s VIN/spec sheet.
Summary
The 2016 Ford Taurus offered two engine choices: a standard 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 for everyday driving and the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (twin turbo) for the Taurus SHO's higher-performance experience. Buyers choosing the SHO should expect substantially more horsepower and torque, while others get solid, refined V6 performance for daily use.
