Ford Taurus V 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic

The Ford Taurus V 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic represents a significant, albeit brief, chapter in the storied history of Ford’s full-size sedan lineup. Produced from 2007 to 2009, this iteration marked the return of the iconic Taurus nameplate, succeeding the Ford Five Hundred which had itself replaced the fourth-generation Taurus. For the American market, this generation of the Taurus aimed to recapture the essence of a spacious, comfortable, and capable family sedan, distinguished by its robust powertrain and available all-wheel-drive system. Positioned as a direct competitor in the competitive full-size sedan segment, the Taurus V offered a blend of practicality, performance, and advanced features for its time, catering to consumers seeking a reliable and substantial vehicle.

The Evolution and Market Positioning of the Ford Taurus V

The Ford Taurus, a nameplate synonymous with American automotive history, underwent a pivotal rebranding in 2007. After a period where the Ford Five Hundred carried the torch as Ford’s primary full-size sedan, the company strategically reinstated the Taurus moniker, recognizing its enduring brand equity. The vehicle known as the Ford Five Hundred was essentially re-engineered and re-introduced as the fifth-generation Taurus, benefiting from a significant powertrain upgrade and minor styling revisions. This strategic move aimed to leverage the Taurus’s established reputation for reliability and value, while simultaneously introducing a more powerful and refined driving experience. The Ford Taurus V 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic was designed to appeal to a broad demographic, from families needing ample space to fleet buyers prioritizing durability and efficiency. Its full-size dimensions and comfortable interior were hallmarks of its appeal, offering a compelling alternative in a market increasingly leaning towards SUVs but still valuing traditional sedan attributes.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Ford Taurus V 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic lies the formidable Duratec 35 engine, a 3.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6 powerplant specifically engineered to deliver a balanced blend of power and refinement. This advanced engine, designated with the model code Duratec 35, boasts a displacement of 3496 cubic centimeters (213.34 cubic inches) and features a V-engine configuration with six cylinders. A key characteristic of its design is the Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, incorporating four valves per cylinder, totaling 24 valves. This multi-valve setup significantly enhances volumetric efficiency, allowing the engine to breathe more freely and produce greater power across the RPM range.

The Duratec 35 generates a robust 263 horsepower at 6250 rpm, a substantial output for a naturally aspirated V6 of its era, contributing to a power-to-liter ratio of 75.2 Hp/l. Torque delivery is equally impressive, with a peak of 338 Nm (249.3 lb.-ft.) arriving at 4500 rpm. This ample torque ensures strong acceleration from a standstill and confident passing maneuvers on the highway. The engine’s compression ratio of 10.3:1 further optimizes combustion efficiency, while its multi-port manifold injection system precisely meters fuel delivery for optimal performance and economy. With a maximum engine speed of 6700 rpm, the Duratec 35 offers a responsive and engaging driving experience.

Power is seamlessly transferred to the pavement via a sophisticated 6-speed automatic transmission, a modern feature for a sedan of this vintage. This gearbox was designed to provide smooth shifts and optimize fuel efficiency, allowing the engine to operate within its most effective power band. Complementing this powertrain is an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which significantly enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions or on challenging road surfaces. The AWD system intelligently distributes power to all four wheels, providing an added layer of confidence and control, making the Taurus V a versatile choice for various driving environments. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1783 kg (3930.84 lbs) results in a respectable weight-to-power ratio of 6.8 kg/Hp, or 147.5 Hp per tonne, indicating capable acceleration for a full-size sedan.

Design and Features

The design of the Ford Taurus V 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic embodies the characteristics of a traditional American full-size sedan: spacious, comfortable, and understatedly elegant. As a 4-door sedan with seating for five occupants, it prioritizes interior volume and passenger comfort. Measuring an imposing 5126 mm (201.81 inches) in length, 1892 mm (74.49 inches) in width, and 1562 mm (61.5 inches) in height, the Taurus V commands a significant road presence. Its long wheelbase of 2868 mm (112.91 inches) contributes directly to a smooth ride quality and expansive cabin space, particularly for rear-seat passengers.

The exterior styling, while largely carried over from the Ford Five Hundred, received subtle updates that aligned it more closely with Ford’s evolving design language. A low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30 is commendable for a vehicle of its size, contributing to improved fuel economy at highway speeds and reduced wind noise. The vehicle rides on 18-inch wheel rims, shod with 225/55 R18 tires, providing a balance of comfort and grip. The front and rear tracks, at 1633 mm (64.29 inches) and 1636 mm (64.41 inches) respectively, contribute to the vehicle’s stable stance.

Inside, the Taurus V was celebrated for its generous trunk space, offering a minimum of 600 liters (21.19 cubic feet), making it exceptionally practical for family trips or large grocery hauls. The interior was designed with an emphasis on ergonomics and usability, featuring clear instrumentation and accessible controls. Safety was a paramount consideration, with standard features including an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which significantly enhances braking control during emergency stops. The braking system itself comprises ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, ensuring reliable stopping power. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and predictable handling for a vehicle of its size, despite a minimum turning circle of 12.5 meters (41.01 feet).

The fuel tank capacity of 76 liters (20.08 US gallons) provides a substantial cruising range, further cementing its role as a capable long-distance cruiser. The attention to detail in its engineering, from the DOHC valvetrain to the robust AWD system, underscores Ford’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive and satisfying ownership experience for the Taurus V.

Technical Specifications