It’s all about control
All-wheel-drive traction is only one element of several that keep things in-check when the big Ford is underway. The SHO’s underpinnings are noticeably firmer than the arrangement beneath the standard Taurus, and this pays-off in the curves.
This is a heavy vehicle, and its weight can be felt when the car is tossed about with some enthusiasm. Yes, it remains stable and well planted but it doesn’t share the litheness of say, a 5-Series Bimmer, but of course it doesn’t share the same price structure either.
Overall, the latest Taurus SHO delivers plenty of handling verve; in fact more than most drivers will ever hope to exploit, so let’s not get hung up on whether it’s a serious competitor to the German brands.
As Tony Soprano would say, “forget bout it.” This car will please the enthusiast inherent in us all.
That pleasure comes with a modest penalty in ride comfort. The SHO isn’t harsh or truck-like by any stretch, so let’s just say that ride quality isn’t an SHO strength. What is strong though is the vehicle’s structural integrity. My tester didn’t reveal any chassis or suspension noise, which so often accompanies beefed-up underpinnings.
Last words
I came away from this week’s road test with new respect for the Taurus SHO. It projects near brilliant styling and impresses with outstanding cabin design and quality. Moving away from aesthetics, this car really performs.
Its EcoBoost engine, while not as turbine-smooth as BMW’s twin-turbo I-6, is highly refined and infinitely pleasing. It serves as the heart of a vehicle that delivers athleticism along with plenty of room for five adults.
Safety and technology are also maximized aboard the SHO. The list is too extensive for itemization, so trust that the loaded SHO wants for nothing. If it’s cutting-edge, it’s likely here.
And finally, if there’s a bummer in this story, it involves money – plenty of it. With destination and delivery charges tacked on, the MSRP for my tester hit $53,749. I have difficulty getting my head around $50K+ for a Taurus.
But like they say, you need to drive it to appreciate it.
photo:Rob Rothwell
All-wheel-drive traction is only one element of several that keep things in-check when the big Ford is underway. The SHO’s underpinnings are noticeably firmer than the arrangement beneath the standard Taurus, and this pays-off in the curves.
This is a heavy vehicle, and its weight can be felt when the car is tossed about with some enthusiasm. Yes, it remains stable and well planted but it doesn’t share the litheness of say, a 5-Series Bimmer, but of course it doesn’t share the same price structure either.
Overall, the latest Taurus SHO delivers plenty of handling verve; in fact more than most drivers will ever hope to exploit, so let’s not get hung up on whether it’s a serious competitor to the German brands.
As Tony Soprano would say, “forget bout it.” This car will please the enthusiast inherent in us all.
 |
| This is a heavy vehicle, and its weight can be felt when the car is tossed about with some enthusiasm. |
That pleasure comes with a modest penalty in ride comfort. The SHO isn’t harsh or truck-like by any stretch, so let’s just say that ride quality isn’t an SHO strength. What is strong though is the vehicle’s structural integrity. My tester didn’t reveal any chassis or suspension noise, which so often accompanies beefed-up underpinnings.
Last words
I came away from this week’s road test with new respect for the Taurus SHO. It projects near brilliant styling and impresses with outstanding cabin design and quality. Moving away from aesthetics, this car really performs.
Its EcoBoost engine, while not as turbine-smooth as BMW’s twin-turbo I-6, is highly refined and infinitely pleasing. It serves as the heart of a vehicle that delivers athleticism along with plenty of room for five adults.
Safety and technology are also maximized aboard the SHO. The list is too extensive for itemization, so trust that the loaded SHO wants for nothing. If it’s cutting-edge, it’s likely here.
And finally, if there’s a bummer in this story, it involves money – plenty of it. With destination and delivery charges tacked on, the MSRP for my tester hit $53,749. I have difficulty getting my head around $50K+ for a Taurus.
But like they say, you need to drive it to appreciate it.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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