Chicago 2009: 2010 Ford Taurus
SHO.
Ford is currently in the process of stuffing its new 3.5L EcoBoost V6
into any that fits. The Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and upcoming Lincoln MKT
are all getting it. Being based on the same platform as the MKS, it was
a no-brainer that the redesigned 2010 Taurus would also get the
twin-turbo, direct-inject engine that Ford promises will deliver V8
power with V6 fuel economy. Rather than simply affix the EcoBoost badge
to the Taurus' trunk and call it a day, Ford product planners decided
that this model would be the perfect vehicle to once again wear the
letters S-H-O.
That model designation originally meant Super High Output, which
definitely applies to the modern version. Whereas the original SHO used
a high-revving 220-hp 3.0L V6 (later a 235-hp 3.4L V8) developed and
built by Yamaha, the new SHO's advanced engine turns a relatively small
3.5 liters of displacement displacement and a lot of pressure into 365
horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lb of torque at 3,500 rpm. That
makes this version of Ford's 3.5L EcoBoost V6 the most powerful one
available with 10 more horsepower than its other applications.
Unlike the original SHO, however, this new one is about much more than
just the engine. Backing up the potent powerplant is a torque-sensing
all-wheel-drive system mated to Ford's 6F55 six-speed SelectShift
automatic transmission. The transmission is augmented by a manual mode
that can be controlled either by the console shifter or paddle shifters,
and will also rev match downshifts and hold gears even when the
tachometer is bouncing off the engine's redline.
The SHO further separates itself from lesser Taurus models with a beefed
up suspension that includes SHO-specific shock absorbers, springs,
stabilizer bars and strut mount bushings. Furthermore, the new SHO also
features Ford's new SR1 suspension setup with Macpherson front struts
and a multi-link set up in the rear. We'll have to wait for a test drive
to determine for sure, but the SHO's suspension should be noticeably
sharper than that of the standard Taurus and its other platform-mate,
the Lincoln MKS. There will even be an optional Performance Package that
includes better brake pads, recalibrated steering, a "Sport Mode" for
the stability control system and shorter 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio.
Nineteen-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle rubber will be standard,
while 20-inchers wearing Michelin high-performance summer tires will
also be available.
|
Press Release - Ford Taurus SHO Returns with 365HP
EcoBoost V6, Plus all wheel drive, paddle-shift six speed gearbox.
The Taurus SHO returns as the sporty version of Ford's new flagship
introducing a new generation of premium performance and fuel economy
with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6. This engine delivers V-8 levels of
power – with an estimated 365 horsepower – without compromising its V-6
fuel economy.
The 2010 Taurus SHO features an enhanced SelectShift® six-speed
automatic transmission with control paddles mounted on the steering
wheel, in combination with a sophisticated torque sensing all-wheel
drive system, a sportier SHO interior, subtle exterior design cues and
myriad technologies and features offered on Taurus.
Taurus SHO will be available this summer, starting at $37,995, including
destination fees.
CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – One of America's favorite "sleeper" performance
cars returns to the Ford lineup, powered by a Super High Output (SHO)
EcoBoost twin turbocharged engine.
The Taurus SHO joins Ford's growing lineup of performance vehicles for
the 2010 model year, building on the legacy of the original, which
earned a spot on the Car and Driver 10 Best list four years running.
"The new Taurus SHO delivers on the authentic sleeper sedan formula but
adds all-new luxury-appointments, convenience features and technologies
to an unsurpassed balance of power and fuel economy," said Mark Fields,
Ford's president of The Americas. "This new sport derivative answers
enthusiasts' calls for a premium Ford flagship sedan with even more
attitude."
Introduced in 1989, Taurus SHO was conceived as a discreet
performance-oriented sports sedan, ideally suited to the automotive
enthusiast needing the room and capability of a four-door full-size car.
Produced through 1999, more than 100,000 were sold.
The original Taurus SHO generated a loyal following of owners and
enthusiasts, specifically devoted to convincing Ford to resurrect the
SHO. The 2010 Taurus product development team spent significant time
listening to SHO enthusiasts.
EcoBoost™ Twin-Turbocharged Power
The foundation of the new 2010 Taurus SHO is a 3.5-liter
twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine. This advanced power plant
generates an estimated 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lbs. of
torque at 3,500 rpm, resulting in significantly improved power, torque
and fuel economy compared with larger, normally aspirated engines. This
also is Ford's most powerful EcoBoost engine.
