| First Drive | Los Angeles, USA | 2012 Ford Taurus SHO |
Key Facts
Model driven: 2012 Ford Taurus SHO with Performance Package
Pricing: £42,000 (approximately, after import)
Engine: 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost petrol V6
Transmission: six-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
Body style: four-door saloon
Rivals: Chrysler 300C, Cadillac CTS, Audi A6
Combined economy: 24mpg
Top speed: 160mph (estimated)
0-62mph: 5.2 seconds
Power: 365bhp at 5,550rpm
Torque: 350lb.ft at 1,500 - 5,250rpm
In the Metal: 
The American Taurus is a Ford four-door of imposing size both in and out. The SHO may be the performance flagship of the Taurus range, but its looks can be interpreted as either a touch bland or Q-car subtle, even with this car's optional Performance Package featuring 20-inch wheels and lower suspension. With plenty of chrome, a spoiler, bulky high rear and muscled bonnet it has just enough visual flair for execs to impress the kids, while remaining reassuringly Ford sensible.
The Taurus is vast inside, feeling refined but not luxurious with its mix of hard and soft plastics. Seats are a comfortable blend of leather and suede, while the centre console is all about size: big screen; big centralised Sony speaker; and huge un-sporty automatic gear shifter. Positively, the boot is cavernous, but overall if the Taurus ever wanted to challenge an Audi or BMW in the European executive sector the cabin would need a few premium brushstrokes.
Driving it:
Factor in the twin-turbocharged V6 engine with 365bhp and 0-60mph in a shade over five seconds and suddenly the Taurus SHO gives you pub bragging rights. It is a genuinely rapid two-tonne saloon thanks to Ford of North America's excellent EcoBoost 3.5-litre engine offering V8 performance with V6 economy - so we're told. Steering wheel buttons allow control of the precise six-speed auto, and in a straight line the SHO offers the kind of performance we Europeans would never associate with large Fords. Don't think Granada, think Mustang.
Wisely, these SHO models feature four-wheel drive to sensibly distribute the power, and our test car's Performance Package (upgraded brake pads, higher rated springs, tuned shocks, stiffer anti-roll bars and stiffer rear suspension) should have reaped reward on the Los Angeles canyon roads. Sadly, the SHO can't hide its lumbering size and weight, while the steering feels lifeless and the brakes aren't up to scratch. In clichéd American muscle car fashion, it's one for the straights and not the bends. The sophistication just isn't there.
The Taurus SHO is at its best when motorway cruising or showing off at traffic light launches, but imperfect roads should be avoided at all costs. With 20-inch wheels and that 'performance' chassis it is a real bone shaker through poorly paved towns, which won't please your typical executive saloon buyer.
What you get for your Money:
That twin-turbo motor, six-speed auto, sports-tuned suspension and four-wheel drive help this saloon think it's a sports car. The ESC features special 'you're on your own' Track Mode for weekend fun, while inside there's leather, keyless entry, a push-button starter, reversing sensors with rear view camera and voice activated communications and entertainment.
Worth Noting
North America has the Ford Taurus, Australia has the Ford Falcon, but Europe does without a Blue Oval large sports saloon. In fact, such has been the UK's lack of desire for such Fords, even the mid-size Mondeo has dropped its four-door version and is currently only available as a five-door hatchback or estate.
Summary
Ford's Taurus SHO is one for badge enthusiasts only, and even the American press and public question its relevance these days. While brutally quick it is a heavy drinker when pushed, regardless of Ford's 'V6 economy' claims. Not one we'd import to the UK considering the German alternatives available for similar money, but a little part of us would love to see a modern-day 365bhp Granada in Europe.
