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

The Ford Taurus VI 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic represented a significant chapter in the storied history of Ford’s full-size sedan, offering a blend of robust performance, considerable space, and advanced features for its era. Introduced in 2009 and produced through 2012, this iteration of the Taurus marked a departure from its more conservatively styled predecessors, embracing a bolder, more assertive design language that sought to redefine the American full-size sedan segment. Positioned as a flagship offering, it aimed to provide a premium driving experience without venturing into luxury brand territory, making it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking comfort, power, and all-weather capability. The sixth-generation Taurus, often referred to as the “D4” platform, was built on the foundation of the Ford D3 platform, which it shared with vehicles like the Ford Flex and Lincoln MKS, allowing for a spacious interior and a commanding road presence. This particular variant, equipped with the potent 3.5-liter V6 engine and an intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, underscored Ford’s commitment to delivering a vehicle that combined practicality with an engaging driving dynamic, distinguishing itself in a competitive market segment.

Powertrain and Performance of the Ford Taurus VI 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic

At the heart of the Ford Taurus VI 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic lies the formidable Duratec 35 engine, a 3.5-liter V6 powerplant renowned for its smooth operation and impressive output. This naturally aspirated engine, designated with the model code Duratec 35, boasts a displacement of 3496 cubic centimeters (213.34 cubic inches) and features a sophisticated DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with i-VCT (intelligent Variable Cam Timing). This advanced valve control system optimizes valve overlap for improved power delivery across the rev range and enhanced fuel efficiency. With a compression ratio of 10.3:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the engine generates a robust 263 horsepower at 6250 rpm, providing ample power for highway cruising and confident acceleration. Peak torque stands at 338 Nm, or 249.3 lb.-ft., available at 4500 rpm, ensuring responsive performance in various driving conditions. The engine is designed for a maximum speed of 6700 rpm, indicating its willingness to rev and its refined engineering.

Power is efficiently managed and delivered through a 6-speed automatic transmission, which provides seamless gear changes, contributing to both comfort and performance. This transmission is expertly paired with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, a key feature of this particular Taurus variant. The AWD system intelligently distributes power to all four wheels, significantly enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or on unpaved roads. This capability makes the Ford Taurus VI 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic a highly versatile vehicle, offering peace of mind and improved control for drivers in diverse environments. The vehicle’s curb weight of 1916 kilograms (4224.06 pounds) results in a weight-to-power ratio of 7.3 kg/Hp (137.3 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.7 kg/Nm (176.4 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced power-to-weight profile for a full-size sedan.

Despite its substantial size and power, the Taurus VI demonstrated commendable fuel economy for its class. The official figures indicate an urban fuel consumption of 13.8 liters per 100 kilometers, translating to approximately 17 US miles per gallon. On the extra-urban cycle, it achieved 9.4 liters per 100 kilometers, or roughly 25 US miles per gallon. These figures, while not groundbreaking by today’s standards, were competitive for a large, naturally aspirated AWD sedan of its time, highlighting Ford’s efforts to balance performance with practicality. The fuel tank capacity of 72 liters (19.02 US gallons) ensures a considerable driving range between fill-ups, making it suitable for long-distance travel.

Design, Features, and Engineering of the Ford Taurus VI 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic

The design of the Ford Taurus VI 3.5 V6 24V (263 Hp) AWD Automatic marked a significant aesthetic shift for the model line. As a four-door, five-seat sedan, it presented a muscular and imposing silhouette, reflecting its status as a full-size American car. Measuring 5154 millimeters (202.91 inches) in length, 1935 millimeters (76.18 inches) in width (2177 mm or 85.71 inches including mirrors), and 1542 millimeters (60.71 inches) in height, the Taurus VI commanded a substantial road presence. Its generous wheelbase of 2868 millimeters (112.91 inches) contributed to a remarkably spacious cabin, ensuring ample legroom and comfort for all five occupants. The design was not merely about size; careful attention was paid to aerodynamics, as evidenced by a low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.3, which helped reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency at higher speeds.

Inside, the Taurus VI offered a cavernous trunk space of 569 liters (20.09 cubic feet), making it highly practical for family trips, grocery runs, or luggage for multiple passengers. This considerable cargo capacity was a key selling point for a vehicle designed to serve as a versatile family hauler or a comfortable executive transport. The interior layout was driver-focused, with controls ergonomically placed and a generally upscale feel for its segment, featuring quality materials and thoughtful design elements.

Underneath its assertive exterior, the Ford Taurus VI featured a robust chassis and suspension system designed for comfort and confident handling. The steering system utilized a rack and pinion setup, providing precise and predictable steering response. For braking, the vehicle was equipped with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, a configuration that delivered strong and consistent stopping power. An essential assisting system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking and allowing the driver to maintain steering control. The vehicle rode on sizable 19-inch wheel rims, shod with 255/45 R19 tires, which not only contributed to its bold stance but also provided a substantial contact patch for improved grip and stability. The front track measured 1659 mm (65.31 inches) and the rear track 1664 mm (65.51 inches), contributing to the car’s stable demeanor and poised handling. With a minimum turning circle of 12.05 meters (39.53 feet), the large sedan remained reasonably maneuverable in urban environments despite its generous dimensions.

Technical Specifications