A key feature of this EcoBoost engine is gasoline direct injection. The
direct injection of fuel into the cylinder during the intake stroke, as
opposed to port-style injection to an externally mounted intake,
produces a well-mixed air-fuel charge. Fuel vaporization during the
intake stroke cools the incoming air, improving volumetric efficiency
and lowers the likelihood of knock.
The results are improved throttle response, reduced cold start emissions
characteristics and improved fuel economy. The cooled charge enables an
increased compression ratio, improving efficiency at partial load, while
the higher compression ratio allows for better volumetric efficiency
under full load engine behavior. Customers will experience normally
aspirated V-8 power, without compromising V-6 fuel economy.
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 also uses twin turbochargers, as opposed to a
single unit. The reduced size of each turbocharger results in reduced
internal inertia, allowing this advanced engine to avoid the "turbo lag"
often prevalent in earlier-generation turbocharged applications. From
the driver's seat, the rewarding result is linear power delivery across
a broad torque band from 1,500 through 5,500 rpm. Peak torque building
quickly off idle ensures responsive acceleration from a standing start.
SelectShift with paddle controls and All-Wheel Drive
The new Taurus SHO driveline combines a high-capacity six-speed 6F55
SelectShift transmission with a sophisticated torque-sensing All-Wheel
Drive System. These components work in harmony to deliver ample traction
when putting EcoBoost power on the road. The six-speed transmission
offers a wide array of gears to enable spirited acceleration, yet
comfortable high-speed cruising, through a 2.77 to 1 final drive ratio.
SelectShift provides conventional automatic operation or a manual shift
mode that gives the driver complete control over gear selection. For
performance-minded drivers, paddle controls allow "match-rev" downshifts
and will hold manually selected gears for precise control. Intuitively
operated, a squeeze on either paddle will deliver an economical upshift
under acceleration, while a gentle push forward brings a smooth
downshift, synchronizing the engine and transmission speeds for
responsive and positive engagement.
The Ford Taurus SHO driveline is contemporized with the incorporation of
a sophisticated All-Wheel Drive System that engages automatically and
unobtrusively. The unit contains an advanced array of internal
electromechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque to the
wheels with optimum traction. Standard all-wheel drive allows the Taurus
SHO to efficiently deliver its high performance to the pavement under a
wide variety of conditions.
"Taurus SHO suspension and steering have been sport-tuned to provide
discriminating drivers with precise control, confident handling,
communicative feedback and a compliant ride," said Pete Reyes, Taurus
chief engineer.
Taurus SHO features an advanced electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS)
system, providing responsive road feel and enhanced on-center balance
while offering the additional benefit of increased fuel economy. SHO
also features a sport-tuned suspension with unique shock absorbers,
springs, stabilizer bars and strut mount bushings specifically developed
and harmonized to deliver the highest level of Ford DNA road holding,
cornering agility and steering responsiveness available in a Blue Oval
full-size sedan.
Taurus SHO takes full advantage of the multi-link SR1 rear suspension
design. Named for the 1:1 shock absorber ratio, this configuration
provides an inherently stable baseline for the SHO development team to
fine tune for enhanced driver control and agility. In addition, the SR1
rear suspension geometry provides increased travel, while enabling the
use of 19- and 20-inch wheels and tires.
For the discriminating automotive enthusiast, Taurus SHO offers an
available SHO Performance Package consisting of upgraded brake pads,
recalibrated EPAS for even more responsiveness, a "Sport Mode" setting
for the standard AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control and a shorter
3.16 to 1 final drive ratio for faster acceleration. Summer-compound
20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 performance tires on premium painted wheels
also are included.
SHO Specific Subtlety
A key element of the authentic SHO formula is the subtlety of its unique
exterior design cues. Features include sporty premium painted wheels,
wrapped in standard low-profile 19-inch Goodyear Eagle or optional
20-inch Michelin high-performance tires, a decklid-mounted spoiler and
twin chrome exhaust tips. SHO also features a uniquely finished
interpretation of the Ford signature three-bar grille with SHO-specific
parking lamp bezels.
"Taurus SHO was always a stealth high-performance car," said Earl Lucas,
exterior design manager. "The new SHO builds on the expressive design of
the 2010 Taurus, adding subtle cues that set it apart."
The 2010 SHO is available in a wide range of new Taurus colors including
Atlantis Green Metallic, a unique SHO color inspired by the iconic Deep
Emerald Green hue appearing in 1991.
The new Taurus SHO interior encourages performance driving.
Leather-trimmed seats with Miko Suede inserts, made from recycled
post-consumer yarns from plastic soft drink bottles, are comfortable and
luxurious. A perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel puts the driver
in smooth touch with the road. Front seats are 10-way power adjustable.
SHO accelerator and brake pedals are trimmed in aluminum. The console,
instrument and door panels feature SHO-specific authentic aluminum
appliqués. SHO branding appears on the unique floor mats, and on the
passenger side of the instrument panel.
Taurus SHO: Performance and Convenience
The 2010 Taurus SHO offers an impressive array of standard convenience
features as well as optional features and content. Standard Taurus SHO
amenities include:
Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, a new Taurus feature allowing
drivers to enter the car and start the engine without using a
conventional key. Drivers simply carry the fob as they approach the
vehicle, touch the SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad, open the door and
enter, apply pressure on brake pedal and push a button to start the
engine.
MyKey allows enthusiasts to activate a restricted driving mode,
persistent Belt-Minder® safety belt reminder, audio system volume
limits, an earlier low-fuel warning, and consistently-engaged
AdvanceTrac® stability control. The top vehicle speed can be limited to
80 mph, and speed chimes can be programmed to engage at 45, 55 or 65 mph
further protecting their investment.
Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel Filler System, a unique feature that eliminates
the need for a traditional fuel cap. Easy Fuel is a hassle-free solution
that provides a consistent self-seal after every refueling.
Ford SYNC® is the fully integrated, in-vehicle voice-activated
communications and entertainment system standard on Taurus SHO. The
system combines 911 Assist, Vehicle Health Report and GPS-based features
including business search and call completion.
SYNC connects to MP3 players, iPods, memory sticks and PDAs. The latest
version of SYNC in the Taurus SHO adds Traffic, Directions and
Information, providing turn-by-turn route guidance and the capability to
access and personalize content.
Ambient Lighting allows the Taurus SHO driver to program interior
lighting from a choice of five soothing colors to suit any character or
preference.
The 2010 Taurus SHO comes standard with the full array of active and
passive safety equipment and features offered across the Taurus range.
Available options on the 2010 Taurus SHO include:
Reverse Camera System, a unique SHO option, activates when reverse gear
is selected providing the driver with additional rear visibility,
projecting on the windscreen mounted rearview mirror.
Adaptive Cruise Control, which allows the driver to set the Taurus SHO
cruising speed while using radar technology to monitor traffic
travelling up to 600 feet ahead, automatically adjusting speed to help
maintain a preset distance between vehicles. Adaptive Cruise Control
comes with Collision Warning with Brake Support providing visible and
audible warnings when slower traffic is detected ahead. Brake support is
activated if the driver does not respond to provided warnings, and
pre-charges the brake system to prepare the vehicle for stopping.
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) with Cross Traffic Alert consists
of two multiple beam radar modules, one each per rear quarter panel.
When an adjacent vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone, and
indicator alert provides driver warning in the corresponding sideview
mirror.
Cross Traffic Alert uses existing BLIS radar modules to sense oncoming
traffic while the Taurus SHO is slowly backed from a parking space. When
cross traffic appears within three car widths, the system provides a
visible message on the instrument panel in combination with a sideview
mirror warning and an audible signal.
Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion™ can be specified in conjunction
with heated and cooled first-row positions in the new Taurus SHO.
Multi-Contour functionality provides subtle but continuous massage to
help prevent back pain and fatigue and is ideally suited to meet the
needs of long-distance drivers.
Voice-Activated Navigation System includes a 10 GB music juke box hard
drive and a single CD/DVD player. When combined with the optional rear
camera system, rearview projection appears on the centerstack-mounted
navigation screen.
Sony Audio System offers 12 speakers, a digital amplifier, 390 Watts of
continuous power (RMS), 115 dB of maximum bass sound pressure level and
Dolby® Pro Logic® II surround technology.
The 2010 Taurus SHO will be built at Ford's Chicago (Ill.) assembly
plant and will be available in dealerships this summer, starting at a
base price of $37,995, including destination.
|